From the Practice Room to the Stage: Meet The Velvet Cab

The live music scene in Columbus would be incomplete without mentioning The Velvet Cab. Composed of four talented members - Scottie DeClue, Jacob DeClue, Luke Martz, and Jeremy Cosper - this group represents collaboration, shared creativity and a familial bond.

Due to their hectic schedules, the band takes turns hosting rehearsals at each other’s homes. I had the opportunity to sit in on one of the weekly practices and witness the music-making firsthand. As I approached Scottie’s place, my anticipation rose hearing the steady drumbeats and guitar riffs before even walking through the door. I was greeted by The Velvet Cab’s lovable mascot, Gibson (Scottie’s American bulldog), and made my way to the practice room where the group was effortlessly jamming.

The band’s journey began a few years before their official establishment in 2018. Brothers Jacob and Scottie DeClue played together in a duplex they were renting at the time. “We called ourselves ‘The Neighbors’, but there are too many bands with that name so we had to change it up,” Jacob shares. The Velvet Cab was born, a recognizable name that echoes in venues around town. 

The DeClue Brothers at Silvan Guitars. Image via Savannah Brown.

Scottie, the second oldest of the DeClue siblings, and Jacob, the youngest, are both self-taught musicians. Scottie picked up the guitar at 13, and Jacob followed suit at the same age. “Jacob actually pitched the idea for the band,” Scottie notes, knowing his humble brother would never claim it. The rest of the band nodded simultaneously, truly owing Jacob’s vision for their formation.

Jeremy Cosper, the newest addition to The Velvet Cab, brings his own flair to the group. Having joined just two years ago, he has quickly become an integral part of their sound. “Cosper’s an encyclopedia of music,” Scottie commends. “He knows every single song that’s ever been written by every band.” Jeremy’s extensive knowledge fuels their artistry, allowing them to experiment with different styles and genres.

Luke Martz has more than one role in the band as the bassist, vocalist and audio engineer. Growing up in a household filled with musical talent, the work comes naturally to him. “This is technically my mom’s bass,” Luke states proudly, presenting the instrument that was recently gifted to him. “She also gave me my first guitar on my ninth birthday,” he adds. They all agree he’s a “sound wizard” when it comes to mixing the recorded music. 

Jacob, Scottie and Luke all switch off on vocals and often sing together in euphonious harmonies. “Our secret weapon is my dad, Wayne. He’s a choir director and an organist,” Luke reveals. In fact, they often use Wayne’s 2002 state-of-the-art recording rig in his studio to produce several songs. The tunes are strengthened thanks to Luke’s dad. Wayne is the backbone or “the fifth member of Velvet Cab,” the bandmates joke.

One of the defining characteristics of The Velvet Cab is the music isn’t necessarily boxed into a single genre. The songs are an eclectic blend of classic rock-inspired American indie jam with a hint of their southern roots. It’s often rare for an artist to have such a diverse sound, but each member brings unique influences to the table, taking turns writing and introducing fresh themes.

Recently, The Velvet Cab made its debut at JarFest, opening the show with a shorter set that the audience wished could’ve lasted for hours. They performed original songs, including crowd favorites like “Stranded,” “Mountainside,” and the catchy tune “Sunshine.” There, they announced and performed a new single, “Tired Eyes,” which is set to release on Black Friday, November 22nd.

The Velvet Cab taking the stage at JarFest last weekend. Image via Savannah Brown.

From the moment they stepped onto the stage, it was clear that The Velvet Cab’s confidence comes from the countless hours they’ve spent together; the dynamic on stage wasn’t much different from the comfort at practice. The band has that certain effect on you where you’re eager to share their name with everyone you know. As my week with the group came to a close, I left with a sense of exhilaration. The music still lingers in my mind and I find myself humming the entire setlist days after. I can’t help but acknowledge that I’m witnessing something special - a band on the brink of recognition. Catch The Velvet Cab now performing at various live music venues around Columbus before they’re playing to sold-out stadiums! ◼️