KINGS OF THE LOBBY
A jazz-funk band based in Chicago founded by saxophonist Chris Madsen.
MIKE AND CHAD
We are Mike and Chad an acoustic duo that offers a rich and diverse catalog of music. We consist of Michael Noonan(keys/melodica/vocals) and Chad Aul(guitar/vocals) and have been playing together for over ten years. We play all different styles of music from folk, rock, blues, funk, indie and jazz to name a few. Hailing from the south side of Chicago, we have been playing music together for over 10 years. Our mission is to continue to work on our craft and build off our dynamic performances to deliver something special for the listener every time.
CAUGHT ON CLINE
Caught on Cline has a vision to create positive music and a culture, which broadens our perspective of social barriers and stereotypes, through a cornucopia of musical notions. From the Jazz motifs on the trumpet, to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern runs on the bouzouki, to the funky soulful rhythm section, Caught on Cline encompasses the diversity musically that creates their ethos.
Coming into fruition in the summer of 2014, it has conjoined musicians from Funk, Soul, Jazz, R&B, and World Music, to organically engineer articulate, dynamic and harmonious melodies that ring in the memory of the listener, be it an adolescent set of ears to a mature trained professional.
Caught on Cline’s self titled debut album, is a collaborate effort from founding members Nicholas Kazonis, Alex Akers, Ray Vick, and Nikolce Janakievski with the help of good friend Keith O’Brien to expose the sincerity of the human sentiment. The members pull experiences from their everyday lives of teaching, traveling, and humanitarian service, to closer connect to the lives of their listeners with the passion and love they can relate to.
GIVE
Conceived in Iraq, the back of a van hurtling across the desert, Mississippi, and the leaf shrouded seclusion of a Mount Pleasant basement, GIVE has existed in one form or another for close to five years. We played our first show in November of ’08, since then we have played many shows in many places. We’ve had three recording sessions, all with Don Zientara at Inner Ear Studios in Arlington, VA.
DJ ERIC OF FCS SOUNDSYSTEM
Spinning the best in Ska, Soul and Rock and Roll!
MONO IN STEREO
Based out of Rockford, IL. Mono in Stereo is comprised of former members of mid-west punk bands, Mulligan Stu and The Shakes.
Mono in Stereo wear their influences on their sleeves, obvious nods to Husker Du, 7 Seconds and Bruce Springsteen are quite apparent in their music. The songs span across break-neck paced hardcore anthems about the music itself to honest melodic confessions about life’s ups and downs.
RESTLESS ROAD
Talented. Charming. Unstoppable. America first became acquainted with the Country music trio Restless Road while watching Season 3 of The X Factor USA and these are just some of the words that immediately came to their minds. The breakout act didn’t just leave a lasting impression on audiences, but also mesmerized the show’s judges including Simon Cowell and Kelly Rowland. “X Factor” of course refers to that undefinable and innate “something” that a star simply embodies. And fans and tastemakers recognize that Restless Road has got it times three.
Zach Beeken (19), Garrett Nichols (18) and Jared Keim (21) each bring their own “All- American” experience to a transformed Restless Road. Evident in their self-taught musical skills, these three guys do share one important thing in common above all else: determination. Zach’s very first job was pollinating corn on a farm in Iowa where he discovered his love for Country music and taught himself how to sing. Garrett on the other hand grew up in Alabama and was involved in everything from school musicals to baseball. One day at age 12 though, he picked up an acoustic guitar and never looked back. Also at a young age, Jared’s community watched in awe as he performed on stage at his local church in Missouri; he found his calling before he could tie his own shoes. Into his teens, Jared trained himself on the guitar, piano and drums. “Getting together to write or record is great because we all grew up with the same hard- working attitude and approach our music in the same way together,” says Zach. It’s this dedication and positive outlook that’s responsible for so much of the group’s success.
One of Restless Road’s biggest accomplishments to date is landing at #1 on the iTunes Country Chart. With a Country spin, the group covered one of the most popular songs of 2013, Avicii’s “Wake Me Up”, and quickly realized that they had a growing and passionate fan base to satisfy. One of these fans was legendary music manager Johnny Wright. Wright has helped launch Backstreet Boys, *NSYNC and Jonas Brothers (to name a few), so he thoroughly understands what it takes for a group of guys to be successful and began working with Restless Road in 2014. With Wright’s ear for talent and Restless Road’s capability, this Country “man band” (as they refer to themselves) is ready to show the world what they can do. Jared sums it up well by explaining, “We’re three guys who have something to prove. We love what we’re doing, we’re real and we’re going to carve out a place in music history for ourselves.”
SET FIRE
“I AM THOR” MOVIE SCREENING
Jon Mikl Thor was a bodybuilding, steel bending, brick smashing rock star in the 70’s & 80’s whose theatrical band THOR hit the scene alongside Metallica and Kiss, but never achieved the gold record status of its contemporaries. After a brief but memorable film career saw him starring in the cult classics Rock ‘n’ Roll Nightmare and Zombie Nightmare, Thor all but disappeared from the entertainment map. But ten years into retirement, and incapable of living like a normal mortal human being, Thor attempts a comeback to achieve the level of success that had eluded him his entire career – a comeback that nearly kills him. Tracing the rise, fall, and rebirth of a determined performer over the course of a career that has seen more than its fair share of highs and lows, I AM THOR paints a fascinating and sometimes unbelievable portrait of this larger-than-life icon.
THOR
The Rock Warrior THOR has always shaken the very halls of Valhalla itself with inspiring anthemic Metal as powerful as the enchanted warhammer Mjolnir itself! Now he’s taking us on a thunderous, epic quest with his July 2007 release, “INTO THE NOISE” (Smog Veil Records)!
“INTO THE NOISE is basically a concept album where the band goes on a journey to the center of the mind, of noise,” said THOR. “They come across all these alternate characters and creatures like The Sound King. It’s a quest. Like in the song ‘Back For More’, it’s about coming back to rise up again and do battle again. Sometimes you have to retreat when you get overwhelmed or defeated, but then you regain your strength and go back in. So we’re heading back Into the Noise.”
This unique digital release is going to be a prelude to another new CD to be unleashed in Fall 2007, and heralds several legs of an upcoming tour.
Jon Mikl THOR is an enduring icon of glam rock/metal, and one of the true originators of rock theatre. THOR’s enviable career got off the ground with his appearance on the Merv Griffin Show in 1973 and he has maintained a steady pace ever since, selling hundreds of thousands of records. Over the last three decades, THOR has explored the tongue-in-cheek Sweet/Mott the Hoople/Bowie stylings, hard hitting metal moves of the 80’s, and flirting briefly with Nu-Rock/Metal in the late 90’s.
Starting out in Vancouver, THOR first made waves in the bodybuilding world, becoming Mr. Canada and Mr. USA, always using heavy music as an intensive training tool. He blended his powerful physique with powerful rock, and thus began this amazing cult legend’s long reign in the hazy area between superstardom and the dark underground.
Along the way he has become a movie actor and producer, turning out collectible classics like “Rock & Roll Nightmare”, “Zombie Nightmare”, “Graveyard”, and others. Most recently, THOR appeared in the USA Network movie “Murder At The Presidio”, the recent Lifetime Network TV movie “A Family Lost”, and starred in “The Intercessor”. And even more movie news will be released soon. (Keep checking www.thorcentral.com for updates).
THOR is still an immensely powerful man in incredible shape and a dedicated performer. Blowing up hot water bottles, bending steel, and having cinder blocks broken over his chest are all in a night’s work. THOR has successfully managed to re-invent himself once again. The legions of fans are still there and new generations are finding out for themselves that THOR is just as cool now as he ever was in 1978, 1985, or 1999.
THOR was voted one of the Greatest 100 Frontmen of All Time in the July, 2004 edition of the UK’s Classic Rock Magazine – a list compiled by polling professional Rock journalists.
The concept album “Beastwomen” was released in 2004, and for this phenomenal Metal Opera, THOR hooked up with American fantasy artist extraordinaire Mike “Mick” Hoffman, one of the best fantasy artists currently working in comics today. Hoffman’s work summons up the spirit of adventure in Classical Art for a modern audience.
Jon and Mick joined forces in 2001, and have produced several THOR comic books including “Thor: The Rock Warrior #1” and “Thor vs. Beastwomen From the Center of the Earth.” The hot-lava finale of “Beastwomen” leaves ample room for a sequel, and the highly-prolific artist Hoffman guarantees that the third stanza of a “Thor Trilogy” is indeed on its way. Not your typical Rock album, “Beastwomen” is a total-experience multimedia product as a concept album, an illustrated comic book, and with a movie and videogame in the works.
Two more albums, “THOR Against The World” and “Devastation of Musculation” followed in the interim between “Beastwomen” and “Into The Noise”. This is Metal the way Metal SHOULD be – tapping into and channeling the very heart & soul of the genre! Both albums feature extremely catchy and addictive, with a timeless quality that will make the songs just as fresh decades from now as they were when first released.
MILES OVER MOUNTAINS
Miles Over Mountains is an acoustic Bluegrass / Roots / Americana band based in McHenry, IL. Their musical styles range from bluegrass, to rock, to folk, to reggae, to punk and beyond, all delivered in a “not-so-traditional” bluegrass voice. Their live shows are high energy, centered around their arsenal of original material and refreshing variety of cover songs interpreted in their own way.
Only in their first years as a band, Miles Over Mountains continue to turn heads across the nation as they’re momentum and touring schedule continue to grow. In 2014-2015 they’ve performed hundreds of shows at bars, clubs and festivals with no signs of slowing. Besides playing notable Chicago venues such as Cubby Bear, Martyr’s, Tonic Room and others, the band also held a weekly residency show at the Abbey Pub from May until October carrying on the longstanding local tradition of Bluegrass Tuesdays in the city.
The 2014 and 2015 festival seasons have seen M.O.M. performing at such fests as Shoe Fest, Down On The Farm, Jam for Jam Music Fest, Frankfort Bluegrass Fest, Byrd Fest, Blottopia, Summer Stomp and more, and sharing the bill with The Wood Brothers, Split Lip Rayfield, Sierra Hull, Blue Highway, Ben Miller Band and a host of national and regional acts. M.O.M. has been the opening act for such groups as Town Mountain, Henhouse Prowlers, Cornmeal, Ben Miller Band, The Big Wu, Family Groove Company and many other longtime staples of the music scene.
Collectively with decades of stage experience under their belts, M.O.M. strives to provide the audience with a fun and freeing experience at each show with unique sets every time. The band released their debut album, “Five Star Heart Breaker” on March 20, 2015. They have been and continue to be on the road and the stage constantly in support of this record, and can be seen this festival season at over a dozen fantastic Midwest music festivals~
WHITFORD ST. HOLMES
After selling tens of millions of records around the world with Aerosmith and Ted Nugent, Brad Whitford and Derek St. Holmes have reunited for their second record and world tour. Whitford/St.Holmes self titled debut received strong radio play and as well as critical reviews followed by a very successful run of US dates. However, shortly after its release their respective camps reunited and those schedules simply did not allow for a follow up…until now!
The newly reunited line up also features drummer Troy Luccketta from Tesla and Nashville A-lister, bassist Chopper Anderson. The bands second release is slated for early 2016 with a new single arriving this Fall. Look for Whitford/St.Holmes tour dates to be announced in June!
As Brad and Derek put it, “ We are so excited for this record and we absolutely cannot wait to get out there and share it with all of our fans….check that, “FRIENDS!”
THE GO SET
The Go Set are an iconic Australian act. Fiercely independent, they have travelled the world delivering their brand of high energy folk/punk. Since 2003, they have played in 25 countries, performed over 1000 shows at festivals and clubs, and released seven albums. Traditional sounds of the bagpipes and mandolin, punk rock guitars, and a penchant for socially and politically motivated lyrics, they’ve been likened to everything from The Pogues, to The Clash, Flogging Molly and early Midnight Oil.
2015 sees the release of their long awaited full length feature film ‘These are the Days” through ABC television. The film depicts the plight of independent music in an ever changing world, and the universal language that it speaks – from villages in some of the poorest countries in the world, to huge rock festivals in Europe. ….The Go Set are touring the US for the first time in September/October 2015!!
NARADA MICHAEL WALDEN
Among a handful of the most innovative, original and influential artists of our time, Narada Michael Walden’s stature as an authentic musical renaissance man is a matter of record.
Producing Hits for Artists as diverse as Aretha Franklin (including the platinum “Freeway of Love.”), Steve Winwood, Ray Charles, Wynonna Judd, Whitney Houston, George Michael, Mariah Carey, Barbara Streisand, Lionel Ritchie, Lisa Fischer, Stevie Wonder, Tom Jones, Jeff Beck and The Temptations, the EMMY and multi-GRAMMY winner (Producer, Album and Song of The Year) has been at the helm of hit music that spans decades. His music flows freely from pop, rock and soul, to the rarified realms of jazz, fusion and world music. With Jeff Beck, Narada wrote and played drums on the seminal album “Wired” that earned them both their first Gold Album. Walden was an integral part of introducing Whitney Houston and Mariah Carey to millions of fans worldwide, producing and writing their breakthrough hits that first brought these divas to the spotlight. Billboard Magazine honored him as one of the Top Ten Producers of all time.
As impressive a production and songwriting resume as Narada Michael Walden has assembled over the past thirty years and counting, he has earned equal acclaim as a recording and performing artist in his own right. Beginning as a drummer first with the pioneering Mahavishnu Orchestra following Bill Cobham at 21 years old), Narada also toured with Jeff Beck, Tommy Bolin, and Weather Report. Through eleven acclaimed solo recordings, along the way he has branched into a wide range of sonic arenas. Walden’s music includes groundbreaking soundtrack work on such blockbuster films as The Bodyguard, Free Willy, Beverly Hills Cops II, 9 ½ Weeks and Stuart Little to the EMMY-winning “One Moment In Time,” the theme to the 1988 Olympic Games.
The list goes on, but the artistry of Narada Michael Walden is about more than charts positions and record sales. There is a powerful spiritual component at the heart of everything this richly gifted artist undertakes, an attuned and intuitive approach with a deep appreciation for music’s transforming power. Simply put, the artistry of Narada Michael Walden gets to the heart of matter, about matters of the heart.
It’s a commitment that reaches into the philanthropic arena as well, where Walden consistently lends his time and talent to causes ranging from the Cancer Society to funding music programs in the nation’s schools through his own foundation. For over 7 years running he has served as Music Director for the Rainforest Foundation Concert at Carnegie Hall, the high profile conversancy benefit spearheaded by Sting and Trudie Styler that has featured the likes of Elton John, Billy Joel, Ravi Shankar, James Taylor, Brian Wilson, Bruce Springsteen, Lada Gaga, Bruno Mars and, of course, Sting himself.
His “Narada Michael Walden Foundation” delivers its services through a network of non-profit organizations with proven records of success in youth education and community empowerment. The Foundation also endows scholarships for aspiring musicians and enables the stars of tomorrow by offering emerging young artists from around the world access to recording facilities, coaching and production support.
In 2010 Narada did a very successful two year world tour as Drummer with the Jeff Beck Band.In early February, of 2012 Narada Michael Walden returned from a well received 10 day stint of shows with his own band at the Blue Note in Tokyo and Nagoya to perform at the White House in an all star band for President Obama’s “Red, White and Blues” Concert with legends B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Mick Jagger, Trombone Shorty, Booker T Jones and more. In 2013, Narada established his own Independent Label, Tarpan Records and released 2 new solo projects, Thunder 2013 and Rising Sun. In spring 2014 Tarpan Records signed Cheyanne Elliott, the granddaughter of Dionne Warwick. Narada is busy producing Cheyanne’s EP to come out in the fall of 2014, which will include a stunning duet with Dionne Warwick.
Walden’s prodigious energies have consistently driven him to keep on the cutting edge of the music industry. Narada continues to perform, write & record new music. He is tireless in his work to develop and mentor young musicians. For over 25 years he has been independently busy producing and recording new Artists as well as working on his own solo projects at his Marin County-based Tarpan Studios recording studio.
THE RIVER VALLEY RANGERS
The River Valley Rangers (RVR) are a group of strapping young lads hailing from the Chicagoland region. We enjoy cornbread, long walks in the woods, craft brews, and and of course, bluegrass!
ROBOT HILARIOUS
Robot Hilarious accurately portrays many well established genres while at the same time blending them into new musical territories. Influenced by turn of the century underground hip hop, 1930s and 40s folk, 1980s sci-fi funk, and by taking LSD, Robot taps the collective consciousness of a scattered generation aiming to collect the worthwhile bits in a lifeboat.
The band performs all over Chicago and the suburbs promoting their latest full length hip hop album, “It’s Official”
Known for exciting shows which range from spacey, psychedelic hip hop to neo-folk and dark rock, Robot Hilarious continues to see growing support from its fans and contemporaries.
ALBATROSS
Albatross was born in the year 1998 and has made a landmark in the current Nepali music scene. It all began when a couple of guys joined hands came together with their rusted guitars and other old instruments to transcend the sound of Nepali Alternative music, each of which has significantly influenced the music which the band creates.
Evolved from a three-man school band and now currently consisting of four members, Albatross has made their presence known nationally and internationally. With a huge influence amongst the current generation, Albatross is also popular amongst anyone who likes Nepali Contemporary Music.
We play Nepali Rock that addresses contemporary issues of Nepal. We love playing music that people can relate to, be it through music or the lyrics. We are a tight bunch of guys that love playing live, are true to our music and most importantly love what we do.
Sustainability is key everywhere especially when it comes to making music. We have had many talented musicians taking on other options to sustain themselves as a result spending less time in creating the art. As a band, we are back in the Kathmandu Live Music scene. We are determined to beat the odds and hope to stand out as an inspiration to other bands to keep on doing what they’re doing. We believe that Nepali musicians have a lot to offer not just to the music industry of Nepal but of the world.
THE ZIMMER EFFECT
The Zimmer Effect -Rock-Grunge-Progressive-Electric-Acoustic-Metal-Jazz-
THE HOUSE ON CLIFF
The House On Cliff is a high-energy rock band from Boston Massachusetts with a passion to bring rock and roll back to the masses. Chad Michael Jervis (Lead Vocals), Charles Coleman (Guitar/Vocals), Marc Polit (Drums), and William Santana (Bass/ Vocals) met while studying at Berklee College of Music and the rest was history. Their first EP hits ears November 2014, a mix of groovable rock tunes produced by the masterful Dan Whittemore, recorded at The Madden Bros Studio in Los Angeles, CA. Although The House On Cliff is a fairly new band (Est. Sept 2013) in the past year they have been on three national tours, the most recent being The ABC’s Of Style Mall Tour (Sponsored by Simon Malls and Teen Vogue) performing alongside teen sensation IM5. The House On Cliff has also performed at some spectacularly noteworthy venues such as: The Troubadour (Los Angeles, CA), The Bottom Of The Hill (San Francisco, CA), The Mint (Los Angeles, CA), The Middle East (Cambridge, MA), The Red Room @ Cafe 939 (Boston, MA), World Cafe Live @The Queen (Wilmington, DE), The Nile Theater (Phoenix, AZ), Wells Fargo Center (Philadelphia, PA), CollegeFest @Fenway Park (Boston, MA) and they recently opened for Peter Frampton and The Doobie Brothers at the Bank Of New Hampshire Pavilion (Gilford, NH). The moment The House On Cliff hits the stage their goal is to make you fall in love with the beautifully ferocious beast that is rock and roll. Whether it be your first time or hundredth, no matter your age, they want you to know that rock and roll is not just for some, it is for everyone.
ALEX PRESTON
Alex Preston is an Indie artist, with an original sound and a fresh vibe. Check it.
FUTURE SUNSETS
We are a band. We make music.
TIFFANY ALVORD
I’m a 22-year old singer/songwriter from California. I have been writing songs ever since I was 10-years-old. My songs are like a journal; they reflect all my feelings and emotions of what happens to me, or what I imagine, or what I dream of. My 3rd album, LEGACY was released August 12, 2014. I couldn’t reach my goals without my fans. I love and appreciate my Tiffanatics! ♥ Always Sm:)e!
EKOH
Branded with the label of HEART HOP by loyal fans who saw something different in his style of hip hop. True emotional lyrics along with hard-hitting delivery, intricate production, and a high energy live show, Ekoh has something that hip hop music hasn’t seen in a long time, TRUE PASSION FOR THE ART OF HIP HOP MUSIC.
A song writer who can blur the lines between genres to create a truly amazing music experience. Blending hip hop with alt rock and everything in-between, Ekoh has a sound that will appeal to almost any music listener. “My music is about embracing REAL LIFE, the struggle, the good times, the frustration, the anger, the heartache. It’s all real because its all true. I have felt and experienced it all.” His unique sound and voice has gained a loyal following, and has taken the scene by storm.
This groundbreaking MC is destined to make his mark in hip hop music. Ekoh has performed with acts such as WU TANG CLAN, KOTTONMOUTH KINGS, EVERLAST, TECH N9NE, DILATED PEOPLES, AHER ROTH, GRIEVES, JEDI MIND TRICKS, ILL BILL, IMMORTAL TECHNIQUE, WATSKY, ANDRE NICKATINA, LOUIS LOGIC, SLAUGHTERHOUSE, SAGE FRANCIS, POTLUCK, GLASSES MALONE, MISTAH FAB, BIG B, SUNSPOT JONZ, MC CHRIS, ABSTRACT RUDE, and many others.
Ekoh has performed at venues such as House of Blues, Hard Rock Cafe, Knitting Factory, Electric Theatre, Cal-Neva Resort, Beauty Bar, LVCS and more.
He has also performed on festivals such as the VANS WARPED TOUR and the EXTREME THING SPORTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL. One listen and it is impossible to deny his lyrical skills. After paying attention to the lyrics, it’s impossible to deny his ability to put feelings and emotions into words and relate with his audience.
CAMEL HEAVY
Camel Heavy is a Doom Metal/Stoner Rock band from Chicago. The band features George Abariotis (Guitar) and Chris Shikami (Drums). They released their first self-titled EP in 2015.
WISHBONE ASH
Formed in 1969 in England, Wishbone Ash are one of the most influential guitar bands in rock history. Equally inspired by British folk, American jazz and R&B, the band did their part to help form the emerging rock ’n’ roll scene in the U.S. and the U.K. Through dedication to the craft of guitar harmony and melody, along with relentless touring, Wishbone Ash garnered a vast audience through public approval, critical praise and worldwide distribution of their extensive recording catalog.
In 2023 the band, led by founding member Andy Powell (guitarist, lead vocals), will mark the 50th anniversary of their biggest selling, multi-platinum album, “Live Dates,” with tours of Europe, North America and the United Kingdom. In the U.S., February and March will see the band traveling through the Northeast and Midwest, with an autumn tour through the South and West.
As the first live album released by the band, “Live Dates” features selections from Wishbone Ash’s first four albums performed in concert during the summer of 1973. Reviewers have consistently listed it among the finest live rock albums of all time.
“Live Dates” includes the cream of the early Wishbone Ash crop: King Will Come, Warrior, Throw Down the Sword, Rock ’N’ Roll Widow, Ballad of the Beacon, Baby What You Want Me to Do, Pilgrim, Blowin’ Free, Jailbait, Lady Whiskey and Phoenix.
To celebrate the 50th Anniversary, “Live Dates” was re-recorded in its entirety at Daryl Hall’s venue, Daryl’s House Club, in Pawling, New York on July 22, 2022.
Andy Powell trades licks with Yorkshire’s Mark Abrahams, who has been playing Wishbone Ash tunes since his youth. Longtime bassist Bob Skeat keeps the low-end rocking, working the grooves with newest band member, Mike Truscott on drums. Like his band mate Mark Abrahams, Mike also hails from Yorkshire, England.
As true warriors of the road, the band regularly covers around 30,000 miles a year, which is roughly equivalent to circumnavigating the world. The Ash is an undeniable force on today’s touring scene, performing on five continents and continuing to be discovered by new generations of music fans.
Over the years the band has embraced diverse musical genres, from folk, blues and jazz to pedal-to-the-metal rock and electronica. Regardless of the style, Wishbone Ash’s groundbreaking interplay of two lead guitars influenced bands such as Thin Lizzy, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Iron Maiden, Umphree McGee and Opeth, among many others.
Wishbone Ash’s latest studio album (their 26th), “Coat of Arms,” was released in early 2020.
BROTHERS’ REVIVAL
Brothers’ Revival is Chicago’s premier Allman Brothers tribute band playing the hits and deep catalogue of the ABB.
CAUSTIC CASANOVA
Caustic Casanova is a loud, heavy rock band from Washington, DC. Some have called CC the best. New record “Breaks” out September 25th, 2015!
TAV FALCO’S PANTHER BURNS featuring MIKE WATT
WHISTLE BLOWER USA TOUR 2015
Tav Falco – PANTHER BURNS featuring Mike Watt & Toby Dammit
Equal parts primal, early rock’n’roll, deviant hill country blues & avant-garde art, Tav Falco – PANTHER BURNS are ramshackle, raw, and unholy – not just Music…but a state of mind. Tav Falco is one of the truly original and romantic forces in American music – the voice that America lost and found. He is tender and virile, flamboyant, witty and dangerous. Falco brings daggers back to the stage.
Known as the ditch-diggers in American music, our cabal is privileged to welcome MIKE WATT onstage on the WHISTLE BLOWER TOUR. Having come under the spell of our new COMMAND PERFORMANCE album (Frenzi/Darla USA), Hi-Watt began to Tweet his impressions. Quickly we were discussing his participation on the US Tour, and beginning to forge a work in progress already hurled into the future.
First to jump aboard is TOBY DAMMIT whipping the skins – rhythm section partner of Mike Watt. Fresh off the boat from Rome, MARIO MONTEROSSO – producer of our new album, Command Performance – joins us on lead guitar, while maestro FRANCESCO D’AGNOLO tickles the ivories.
The last steam engine train left on the track that don’t do nothin’ but run and blow. PANTHER BURNS are the ones who always hold out a hand to the enemy.
BANDITS
BANDITS are a red-hot bowling ball, shot out of a homemade cannon into the side panel of mid 80’s Ford Bronco.
Led by the unmatched chemistry of brother/sister John and LuLu Demitro, and driven by the eruptive drumming of Andrew Oakley, BANDITS have, “managed to enter a higher society of artistry by discharging a brand unlike any others in the provincial industry.”
Straddling the line between psychedelic and downright explosive, BANDITS find themselves drawing in dazed listeners to a focal point of sound, just before pushing back with enough power and energy to knock the asbestos out of the ceiling of your towns grimy rock club.
CASTLE
CASTLE was forged in San Francisco in 2009 and released their debut full-length, In Witch Order, on Germany’s Ván Records in 2011. The album brought light to the newly-formed band and earned them “Album Of The Year” honors from Metal Hammer Norway, as well as Roadburn Festival’s “Newcomer Of The Year.” Shortly thereafter, the band joined the Prosthetic Records roster in North America and released their critically-adored sophomore album Blacklands. The record left to a Canadian JUNO nomination for “Metal/Hard Music Album Of The Year.” CASTLE performed over two-hundred shows worldwide in support of the release alongside the likes of The Sword, Conan, Intronaut and Pentagram among many others as well as appearances at some of the underground’s largest fests including Roadburn and the London and Berlin Desertfests.
Since the release of Under Siege in 2014, CASTLE, which consists of vocalist/bassist Liz Blackwell, guitarist/vocalist Mat Davis and drummer Al McCartney, has maintained a relentless touring schedule with multiple expeditions throughout the US, Europe and Canada including stops at the 2015 edition of Heavy Days In Doomtown Fest in Copenhagen, Denmark and the Acherontic Arts Fest in Oberhausen, Germany.
CASTLE, who recently announced a three week run of tour dates around their appearance at the Maryland Doom Fest on June 24 will continue touring across the U.S. throughout July and August with the announcement of 32 additional dates. The month-long headlining trek, which follows the release of “Welcome to the Graveyard”, commences July 17 in Fullerton, CA. Expect Canadian and European dates in support of Welcome To The Graveyard to be announced in the coming months.
SOUNDS LIKE HARMONY
Sounds Like Harmony is a quirky, diverse solo act hailing out of Greenville, North Carolina blending a variety of genres including Acoustic, Folk, Southern Rock, Blues and even Rap with modern Pop to give off a diverse array of energetic, unique sounds.
Now 22, he began playing music as young as 7 when he fiddled on a piano with nursery rhymes. He launched his music career at 21 when he started posting his songs to YouTube, and performing live on YouNow.com achieving over 35,000 fans in the first year. He also has opened for and played alongside of popular acts on YouNow such as NeverShoutNever and SayWeCanFly. Many of his videos have also been featured on Bryan Stars Interviews and he was a featured artist on Ernie Ball’s Battle of the Bands, ranking 1st on the charts at the Virginia Beach venue and ranking in the top 25 nationally. Reverbnation listed him as a featured artist on the website in December of 2013, and his original song “The Sun and The Moon” earned him runner up in a Song Of The Year contest on songoftheyear.com.
Before he began his music career, he was locally known for skateboarding and had a local shop sponsor, Backdoor Skate Shop, as well as a clothing sponsor, Textbook Clothing. He also attended college for nursing at Beaufort County Community College. He continued these activities until a tonsil surgery went awry in early 2013. He was forced to drop his classes and was unable to continue school because of his financial crisis after surgery. After realizing the change in his voice afterwards, he decided to pursue his newfound passion: a music career.
CASEY BOLLES
Casey Bolles is a solo acoustic artist started in Buffalo, NY. With music geared towards pulling the heartstrings of any listener, Casey’s songwriting is a blend passionate anger and sadness, that is brutally honest and unapologetic. His newest EP, Freshman, has turned heads of listeners since its release on December 30th, 2014.
Casey will be spending 2015 on the road, starting with a northeast run with A Will Away in the coming spring.
WIND IN SAILS
Wind In Sails is the solo music project from Evan Pharmakis. Who focuses on writing meaningful music with a positive message.
HOORAY
depressing music from depressed people
BELLY BELT
Psychedelic casio-rap indie-pop cheerleader BELLY BELT
KATAKLYSM & BELPHEGOR CO-HEADLINE
YOB
Epic, crushing, and heavy beyond words, YOB has achieved legendary status in recent years due to their unmatched aesthetic and incredible body of work. Formed in 1996 in Eugene, Oregon under the leadership of doom metal mastermind Mike Scheidt on guitars and vocals, the group initially released a three song demo tape in 2000 that garnered them international attention. Drawing comparisons to groups like Neurosis, Sleep and Electric Wizard, YOB succeeded in developing modern sounding doom metal that hearkened back to the classics.
In 2002, YOB released their debut album Elaborations of Carbon followed by Catharsis in 2003, a three song record that clocked in at a colossal 50 minutes. The buzz about YOB was beginning to grow and the trio began to tour more extensively. Remaining quite prolific during this period, YOB continued to release an album each year with The Illusion of Motion coming in 2004 followed by The Unreal Never Lived in 2005. Despite all the momentum, YOB disbanded in 2006.
In 2008 the band returned from hiatus and has remained strong ever since with Travis Foster on drums and Aaron Rieseberg on bass. Reinvigorated and reinspired, YOB released The Great Cessation in 2009. It was doom with a psychedelic twist, a sound that Pitchfork referred to as “cosmic doom.” At this point in their career, the band found increased exposure in the media, with The New York Times going so far as to call them “one of the best bands in North America” after a performance at Scion Rock Festival.
For 2011’s Atma , YOB took a more organic approach to recording, opting to track everything at once. In Scheidt’s own words, he wanted the record to sound “grizzly, with hair on it.” Three year later, the group released Clearing the Path to Ascend , a record that upheld their legacy as a top notch doom metal act and was hailed by Rolling Stone as the #1 metal album of the year.
Now in 2018, the band has announced their newest album ‘Our Raw Heart’ to be released on Relapse Records. As for how Our Raw Heart will be received? Mike Scheidt (guitar/vocals) is wise enough to know that it’s out of his hands. “I think every era of Yob fan will find something on there to dig—it’s just a matter of whether they can go on the whole trip or not,” he ventures. “And that’s none of my business. The music has a life of its own. It goes out there into the world and it’s gonna be received however it’s received.”
HE WHOSE OX IS GORED
Tuned down and turnt up, Seattle’s He Whose Ox Is Gored has been tearing up the underground with their unique synthesis of doom, progressive elements and shoegaze since 2009. After a few years and different rhythm lineups, founding members Brian McClelland (Guitar, Vocals) and Lisa Mungo (Synths, Keyboards, Vocals) have solidified the rhythm section with Mike Sparks (Bass) and John O’Connell (Drums) and have been locked in for several years now. Coming off their highly acclaimed ‘Rumors’ 7” released last fall on Bleeding Light Records, He Whose Ox Is Gored will be releasing even more material in 2015. Plans for a 7” through Fainting Room Collective and the band’s highly anticipated full length debut ‘The Camel, The Lion, The Child’ through Bleeding Light Records along with a fall tour are already planned. Production for the album took place in Seattle at Red Room and Ex Ex Audio and was recorded by Robert Cheek (Serial Hawk, Noise-A-Tron) with some additional recording taking place at Avast Studios
with Randall Dunn (Sunn0))), Earth). Matt Bayles (Isis, Mastodon) handled mixing duties and frequent collaborator Blake Blickel mastered the album at Dynamic Sound Service. ‘The Camel, The Lion, The Child’ will be released digitally and on limited edition vinyl (500 Double LP, Gatefold) by Bleeding Light Records and Breathe Plastic Records (Netherlands) will be releasing a limited edition tape version of the album.
DEEZ NUTS
“Everyday I never stray from the path that I’ve chosen never cared I’m the loose thread, in the tapestry this world has woven
Gravitate towards the ones, who share a like mind.
If that ain’t you stay out my lane ill stay out yours we’ll be fine.”
Everything about Deez Nuts and their frontman / founder, JJ Peters, can almost be simplified down to these four lines. It is tucked away towards the back of their new and third album ‘Bout It’, which is without any doubt the best record their now infamous career. And the track, “Live Your Life”, just reiterates the point that the haters seem to miss, but also that makes the true fan love them more with every fist pumping anthem they produce. The point is that Deez Nuts are gonna do things their way and they don’t give a fuck if you disagree.
The four piece finally has it’s most stable line up in years – JJ Peters is joined by fellow Australian Jon Green on bass, while Mat “Realbad” Rogers and Alex Salinger (both from New York City) play Guitar and Drums, respectively. The lineup has been together for the better part of two years after a slew of short and long stays by members from all over the world – all of whom are part of JJ’s crew of international like minded friends who have been down for the ride at one time or another.
The Deez Nuts back story is anything but secret for anyone in the know, but it’s a history lesson worth retelling now that we are seven years deep. In 2005, the highly influential metalcore band I Killed The Prom Queen had broken up, and it’s founding member JJ Peters decided to do something new to kill his time. He wrote and recording every instrument on a few tracks and filled it with tongue-in-cheek truth bombs about anything that crossed his mind. At the time, it was a fun one-off project for him to speak his mind and do something his friends would enjoy. But the catchy lyrics and big New York Hardcore riffs had an edge to them that no one expected, and lyrics about sex, brotherhood and drinking had people talking right away.
Not long after that, when Peters released the tracks as the ‘Rep Your Hood’ EP and featured himself on the cover drinking liquor amongst a host of tasteful women, the polarising Deez Nuts project really got it’s legs. Peters put together a makeshift band full of friends from other groups, and took the show on the road, and before long what was once a bit of fun became more like a shitload of fun – a full time, worldwide touring act that released anthems and united everyone. Different members came and went, playing this tour and that, while JJ pumped out two albums (2008′s ‘Stay True’ and 2010′s ‘This One’s For You’) between tours. Each album kept the same theme running – expanding on his lyrical thoughts, letting the music and words do the talking and making sure anyone who felt the same way as him had anthems to scream while they got through their lives.
The music has been pumped out, and the tours have been non-stop – hitting all over the world in small rooms and massive venues. From Europe to Asia to the USA and of course Australia, Deez Nuts has crammed into vans and played hundreds upon hundreds of shows with some of the best hardcore bands of all time. Friendships have grown all over the world and thousands of tattoos inspired by the band and it’s own subculture-within-a-subculture have been inked from Russia to California to Indonesia and everywhere in between.
Six years later, Deez Nuts in it’s current form is the same thing it always has been. It’s candid lyrics that say whatever they want. It’s fun shit and songs that are simple and catchy, but original in their unrelenting ability to catch your attention. It’s fist-pumping, free-thinking hardcore that embraces everything it cares to embrace. And it’s empowering to anyone who feels like they don’t want to walk the same walk with everyone else.
But this time around there IS a difference. It’s that ‘Bout It’ is the most amount of energy and time Deez Nuts has put in to making that classic record to make their mark with. The now full-time members have all added their talents, and producer Shane Frisby has taken the time to make sure the sound is as heavy as shit for the fans. Peters and his Band of Brothers have even enlisted help in the form of guest appearances from everyone from Architects to Madball to Suicide Silence to Hatebreed and many more.
From party songs like the already released singles “Band Of Brothers” and “Shot After Shot”, to anthems inspired by a life of living your own dreams in “Keep On” and the previously quoted “Live Your Life” and even some skits and public service announcements friends inside the now massive Deez Nuts family – all of it makes up an album that is set to go down as one of the coolest hardcore records of the modern era.
And in case you were wondering what they think if you disagree, here is some words directed to the haters.
“So kill the bitchin and listen, you cant you deny that we’re on fire. If your rebuttal is muddled, its cause my IQ is higher. Be lying if i said i gave fuck regardless, for every 1 that hates 100 adore us, we are unfuckwithable!”
HANS LUCHS QUARTET
Guitarist Hans Luchs has been performing professionally in and around Chicago since moving to the city in the fall of 2007. Some venues Hans has performed at include The Auditorium Theatre, Van Andel Arena, Cliff Bell’s, The Green Mill, The Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, The Velvet Lounge, Pete Miller’s, Buddy Guy’s Legends, The Mississippi Valley Blues Festival, Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, Martyrs, The Empty Bottle, and internationally at The Rex (Toronto), CMW Festival (Toronto), The Bull’s Head (London), JJ Smyths (Dublin), The Jazz Bar (Edinburgh), Bert’s Jazz Bar (Belfast) and Zinco Jazz Club (Mexico City). In 2011, The Jazz Institute of Chicago selected Hans to perform in its annual “Young Lions’ concert. Since then, Hans has gone on to perform across the USA and internationally in Sweden, The UK, Ireland, Canada, and Mexico.
Hans has performed and toured with masters of American music including 8-time Grammy winner Pepe Aguilar, Motown Legend Martha Reeves, and blues artist Shirley King just to name a few. Hans has also performed, recorded, and toured with a host of wonderful jazz musicians from Chicago and beyond.
As an educator, Hans has taught private lessons and classes at the elementary, secondary, and college level. Currently, Hans teaches music through the Chicago Jazz Philharmonic. Hans has earned a Bachelor’s degree in Music Performance from the University of Illinois-Chicago and a Master’s degree in Jazz Studies from DePaul University.
Hans endorses D’Angelico Guitars (NYC).
SHAWN MAXWELL’S NEW TOMORROW QUINTET
Shawn Maxwell’s New Tomorrow Quintet
Shawn Maxwell – alto saxophone/flute
Victor Garcia – trumpet
Matt Nelson – piano/rhodes
Junius Paul – bass
Phil Beale – drums
To a remarkable degree, Shawn Maxwell has the urge—a quality fundamental to those who create improvised music on a nightly basis. In this way, it is not enough to simply create, but the need to innovate that guides each note. His art lies in addressing the ordinary modalities of life in an extraordinary way, placing notes in their most complimentary places with precision and enthusiasm. Of course, there’s the way he plays. Maxwell’s style was built around swelling harmonic runs while painting complex melodies across an expansive canvas. Each harmony he creates is purposeful in form as well as function.
By all accounts, Shawn Maxwell formed his style early on the tough and tumultuous streets of Joliet, Illinois. From the time a saxophone first touched his lips, Maxwell knew that music was his calling. With conviction and abilities that belied his age, it was equally clear to others that Shawn Maxwell was destined to be a musician. He quickly became a celebrated performer in the Joliet Central High School band program where his prowess as a soloist was on regular display. Shawn further refined his art in a post-secondary setting, absorbing all that his instructors could teach – earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from Millikin University in 1999. Shawn then signed with the prestigious and legendary Conn-Selmer Company to join their Performance and Educational Artist Roster.
After starting his professional career touring Internationally, across the Mediterranean and the Caribbean, Maxwell returned home to conquer the Windy City. With equal parts genius and toil, Maxwell has become one the preeminent performers in the Chicago jazz landscape. His multi-instrumental talents have been lauded by fellow musicians and critics alike.
CATFISH AND THE DOGSTARS
Formed during the early summer of 2011, Catfish & the Dogstars has quickly garnered a solid fan base and earned a great deal of acclaim gigging throughout the city of Chicago. With members hailing from different backgrounds, the group produces a uniquely blended sound of blues, funk, fusion, and roots music. The result is a high energy, raw and original experience. Catfish & the Dogstars is sure to bring together an assortment of unique sounds, palatable to fans from all walks of life.
BLUE MUD
Blue Mud is a Chicago based band that draws inspiration from classic twangy rock n’ roll a la Crazy Horse, The Rolling Stones, and The Band. Originally started as a recording session between five long time friends and musicians, their shared love for similar acts made playing together organic and natural. After a few months of recording, they decided to take these songs to the stage. With stirring narratives and songs about life, love, and the road; Blue Mud produces guitar driven rock but is never afraid to explore other, sometimes darker sonic territories.
OLD SHOE
Old Shoe is a five-piece Americana Roots Rock band based out of Chicago, Illinois. Made up of talented songwriters from across the country, hailing from as far away as Alaska, the band’s compositions paint a diverse landscape of American life.
The band’s new album Family is not merely another notch in the belt for the Old Shoe, but is more so a poignant culmination of their growth and progress since the last release in 2011. In just a little over two years, Old Shoe solidified their strong lineup with keyboardist/mandolinist/vocalist Joe Day and drummer Greg Fundis, rounded the Midwest festival circuit at high-profile events like Summer Camp and Wakarusa, opened for Grammy-award winning Bruce Hornsby, and even produced 3 consecutive installments of their own festival, Shoe Fest.
The all-original 13-track release showcases the band’s diverse influences, ranging from bluegrass to prog-rock to jazz, with it all settling into a familiar comfort zone akin to one’s favorite “old shoe.” The album reaches new heights from previous releases with a star-studded guest roster featuring musicians from the Henhouse Prowlers, The Low Down Brass Band, and Chicago’s production of The Jungle Book.
SPACE BLOOD
A 2 Piece Instrumental, Theatrical, Math Rock Band from Chicago. Often referred to as Comedian Math Rock, Space Blood has been compared to The Tim and Eric Awesome Show, Salad Fingers, Don Caballero, and Battles.
HIGH PRIESTS
Moose, Mikey, Justin…
ARENDA LIGHT
Arenda Light is a powerful quartet comprised of musicians enthralled in many different genres with plans to conquer the world of music lovers everywhere.
CINCHEL
one person (cinchel) some guitars, a couple of amps, a small army of pedals and either abelton live/plogue bidule/pro tools on an ibook. attempting to recreated the sound i hear in my head.
UNCOUTH
Chicago, IL’s Uncouth brings a brand of metal combining thrash inspired drumming, a pulsating bass groove, and doomy/sludgy guitars. All of which are complimented by clear, soaring vocals with lyrical themes covering topics from religious hypocrisy, to lucha libre feuds, and finally to the self destructive dissolution of one’s sanity.
With the release of the Tree Of Woe EP in late 2017, Uncouth is a band looking to put their stamp on the latest generation of the growing doom-influenced metal scene.
SANGUS
Blasting dtaky death thrash black crust metal
MGLA
Polish Black Metal
MORTUARY DRAPE
Mortuary Drape is an Italian Black Metal band founded in 1986 in Alessandria, Piedmont.
WRONG
WRONG is from Miami, FL.
Download the Stop Giving EP now!!
RATT’S JUAN CROUCIER
Juan Croucier (RATT), Pete Holmes (Black N’ Blue), Mike Moore and Toni Aleman have formed a new group. They will be performing as, RATT’S JUAN CROUCIER. The band will be playing songs from the RATT catalog, exclusively.
Having solidified the core of the band (lead vocals, bass and drums), Juan and Pete set out to find the right guitar players for the group. After extensive auditions resulting from hundreds of submissions, they found two very talented guitar players in Mike Moore and Toni Aleman. Sharing the same passion, commitment and vision, they have been diligently rehearsing a set of over eighteen songs. “We have left no stone unturned. We’ve been working long and hard. It’s all about the live show. We take this very seriously. Mike and Toni are simply killing it! There is a unique chemistry between the members of this band that is often so illusive. Our attention to detail has culminated in a fresh, energetic and modern twist on Ratt’s classic catalog of songs. I believe that anyone who loves Ratt will really enjoy this band too. I can’t wait to get out there and bring it to the people, after all they are the ultimate judges of our art,” says Croucier.
THE STATUTES OF LIBERTY
Open road, windows down, 85 miles per hour on a summer day. Hair blowing, not another person in sight. This is freedom, the kind of freedom that needs a soundtrack, and The Statutes of Liberty were made to be the companion for those sweet moments of independence.
The Statutes know that freedom isn’t free but they also know that the only thing to do is rock it out! In a world where government drones fly overhead, our personal records get summoned by the NSA and our politicians are as well known for their dick pics as their policies, SOL gives you the license to question authority and do what you want.
SOL’s sweltering, new album,“VOX POPULI”, provides the rock that you crave in this age of watered-down YouTube wonders, and none of the bullshit. A year in the making, this record represents the best of the SOL sound; equal parts rock and psychedelia, 70s guitars, and tight vocal harmonies.
In the true spirit of America, SOL is a melting pot of people and instruments. Since 2004, nine members strong have taken over the stage and commanded the crowd to move their asses and use their minds to question the world around them. Inspired by the MC5, Hellacopters, ZZ Top, and many more, SOL came together to bring their experience and chops to make sure that those who still want to rock, can.
Chicago based, SOL have a solid local presence, having played most of the usual suspect clubs in town (House of Blues, Double Door, Schuba’s, Hideout, Empty Bottle, Fitzgerald’s) and festivals such as Taste of Randolph Street, Taste of River North, and Skokie Backlot Bash. In 2014, SOL were one of the only Chicago bands selected to play the Detroit Metro Times Blowout.
SOL have also been featured on “Angry & Unarmed”, Adam McKay’s (SNL, Anchorman, Funny or Die, etc.) album of public domain protest tunes (along with Wayne Kramer, Jill Sobule, etc.). SOL’s new single, “Dead or in Jail”, was recently featured on McKay’s Protest Tunes re-launch in Feb 2015:
LORD STANLEY
Lord Stanley is a three-piece band from Chicago. They are multi-instrumentalist and vocalist, Mark Kastory, percussionist Eric Messmer, and guitarist and vocalist, Bradley Wiseman. Their music experiments with sounds and with silence, explores from the syncopated to the chaotic, and employs both composition and improvisation. — All Hail, Lord Stanley —
ASK AN ADULT
Bordering the lines of swing-punk legends such as Dead Kennedys and The Cramps along with the hectic genre-jumping of Mr Bungle, Ask An Adult delivers a raw, energetic show set the the soundtrack of their own devious noise that would make Mike Patton jealous.