Jason Grodis, who played drums for several Cambria County-based rock bands, passed away Sunday at age 37 after a brief battle with cancer. Here is the obituary about Jason from the Altoona Mirror's website:
Jason provided the beat for such bands as Neutral Drop, Tie Down and Flatline. A benefit to help Jason in his battle took place in June at the Ashville Firehall.
Here is a picture of Jason in action, performing with Flatline during a benefit concert at 30 Something in April, 2010.
I played in many bands with Jason over the years. I can go on and on about him. Jason will never be forgotten. He was a great drummer, and one of my very best friends. Rest in peace my friend.
I didn't know Jason as well as I should have, given our great number of mutual friends. I am still very disheartened for those who knew and loved him over this loss.
I have a specific memory of waiting in line for tickets to one of the Star Wars prequels and it just so happened Jason was next to me in line. We chatted for those couple of hours about everything from music to video games and family. Every encounter I ever had with Jason was a friendly one.
I'm pretty sure I have an old videotape around here somewhere of a Neutral Drop show I recorded at Aldo's back around 2001. I actually ended up playing in that band after he had left it. Learning the songs he had helped write/create was not an easy task, which is a testament to his skills behind the kit.
Stemming from the previously mentioned benefit that was held over the Summer, there is a fund for Jason's family. Here is the information:
Jason Grodis Benefit Fund
c/o S&T Bank
701 Main Street
Gallitzin, PA 16641
