The Benchmen
The Benchmen are a four-member jam rock band based in the L.A. area. Their members include Elye Mann (Lead Guitar/Vocals/Bass), David Melamed (Vocals/Rhythm Guitar/Bass), Matt Snyder (Drums/Vocals), and Ryan Stevens (Bass/Lead Guitar/Vocals). Heavily influenced by classic rock and experimental music, the group frequently jams, plays covers, and writes their own music. Some of the Benchmen original compositions include the songs "Acid Rain," "Power of the Gray," and "Solar Quest."
The first collaborations between members of the band occurred in 2005, when Matt and David, along with David’s cousin Irene formed the band Lee Vining. Though the band never performed, it sparked both a musical relationship between Matt and David and an interest for writing songs. Following that band, jamming efforts with Elye, David, and later Ryan peaked their curiosities. The chemistry between the three of them, both personally and musically, led to an interest to form a concrete band. The absence of a drummer presented a problem that was soon solved by the addition of Matt Snyder to the lineup. David had worked with him, and the two had been friends.
Almost immediately after the band was formed, Elye and David began sharing individually-composed songs with the band. These compositions were adapted into the band’s overall style, and are always being experimented with for new and interesting sounds. Despite that the four members attend different universities, they continue to come up with new music, lyrics, and ideas for the band. They also remain in close contact, and are always eager to get together and jam.
David Melamed
David grew up in Manhattan, NY, and moved to the L.A. area in his early teenage years. Ever since his youth, David has had an interest in music, and began learning piano at an early age. Influenced by early rock music, he switched to the guitar, and has been playing ever since. He is also interested in writing and singing his own songs, and his contributions to the Benchmen include “Acid Rain” and “Political Ends.” He is currently a student at UCLA.
Elye Mann
Elye was born and raised in the Los Angeles area. The youngest of three musically-inclined brothers, Elye grew up in a musical household, and has always held an interest in the field. After listening to bands like The Doors and Led Zeppelin, Elye began learning guitar and writing his own songs. Some of his contributions to the Benchmen repertoire include “Power of the Grey” and “I’m The One.” He is currently a student at UC Davis.
Matt Snyder
Matt was born and raised in the San Fernando Valley, and has been playing drums for years. Throughout high school, Matt contributed his drumming skill in the El Camino Real marching band and jazz band. These activities, as well as an interest in jam and rock music, contribute to his unique and versatile drum style. His overall enthusiasm and optimism are driving forces behind the music of The Benchmen. He is currently a student at UCSC.
Ryan Stevens
Ryan Stevens grew up in the San Fernando valley and learned to play violin at the age of twelve. He quit after four years but took up guitar at the age of sixteen, just as he was beginning to listen to rock music. After listening to the song "One Way Out" by the Allman Brothers however, he switched his focus to blues guitar and picked up slide. Today, he plays a variety of styles including jazz and funk, and contributes to the band bass, lead guitar, and slide guitar parts. Ryan attends school at UCSB.
