The Campus (City College New York) 5/11/2009

"The Dan Sheehan Conspiracy"
by Anya Doorga, Arts & Entertainment Editor

The Dan Sheehan Conspiracy has a refreshing and natural sound that many other bands in today's scene lack. The band has a strong old school vibe influenced by 1970s rock 'n' roll. Their new self-titled album includes politically infused songs exemplifired by the single, "Collateral Damage." Other songs on the album feature an eclectic variety of music, ranging from classic rock inspired ballads to alternative sounds. It's definitely a good listen for those who appreciate well-written music and original lyrics rather than the modern garbage that overflows out of today's music television networks.

This musical group has been storming college radio airwaves for the past few years. The leading man, Dan Sheehan, is mostly known for being a former member of the 1990s band, Banter. After leaving Banter, Sheehan formed The Dan Sheehan Conspiracy, which consists of Dan Sheehan, guitar and vocals; King Baby, drums; and City College's own Gianluis Rosado on bass and backing vocals. Yes, a City College student just like you is recording with and performing in an awesome band. Gianluis Rosado was able to give the Campus some inside information on The Dan Sheehan Conspiracy and his band life during an interview:

Anya Doorga: How long have you been a part of The Dan Sheehan Conspiracy?

Gianluis Rosado: I've been in the DSC since September, 2008, so about six months.

AD: So you're a new member then!

GR: Yes, I am.

AD: How did you join this band?

GR: Dan used to give me audio classes at Bronx Community College. I was a very good student in the class and he told me he had a band. I listened to his CDs. After he stopped giving classes, he started having concernts and gigs with his band. I asked if I could go to his performances and he told me his bass player just left. I said I knew a lot of bass players but I know how to play as well. I offered to audition and he agreed. They liked the way I performed and I got in the band.

AD: Oh wow, so you're real good then.

GR: I can play it well. I can dig it.

AD: How long have you played the guitar?

GR: I've been playing guitar since I was fifteen but I played bass since May 2008. I got it really quick because I knew guitar already. I just had to learn a few things more on top of what I already knew to play bass.

AD: Do you write music with Dan?

GR: Yes. I've written my own compositions. We both write music and lyrics. We're releasing a new CD by the end of this year.

AD: Which bands or musical artists are your greatest influences or inspirations?

GR: My greatest influences are Dream Theatre, Steve Vai, and Metallica.

AD: How do you manage both schoolwork and your music career?

GR: I usually a able to have good time management, so I'm able to do it all. I have a calendar on my wall. I list the things I have to do on a board in my room, too. It helps a lot because sometimes it's too much (among) school, music, my job, and videos.

AD: Videos?

GR: I work for SAME TV. I also make videos. That's originally why I came to the U.S., to study film and TV. I earned an Associates Degree in Media and Technology at Bronx Community College.

AD: What is music's role in your life now? Do you think it will have the same influence on you in the future, perhaps in the next ten years?

GR: I've been involved in so many things, but there isn't a day where I don't listen to music. I listen to such musi from the slowest ballad to the heaviest metal. I lived on Mozart Street for my entire life before I came to the U.S. All musicians lived there on that street. I got influenced by them and listened to them every day. Both of my parents play guitar and sing as well. I have always had the enjoyment of listening to music. Music relieves my stress and gives me joy. It will always be a part of my life and I want to teach others to enjoy music. I wouldn't mind teaching people how to play instruments.