FACES ‘94: More Names to Be Reckoned With in the Performing Arts : POP MUSIC : Cadillac Tramps

For the past three years, Cadillac Tramps have been the people’s choice on the local grass-roots rock scene. In 1994, the five-man Orange County band will bid to raise its profile on the national level.

The Tramps--singer Mike (Gabby) Gaborno, guitarists Brian Coakley and Jonny (Two Bags) Wickersham, bassist Warren Renfrow and drummer Steve (Spanky) Barrios--have laid the groundwork for a national breakthrough in classic indie-rock fashion.

Formed late in 1987, the band rose through the local punk-rock ranks. By 1990, its raw but well-focused guitar attack, its heavy but bouncing signature beats, its ‘50s tough-guy look and Gaborno’s humorous stage antics had made it Orange County’s best-drawing local act, capable of packing Bogart’s two nights running.

The Tramps began heading out on the road after signing with the small, Orange-based Doctor Dream label. Two albums, “Cadillac Tramps” (1991) and “Tombstone Radio” (1992), established a crunching sound informed by punk rock, blues, R&B; and ‘50s rockabilly. Continuing with extensive touring in 1993, the Tramps won some highly placed fans: The mega-selling Seattle band Pearl Jam took a liking to the Tramps and featured them as opening act.

The coming year will see another studio album for Doctor Dream--the Tramps’ last under their deal with the label, and perhaps their ticket to higher-profile national shows and a coveted major-label deal.

In an era of overnight alternative-rock phenoms, the Tramps can point to dues paid and a foundation assiduously laid.