Behind the Song
Tyler Calkins of Marshmellow Overcoat

Marshmellow Overcoat (MMOC) is a Classic Rock-inspired band that has created its unique sound with more than a decade of experience. The band features Tyler Calkins, Dave Verbocy, Alan Hancock, and Anthony Cavallaro. The band is currently promoting their latest album, 'Ghost In The Doorway,' recorded at the Goo Goo Dolls' GCR Audio in Buffalo, NY.
Based out of northwest Pennsylvania, Marshmellow Overcoat performs most often in Western PA and NY State. With over 300 original and cover songs in its repertoire, the band keeps people dancing, singing, and entertained show after the show - Making it one of the most popular bands in the Southern Tier. Tyler has also established himself as a solo artist in recent years.

For fans who have never heard your music, can you pick three words to describe it?! If three words just aren't enough then tell us more!!
In the past I'd say Classic Rock (for) Today. But moving forward we've tried to create our own sound, and I think we've succeeded. Instead: Unique Songwriting.
What is your favorite part about being an artist? Is it songwriting, performing, recording, something else?) Tell us why.
Finishing a new batch of tunes and playing them for a large audience is my favorite part.
Can you tell us what being in the recording studio is like for you?
It's like being at work - But in a great way. After going through the process of songwriting, it's rewarding to go to a pro studio as opposed to just fleshing out demos at home. The end result is what matters.
Okay, this a fun question. When you are not doing music, what else do you enjoy doing?
I still like sports, video games and reading almost as much as music, so that takes up a lot of my time. My fiancee gets me out of the house most of the time and I do enjoy the outdoors, especially in the Northeast US.
Who do you admire most in the music scene today and why?
Jeff Tweedy and Jim James come right to mind as far as today. All-time I'm a John Lennon and Billy Joel guy. My favorite bands are without a doubt The Beatles and The Band.
Can you tell us what song you've written that is the most emotional and describe the meaning behind it?
You've Just Gotta Believe Me and Tide's High from our new album Ghost In The Doorway would be the answer for me personally. I was trying to tie the beginning and ending of the album together, emotionally, musically and lyrically. Warren Zevon's self-titled album may have been an influence with this, with how he used Desperados Under the Eaves to cap it off.
Tide's High and You've Just Gotta Believe Me sound like relationship songs, but they really aren't. They're more or less life/experience songs if that makes sense. They came together quite quickly, and fortunately most of my best songs are not the ones that take years to write.
Are you working on any new material right now or what's in the works for the upcoming year?
I'm working on a song in particular called Take a Deeper Look, and while I won't be releasing anything new for a few months, my plan is to have that one out as a single by Spring. Dave, Anth and Al are always busy, but I'm sure they'll be included in some way even if it's a solo single. Samantha will definitely help out too. As for Marshmellow Overcoat, we'll be ready for a new slate of festivals next Summer to promote the new album.
Tell us where fans can access your music.
Support us on Bandcamp!
Stream on Spotify
