When is a band no longer the same band?

[homer]

DMB is an interesting case. If Dave himself quit music or passed away or whatever then obviously it's not Dave Matthews Band any more. But if the bassist left the group it wouldn't matter. Now you could make a strong argument that the drummer and violinist are strong pieces to the DMB puzzle - maybe their musicianship could be replaced (although I think the drummer is really underrated) but they seem to be part of the character of that band - especially the violinist. I mean, if the violinist left and was replaced by a woman would it be the same? I don't think so.

[RyDogg66]

I always thought the drummer was the most talented in the band, and the most irreplaceable (outside of Dave). I listened to them religiously from about 1995-2003, but havent really listened to them at all in the past 5 years. I think I grew out of them. They are all great talents, and I always liked Moore's part in the band, but I think he is the most replaceable...although I dont think Jeff Coffin will be as cool looking on stage.

[Patrick425]

The Tempts still tour -- Otis Williams is the only original member still alive. A lot of them died after collaborating with Hall & Oates,

I know there some punch lines there somewhere, but even if I could think of them, I'm not sure they would be appropriate.

[DuWayne Steurer]

Smashing Pumpkins are on tour right now, I think, and consist of Corgan and maybe Chamberlin. Iha and D'arcy have left. Dont know if that is Smashing Pumpkins or not. Id say they, along with GnR are a good test case for bands that still have the frontman but are not really the same band

 

In the case of the Pumpkins, Billy *is* the Pumpkins. He writes 95% of the music. All the lyrics. Records all the guitar and bass in the studio himself. Chamberlain lays down the drums, and when they go on the road the rest of the "band" comes with.

[Chio151]

Local H was no longer Local H when half the band (Joe Daniels) left. So, I say 50% rule.

[TooLiveBrew]

I always liked Moore's part in the band, but I think he is the most replaceable...although I dont think Jeff Coffin will be as cool looking on stage.

 

I hadn't checked into who was replacing LeRoi. Kinda weird that the guy to replace someone that died has the surname Coffin