The genesis of new rock outfit The Gracious Few was more serendipitous than most band origins, after veteran members of '90s era rock staples Live and Candlebox came together in the waning days of their respective groups.

Live's Chad Taylor, Patrick Dahlheimer and Chad Gracey began writing new and original songs after their band decided to take some time off to work on personal projects. Live, the group which dominated airwaves in the last decade with such radio hits such as "I Alone," Lightning Crashes" and "All Over You," went on a self-proclaimed two year hiatus after a Las Vegas concert in 2009. Tensions were growing within the band, and singer Ed Kowalczyk incited further animosity after demanding a $100,000 "lead singer bonus" and pressing for sole ownership of the band's catalog.

See an acoustic performance and exclusive interview from The Gracious Few

The rift led to Taylor, Gracey and Dahlheimer to focus on their new musical venture. Rounding out the lineup, the group invited Candlebox singer Kevin Martin to get behind the microphone, and for lead guitar, they recruited Martin's bandmate Sean Hennesy. Dubbing themselves The Gracious Few, the band got immediately to work, polishing up songs and preparing for the live circuit.

Their first gig took place on May 27th, 2010 at York, Pennsylvania's Fat Daddy's. Drawing cred from their previous bands, the fledgling outfit kept rolling on the road with an appearance at Milwaukee's Summerfest, followed by a show at The Troubador in Los Angeles.

The Gracious Few also convened in the studio, where they laid down their debut under the guidance of former Talking Heads guitarist/keyboardist and producer Jerry Harrison. The Gracious Few's self-titled debut is now in stores.

Justin Starling for Citadel Digital © 2010