We are saddened to learn of the passing of Todd “Demse” Zullo and Brian “Budzy” White earlier this month. Zullo was dummer and co-founder of Northampton-based reggae and hip hop band The Alchemystics. White was their devoted friend and roadie. The two were involved in a van accident on the Mass pike. White was killed in the accident and Zullo died later in the hospital.
Performing since 2004, the band has committed to continue playing, according to an interview with the Daily Hampshire Gazette:
Garrick Perry, one of the band’s vocalists, wrote on his Facebook page that Zullo made him the musician he is today. “Demse never let anything stop him and we will soon be releasing the new album he poured his heart and soul into and was very excited to share with the world,” Perry wrote. “There will be select performances and it’s hard to imagine how to move forward from here, but I take solace in the fact that I am surrounded by this family that Demse built and we shall all overcome this all.”
A crowdfunding campaign was immediately created to help pay medical bills for Zullo’s family. Since his passing, another campaign has been created to support his family.
Fittingly, the band’s upcoming release, titled “For the Future…” highlighting the band’s unstoppable spirit, is due out shortly.
The band last released the single “Amazing” in August 2013. This reggae/hip hop jam exemplifies the band’s vibe and features a J. Geils Band sample if I’m not mistaken!
The video below for “Dance Upon The Corner” off the 2011 album “Spread Hope” was directed by Zullo. This tune leans more reggae than the previous one and is a great introduction to the band.