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PHOTO COURTESY OF BAND

REUNITED. The Degrees will play a reunion show Aug. 23 at Bob’s Java Jive.

The Degrees reunite for special benefit show

By John Larson

The Degrees are planning a special reunion show as a way to help its drummer get through a tough time.

The Tacoma alternative rock group had built up quite a following on the local scene by the time they disbanded in October 2006.

Two of the members, guitarists and brothers Lino and Reylan Fernandez, went on to form Sons of Ivan.

They stayed in touch with their band mates in The Degrees. “We have been friends for a long time,” Reylan Fernandez said.

The other three members became concerned about the drummer, Andy Coffey, and vision problems he is suffering from as a result of complications from diabetes. He was diagnosed with the illness at age 13. Now 20 years later, Coffey recently lost sight in his right eye. He has blurred vision in his left eye, as well as sensitivity to bright lights.

Fernandez said Coffey underwent a laser surgery procedure that was unsuccessful. Currently he is not working and cannot drive. “It has been tough for him,” Fernandez remarked.

So the four musicians decided to do a reunion show as a benefit for Coffey. The group will reunite for one night at Bob’s Java Jive Aug. 23. Proceeds from the show will go toward buying a pair of glasses for Coffey, as well as a pair of prescription sunglasses.

Other bands on the bill will be Raylazer, Bandolier and Carparty, which has former members of Jodi Hates the World.

Kyong Kim, the former guitarist for Post Stardom Depression, will make his debut as a solo artist. Darrren Selector will spin tunes from the DJ booth between sets.

Greysunz clothing will also donate some items for a raffle.

Fernandez said the other acts are either people who were friends of the Degrees or personal friends of Coffey. He expects many local musicians will show up to support a fellow musician in need.

The date happens to be Fernandez’s birthday, and falls two days after Coffey’s birthday.

Any proceeds beyond the cost of the eyeglasses will go toward a new public address system for Bob’s Java Jive. While the bar is a unique venue to catch shows in and is a popular hangout for many musicians, it could use some upgrades to the sound system, according to Fernandez. Bands generally have to bring in their own microphones and cables, and the current speakers make the vocals sound distorted.

The Degrees have held three practices to prepare for the reunion and plan on one more before the gig. “Some of the songs were a little rusty,” Fernandez observed. “We had to brush the cobwebs off of them.”

The show will be Aug. 23 and doors open at 8 p.m. A suggested donation of $5 is requested.

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