Posted by Beyond the Tribute: A Band Finding Its Own Voice
Readers of Long Island Sounds may remember my recent feature on Bad Animals, one of the country’s premier Heart tribute bands. What makes that band so special is not only their ability to recreate the music of Ann and Nancy Wilson, but the incredible musicianship of the individuals behind the performance.
But what happens when those musicians step away from the costumes and familiar classics?
The answer is Emerald Rising.
While many audiences know them as the talented musicians behind Bad Animals, Emerald Rising represents an entirely different side of the band—a project built not on nostalgia, but on creativity, songwriting, and their own musical identity.
What many fans may not realize is that before becoming Emerald Rising, the band originally began under the name Sevenless. The project was formed around 2017–2018 by guitarist Thomas Michael Cavanagh and vocalist Deana Dee as a creative outlet to explore original material. As the songwriting developed, the duo expanded the lineup by bringing in fellow Bad Animals members Chris Parrett on bass and John LaSpina on drums, creating the powerful four-piece that would eventually become Emerald Rising.
By late 2019, as the band completed production on their debut ten-song album recorded at DCity Studios, they officially embraced the Emerald Rising name and introduced their new identity to the world with their first music video, “Enough.”
Although their accomplishments as a tribute band have brought them recognition, Emerald Rising has always been about creating something uniquely their own.
That was evident on Saturday night, August 1, 2026, when Emerald Rising took the stage at 89 North Music Venue in Patchogue as the direct support act for The Iron Maidens, the world’s premier all-female Iron Maiden tribute band.
The evening carried a special sense of camaraderie. Prior to the performance, guitarist Thomas Michael Cavanagh shared the connection between the two bands, noting that Nikki Stringfield, guitarist for The Iron Maidens, had previously performed with Bad Animals while Gina D was on maternity leave.
For many in attendance, the night felt less like separate bands sharing a bill and more like a celebration among friends—a true Long Island rock family reunion.
Emerald Rising wasted no time proving they were much more than accomplished tribute musicians. Their set showcased the band’s versatility, blending their signature classic hard rock influences with original compositions, brand-new material, and carefully selected songs that paid tribute to the artists who helped inspire them.
One of the evening’s most memorable moments came when Nikki Stringfield joined Emerald Rising on stage for Heart’s legendary “Barracuda.” Sharing the stage with Deana Dee, whose vocal abilities have long been a centerpiece of Bad Animals’ performances, Nikki’s fiery guitar work created a powerful collaboration that perfectly bridged the worlds of tribute and original music.
But while Emerald Rising proudly celebrates the artists who influenced them, they are clearly focused on building a legacy of their own.
The band’s newest single, “Eating the Darkness,” was performed during the main set and showcased the direction Emerald Rising continues to pursue. The song highlights the group’s ability to blend classic hard rock sensibilities with modern songwriting while allowing each member’s musicianship to shine.
At the center of that sound is Deana Dee, whose commanding vocal range and stage presence remain one of the band’s defining characteristics. Her appreciation for legendary vocalists—particularly Ronnie James Dio—is evident in the passion and power she brings to every performance.
That admiration was once again on display as Emerald Rising closed their set with Dio’s classic “Man on the Silver Mountain.” A song that has become a fitting showcase for Deana’s vocal abilities, it served as a powerful finale to an evening that celebrated both the band’s influences and their future.
Watching Emerald Rising perform, it becomes clear that this is not simply a side project for musicians known from another band.
It is a statement.
Thomas Michael Cavanagh’s expressive guitar work, Chris Parrett’s driving bass, and sitting in for John LaSpina’s thunderous drumming was Claudio Galinski, creating the foundation for a band that understands where they came from while confidently moving forward.
The audience response throughout the evening reflected that same excitement. Fans embraced both the familiar influences and the original material, recognizing that Emerald Rising is not attempting to recreate the past—they are using it as inspiration to create something new.
Tribute bands preserve the music that shaped generations.
Original bands reveal the artists behind the music.
Emerald Rising is doing both.
And their story is just beginning.
Here are a few highlights from their performance at 89 North 8.1.26. Full gallery posted at http://www.facebook.com/robarmstrongFBPix
Long Island Sounds 