Posted by There are tribute bands… and then there are experiences.
When I first moved to Long Island, I had no idea just how extraordinary the tribute music scene truly was. Back in Western New York, tribute acts were relatively uncommon, so I never expected to discover musicians who could recreate the sights, sounds, and emotion of some of rock’s greatest artists with such authenticity.
One of the bands that forever changed my perception was Bad Animals, Long Island’s premier tribute to Heart.
The very first time I saw them perform, they were opening for Refugee before the evening’s headliner, Fleetwood Macked. Three outstanding tribute bands on one bill—it was a concert I had been eagerly anticipating.
At the time, the lineup featured Mark Medoza from Twisted Sister fame on bass, Lance Millard on keyboards, and Diana Lutz portraying Nancy Wilson. Coincidentally, I happened to capture one of my favorite photographs of Diana playing electric guitar for the very first time. Looking back, it’s a special image that reminds me how both musicians and photographers often grow together over the years.
The greatest compliment any tribute artist can receive is recognition from the very musicians they honor.
Bad Animals received exactly that.
Lead vocalist Daena D. had the opportunity to speak personally with Ann Wilson, who offered her official blessing with four simple words:
“Have fun with it.”
Those words have since become the band’s philosophy.
And they do exactly that.
Although deeply rooted in the Long Island music scene, Bad Animals has evolved into a nationally touring production, regularly appearing in prestigious theaters, performing arts centers, and premier listening rooms. Locally, they’ve become a favorite at venues such as The Paramount, Patchogue Theatre and The Suffolk, where audiences return time and time again to relive Heart’s remarkable catalog.
What separates Bad Animals from many tribute acts is their thoughtful approach to storytelling.
Rather than presenting a random collection of songs, the band divides its performance into distinct musical eras, celebrating both the 1970s and 1980s chapters of Heart’s career. The transformation is complete, with frontwomen Daena D., portraying Ann Wilson, and Gina D., now portraying Nancy Wilson, changing into wardrobe inspired by the Wilson sisters’ iconic stage attire from each decade.
The result is a seamless journey through Heart’s evolution—from the acoustic power and Led Zeppelin-inspired sound of classics like “Crazy on You” and “Magic Man” to the polished arena-rock anthems of “These Dreams” and “Alone.”
This is far more than a cover band.
It is a collective of seasoned professionals who originally formed the project in 2001 as a creative outlet alongside their already successful musical careers.
The resumes of the musicians speak for themselves.
Drummer and guitarist John LaSpina has performed alongside artists including Rick Springfield, Bret Michaels, Dennis DeYoung of Styx, and Jeff Scott Soto. Keyboardist Kevin Thomas is also well known throughout the tribute community, performing with acclaimed Journey tribute Separate Ways. Bassist Chris Parrett has long been a respected fixture throughout New York’s original and cover music scenes.
Leading the musical direction is guitarist Thomas Michael Cavanagh, whose impressive résumé extends well beyond the tribute world. Cavanagh has performed, toured, recorded, and written alongside numerous respected artists throughout the rock and blues genres, including serving as lead guitarist for Lita Ford. His collaborations have also included acclaimed bassist Jerry Jemmott, Eddie Ojeda, and performances with nationally recognized tribute productions such as Almost Queen.
Of course, no discussion of Bad Animals would be complete without recognizing the remarkable chemistry between Daena D. and Gina D.
Their striking resemblance to Ann Wilson and Nancy Wilson, combined with Daena’s extraordinary ability to reproduce Ann Wilson’s soaring multi-octave vocals, creates an experience that continually amazes audiences. It’s not uncommon to hear someone remark that if they closed their eyes, they’d swear Heart was standing on the stage.
Yet perhaps the most inspiring chapter of their story happened away from the tribute stage.
While Bad Animals continued entertaining audiences across the country, Thomas Michael Cavanagh and Daena D. began writing original material together. Joined by fellow bandmates Chris Parrett and John LaSpina, they formed Emerald Rising, a powerful original band rooted in the spirit of classic 1970s hard rock and melodic power metal.
In interviews, Cavanagh has spoken openly about the balance between the two projects. While Bad Animals continues to headline major venues and celebrate one of rock’s greatest bands, Emerald Rising offers something equally important—the opportunity to express their own musical identity through original songwriting.
It’s a reminder that behind every outstanding tribute musician is an artist with a creative voice of their own.
Most recently, guitarist and vocalist Gina D. stepped away temporarily to welcome the newest member of her family. During her maternity leave, acclaimed guitarist Nikki Stringfield stepped in to help keep the music alive—a testament to the respect Bad Animals has earned within the professional rock community.
Having photographed Bad Animals over the years, I’ve watched them continually refine their craft while remaining true to the music that inspired them. Their performances aren’t built on imitation alone—they’re built on passion, musicianship, authenticity, and an unmistakable love for Heart’s incredible legacy.
If Ann Wilson’s advice was simply to “have fun with it,” I’d say Bad Animals has done exactly that—and then some.
Here are a few highlights since my introduction! To see more highlights of Bad Animals and Emerald rising, check out http://www.robarmstrongphotos.com
Long Island Sounds 