BAD REMEDY
All of the attitude of the 80’s with a southern flavor and a modern edge.
TANZEN
TanZen is a Chicago-based Djent/Extreme Metal band. Formed in the spring of 2013, they have played countless shows and gained a strong local following.
PLANETRAWK
PlanetRAWK is an American alternative electronic rock band based out of Atlanta, Georgia. The band was started by alternative indie artist, Charlie Ahanotu (ex-front man of StereoTALK). In 2010 Charlie began writing and performing as PlanetRAWK, which is described as “Alternative Dirty South Rock Fusion”. He incorporated the use of futuristic synth and modern rock to create an aggressive blend of alternative hip hop. Members MikaH Bahamut, and Ashley Fayt came along adding their own influences, and since then they’ve been making memorable performances across the nation multiple times and counting.
ERIC SARDINAS
Slide guitarist and singer-songwriter Eric Sardinas has a reputation for packing intensity into his live performances. Since the late-90s’ Sardinas has taken the stage thousands of times across the globe, with audiences growing exponentially each passing year. His six albums have displayed a distinct style that musically pushes the boundaries of rock and blues, and the world has taken notice.
Now Sardinas has put his onstage lighting in a bottle for the new album Sticks & Stones, an 11-song powerhouse of his trademark slide guitar that is a vehicle to drive his inspiration from the roadhouse in to mainstream music. Sardinas’ unique mixture weaves his heavy blues and rock threads in to a flamethrower to the listener and takes them on a ride encompassing the past, present and future of what music is meant to be.
“Playing with intensity all over the world non-stop and loving every minute of it has been my inspiration,” Sardinas explains. “That’s why I get up in the morning and what I live for. Making music keeps me in the moment, allowing my heart to speak to people.”
More fans have heard that voice with each tour Sardinas and his band Big Motor have made, and with each of the previous six albums he’s recorded. Those discs include 2003’s live-in-the-studio Black Pearls, which was produced by Jimi Hendrix’s engineer Eddie Kramer, and 2009’s Eric Sardinas and Big Motor, helmed by Matt Gruber.
Gruber, whose credits range from Ricky Martin and Carrie Underwood to the Scorpions and Lit, returns for Sticks & Stones — an album that Sardinas says captures the full range of his playing and the energy and excitement of the trio’s ‘Big Motor’ sound. “It’s really about pushing myself,” Sardinas continues. “My goal is to keep growing every time I play, which is why there is so much musical freedom in improvisation when Big Motor performs live.”
For Sticks & Stones, the trio approached the studio with a no holds barred approach. Whether acoustic and electric, they stayed true to their live sound, recording with no rules. Levell Price (bass) and Chris Frazier (drums), join Sardinas in delivering a kaleidoscope that melds all the shades and hues of the band’s intensity. “As always, every note is meaningful and has something to say from each player,” says Sardinas.
His instrument of choice is his signature electrified resonator guitar (pictured above). Sardinas modernized an instrument made famous by traditional Blues artists in electrifying the instrument, and expanding the usual spectrum of what these guitars historically deliver musically. It is Eric’s connection and homage to his roots, and in finding his own voice, comes the electrified resonator. His trademark expression and words to live by are “Respect Tradition,” and the resonator is a deep part of this.
By deftly controlling his guitar’s volume Sardinas can make the resonator emote the mood he’s feeling with its acoustic energy or electrified growl, as it does during the breakdown on Sticks & Stones’ pure spirited country blues “County Line,” or roar like a lion on the hard-driving “Full Tilt Mama” and “Road To Ruin.” The latter features one of Sardinas’ highest flying slide solos: a sexy, sizzling break that’s a perfect fusion of gutty energy and piquant melody — two qualities Sardinas displays in spades.
The chugging instrumental “Behind the 8” puts his slide to the fore. One reason for his always-recognizable sound is his signature slide. The Dunlop company has begun reproducing a replica of the brass pipe that travelled a million miles with Sardinas. The calibration, weight, and wear of the infamous ‘preaching pipe’ has become accessible to players worldwide. Sardinas shares, “the original pipe has so much mojo on it from over a decade of worldwide travel, and being by my side through every beer soaked bar and venue the road has to offer, the original is now only used for studio. To Sardinas, it is irreplaceable. He offers, “If Dunlop offered me a million bucks for it, I’d have to turn it down.”
The common thread in all the tunes on Sticks & Stones is the essence of affairs of the heart – passions, hopes and dreams are all inspirational in a positive and negative way to Sardinas. He shares, “I like writing about universal themes. The trick is to find my own unique way of expressing myself within those themes. Every breathing moment if you walk with yours eyes open, there is song there.”
A Florida-born Sardinas picked up a guitar at age six. He was inspired by the energy of roots music from his mom’s soul, Motown, gospel, and early rock n’ roll collection. From his elder brother, classic rock was always being played. Sardinas reflects, “Music was always heard in the house. I woke up to, and fell asleep to it. Still do”. In his teens, he submersed himself in the Blues. “That was it for me,” he says. “In blending my influences, I found my own sound. I feel very fulfilled being able to make this music my life for more than 20 years now. And my goal is to keep growing and improving, and to respect this music and stick by it the way its has supported and inspired me.”
THE TRAVELING SUITCASE
The Traveling Suitcase creates a landscape of dominate independent rock and roll. Breaking loose from tradition leadsinger/drummer Nicole Rae is sparked with emotion, animation and discipline. Rae’s voice and lyrics are captivating while the band collectively compliments each performance.
WILD ADRIATIC
“Flawlessly tight with infectious melodies & tons of soul.” – Relix “Full of rocking blues, soul, and depth.” – Huffington Post “An act to get behind.” – USAToday
THE INVENTORS
The Inventors are a four piece Chicago based rock band. Formed in the summer of 2014, The Inventors draw influence from many different types of music and art. Members Joe Mango, Nick Kieta, Grant Ossler, and Ray Skamay all bring unique perspective and a personal touch to the music of The Inventors. The Inventors are currently working on their debut EP, which should be out in early 2015.
THE BRIGADE
A bunch of buddies who had an idea to help out the local organizations in the neighborhood by bringing them the awesomeness of music!!
THE BLEEDIN FINGERS JAM BAND
Classic rock acoustic cover band
TORY LANEZ
For those unfamiliar, Tory Lanez, AKA Argentina Fargo, is an emerging emcee/vocalist born in Toronto, Ontario and raised throughout the United States Of America (though predominantly Georgia, California and Texas).
Throughout his young career, Tory’s collaborated with the likes of Soulja Boy, Bun B, boi-1Da, Sean Kingston, RL Grime, Scott Storch, DJ Mustard, Dizzy Wright, Meek Mill, YG, DJ Drama, Kirko Bangz, G-Eazy, Rockie Fresh and many more.
Don’t sleep on this young lord, folks – he shows strong promise. His cult fan base, known as the SWAVENATION, is “a society without borders”. Consider joining it.
SIYA
The music of Lil Kim, Mos Def, The Notorious B.I.G, Big Daddy Kane, and Jay-Z has resonated throughout the airwaves for decades. These artists have been influential to people around the world and are considered to be “Gods” of Hip Hop. Though they have impacted the nation with their lyrical content and extraordinary delivery, no one place has been more impacted than that of Brooklyn, Bed-Stuy to be exact. The music of these “Gods” has given birth to many artist in the industry that have come and gone. Their most recent creation brings a different quality and uniqueness to Hip Hop that has not been touched in mainstream Hip Hop before. Siya, The Bed-Stuy Bully, is definitely a product of her environment when it comes to music.
Born in California, Siya was relocated to New York at the age of seven while her mother fought a drug addiction. Soon after moving to Bed-Stuy, her father was convicted of a crime that sentenced him to a lifetime incarceration. Siya’s major influence in life was her grandmother. She provided the mother that she was lacking and natured her like her own, but the streets of Bed-Stuy played their own roll in her life. Siya was convicted of a crime at a young age were she would serve sometime in a women’s facility. During that time she was able to take the negative and turn it into a positive as she began to perfect her music in ways many would take notice to. After her time was served, Siya immediately took to Atlanta to begin pursuing music as her lifetime career. Performing in venues such as, Compound, CW Loft, and Masquerade, her buzz began to catch the attention of many major labels and also well-known artists. Meeting after meeting labels would feed Siya the dream of signing her to a major deal. As time went on, all those talks were just that. Most people were afraid of how an openly gay female rapper would fit in the industry compared to the women out at that time. As discouraging, as this could have been Siya remained determined and continued to kill shows and made sure when she opened for a big named that they took notice.
In the midst of her grind someone did take notice. R&B legend Tank reached out to Siya and let her know he wanted to represent her and help take her to the next level. Soon after their talks Siya moved to Los Angeles and began her journey with Tank. Tank, a unique talent his own, did not want Siya to change a thing. He believed in who she is and wanted her to continue to be “The Bed-Stuy Bully.” Their debut project together “D.Y.K.E” featuring their collaboration track, “D.Y.K.E” has gained over 50 thousand downloads. The relationship has shown to be beneficial to both and is gaining speed on a daily. Word around the industry is that Siya is the “Next Big Thing,” but if you were to ask her she’s always been the “NEXT BIG THING.”
THE COSMIC SITUATION
Many of the most recognizable artists and bands can be discerned within seconds of hearing the music, and TCS is no different. Boerner’s soulful guitar combined with the frenetic fusionesque sound of Taylor’s drums and Cosby’s bass make for a collage of infectious grooves, melodies, and catchy songs.
WARREN FRANKLIN & THE FOUNDING FATHERS
Indie/pop/emo from Rockford IL on Count Your Lucky Stars Records
EMPIRE! EMPIRE! (I Was A Lonely Estate)
Empire! Empire! (I Was a Lonely Estate) is a band from Michigan who loves to play pretty music!
TEAR OUT THE HEART
After only a few moments of listening to TEAR OUT THE HEART, the infectious choruses and sinister vocals will be ringing in your head for days to come. Elements of hardcore combined with dark and aggressive metal is what makes TEAR OUT THE HEART’s signature sound. With a promising musical career ahead of them the Midwestern quintuplets inked a deal with Victory Records in August 2012 and will soon be leaving their mark on the metal community. Hailing from St. Louis, Missouri, TEAR OUT THE HEART formed in 2011 and is comprised of lead vocalist, Tyler Konersman, Isaac Etter on bass/clean vocals, guitarists Josh Spohr and Matthieu Murphy and Matt Epstein on drums. The inception of the band was founded on the principle that there are to be no “weak links” in the group. The band unanimously agreed that when this lineup had gotten together in one room it was instant energy and everything just clicked. From that day on the rest was history.
STOLEN SILVER
Stolen Silver is the musical culmination of a decade-long friendship between songwriters Levi Britton and Dan Myers. It’s a union that dates back to their days as roomates in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, one that entails a history as previous touring bandmates, collaborators, and, most importantly, singers. Their voices are instruments, effortless and vital to their mutual craft. On their self-titled EP co-produced with John Ovnik, their styles swerve along a spectrum that spans from Indie-Folk to Americana, from Pop-Rock to more explorative soundtrack moments where the space in the songs are equally important to their narrative, undoubtedly due to Myer’s work as a film composer. This new chapter takes them into unfamiliar territory both in the studio and on the stage, where ideas are fresh and nothing is left unattempted. Their sound is quickly evolving, as is their lineup. Since their initial vision of a folk duo, they’ve expanded to a full six-piece assembly, a determined collection of seasoned multi-instrumentalists and drummers. Half the band resides in Chicago while the other hails from Traverse City, Michigan- a circumstance that forces them out on the road yet leaves plenty of room for both immediacy and intimacy to take shape.
Over the past three years, praise and momentum continue to build. Their hard work has delivered headlining bills at LA’s Hotel Café and Chicago’s renowned venues Hideout, Empty Bottle, Ravinia and Schubas, where they hosted a month-long residency after releasing a video for their previous single “Carbon Copy.” They’ve earned the seal of approval from WXRT and WLUW Radio, WGN-TV, UR Chicago, American Way and the Tribune’s Red Eye edition. Spots in the audience become harder to snag as they release their follow-up, the anticipated full-length We Have Everything / We Have Nothing (available on vinyl + digital + disc May 10), a result of two years of work that leans heavily on Myers’ lengthy divorce in 2012. The group worked once again in Chicago with Ovnik at the dials while it was mastered by Grammy Award-winning engineer Doug Sax (Pink Floyd, The Rolling Stones). Upon first listen, it’s clear this is not a breakup record; rather it’s ultimately a record of hope and resolve- and the journey to arrive there. What’s also clear from the start is how far Stolen Silver has grown as a band. The album is a dense new offering of twelve songs- singles like the uplifting endurance rocker “Prefontaine,” the dramatic “Awake And Alive,” and the vulnerable harmony-laden “I Stay Lonely” flirt with radio potential while the arrangements here are rich and the songs carry an artistic depth that is uncompromised. We Have Everything / We Have Nothing represents a group that stands to build the perfect acoustic facade while expertly demolishing it, rising in it’s place a structure of challenging hooks, golden-layered harmonies, and a latticework of electric guitar atmospheres and percussive textures that still wouldn’t be out of place with where they’ve come from. It shouldn’t be long before the rest of America gets to watch this happen.
ROD HAMDALLAH
HAILING FROM ATLANTA, GA, GARAGE ROCKER ROD HAMDALLAH HAS BEEN TEARING UP THE SOUTHEAST MUSIC SCENE SINCE BEFORE HE WAS OLD ENOUGH TO HAVE HIS FIRST DRINK.
BY AGE 16, ROD WAS SOAKING UP GARAGE ROCK AND SOUTHERN DELTA BLUES AND MASTERING IT TECHNICALLY AT A RELENTLESS PACE.
SUBSEQUENTLY INFLUENCED BY EARLY SOUL AS WELL, HAMDALLAH TOOK HIS MUSIC TO YET ANOTHER LEVEL; AND BY AGE 17, HE WAS SHARING THE STAGE WITH INFLUENCES SUCH AS BLUES PRODIGY SEAN COSTELLO, JACK WHITEMENTOR DEXTER ROMWEBER AND MANY, MANY MORE.
THE ELEMENTS IN ROD’S ORIGINAL MUSICAL ARE ROOTED IN BLUES, GARAGE AND EARLY SOUL. DARK STORYTELLING AND AMERICAN ROOTS MUSIC PLAY A BIG PART IN HIS SONGWRITING AS WELL. HE CREATES A SOUND THAT CAN BE LIKENED TO SUCH ARTISTS AS FLAT DUO JETS, CAPTAIN BEEFHEART AND THE BLACK KEYS.
THINK ABOUT IT, HAMDALLAH’S DEBUT EP, WAS RELEASED MAY 1ST, 2014. IT IS A WAILING GARAGE-ROCK STOMPER WITH BLUESY, LO-FI VOCALS ALL THROUGHOUT ITS FIVE TRACKS. THE SINGLE “THINK ABOUT IT” WILL KEEP YOUR HEAD BOBBING WITH ITS DIRTY GUITAR AND PUNK ROCK ATTITUDE, ALL WHILE HIS SOULFUL VOCALS THREAD THROUGHOUT.
“CARRY YOU HOME” FEATURES COLONEL J.D. WILKES, OF THE LEGENDARY SHACK SHAKERS, A BAND ROD HAS TOURED WITH WORLDWIDE. WILKES ADDS BOTH BANJO AND AN ALMOST-DREAMY, WURLITZER PIANO TO THIS BLUESY WESTERN TUNE.
CRAFTING A SOUND FROM PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, DYNAMIC VARIATION AND MELODIC VOCALS, ROD HAMDALLAH STANDS POISED TO TAKE THIS SHOW ON THE ROAD… AND AROUND THE WORLD! BECAUSE, FOR ROD, HUNGER IS HIS MAIN HALLMARK. IT IS AN UNDENIABLE QUALITY IN HIS SOUL.
BEAR WITH HAWK FIST
BEAR WITH HAWK FIST is a guitarist/singer songwriter from chicago.
BONEHART FLANNIGAN
“Bonehart Flannigan. There may be no more fitting pseudonym in all the singer-songwriter pen names I’ve heard. First, it sounds a little silly rolling off the tongue, makes you giddy in some way. Same goes for a Bonehart Flannigan performance. While the songs may hurl themselves at heartbreak, murder and destitution, their exuberance and charm matches that of their composer. But back to the name: Bonehart Flannigan. There’s something boisterous about it. What sort of person has that name? Well, it’s whatever piece of Jon Dell writes the rip roaring folk that takes the stage with him at a Bonehart show. Whether it’s a motormouth homage to Dharma, the immortalized van of his other band Universe Contest or the wicked-sharp murder ballad “Mean Blade of Grass,” Bonehart music wears most of its emotions and intentions right there on its happy, dirty sleeve. Whatever the message may be, it’s absolutely exuded by a country rock voice and a speeding acoustic guitar. Life sucks, life is great. Bottoms up!”
Chance Solem-Pfeifer, www.hearnebraska.org
JAYKE ORVIS
A founding member of The .357 String Band and current member of the Goddamn Gallows, Jayke Orvis is ahead of his time even though he plays timeless music. The songs on his solo effort “It’s All Been Said” are articles of the heart, exposing Orvis as a fragile, troubled soul. His depictions of love are raw and blue, the pages of his life littered throughout this album.
THY NEIGHBORS
Ten Toes Down is a collective of Chicago musicians working to bridge the gap between activism and music.
Ten Toes Down is:
Chucky Ar La
Ethos
Speedy
Monie
James
All inquiries email: Thyneighborsmgmt@gmail.com
SUPA
BRASS TACKS
“Madison, Wisconsin’s own. I love their Rock & Roll Oi! sound and wish more bands played around with that sound. They at time sound like the Bruisers which is a good thing. The song Ain’t Gonna Win has the intro from The Simpsons which still makes me laugh. The songs are written well and the lyrics are good and angry. My problem with the record is the drumming… just seems off to me and that is what is keeping this album from having a higher rating. Everything else is really good and near a classic.These songs are so great live this band goes out and kills it on every live show. Please do yourself a favor and go check out this band live. Like I said before there are some problems with the drum sound. With that said, it is still a album you should have in your collection. Their cover of Rose Tattoo’s Nice Boys is a fucking hammer. And they easly have one of the best Skrewdriver covers ever! Songs like For All I Care Skinhead Rock & Roll, Trudge onwards, and Wisconsin Hooligans are some of the best ever written. The album is filled with great songs and the guitar sound is great.” – Oi! Of America
ANDY D
Andy D fancies himself the anachronistic love child of Punky Brewster and Lee Van Cleef – the perfect amalgam of a fictional rogue and a real-life badass. He plays music this like he lives life and it sounds like Andrew WK meets Grand Master Melle Mel or Like Prince if he couldn’t sing that well and if he weren’t a hyper-talented multi-instrumentalist. This is what his music is all about: part epicurean hip-hop-dance songs and part sincere dance rock songs, being eclectic and catchy is the only goal.
HIDE
Chicago’s HIDE is a new project from visual artist Heather Gabel on vocals and multi-instrumentalist Seth Sher (Ga’an, Psychic Steel, Zath, Oakeater) on pretty much everything else (and some vocals). They’ve played with Be Forest and Alkaline Trio among others and have continued to stir up shit around town with their dark, minimal mix of electronic, goth and industrial music.
HUNTERCHILD
Hunterchild’s 2014 self-titled debut album is an emotionally direct, darkly sexual mix of R&B-infused electronic pop. Featuring production from Kevin Ratterman (My Morning Jacket, Wax Fang) and showcasing lead singer Luke Aaron Jones’ throaty, sanguine vocals and keyboardist/percussionist Marty Sprowles’ sparse, moody arrangements, the album is an immediately arresting, unforgettable collection of songs. Born out of the 2012 breakup of the duo’s previous band, Dreamers of the Ghetto (which also left Jones divorced from Dreamers keyboardist Lauren Jones), Hunterchild became the vehicle by which Jones and Sprowles could express their anger, sadness, and aching sense of loss. As Jones sings on “So Bad,” “We all want something that we never had/We all want something that’s both good and bad/But I’ve never wanted someone so bad/As bad, as I want you.” Based on the duo’s move from Dreamers’ more buoyant, post-U2 guitar sound to the arch, internalized electronic soul that permeates all of Hunterchild’s debut, the breakup clearly opened up new creative pathways and emotional themes to explore. And while Hunterchild’s sound is rooted in ’80s electronic synth pop, there is nothing cold or removed about the album. On the contrary, Hunterchild are informed as much by Violator-era Depeche Mode as they are by Love Deluxe-era Sade. If anything, Jones, with his bourbon-soaked croon and inclination for soul-baring honesty, borders on self-immolation rather than guarded detachment. As he sings on the heart-wrenching “Secret Messages,” “I put secret little messages in my songs for you/And when I sing them my heart only feels for you.” Elsewhere, on tracks like the lust-ridden “Aching” and the epic “Time Traveling Lover,” Jones draws upon the even older, more organic ’70s soul tradition as he lifts his vocals into a whispery falsetto over Sprowles’ insistent, ringing keyboards and pulsating electronic beats. Aesthetically minimalist but emotionally generous, Hunterchild have taken their heartache and crafted a baroque, synth soul masterpiece. -Matt Collar
CHEESE FOG
THE WALKABOUT
MINDS OF ATLANTIS
GRETCHEN ERICKSON
Hi! My name is GRETCHEN ERICKSON. I am a singer/songwriter/guitarist in Chicago. I play folky, bluesy, rock originals and throw in a few covers from time to time.
Thank you for checking out my site and looking forward to seeing you at some shows!
THE BENEDICT DOLLYROCKERS GARAGE BAND
The Benedict Dollyrockers Garage Band is an electric folk band from Kalamazoo, Michigan featuring Flip Miller, Jimmy Mac, Jared Miller & AA Miller.
ERYN WOODS
With her unique style and youthful voice, singer Eryn Woods is ready to dominate the world with her eclectic brand of pop punk. Her music has already been featured on Vh1 and MTV, she has worked closely with designers NYMPHA London, Betsey Johnson, Iron Fist Clothing, and Married to the Mob, amongst others and is officially sponsored by Monster Products, Manic Panic, and Aids Healthcare Foundation. As the queen of the “Kupcake” Nation—a term she coined to define her “sweet, fun and diverse” fan base—Woods’ musical and fashion influence on young Kupcakes is spreading around the globe.
MILLIONAIRES
Can you “Party Like a Millionaire?” Chances are you couldn’t keep up with the Orange County duo —Melissa Marie Green and Allison Green — aka the MILLIONAIRES!
MILLIONAIRES bring catchy, fun, electro-pop songs mixed with rap (made by cute, foul-mouthed sisters whom are both barely legal and are always down to get F*cked Up!
The girls started out as a garage band internet sensation and have transformed into a successful national touring act while never being signed to a label, they know they’re hated by many but they DGAF! They just want to have a good time, doing what they love, putting on a FUN, ELECTRIC PERFORMANCE FOR THEIR TWDC! (Til’ We Die Crew). Millionaires know it’s been a combination of a strong DIY work ethic, a unique sense of style and a willingness to put their dirty, in-your-face songs into the scrutiny of the publics eye that has transformed them from a one-time joke to a respected serious group.
They started their careers headlining two sold out tours and then taking on the Warped Tour ’09 stage, and then to return for two more headlined tours all before their first album. To go along with there unorthodox careers as artists, they just released their debut rap mix-tape which features huge nation wide artist such as Trina, Kreayshawn, Shanel of young money, Diamond, and more, the mix-tape has been viewed over 100,000 times on a website that is host to the lights of Drake, Lil Wayne, and Wiz Khalifa fans, from which they made the top mix-tapes of the month, and hottest mix-tapes of the week, and have earned bronze with over 25,000 downloads. On March 13, 2013 Millionaires released their debut album ‘TONIGHT’ which rose into the top 100 albums and top 25 pop albums. Billboard.com ranked ‘TONIGHT’ #43 on the heatseekers album chart.
Millionaires are aware that a lot people have a lot of nasty things to say about them and their music. And you know what? They don’t give a F*ck, keep talking.
MODERN CHEMISTRY
Modern Chemistry. New Brunswick, NJ. Badasses All Day, Every Day. Get to love us.
frnkiero andthe cellabration
FRNKIERO AND THE CELLABRATION, the new project from Frank Iero, released STOMACHACHES on August 26, 2014 on Staple Records.
“In late 2012 I started to experience an increase in my already painful digestive issues and my creative side started to wither under the weight of not ever feeling well,” commented Iero. “I turned my basement office into a makeshift studio and every time I felt the pain coming on I’d go downstairs and hammer out an idea. After a few months I started to take a look at what I was making, I had for the first time in my life written a large grip of songs completely alone and without any expectations or plans of what they would be for. I’ve always been in bands writing songs with friends in order to play shows or record a future record. But this was different. These songs, they were all mine. They started inside me as these wretched stomachaches and I had to dig them out of me in order to survive. They were my disease and ultimately became my cure.”
“When I finally took a step back and looked at the body of work I had created I began to notice some common threads. The stories told on this record all seem to touch upon a yearning for love and acceptance, and a longing for a place in which you feel you may finally belong. Sometimes finding solace in the realization that you might not in fact belong anywhere, and drawing a certain power from that.”
Iero, former guitarist for My Chemical Romance, plays every instrument on the 12-track album except for drums, which were handled by Jarrod Alexander. Stomachaches was created in Iero’s own B.Calm home studio then later recorded at North End Recording in Passaic, New Jersey with some additional vocals completed at Backstage Studios. Mixing duties were handled by Ed Rose at St. Albans West.
Stomachaches was selected by Alternative Press magazine as one of their “Most Anticipated of 2014” and fans first heard solo material from Iero when he contributed a bonus track – “This Song Is A Curse” – to the Frankenweenie Unleashed soundtrack. Most recently Iero can be heard covering “Extraordinary Girl” for Kerrang’s tribute to Green Day, American Idiot.
WOODY PINES
Ragtime, Boogie, Viper Jazz, Lighting Speed Folk. Full of stomp and swing, and jump and jive. It’s old-time feel-good music done by a young master who clearly understands that this kind of music was always about having a great time.
BRENT & CO.
Brent & Co. is the musical project of Washington, D.C.-based singer/songwriter Brent Peterson. With musical leanings ranging from reggae and rock to country and funk, the band successfully straddles multiple genres without losing sight of its acoustic rock beginnings.
The past two years have been busy for Brent & Co., with 250+ full band and acoustic performances a year in promotion of their latest EP, “Not How We Dream.”
Recorded in lead singer and rhythm guitarist Brent Peterson’s adopted hometown of Washington, the EP taps into the deep talent pool in the nation’s capital. Produced by Jarrett Nicolay (Virginia Coalition), “Not How We Dream” spans several genres while still holding onto the band’s signature groove-based acoustic rock sensibilities. The rhythm section, comprised of Dominic Fragman on drums and Joey Mitchell (Swamp Candy) on bass, provides much of the album’s strong foundation, and Frank Mitchell & Dave Finnell (Thievery Corporation) bring the complementary horn work. The soulful fiddle playing by Pat McAvinue (candidate for the IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year) ensures that even the group’s expansion into a country sound remains authentic. With this EP, Brent & Co. has found its voice.
Having cut their teeth performing in regional bars, restaurants, and wineries, and even the occassional wedding and European tour, Brent & Co. looks forward to further expanding their geographic reach, and to bringing their energetic show to new audiences.
VICTOR TORRES
The Victor Torres Band is a collection of Chicago land based touring and session musicians who come together to create a memorable eclectic musical journey. The experience consists of funk/soul-rock instrumentals, layered with classics that will surely get you on your feet! Founder/bass guitarist Victor is working on an EP titled “Phases” and is excited to bring his music collection to you!
HEARTSFIELD
Formed in 1970 by J.C. Hartsfield and Perry Jordan, Heartsfield toured throughout the ’70’s, spreading their infectious brand of foot-stompin’, good-time vocal rock to fans throughout the United States performing 300 dates per year. They played every club, festival, concert hall and college campus and were overwhelming favorites on FM radio stations around the country. They recorded four albums for major record labels (several of which hit the Billboard charts), acquired fans who admitted to seeing them play dozens of times, and attained the respect of the entire music industry, playing with the likes of The Doobie Brothers, Charlie Daniels, Eric Clapton, Loggins & Messina, Fleetwood Mac, .38 Special, The Guess Who, Waylon Jennings, Kiss, BTO, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Dickie Betts, Little Feat, Willie Nelson, Stephen Stills, FireFall, Marshall Tucker, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Genesis, and Ted Nugent. FM hits included “House of Living,” “Racing the Sun,” “As I Look Into the Fire,” “Another Man Down,” “I’m Comin’ Home,” “Music Eyes,” and “The Only Time I’m Sober is When You’re Gone.”
These days they’re still going strong, performing and recording to a whole new generation of appreciative fans, as well as hundreds of diehard fans from the old days. They can be seen at summer fairs and festivals, where they’ve shared the stage with Charlie Daniels, Loretta Lynn, .38 Special, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Little Feat, Los Lobos, Dickie Betts, Eddie Money, Sawyer Brown, Blue Oyster Cult, Soul Asylum, Specer Davis, and Asleep at the Wheel. They’re still working their same old magic, garnering the respect deserving a dedicated group of seasoned pros with a serious intention of making great music, delivering high-energy foot-stompin’ shows, and putting those expensive guitars to work in serious jams and thrilling arrangements that leave young musicians speechless. Perry has continued writing powerful songs heavily ladened with great harmonies, blazing guitars, and thoughtful lyrics. Recent releases include albums RESCUE THE DOG, ALL OVER THE PLACE, ROCKIN’ THE COUNTRY, GEORGIA FLYER and DISRUPTING THE COUNTRY.
With a new album to be released in 2010, the next round of Heartsfield magic is on the way. The first single from that album, “Here I Am” can be heard on the band’s Web site, www.heartsfield.com
THE HOMELESS GOSPEL CHOIR
The Homeless gospel Choir (Derek Zanetti) (me) is a one man band from Pittsburgh, PA, who is looking to make honest music that relates to everyone. I try to tour out and be on the road as much as my freedom will let me. All the songs that I play come from an old wooden closet in the basement of my mind, and my hope is to create a way to help others see the beauty in the simple things in life. ALL THESE SONGS ARE PROTEST SONGS. in one way or another, even if I am protesting against my own self. I hope you can grow to love these tunes as much as I do, I think One of them may even be you new favorite song of all time one day.
MAIDEN CHICAGO
From concept to reality, Maiden Chicago had themselves a substantially powerful core group of musicians in an amazingly short period of time. The instrumental pieces were assembled and solidified little more than a month after the initial idea was presented. Transpiring as if the effort was guided by divine direction, every step of the formation process was natural, yielding the most ideal outcome at every turn.
Motivated to contribute his efforts to a legitimate Iron Maiden tribute, singer/guitarist Eric Babcock posted an inquiry on the official Iron Maiden Fan Club forum attempting to gauge potential interest. Eric joined forces with bass player Gary Ingram as a result of that inquiry in early September of 2010. Initially, Gary was not sold on the idea of doing another Maiden tribute, but eventually jumped in with both feet and became especially instrumental in the early formation of Maiden Chicago. When Eric and Gary committed to the effort; they gave it a name, established an infectious web presence and generated a boatload of interest within a few days time.
Almost immediately, the subsequent “buzz” and a musical affiliation from the past landed the band’s third member; guitar player Ralph Circelli. The infant band was now three-strong, and wading through an onslaught of interest from “Nicko McBrain” hopefuls. Among them was former “Bravo” drummer Dan Driskill, who provided the first and only drum audition Maiden Chicago would ever need. The quartet jammed together for the first time at Dan’s Bourbonnais home in early October, the result of which was nothing short of legendary. Everyone in the room was fully aware that they had something very special in their grasp before the first song concluded. With the instrumental core established, Maiden Chicago embarked on a massive promotional campaign and spent the next five months actively searching for the ultimate “Air Raid Siren”. The search would bear little fruit during that time as the band came up empty week after disappointing week. Maiden Chicago’s patience and determination eventually paid off with the acquisition of former “Revelations” vocalist, Bill Swanson in late February of 2011.
Besides the musical proficiency of its members or even the passion they have for Iron Maiden, this collection of musicians is blessed with that coveted “intangible” element that most musicians hear about, but rarely experience. Now fully equipped with the ideal lineup, they press forward with the highest expectations; ready to provide fans throughout Chicagoland with “The Ultimate Iron Maiden Experience”.
PRHYME (DJ Premier & Royce da 5’9)
What happens when the illest lyricist in the game meets the man Rolling Stones identified as “arguably hip-hop’s greatest producer”… you get PRhyme… an expression of true hip hop, direct from the source. New album and tour info coming soon… join our mailing list to stay in touch!
DEGENERATION
Minneapolis based Oi! band. Rocking since 1994!
KINCY
Marcus Kincy was born and raised on the south side of Chicago, and from the tender age of 5 had a growing love for music and was continually exposed to it in church. Church was where he first learned how to play the drums, and eventually picked up piano at age 13. His musical influences include, Stevie Wonder, Babyface, James Fauntleroy, The Dream, Rico Love, The Bizness, Justice League, and Jodeci. Kincy prides himself on being diverse, and multitalented as a singer/songwriter/producer/composer. Prior to starting his solo career, Marcus has worked and performed with Keri Hilson, The Dream, Mary J Blidge, Diddy Dirty Money, Jill Scott, Nick Jonas and The Administration, and The Jonas Brothers. Kincy’s sound can be described as true heartfelt RnB urban music, and he strives to make good music for good people, as well as share the experiences of were he came from, and how he was able to overcome it and succeed. Be on the lookout for new music from Kincy soon as he has been working with Chicago artists BJ the Chicago Kid, and Label mate EstaBoN.
RECONSTRUCTIONERA
The Reconstruction Era is a Hip-Hop duo that consists of two NBRS, Dev iLL and Maven. They have very different vocal distinctions and it works well. Dev’ is more Scarface and Tupac, Maven is more Biggie and Common, but they both had roots in poetry. Initially they weren’t a group, they just wanted to rap, and that’s what they did. Dev’ and Maven were frequent collaborators, they both liked the same beats, both had soul, and both were intelligent. A dynamic duo just made sense. Their passion lies in the music. Their storytelling is vivid and cohesive, lyrics are sharp, and their beats are soulful. Reconstruction Era talks about the issues around them, but they’re not conscious. They are aggressive, but they’re not gangster rappers; they battle each other. Often they rap about whatever comes to mind (even Mystic Baby Crayons), but they’re not commercial; they just like to have fun. If you want it, they got it. They’re plotting, They’re building, They are Reconstruction Era.
ARMSLENGTH
Five homies on a mission to create righteous rock n’ roll tunes.
IN EXILE
In Exile is a Chicago-based band featuring members of Flatfoot 56, Southend, and a handful of other Chicago bands. The band formed in early 2013 and are bringing a diverse Post hardcore/Punk sound. If you are a fan of Thrice, Hot Water Music, Dead To Me, Transit or any punk/hardcore/post-hardcore artists, you’re going to want to check out In Exile!
GARDENS
Gardens is a band made up of four friends from the suburbs of Chicago. During the summer of 2013, after playing in numerous bands, the members decided to pursue a project that they were more passionate about. They strive to meet listeners at eye level and engage in dialogue through crooning, ambient guitar riffs, driving rhythms, and poignant, honest lyricism. Gardens aims for an audience that values the influence and importance of music as much as they do.
After a few months of writing, they self-released their debut EP Everything Looks Different In The Daylight in January 2014. Immediately after the release, the band began writing for their first LP. In June 2014, they drove out to The Panda Studios in Fremont, California to record Death In The Family, released November 2014.
AMATEUR
we’re on the fucking internet!
DEATH GURU
A long time ago, There was a Guru, A guru who chose Three men to be the Death Gurus, they were born into the musical culture of punk, and so they have torn up the scene with a fist of might and death. They will stop at nothing to keep an audience coming back for more raw powercore tunes, they have become Death Guru
RUNAWAY SUN
Runaway Sun effortlessly weld elements of blues, pop, country and rock into a cohesive, arresting sound. In five years the band has cut three studio releases and established a steady Gulf Coast touring schedule. Their first full-length album, The Bridge, was recorded in a blistering eight hours at Houston’s legendary SugarHill Studios. Its success led to opening slots for Heartless Bastards, UK blues-rock powerhouse Back Door Slam, and an appearance at the “Live at Best Buy” Union Square concert series in Manhattan. The band was nominated for “Best Blues Group” in the 2009 and 2010 Houston Press Music Awards; and in 2011, lead singer and songwriter Andrew Karnavas opened for Trombone Shorty and MyNameIsJohnMichael at the PBS and Friends SXSW showcase. With 2013 appearances in Memphis and Chicago, Runaway Sun continues to shine on new territory.
EXIT GHOST
Exit Ghost is a collaborative vehicle structured around the songwriting of Evan Holmes. The group’s debut Pony Soldier EP (2010) explores a vital reverence for the imagery and culture of the American West, with fiddle and harmonies provided by tireless multi-instrumentalist Rachel Kahn. Hailed by Performer Magazine as “like [Neil Young’s] After The Goldrush on steroids”, brothers Jordan and Julian Stacey provide a powerful rhythm section that resonates soundly through the group’s first full-length album, 2012’s Move Alone; a bold, at times orchestral effort engineered by Mike Hagler of Wilco’s Summerteeth. With a nod from Paste Magazine as one of “10 Illinois Bands You Should Listen To Now”, Exit Ghost entered recording at Chicago’s Engine Studios with the addition of avant-garde guitarist Michael Golas and engineer/instrumentalist Dorian Gehring. Engine EP documents a band reinventing itself in the space of a studio, and would see the group’s first commercial placement in the HBO series Single Long. Exit Ghost’s Daytrotter Live Session previews a distinct and cohesive set of new work, completed as Elston , the band’s second full-length, recorded at Chicago’s High Concept Laboratories in the summer of 2013.
COLBY & FRIENDS
ANTHONY GOMES
Anthony Gomes, #1 Billboard Blues Artist, is a triple threat force as a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter. Blues Revue Magazine recently declared that, “Gomes’ formidable guitar chops and authentic singing place him in the forefront of modern blues.” This, along with his high-energy shows and dynamic stage presence, make him one of the top draws on the Rock/Blues circuit today. Gomes has headlined concerts in 17 countries and has had the honor of sharing the stage with B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Robert Plant, Joe Bonamassa, Heart, Jonny Lang and Kenny Wayne Shepherd.
Word of Gomes’ electrifying performances has reached Eric Clapton, Morgan Freeman, John Goodman, Toby Keith, Jonny Lang, Ron White and Vince Vaughn who have all attended Gomes’ concerts. After experiencing Gomes live, John Goodman referred to him as “a pure soul brother” and comedian Ron White declared his official endorsement of Anthony Gomes. Perhaps the greatest complement was offered by Morgan Freeman who jokingly professed that Anthony was, “not bad for a white boy.”
In addition to performing, Gomes is an award winning blues history scholar, earning the University of Toronto’s C.P. Stacey Award for the highest overall academic grade point average by a history major. Anthony completed his master’s degree thesis on the racial and cultural evolution of blues music, graduating with high distinction.
Believing that music can inspire the human spirit, Anthony founded the Music Is The Medicine Foundation in 2010. This non-profit organization is dedicated to changing the lives of others through the healing power of music. Through private donations and winning sizable grants from State Farm Insurance and CVS Pharmacy, the foundation has funded songwriting scholarships, offered music education programs, and donated musical instruments to those in need.
Born in Toronto, Canada to a Portuguese father and a French-Canadian mother, Gomes began playing guitar Gomes was elevated to the top of the blues field just one in his early teens and was drawn to the blues sounds of B.B. King, Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton and Jimi Hendrix. He relocated to Chicago in the late ’90s to learn from the blues masters. During his brief stint as a sideman for Magic Slim and the Teardrops, Gomes put together his own group and won the first annual Buddy Guy’s Legends “Best Unsigned Blues Band” competition in 1998. Later that year, Gomes released his debut CD, Blues in Technicolor, which introduced him as a guitar-slinger loaded with impressive firepower.
On 2002’s Unity, he accomplished the album’s title with a heavy mix of styles leading Bandit Blues Radio to name it one of the “Top 30 Essential Blues CDs” of all time. Gomes was elevated to the top of the blues field just one year later when BluesWax Magazine named him “Artist of the Year,” an award he would claim for several years in a row due to his endless commitment and touring. Music Is the Medicine (2006) peaked at number four on the Billboard Top Blues Albums chart, only to be outdone by LIVE (2008) debuting at number one. In 2012, Gomes received critical acclaim for his release of Up 2 Zero. The album was named the “Best Blues CD of 2012” by A1 Blues.com and the Blues Underground Network voted the album “Best Blues Rock CD of 2012.” The accolades continued in 2013 with the release of Gomes’ gusty acoustic album …Before The Beginning. Blues 411 honored the release with the “Jimi Award” for best Blues/Rock CD of 2013 and it continues to make many “Best Albums of the Year” lists.
Gomes shows no signs of slowing down. Early 2015 will see the release of Electric Field Holler, a guitar driven blues infused rock ‘n’ roll album that showcases Gomes‘ blistering six string work and whiskey soaked voice. Later in the year, he plans to re-enter the studio to begin recording another album entitled, Peace Love & Loud Guitars. “I feel like this will be our pinnacle year in terms of creativity and artistic achievement,” says Gomes. “It’s time to turn it up.”
GLYDERS
ETHOS
BLACK RAPHY’L
HUGH LEE
Hugh Lee is the 22 year old product of Chicago, IL.
MOSES
Lover of beautiful women who drive ugly cars.