The hot summer of 2012 saw the renaissance of Downtown Detroit and the formation of the Mike Leslie Band out of the big bang of old structure, new generation and classic Motor City-born musical styles. MLB offer their eclectic jam twist on pop progressions over rock structure; these gentlemen have strong folk and classic-rock guitar chops yet write around hooks and lyrics to produce urban sonic jewels. Their influences span musical and literary generations, yet are honest and familiar, like your favorite pair of jeans and work boots. Imagine a block party jam session with Johnny Cash, Alabama Shakes, early and late career John Lennon, Sam Cooke, Government Mule, Nirvana, Gary Clark Jr., Hendrix and Jim James. Nietzsche and Capote offer prose inspiration to Mike’s songwriting. MLB’s live show is a three-ring circus of primal energy, Motown soul and spur of the moment surprises that translate this fine young Midwestern band from “great album” into “hell of a party”.
Since their Detroit debut show to a sold out crowd at the Magic Stick in December 2012, Mike Leslie Band has been a speeding bullet of buzz and critical acclaim. MLB have sold out headline shows at the classic Michigan market rock and roll mid-sized clubs as well as opened for Three Dog Night, Jimmie Vaughan, Rick Derringer, Sponge, Mitch Ryder and Larry Carlton. In 2013, Mike Leslie Band took command of the Detroit music scene with two Detroit Music Awards, including the People’s Choice Award. On the national scene, MLB showcased at SXSW 2013 and won DOUG FM’s regional crown at Battle of the Bands.
