Around the turn of the last decade, S-Tribe was one of the Southeast's more popular bands, with a couple of records that showcased a serpentine rock style that borrowed from Santana and other classic reference points. The band has been gigging more of late and has now changed their name and reenergized their sound.

Based in Columbia, SC, the new band now called Moving Mercury is made up of three core members Gabriel Lopez, Charles Funk and Larry Gornto.  Gabriel Lopez anchors the band’s Latin influences, which are presented as just another part of the music. That means the music sounds natural and pertinent, which can’t be said for a lot of music with Latin flavor sprinkled on top.  Charles Funk brings a unique touch to the lead guitar role by playing melodic and tasteful guitar lines and helping create the unique sound that is Moving Mercury. These two are backed up by Larry Gornto on drums.  He brings a wealth of experience as well as impeccable timing and dynamics.

The new band has formed in light of singer and guitarist Gabriel Lopez’ recent move back to Columbia from Austin, Texas.  While there he honed in on a different approach to his song writing and continued to work on mastering his unique sound.

Meanwhile music scene veterans Charles Funk and Larry Gornto continued to play shows together backing various songwriters and often playing as a trio with other local bass players.  Charles Funk spent a few years as lead guitarist the late Chris Conner’s band The South as well as The J Edwards Band. Larry Gornto filled in with a variety of bands and helped in the formation of regional favorites Josh Roberts and The Hinges.  He has recently played drums for Brent McDonald and also with Ryan Monroe of Band of Horses.

All three members are seasoned musicians and as a group they have an undeniable chemistry.

Moving Mercury is currently working on a full length record that should be released sometime in 2011.  An EP will be released shortly after the new year.