Distance Zero
Band Story
Distance Zero: A Band with Roots, Rhythm, and Rock Legacy
Formed in 1997, Distance Zero emerged from a blend of long-standing friendships, shared musical passion, and an unwavering commitment to originality. The founding lineup included Dave Madnick (bass/vocals), Robert Ryan (drums), Chuck Jones, Joe Baxter (lead guitar), and a colorful character known only as Moose. The group quickly carved out their space in the rock scene, built on hard-hitting riffs, technical chops, and an affinity for authentic storytelling through sound.
The origins of the band stretch back further than their first gig. Dave and Rob, the rhythmic backbone of the band, met as teenagers and quickly bonded over a love for music and relentless jamming. Their chemistry became the pulse of Distance Zero. Rob, an accomplished drummer who also works as an air traffic controller, previously played in bands like Sheer Feer, Cross Blades, and Sheer Fear. During one rehearsal with Sheer Feer, a stranger sat in on his kit—none other than Rocky, a drummer who once performed live with Jimi Hendrix and was even verbally thanked by Hendrix during a rare live recording. Rob’s drumming, likened to Mitch Mitchell, shows that influence in every performance.
Dave’s journey through bands like Not for Nothing and Bright Fire laid the foundation for what Distance Zero would become. Now the acting manager and promoter for the band, he also juggles a career as a computer technician and is pursuing certification in addiction counseling—a testament to his dedication both on and off the stage.
Joe Baxter, who built his own Fender Strat from genuine Fender parts, brings technical precision and creative flair to the band's lead guitar duties. Outside the studio, Rob and Joe hit the ice regularly, playing in a local ice hockey league—a dynamic that mirrors the camaraderie they share on stage.
The band’s sound has caught ears beyond their local scene. Notably, one of their songs attracted interest from Tom Scholz of Boston, a nod to the musical substance Distance Zero brings to the table. Their influences run deep, with Dave drawing inspiration from legends like Judas Priest, Scorpions, Mr. Big, Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, Led Zeppelin, Elton John, and Queen.
Distance Zero is more than a band—it’s a brotherhood formed through music, shaped by experience, and powered by passion. With more music and stories yet to come, their journey is far from over.
Formed in 1997, Distance Zero emerged from a blend of long-standing friendships, shared musical passion, and an unwavering commitment to originality. The founding lineup included Dave Madnick (bass/vocals), Robert Ryan (drums), Chuck Jones, Joe Baxter (lead guitar), and a colorful character known only as Moose. The group quickly carved out their space in the rock scene, built on hard-hitting riffs, technical chops, and an affinity for authentic storytelling through sound.
The origins of the band stretch back further than their first gig. Dave and Rob, the rhythmic backbone of the band, met as teenagers and quickly bonded over a love for music and relentless jamming. Their chemistry became the pulse of Distance Zero. Rob, an accomplished drummer who also works as an air traffic controller, previously played in bands like Sheer Feer, Cross Blades, and Sheer Fear. During one rehearsal with Sheer Feer, a stranger sat in on his kit—none other than Rocky, a drummer who once performed live with Jimi Hendrix and was even verbally thanked by Hendrix during a rare live recording. Rob’s drumming, likened to Mitch Mitchell, shows that influence in every performance.
Dave’s journey through bands like Not for Nothing and Bright Fire laid the foundation for what Distance Zero would become. Now the acting manager and promoter for the band, he also juggles a career as a computer technician and is pursuing certification in addiction counseling—a testament to his dedication both on and off the stage.
Joe Baxter, who built his own Fender Strat from genuine Fender parts, brings technical precision and creative flair to the band's lead guitar duties. Outside the studio, Rob and Joe hit the ice regularly, playing in a local ice hockey league—a dynamic that mirrors the camaraderie they share on stage.
The band’s sound has caught ears beyond their local scene. Notably, one of their songs attracted interest from Tom Scholz of Boston, a nod to the musical substance Distance Zero brings to the table. Their influences run deep, with Dave drawing inspiration from legends like Judas Priest, Scorpions, Mr. Big, Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, Led Zeppelin, Elton John, and Queen.
Distance Zero is more than a band—it’s a brotherhood formed through music, shaped by experience, and powered by passion. With more music and stories yet to come, their journey is far from over.
Band Members
Dave Madnick - Robert Ryan - Joe Baxter – Chuck Jones – Moose
Dave Madnick - Robert Ryan - Joe Baxter – Chuck Jones – Moose
Location: AMERICA NORTH: USA: Florida (FL)
Genre: Rock & Roll