NORWICH – Fans of the classic and modern rock genres will have the opportunity to experience the “versatile and eclectic” sounds of the area’s newest music ensemble this Friday, as My New Obsession takes the stage publicly for the first time, according to lead guitarist Marc Funaro.

Funaro, who graduated from the University of Buffalo with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music with an emphasis on studio musicianship in 1993, will be joined by lead vocalist and fiancé Connie Silverbrand, bassist Jeff Ruzich and drummer Stephen Bitzer.

After a 10-year hiatus from the guitar, which he began playing at the age of 12, Funaro said he felt he “needed that creative outlet again,” and that he “finally felt like it was time to do this.”

Funaro and Silverbrand, who began rehearsing the material which would eventually make up the bulk of My New Obsession’s repertoire, both commented on the various musical abilities each member brings to the band.

“This is just a great, talented group of people to work with,” said Funaro. “Jeff was just a tremendous find that fell right into our laps, and Steve and I played together back in high school and college, so it was great to reconnect with him.”