BUMPIN UGLIES
Bumpin’ Uglies was formed by lead singer/guitarist/song-writer Brandon Hardesty in 2008, when he set out to create a sound and an approach that was unique and immediately identifiable. It’s the same thing every artist says that they want when they form their band, but Bumpin’ Uglies are the rare act that does stand out in every way, making them utterly memorable to everyone the come across. They incorporate many styles into their music, with a major emphasis on ska, reggae and punk. But they don’t really care what bucket you want to put them in, either you love ‘em or you don’t—it’s your choice to join the party or sit outside instead; and It’s always more fun in the party.
With two full-length LP’s, a live show LP and two EP’s under their belt, Bumpin’ Uglies prolific studio work is the product of continuous song writing and a desire to keep putting out fresh material for their ever-growing fan base. They achieved national recognition with the release of their 2011 LP “Free Candy”, and they have continued to gain momentum with each subsequent release, including “Load in-Load Out” (live show LP), Ninjah Reggae Assassins (LP released in 2013 which reached #1 on iTunes Reggae chart), and EP’s “Freak Out Hell Bus” and “Sublime with No One”, both released in 2015.
Bumpin’ Uglies match their output in the studio with a road-warrior approach to touring that makes it seem as though they rarely come off the road. To date, they have completed 8 national tours, and dozens of regional tours. They have toured as direct support for Ballyhoo! and co-headlined a tour with Bastard Suns, moving effortlessly between punk and reggae crowds who flock to Bumpin’ Uglies in equal measures. Their touring dossier is topped off with some major festival experience, including California Roots in 2014, the Rombello Cruise in 2013 and Warped Tour in 2012.
Bumpin’ Uglies have proven every existing maxim about hard work paying off in the last several years. Their DIY ethic coupled with their grassroots approach for building a major national fan base makes them the epitome of punk rock, but that description sorely sells their music short. Bold, a bit brash perhaps at times, but Bumpin’ Uglies name, their songs and their work ethic get a definite point across: they make music their way, enjoying a freedom that is easy to aspire to, but most difficult to achieve together with success. In this day and age of political correctness and people growing more uptight and offended by the minute, it doesn’t take long to realize that Brandon and Bumpin’ Uglies “Eff you/can do” attitude makes them stand separate and apart as a band. And their fans love them for it.