A band consisting of three out of four UMD students, Galleon is now on all streaming services with its new EP and has set sail to make more music in the future. Galleon consists of Alec Zell (lead vocalist/rhythm guitar, junior), Will Bofenkamp (drums, senior), Jack Zell (lead guitar, sophomore) and Ethan Schechinger (bass/backing vocals).

In May of 2023, two brothers and two friends who all share a passion for music came together to form their very own band, Galleon. It all started with jam sessions between Bofenkamp and Alec in Bofenkamp’s garage two years ago. A mutual friend set up the two because of their shared talents. 

“I had to drag you a few times because you didn’t want to initially,” Bofenkamp said. 

Jokingly, Alec argues that isn’t true. However, their jam sessions persisted and became taken more seriously as they realized the potential they had. 

Once the jam sessions gained two new members, Jack Zell and Schechinger, it was time to put a name to their new band. 

The name “Galleon” stems from an old Spanish warship from the late 1600s. The uniqueness of their name also reflects the unique sound this band has in today’s day in age.  

Since starting their band in May, the group has played 12 shows at several different venues, even ranging out of state at a Wisconsin triple-header venue. While attending a Galleon show, one can expect the old familiarity of classic rock and loyal fans who have followed their journey from the start. 

Even with their immense talent showcased by doing half cover songs and half originals, the audience wanted more. As of Feb. 2, 2024, Galleon made waves by dropping their first single “Shell” to be available on Apple Music, Spotify and Amazon Music. 

Galleon dropped its first-ever EP on Feb. 9 with four new singles: “Hard Lovin,’” “Shell,” ”Devil in the Breeze” and “Other Side.” 

Their EP also has remained highly successful for this new, upcoming band. With over 1,800 downloads across all platforms in only a few days, there are great things in store for Galleon. 

These four individuals have worked tremendously hard to get to the point they are at now. Practicing one to three times a week, six hours each, they are always working on new stuff to improve their sound. 

However, practices look a little different for the band since releasing their first EP and single. 

“The sound we have going for new music, now listening to the new stuff we’re working on versus the new stuff we have out or performed already,” Schechinger said. 

“It feels a lot more nuisance and a little more intricate. Putting more in more thought.”

Now, the songwriting process consumes most of the time in the average Galleon practice. Each member of the band plays a vital role in creating these new, unreleased songs.

Jack and Bofenkamp do a lot of the instrumentals; whereas Schechinger and Alec specialize more in lyrics. Each member contributes to all aspects of this process. 

Developing these new songs for the band can take up to a few hours or a few days. So, more music can be expected in the near future. 

“We hope to have a catalog of songs written by the end of this coming fall,” Schechinger and Jack said, “and use this summer to write.” 

It can not be easy managing student life, becoming a young adult and trying to kick off a band with so much potential. However, these guys seem to make it work just fine. 

With the overwhelming support Galleon receives, they are able to keep pushing forward and continue to get their name out there. Even gaining support from fellow bands that share insightful advice to help Galleon continue to kick off their career. 

“Bands that we have talked to have said try and get yourself out there to as many people,” Alec said.

“Get as many possible people to hear ya, which is a key thing.” 

Galleon continues to take in this advice as they have several upcoming shows planned this year but with no set date yet. The band is excited to share their work with the world, and the world is excited to see how their music will change it! 

Be sure to support Galleon on your streaming service of choice and follow them on Instagram @galleon.band.