The Verdict
Funk-rock group melds the styles of 311 and Stevie Ray Vaughn for a thick and creamy sound.

Who Are These Guys?
Situation Normal All Funked Up might be one way to look at the name. Of course, there is a possibility that they mean the other f-word. Bassist Omar Badwan lays down the slap-happy groove, Dean Berry is on six-string and vocals, John Leslie blows the hell out of the sax and Boz Bowles pounds the skins.

Credibility
SNAFU's pedigree is impressive: Omar and Boz played in Bizarro (Lost Tribe meets Frank Zappa), one of the best bands to ever turn up the knobs to 10. Saxophonist John Leslie has gold and platinum records (for the "Dirty Dancing" soundtrack) and toured with the Monkees, Sophie B. Hawkins and the Righteous Brothers.

Rock and Roll Lifestyle

Tip Sheet One of Richmond's Best Nominated for Best Unsigned Band for its thick rock grooves and concert appeal. Gigging SNAFU often plays at Medley's, Mulligan's and the infamous Dogtown Lounge.

These guys relish the musician gig. The long hair, the many nights spent in a bedroom practicing alone and, now, the free drinks while they play.

The Sound
Stevie Ray Vaughn meets 311 is a starting point. Throw in equal parts Jimi Hendrix and Doyle Bramhall, plus a little dose of Maceo Parker on horn and voila, SNAFU. —Patrick Rooney