Simon Apple returns to the Grounds and Sounds Cafe in Stony Brook on Friday, May 9, 2008.

Simon Apple was formed by two Philadelphia area musicians, Jeff Miller and Buzz Saylor, with the intentions of writing material that combined their favorite elements of pop, rock and jazz, coupled with positive, hopeful, spiritual, thought-provoking and sometimes humorous messages. Vocalist Dan Merrill joined the band in 2000, taking the sound of the Apple to wonderful, new heights.

After almost 2 years in the making, Simon Apple's album, River To The Sea, was released in October 2004. The album is graced by some world-renowned guest artists that the Apple have admired and been fans of for years: bassist Tony Levin (Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, John Lennon), guitarist Buck Dharma (Blue Oyster Cult), saxophonist John Helliwell (Supertramp), cellist Hugh McDowell (Electric Light Orchestra), bassist Steve Rodby (Pat Metheny Group), and trumpeter Dave Stahl (Buddy Rich, Frank Sinatra, Harry Connick, Jr.). In addition, the album was mixed by Grammy-winning producer/engineer, David Leonard (credits include: Paul McCartney, Rush, Tony Bennett, Prince, Barenaked Ladies, kd lang, Avril Lavigne, Bruce Hornsby, Toto, John Mellencamp, to name a few). Needless to say, the band was extremely flattered and honoured by the participation of these great artists.

Grounds & Sounds features the best in live acoustic music in a casual, comfortable atmosphere.  Enjoy gourmet coffee, pastries and desserts.  Bring a bottle of wine and we’ll pour it for you – fruit and cheese plates are available, too. 

The show begins with an open mic at 8PM followed by the featured act at 8:45PM.