Granite Planet, in some form or another, has been playing music together here on the NH seacoast since 2006. Our music is mostly upbeat, danceable rock and pop, ranging from the 60s to today. We pride ourselves in having something for everyone, both young and old. From Linda Ronstadt to Sex Pistols to Darius Rucker to B52s to The Stranglers to Black Keys, we keep our set list quite diverse. We also like playing unique versions of familiar songs. For example, everyone knows Ring of Fire by Johnny Cash, but ours stays closer to the Social Distortion version.
Steve Chaisson: vocals, guitar, keyboards
Ever the procrastinator, Steve started playing guitar in 2002 at the age of 40. After learning a few chords, he invited his friends to join him and jam. Like Steve, many of them hadn’t learned to play until later in life also, and each regretted waiting so long. Along with his friends, Steve coordinated the first BYOI (Bring Your Own Instrument) Night, which raised money to help kids learn to play music while they are still young. BYOI Nights became the genesis for the band known today as Granite Planet.
Over the years, Steve has added keyboards and harmonica to his repertoire to help add to the diversity of Granite Planet’s playlist.
Steve’s musical interests run wide: Rock, Pop, & Country. He enjoys the hits of the 70s and 80s but likes the hits of today as well. His radio is always tuned to Independent Radio 92.5 The River.
Steve grew up in western Massachusetts, and moved to the Seacoast in 1988. He and his brother, Cary, are co-owners of Allegra Marketing Print Mail of Portsmouth and Bedford. Steve now lives in Manchester with his lovely wife, Anna.
Gideon Butler: bass guitar, vocals
Just to prove how diverse the Seacoast area is Granite Planet has it’s very own Brit Bass player!
Gideon lives on the seacoast with his charming wife Fiona. He started playing bass in London in the ’70s, taking his lead from the idea that anyone could play if they just tried hard enough. Then he found out that his favorite bassist was also an accomplished classical guitarist, so he had to start practicing.
Drums … Welcome back Paul Wheeler!!!
Sadly …
Phil Winders: ex–lead guitar and vocals
We wish Phil the best as he continues his journey, musical and otherwise in directions other than Granite Planet.