Electric sampler of Under The Radar:

Acoustic sampler of Under The Radar:





Gary Willard and Paul Silvestro met while attending Midpark High School. They were aware of each other being in rival bands, but had not crossed paths. They joined forces to form “Phantasy” which played High School dances, small clubs and parties.
After graduating, the band signed with the Energy Talent Agency and was managed by Cleveland legend Otto Neuber, who also managed Love Affair. The band changed their name to “Breakout”. There were a few personnel changes, and the group went on to be the Wednesday house band at the Corral, and the Sunday house band at Filthy McNasty’s in Kent. They were also regulars at the Cleveland and Akron Agoras and toured through a 5-state area. The band evolved, and eventually changed their name to “Nasty Habits”. They were a huge draw at the marquee clubs of the day.  Determination to pursue performing original material lead to a break from their management, and they continued to play the same clubs, honing their high energy performances and mixing in their own material.  Various other changes in the bands career saw the group have a variety of personnel changes, but the core of Gary & Paul was always there.
After years of performing together, Gary & Paul went their separate ways.
Paul started “Pop Gun”, a Cleveland club staple from the late 80’s through the mid 90’s. Paul lead this group of veteran players performing an eclectic mix of favorites throughout the area. With their outstanding musicianship and danceable tunes, they always drew good crowds.
Gary started “The Evidence”, which performed his original material. Managed by another Cleveland legend, Buddy Maver, they had a great run opening concerts for Cheap Trick, Belinda Carlisle, Southside Johnny, Henry Lee Summer, The Outlaws, Pat Travers, and many others, on stages such as The Front Row, Nautica, and large outdoor venues.
Through these changes, Gary & Paul remained friends. Gary did a stint for about a year filling in on guitar for Pop Gun.
Paul suggested they explore the idea of performing as an acoustic duo. It took a while for the idea to take shape, but eventually they carved out the time to put together a list of material that is sure to please both old fans an new. This was the beginning of UNDER THE RADAR. These two accomplished guitar players and great vocalists have added the flexibility of being able to perform in two distinct ways depending on the club and situation.
  • As an acoustic duo, they strip it down to the Unplugged sound but still cover favorites of the 80’s through the 00’s trading off lead vocals and combining for Beatle-esq harmonies.
  • On the flip side they can turn it up in a rock club environment with a full live-band sound with background tracks. Gary produces a foundation for the ‘band gigs’ in his home studio that can include drums, bass, and percussion, which have customized arrangements. This is not canned karaoke.  With their ability to control their volume without affecting their performance, synchronized lighting, and some unique arrangements, these guys can rock!
From The Beatles to Weezer, from Tom Petty to Foo Fighters, UNDER THE RADAR has a song list that has something for everyone, whether stripped-down acoustic or the electric full band experience.
With a home base of BrookPark, Strongsville, and Brunswick, UNDER THE RADAR invite you to come out and hear some great songs, see some old friends, and have a good time!