Biography
“It behooves all discerning music fans to start paying closer attention to the Connecticut-based guitarist/vocalist/songwriter.”
–Andrew O’Brien, Live for Live Music
Cal Kehoe has been touring the country as a solo act and performing with several bands, including Pink Talking Fish, Reprise, and his original project, Cal Kehoe Band. He has played with the likes of Trey Anastasio, Tom Marshall [Phish lyricist], Blues Traveler, Maggie Rose, Dogs In A Pile, Mihali [of Twiddle], Eggy, Prince/Bowie, and many more.
While typically known for his melting guitar solos, he is now carving a name for himself as a triple threat, showcasing his songwriting, vocals, and playing. He is set to release the much anticipated Cal Kehoe studio album produced by Bryce Goggin [Pavement, Phish, Trey Anastasio, Space Hog] at Trout Recording in Brooklyn, NY. He is backed in the studio by fellow Connecticut natives Kiran Edwards [keys], Henry Thomas [drums], and Miles Livolsi [bass], with featured performances by vocalist Sammi Garett and bassist Chris DeAngelis. The record boasts 11 original tracks that strike with a raw, rebellious, yet familiar, energy. The track list features 5 songs written alongside Kehoe’s long-time friend and collaborator, Tom Marshall.
Kehoe’s musical inspirations, such as Jeff Buckley, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, David Bowie, Jerry Garcia, Red Hot Chili Peppers, John Mayer, and Father John Misty manage to establish Cal's unique sonic DNA.
His original music includes collaborations with Phish lyricist, Tom Marshall and scoring award-winning independent films. Cal was contracted to compose, perform and produce 10 individual songs for Disney/ABC/ESPN that have since been broadcast on national television by the NBA, Major League Baseball, and NCAA National Football Games. In addition, Cal has music under consideration for multiple projects and future productions.
Pink Talking Fish
Pink Talking Fish is a Hybrid Tribute Fusion Act that takes the music from three of the world's most beloved bands and creates a special treat for fans of the music. Pink Floyd, Talking Heads and Phish.
Pink Talking Fish features Richard James/Steve Learson on keyboards, Zack Burwick on drums, Cal Kehoe on guitar, and Eric Gould on bass. This is a band created by musicians who love the music of these acts. It's purpose is to heighten people's passion for this music by creating something fresh and exciting for fans.
In 2023, Pink Talking Fish performed a string of sold out shows honoring the 50th Anniversary of Pink Floyds “Dark Side of the Moon” and the 40th Anniversary of Talking Heads “Stop Making Sense. One of the highlights of the tour was Cal's stunning recreation of the wordless vocal masterpiece ”The Great Gig in the Sky" performed entirely on guitar.
Solo Performance
Cal was a resident act at the House of Blues Foundation Room in Boston. There was a time when the vast majority of his performances were solo shows where Cal put his “looping” skills on display. Sometimes compared to Andrew Bird or Keller Williams, Cal’s technique leaves audiences in wonderment at how one musician can saturate and color so much of the sonic canvas. 2023 into 2024 holds exciting developments and announcements. Stay tuned.
On Working with Tom Marshall
“Collaborating with Tom was one of the greatest experiences I could have ever hoped for”.
It was at one of the late night recording sessions when Cal, Tom and fellow musician Anthony Krizan decided to put together a band they called “The Amfibian All-Stars” complete with horns, keyboards, percussion, and back up vocalists. “The All Stars” performed at The Iridium Jazz Club, the sold out show was an huge hit and the “All-Stars”. Tom and Cal are continue to collaborate, write and record together.
Past Press Highlights
"Kehoe’s stellar guitar playing on the Pink Floyd and Talking Heads songs was spot on. But it was on the Phish songs that he really stood out, {at times} channeling Trey’s technique so closely that if you closed your eyes, it seemed like it wasn’t a tribute, but the real thing. Kehoe was a guitar wizard all night and truly impressed with how smoothly he melded into the band’s unique ability to transition between the iconic songs of the three legendary acts."
-Andrew J Gordon JamBands.com
"You won’t find it in your TV Guide, but there is an irresistible new show sweeping the nation: “Everybody Loves Cal.” That’s right ladies and gentlemen; we’re talking about overnight star, Cal Kehoe. We’re not sure how adept he is at comedy, but we can tell you that the kid plays guitar like he was cradling one in the womb. Prior to March, this 23-year old shredder was only known in limited circles. Fortunately when Pink Talking Fish had to replace their guitarist and co-lead vocalist, Kehoe was available. He’s got the stage presence, the charm, the chops, the flowing locks; most importantly, he brings an infectious sense of fun to the party. The series is still in its infancy, but the ratings are already off the charts."
-Tyler Blue Crazy Horse Saloon
"Cal has this incredible ability to turn every performance into something so personal – he makes his set and his interaction with the crowd so intimate and down to earth."
–Jessica Gorrell, Monkey Goose
“Most impressive is his guitar work across his tracks. Every note is logical and fitting, even though he’s trying to break into a scene that thrives off of ten minute guitar solos. He stays humble, wails high up on the fretboard for a few bars and backs off. It’s perfect for the genre and revealing in its modesty.”
–Dave Ostroff, NYS MUSIC
“Limbo was a lot of fun...at the core it’s a guitar song and Cal rips it wide open! Cal is one of the best guitar players touring today.”
–Tom Marshall
Touring Highlights:
Nectars in Burlington, VT
Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY
Capitol Theatre in Port Chester, NY
Vic Theater in Chicago, IL
The Stone Pony in Asbury Park, NJ
The State Theater in Portland, ME
The State Theater in Ithaca, NY
The Wellmont Theater in Montclair, NJ
The Hamilton in Washington, D.C.
Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, CA
Terrapin Crossroads in San Rafael, CA
Gramercy Theatre in New York, NY
Iridium Jazz Club in New York, NY
Cafe Wha in New York, NY
Rockwood Music Hall in New York, NY
Webster Hall in New York, NY
Paradise Rock Club in Boston, MA
House of Blues Boston in Boston, MA
Garcia’s at the Capitol Theatre
Fairfield Theatre Company in Fairfield, CT
Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga, NY
Hartford Xfinity Theatre in Hartford, CT
BB&T Pavilion in Camden, NJ
Bank of New Hampshire Pavillon in Gilford, NH
Limbo (feat. Tom Marshall) Official Video