Sensei (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 2004 |
| Headquarters | Jacksonville, Florida , United States |
| Products | Music (melodic rock) |
Sensei was a melodic rock ensemble consisting of five members, originating from Jacksonville, Florida.
History
The band was established in the summer of 2004 by guitarist Damion Waters alongside bassist Dan McLintock (also known for his work with Inspection 12). Despite being located in different places, they began crafting songs and recording demos using Damion's personal computer. Early in their formation, they created five acoustic demo tracks.
Following his contribution of drum parts to these demos, drummer Tim Grisnik (also affiliated with Inspection 12) officially joined the group. With bassist Jordan Pettingill completing the roster, Sensei performed their first live show in the fall of 2005, rapidly gaining momentum locally and expanding their audience. To enhance their creative process, Dan, Damion, and Tim decided to live together in Jacksonville.
By mid-2006, Jordan left the band due to conflicts with his college schedule, which required commuting over an hour away; this allowed him to concentrate on his academic pursuits and other interests. Although the band initially planned to continue as a trio, they soon brought on lead vocalist Mark O'Quinn and a second guitarist, Eric Denton, which significantly boosted their songwriting output.
Plans were underway for studio recordings and releasing music by spring 2007. Nonetheless, by May 2007, Sensei disbanded as members pursued different individual endeavors.
Members
- Dan McLintock – Bass guitar, vocals
- Tim Grisnik – Drums and percussion
- Damion Waters – Guitar and vocals
- Mark O'Quinn – Lead vocalist
- Eric Denton – Guitar and backing vocals
Other projects
- Dan McLintock has previously been part of Takeover Records’ groups Craig's Brother and Honest Don's Limp.
- Both McLintock and Grisnik perform with the nationally touring band Inspection 12, signed to Takeover Records and formerly associated with Fat Wreck Chords; notable members include Pete Mosely (Yellowcard) and James Trimble (currently in medical school).
- Grisnik also serves as drummer for The Softer Side.
- Mark O'Quinn acted as lead singer and songwriter for Jacksonville-based bands Stalemate and Estelle; Eric Denton contributed guitar work and songwriting to Estelle as well.
- In 2007, Damion Waters became a member of The Lackawanna Carriage Works.
- Starting in 2008, McLintock, Grisnik, Denton, and Casey Teate formed The John Carver Band, which released two albums—The John Carver Band (2008) and Everywhere is Home (2012)—along with the EP Innocent Strategies in 2017.