EARLLY MAC
Earlly Mac, King Foolay of Finally Famous is a midwest rap artist from Detroit Michigan.
DESTINATION UNKNOWN
90’s hits not including Creed, Puddle of Mud, Staind, and Nickleback…
BOY HITS CAR
Boy Hits Car was started in 1993 with a simple idea—to write and perform ‘passionately heavy music’ infused with a world beat/middle eastern flavor. Based out of northwest Los Angeles, the band spent the first few years perfecting their sound while playing both local and regional shows.
Since 2008 Boy Hits Car has continued to tour the US and Germany while working on their 4th album, Stealing Fire which was released in 2011. It is quite possibly the bands most compelling work to date. A month long tour in Germany/Austria followed the release as the band landed a licensing deal in Germany, Austria and Switzerland through Swell Creek records (Soul food). Since the release BHC has teamed up with 3Thirteen booking agency and been touring in support of Stealing Fire with a 5 week headlining US tour in 2012 and 3 1/2 months on the road in 2013(US dates) supporting Taproot and Smile Empty Soul. Upon returning home to finish the 5th studio album a one off radio festival was offered and the boys were off to CNY to support Drowning Pool at a Krock (100.9-106.5) event with added dates.
With their 5th album ‘All that led us here’ coming together nicely Boy Hits Car is planning for a 2014 release date for May 2nd through Eternal Sound Records while upcoming tours in the US and Europe are in the works. Come and join the ‘LoveCore’ and see for yourself what BHC is all about….let’s get connected!
KRIS KASANOVA
Brooklyn bred emcee Kris Kasanova is known for his lyrical prowess and eye-catching visuals, from his music videos to his photo shoots. Growing up in the projects of Red Hook, Kris learned the art of rap from his stepfather. At ten years old, Kris would accompany his stepfather to the studio during his sessions while he worked with great artists such as Mary J. Blige and Big Pun. Being around music so much, Kris became eager to start making up his own rhymes, which led him to start taking his craft seriously at the age of seventeen. Around this time he met his early production team, Clyde and Harry. Together they created hundreds of songs which helped sharpened Kris’ skills and work ethic.
In 2010, Kris met New York Lower East Side Producer/DJ, Ibe, who produced Kris’ his first mixtape entitled The Long Way Home. With Kris’ lyrical skill and Ibe’s creative production, The Long Way Home was immediately embraced by many major music blogs and streetwear clothing shop Flight Club. Their partnership became popularly known as HomeSkool but the movement represents the mindset of his team as go-getters and hustlers without any formal training. The following year, Ibe and Kris started working on his latest project, War Paint. As Ibe told stories with his beats, Kris painted vivid pictures with his rhymes and the combination sonically took War Paint to another level musically. Adding to his team, Kris Kasanova signed to management company, Gild Creative Group ( GCG) increasing his relevance amongst the music industry and on the street. Since the release of the album, many outlets like Hot 97, All Hip Hop, Karen Civil, 2 Dope Boyz, Karmaloop TV, and BET Music Matters all took notice.
This year, Kris has released his LP entitled 24K. Conceptually, this album pays homage to his name, his age, and the golden era of hip hop. The project includes collaborations with Flatbush Zombies, World’s Fair, Skeme, Tennille, Jarv Dee, and SZA. Along with production from Canei Finch, Ibe, THC, DJ Dahi, and J Kits.
SCOTTY ATL
Until now, Scotty has been a humble force brewing within the rap scene of New Atlanta. Always laid-back and “Cool”, Scotty’s newest project, F.A.I.T.H. (Forever Atlanta In The Heart) burned up the streets, taking Scotty ATL from a local hustler to a nationwide budding superstar. Armed with media support from XXL, Fader, SPIN, Pitchfork, Worldstar, LiveMixtapes, Hot 107, 94.5 and Ballers Eve; mixtapes hosted by the legendary DJ Scream and breakthrough DJ Burn One. Close relationships with artists like Cyhi, Young Dro and the fast-rising fellow Atalien Trinidad James, Scotty continues to push further into the public eye. His new video “GAME” featuring Trinidad Jame$ and Big Krit landed on 106 & Park as thenew joint of the day and is currently in rotation on MTV Jams. As part of #NewAtlanta, Scotty is the definition of what the various artists from different crews that identify with the “#NewAtlanta” trend represent: original, classic hip hop music with substance. It’s artists like him who are giving rap fans a reason to finally pay attention to new ATL talent. Scotty grew up on the Eastside of Atlanta, raised by a single mother. Life wasn’t always easy for him and the block he grew up on, so the “hood” topics we hear in his lyrics are a reflection of reality for this artist, nothing we hear is contrived. These days, Scotty navigates through the industry as a young boss full of nonstop hustle, integrity, a flawless live performance harkening the days of the real MC.
JENNIFER FLETCHER AND THE RECKONING
Jennifer Fletcher:
Jennifer was born and raised in the small town of Beal City, MI. Growing up on her family’s farm, country music filled their home with the sounds of her grandparents favorites: Patsy Cline, Alabama, The Oakrigde Boys, Johnny Cash & The Judds.
Jennifer has been singing since she can remember; performing and competing in numerous vocal competitions. She studied vocal jazz at theUniversity of Nebraska at Lincoln. While there she sang with an eight person vocal jazz ensemble and had the privilage of performing solo at the famous Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Today, Jennifer spends her time singing and songwriting. Her influences include artists, from many genres of music, such as The Civil Wars, Patty Griffin, Need to Breath, Drew Holcomb, Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Emmylou Harris, Miranda Lambert, Jennifer Nettles, Patsy Cline, Led Zeppelin, The Allman Brothers, and many more
Frank Loria:
Frank has been playing guitar for 21 years and studied with Frank Rumoro at the fine arts building in Chicago. He has taught in the Chicago public schools, private lessons and is currently in my 8th year of teaching at Hix Bros Music. He plays out and records on a regular basis with various groups. has been performing live in the Chicagoland area for about 12 years; playing at downtown clubs, opening for big names, headlining venues, as well as performing at private and corporate parties in Chicago and the suburbs.
Jeremy Schmidt:
Jeremy grew up in the woodlands of rural Southern Illinois. There was nothing better to do than strum strings and make music with friends and family. There still is nothing better. His brothers already played guitar and drums, so he picked up the bass to thicken the low end. Since moving to Chicago, Jeremy has played with a wide variety of talented musicians and ensembles covering many genres. He says, “It’s great to play a wide variety of music. Every individual creates music from a slightly different angle, that has been informed by the total of their experiences. It is a pleasure to learn from all the great musicians that I work with.”
Jason Vinluan:
Jason began playing violin when he was 4 years old. Before attending the University of Wisconsin, Jason studied and performed classical music with various Milwaukee symphony orchestras. Since studying music in college, Jason has broadened his musical ensembles into rock, jazz, hip hop and country outfits. For the last 10 years, Jason has performed and recorded with numerous acts in the Chicago area. He also teaches violin at several public schools in the city. Jason’s love for the violin has him playing about 120 shows a year, and as an experienced performer, he is very excited to be a part of Jennifer Fletcher & The Reckoning
IGNESCENT
Female fronted and from Chicago, Illinois, Ignescent is a rock band comprised of Jennifer Benson on lead vocals, Christopher Hansen on guitar, Will Geronimo on drums, and Bruce Smith on bass. Since 2008, the band has primarily touring throughout the Midwest and Nashville area.
FRANKIE 08
When I make music I’m my true self. I’m just a kid who grew up in Chicago who looked up to my Dad because he was a drummer in a band. I make music because its my way of relaxing, because it’s my way to get away, it’s my way of relieving stress. If you would see me in the studio working you can see it in my eyes that this is the only thing I truly care about. I’m a college student with a dream like every other kid in this world. But to me it’s not about making it, it’s about doing what you love. I make music because I get a natural high off hearing my voice and the bass dropping and my boys going crazy. I get that feeling that were starting a movement off music we love. I don’t care about the accessories, I care about melodies. I don’t care about private jets I care about which song I drop next. I make music because its me, and hey whatever happens happens, all the other shit is just a plus. Make a difference in this cold world.
-Frankie08
ROMITI
Born on the Southside but representing the West Suburbs of Chicago, Toni Romiti is a multifaceted singer whose genuine talent is utilized to influence her listeners. Nurtured in a biracial household, as well as receiving encouragement from her neighborhood, Romiti’s diverse backdrop of influence has molded her into a vocalist capable of relating to a wider breath of audience through her meaningful content.
Her quirky – yet blunt – disposition is accentuated in her music, where Romiti feels that people grow together through shared experiences; this is how character is built. As an artist, her music is honest, often impacted by various occurrences from her past, present, and even ideals built on what she intends to become. Inspired by her late father Mark Anthony Romiti, Toni continues to sing not only as a tool to express herself, but as an instrument to honor her family.
Romiti Gang is the best Gang, and with Toni spearheading the scene with a fresh outlook, she’s destined to emerge at the forefront in the current renaissance of music.
Her quirky – yet blunt – disposition is accentuated in her music, where Romiti feels that people grow together through shared experiences; this is how character is built. As an artist, her music is honest, often impacted by various occurrences from her past, present, and even ideals built on what she intends to become. Inspired by her late father Mark Anthony Romiti, Toni continues to sing not only as a tool to express herself, but as an instrument to honor her family.
Romiti Gang is the best Gang, and with Toni spearheading the scene with a fresh outlook, she’s destined to emerge at the forefront in the current renaissance of music.
WRECKIN’ BALL
It began in 1993 with a crazed line up consisting of Randy Dell (HiFi & the Roadburners), Billy Favata (Demented Are Go) and Randy Meissner, Wreckin’ Ball established themselves as one of the pioneering Psychobilly acts in the United States. With their howling vocals, furious guitar work, slapping’ bass, angry beats and crazed lyrical content, and armed with 3 CDs on the Tombstone label out of the Netherlands plus with numerous compilations CD’s, the world was exposed to the psychotic energy of Wreckin’ Ball-style Psychobilly . the original Wreckin’ Ball line up is back to remind everyone what Psychotic Rock ‘n’ Roll is all about.
DARK TRILOGY
Dark Trilogy is an Instrumental Project out of Northern Indiana. Formed in 2009. The Band consists of Joe Feingold – Guitar, Clint Pagel – Bass , Keith Kuhns – Drums.
JOYSTICK
Joystick is a ska/punk band from New Orleans, LA.
From the banks of the mighty Mississippi, Joystick doesn’t merely play Ska and Punk – they inhabit it. Built on laser tight rhythms, infectious vocals, and a fierce brass section, Joystick calls up the spirit of 90’s ska/punk while still retaining a strong sense of their New Orleans roots, creating a unique sound all their own. Bombastic but never pretentious, fun but never lazy, intense …but never serious, Joystick combines Ska, Punk, Hardcore, and Jazz to create something that’s genuinely lacking in a great deal of modern music: joy.
Joystick hit the ground running in 2008 and within months were already on an extensive North American tour with a full length album under their belt. It’s easy to tell that the octet are having the time of their lives every time they’re on stage together and they transfer that unadulterated energy to the audience with a seemingly casual effort.
After years of relentless touring Joystick signed to Stomp records and in 2017 unleashed “Sinceriously”, their third full length album. The bands momentum only continued to grow, playing sold out shows and festivals around North America.
“I Can’t Take It Anymore”, the bands fourth studio album releasing April 2021 on Stomp Records and Bad Time Records, has the band at the very top of their game. Playing their most aggressive, fun, and introspective brand of ska punk to date. Proving once and for all that they are unstoppable and show no signs of slowing down.
SURVAY SAYS!
Survay Says! Is a 6-piece pop punk/ska band from New Jersey. Averaging 150+ shows a year for the past 3 years, Survay Says! Blends horn-driven ska music with a hard hitting and quick, catchy pop punk sound.
An energetic and entertaining live show and a strong work ethic set this band apart from the rest. Without the help of agents or managers, the band amassed 208 total shows played in North America in 2013, including a 3+ week tour supporting Big D & The Kids Table (SideOneDummy Records) and Red City Radio (Paper + Plastick Records) that took them to their first appearance at Fest in Gainesville, FL and Pre-Fest in Tampa, FL.
2014 looks to be just as busy of a year with the release of a new length album on Asbestos Records, and international releases as well (Canada, Japan, United Kingdom). The release of their new record “Observations Of The Human Condition” will be quickly followed by several North American tours in April through August, including a month-long run with ska legends Reel Big Fish. More tour dates are to come in the fall, including a return trip to the Fest.
THE LAST SLICE
The Last Slice started with one goal; to make people shake their ass and stomp holes through their floor boards. Playing high energy ska with a mix of punk The Last Slice keeps the pit bouncing.
The Last Slice started in 2008 in the city of Tulsa, Oklahoma, with Ethan Nickles, Thomas Nickles, Caleb Cook, Jason Ward, and Matthew Sunday..
INVERSE UNIVERSE
Inverse Universe is a Chicago based electronic bass music project that features the collaborative efforts of Tyler Thompson (TYLR) and Adam Stephens (STEPHENS). In a music scene dominated by DJ’s, these two musicians turned producers strive to give the crowd more by performing 100% original compositions and remixes. They incorporate a combination of live instrumentation and mix multiple layers of “stems”. In other words, they are mixing each instrumental layer of their song on the spot. This style of mixing allows Inverse Universe to artistically reinvent the way the listener hears each song rhythmically, melodically, and structurally, so that every performance can demonstrate a completely new experience of each track. The objective of the Inverse Universe project, aside from delivering melodically powerful bass-driven music, is to get away from the traditional performance methods of DJ’s who often perform by mixing from one premade track to the next, and to create energy by engaging the audience through the spectacle of their drum, keyboard, guitar, and finger-drumming techniques. These two artists have learned from extensive experience as performers that there is more to the art of electronic music than limiting yourself to specific genres, tempos, and moods. As such, Inverse Universe strives to present its listeners with passionate polytempo sets that cover the range of human emotion from strong, hand raising bangers, to smooth, lush, melodic soundscapes that transport listeners to dream-like states of wonder.
TRICKTA
listen as i grow
DJ CALEEB
Caleb Philogene is a Haitian-American DJ and Artist from Chicago, Illinois.
ANTARTIK
Anthony “Antartik” Langdon is a singer/songwriter from the production and songwriting team known across the Chicago area as THA ARKITEKZ. Hailing from the Englewood area the singer, songwriter, artist, arranger, is known for his witty song lyrics and charming voice. He has been performing locally throughout the Chicago area, lacing multiple artists with features and songwriting credits. Including Shayla G (first and 15th) “Deuce Gang artist (Young Diesel), Street History (Chi-Chi, S. Madison), Jackie, Angelique, Janice, Fly-Ent (King Louie, Young Chris), Chase Davis, St. Nick. Antartik’s inspirations include God 1st and foremost, family and friends. A simple description of “Antartik’s” sound to sum it up, is an expression of “Pop,R&B Rhythms”, remaining True to the “Good Music” ideal. Musical inspirations include, Justin Timberlake, Michael Jackson and Prince just to name a few. Outlook for the future entails publishing and artist deals, with major and independent labels.
JIM SHANEBERGER BAND
Songwriter and performing musician Jim Shaneberger has been a mainstay in the Michigan music scene for 15 years and counting, recording and touring with Flint, MI blues powerhouse Greg Nagy and the legendary Donald Kinsey.
Best known as a bass guitarist and vocalist, Shaneberger’s songwriting prowess makes its debut on Work in Progress. Recorded at Redwall North Recording Company in Grand Haven, MI, the songs boast a bluesy, funky, soulful combination with Shaneberger playing all parts except drums, which are held down by Jim’s longtime friend and bandmate Karl Schantz.
Shaneberger’s original songs are a showcase of his diverse range of musical interests, each drawing from a unique genre and theme. “Trouble” is an r&b song with socially conscious lyrics; his ‘change the world’ song. “Running Your Mouth” is a nod to old school blues with a few twists and some very frank lyrics. “Work in Progress” is a commentary on his own life philosophy about growing goals leading to new challenges. “Little Lylia” is a poignant acoustic guitar instrumental written for his baby daughter. “The Storm is Coming” is a song about planting his flag in the music scene as a solo artist, announcing his arrival and “Drinkin’ Muddy Water” is about the urge to travel and get his music out into the world, expressing the hunger for touring. Musically, it’s like Johnny Winter meets Led Zeppelin.
The Jim Shaneberger Band brings together adept musicians with backgrounds in blues, rock, gospel and funk for a lively stage performance. Schantz, featured on the album, and Shaneberger have worked together previously in the Greg Nagy Band, Mercurial Son and The Funky Gentlemen. Bassist Robert Pace is steeped in gospel, jazz and r&b and has played with Marvin Sapp, Ken Reynolds, The Williams Brothers, Twinkie Clark, The DeBarges and more.
“It’s been a long time comin’,” said Jim Shaneberger. “I’ve always wanted to put something out there that’s truly mine.”
SMOOTH HOUND SMITH
Smooth Hound Smith is a foot stompin’ American roots duo comprised of “one-man-band” Zack Smith (guitars/vocals/foot drums/harmonicas/banjo) and Caitlin Doyle (vocals/percussion). Established in 2012, and currently based in East Nashville, TN, they record and perform a varied and unique style of folky, garage-infused rhythm & blues. Using primal foot percussion, complex, fuzzed-out, finger-picked guitar patterns, warbled harmonicas, tasty harmonies and A LOT of tambourine, they are able to create something rugged and visceral- a modern interpretation of early blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll music that harkens back to the traditions of hazy front porch folk songs as well as raucous back-alley juke joints.
The duo has traveled over 80,000 road miles, playing over 500 shows in over 30 states in the last two-and-a-half years. They’ve shared the stage with artists such as Justin Townes Earle, Robert Earl Keen, Nikki Bluhm & The Gramblers, The David Mayfield Parade, Matthew Perryman Jones, Charlie Parr, Possessed By Paul James, Shawn Mullins, and more. Their self-titled debut album received “top adds” on Americana Radio in early 2014, as well as garnered attention from media outlets such as Nashville’s independent radio, WRLT Lightning 100, and publications like American Songwriter and RELIX Magazine. In addition, the music of Smooth Hound Smith has been featured on MTV’s The Real World as well as the Esquire Network.
Most recently they were named as a finalist in the 2015 Durango Boots Sole Performer Contest. They were also selected over thousands of other bands to perform at the 2015 Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival in Manchester, TN, headlined by Billy Joel, Mumford & Sons, Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals, and more.
NEW ARA
BURNING CHURCHES
Burning Churches crushes the illusions created by religion and government.
ARGENTINUM ASTRUM
Originally formed in 2007, Argentinum Astrum arrived at their current lineup (Andrew Morrill – vocals, guitar and noise; Andy Kohler – drums; Emily Robinson – bass) in 2010, after several transmutations. Following two releases (an untitled album, commonly referred to as “Black,” released in 2007, and another, “White,” in 2009), the band’s new album, Malleus Maleficarum, is their first as a three piece. The album’s title is a reference to a short-lived side project, eventually absorbed by Argentinum Astrum as they began to incorporate more black metal into their traditional drone/doom sound.
MESSIAH WITCH
Toasted in the firery depths of hell, there was a sandwich cast forth with from the kingdom of heaven for enslaving all those whom consumed it. The victims of the sandwich were transformed into demented tortured souls feeding off the flesh of the living. Once cast into hell, it was there where the sandwich was forged into the greatest evil to ever exist. The Messiah Witch.
NEW KINGSTON
Hailing from Brooklyn New York, 3 brothers led by their father Courtney Panton Sr, who also plays bass on stage with the group call themselves “NEW KINGSTON”. Together they incorporate R&B, Hip-Hop and Jazz with their heritage genre Reggae to form their sound. They have released: two full-length albums, In The Streets (2010) featuring Collie Buddz, & Mr. Vegas and Kingston University (2012) featuring J. Boog
Fall of 2013 saw New Kingston cross the United States on their first major solo tour. Joining the band on their “Madd Tour 2013,” will be Indubious, Thrive, & Spread The Dub on select dates. Also will be supporting SOJA, Easy Star All-Stars & John Brown’s Body on select dates. The tour started in Austin, TX heading all the way West then back east ending in Washington D.C.
Formed in 2006 in the basement of their Brooklyn home before they took to the outside world, brothers Tahir (keys), Courtney Jr. (drums) & Stephen (guitar) jammed over and over to Bob Marley, Earth Wind & Fire, Dennis Brown, Michael Jackson, The Whispers and many more until it sounded right to Courtney Panton Sr. He wanted their vocabulary of music to be very eclectic before they hit a stage! “If you ask New Kingston if we still know all those songs, the answer is yes lol” says drummer Courtney Jr. “But they were all favorites that we loved and forever listened to”
Afterwards, they have performed to other basements and backyards around town to clubs to Festivals worldwide such as; California Roots Festival, Monterey Bay Reggae Festival, Reggae On The River, Summer Jam Germany, Uppsala Reggae Festival and many more…. Starting a heavy touring cycle supporting Reggae stars such as Collie Buddz, The Green, Soja, Beres Hammond and much more… “Only thing left to come is more touring and more music” says keyboardist Tahir
New Kingston promotes through their music and their live show Family, Love and Harmony. “One Love” from NK
JEFF GERMAN
Quality and passion are self evident; and their own reward. Jeff German’s yeoman efforts as a songwriter, lead-guitar player, and now, front-man, show a singular dedication to the art form of Mid-West working class music that is often lost to time, pretense, or low expectations. He defies all of these by playing sweet licks over strong medicine and honest words that is served best with cold beer after a long week.
His songs Kro-bide and Apology with Every Song; as part of THE CUR DOGS album “Chasing Tails”, charted in the top ten for over six weeks on the popular internet radio station Radio Free Texas. His first solo album, yet unnamed, promises the same attention to the gospel of six strings and honest, disciplined storytelling. Backed by members of THE CUR DOGS (Graig Barnett: Guitar/Scotty Geyer: Drums) Jeff will be rolling out a new sound on new ground with a new band. As the world continues to rotate on its axis; Jeff German and his Band continue to speak musical truth the way they see it. Jeff wouldn’t have it any other way.
THE GREEN MUSIC BROTHERS
Two brothers, Joe and Jacob Cacias, have been playing music together for for seventeen years, coming together to create a project “The Green Music Brothers”. The love of making music from their hearts gave these brothers a reason to be heard. When “The Green Music Brothers” take the stage, they have soul and a unique personality making any audience jam out with them singing along with their songs. With the addition of a bassist, Daniel Lee Mortenson Jr. (Danny-Lee), and a percussionist Derek Straight (D-Rock) the band is diverse with backgrounds from Metal to Gospel. Together they combine their knowledge offering a smooth raspy voice, crisp acoustic leads, distinctive bass riffs, and unique drum beats — the music is modern and feels good.
JESSICA PAIGE
I am a singing, songwriting, guitar-playing, coffee-addicted, bohemian child
PETER MANHART
“Do not be fooled by the name. Chicago’s Molehill is more like a mountain constructed with big guitars, melodic keyboards, and pounding drums. Combining elements of progressive rock with pop sensibilities along with expansive and emotionally charged lyrics, this band delivers a symphonic listening experience.”
–Jesse Menendez, Vocalo and WBEZ, 89.5FM and 91.5FM Chicago
PARKER DODSON
Born in Chicago and deflowered in the abyss known as the LA Basin, Parker Dodson is the sole surviving original member of GREENSUGAR. After spending his youth locked in a cage listening to such masters as the Captain and Tenille, Men at Work, and Silverchair, he honed his song writing chops on an old Taylor acoustic guitar while selling rotgut to the rogues in West LA. Dodson’s a fender man thru and thru wielding a 74 Strat thru a 68 Bassman head to create a sound he likes to refer to as, “Liquid Murk.” He is 68 years old.
GreenSugar is a 4 piece Rock N Roll quartet from Chicago IL. The band was born in the Great West after singer/guitarist Parker Dodson rode a three legged pack Mule across the Great Plains and through the Rockies to LA. After years of intense worship in the Ancient house of Troy, a group of priests were brought together to begin spreading the Gospel of Rock that Dodson had unearthed. These sage characters stormed the Sunset Strip and much of the Southern California coast for many moons until they realized that the diseases of modern society had poisoned the good people of this land so totally that their words could simply not be heard…and so this dreamer left for greener pastures…
Upon returning to Chicago, Dodson promptly tracked down his childhood friend Jon Patrick Luby, a former Buffalo rider and freelance wildfire fighter, to provide rhythms and power. The two then set off around the Midwest gigging for the better part of a year with nothing but an oxen pulled cart and a roaming minstrel named Ubaldo.During their travels the band met a young saint named Michael “Swedish” Starcevic inthe bowels of one of Chicago’s largest holy houses. St. Swedish had been raised studying many of the same scriptures as these men and despite a harrowing flight aboard an ostrich named Carroll he continued to worship the Gospel. Thus after a three day Walkabout in the woods of Wisconsin to cleanse his Inner Soul it was decided that he would join the cause. This band of brothers now numbering four foraged on; spreading their words of wisdom for thousands of lost souls until one night after an exhausting three hour ceremony a man arose from the crowd and introduced himself simply as, “the Pope.” He offered his services as the Bassman to Patrick’s pounding thunder and after calling upon the ghosts of Lord Vildamont Jameson it was ordained that his Holiness take his seat as the Ying to Patrick’s Yang.
Since that fateful evening the band has wandered the streets of America delivering its message to the needy and consequently slaughtering its enemies along the way. Their songs speak of hope and irony, and the experiences the band have under gone and are now the foundation for the band’s explosive live set, which has been seen alongside such Rock N Roll Icons as Warren Haynes and Gov’t Mule, Les Claypool, and The Black Crowes. The band is now currently on tour throughout the Midwest andhoping for the opportunity to change your mind…about everything.
JOHNNY STIMSON
Johnny Stimson is a rare gem in the modern pop world: a daffy, stylish 25-year-old to revive and refresh your hope in music. His catchy melodies and thoughtful lyrics mesh to create songs that are toe-tappingly good. With influences ranging from The Beatles to Michael Jackson to The Strokes, Johnny’s upbeat style puts a fresh spin on classic vinyl sound. The cheerful, more-than-meets-the-ear music features close-knit vocal harmonies, varying instruments, and more hooks than a Peter Pan prop auction. Fueled by his often-sensitive-sometimes-gritty voice, Johnny’s charismatic live performances (featuring a full band) make him the total package and certainly leave his listeners wanting more.
JILLIAN RAE
The music I write is reflective of the the music I listen to, which is pretty diverse. I’m an old school country/rock & roller/pop kind of gal.
NEXT 2 THE TRACKS
The story begins next to the tracks in El Paso, TX… fall of 2006. Christian Talamantes (vocals/acoustic), Tony Sanchez (guitar), and Juan Trevizo (bass) had already played with several drummers and had done some recording in southern New Mexico. It was around this time when Todd Seelau moved to the area from Albuquerque, NM and auditioned for the band. Todd had spent his high school and college years in Crane and Abilene and was excited to return to Texas.
“I had been shoeing horses in the rural areas surrounding El Paso, when I started hearing from clients of mine about this weird new pastor in Clint, TX with tattoos, long hair and piercings, who played drums. I didn’t think much of it, but it turned out to be Todd. And now I play with the guy.” — Christian Talamantes
This version of Next 2 the Tracks (Christian, Todd, Tony, Juan) would periodically tour the southwest and in 2007 record the Caballo de Lumbre EP in Los Angeles, with well-known producer/engineer, Dave Dominguez (Guns n Roses, Papa Roach, Staind).
In 2008, Todd was asked to start a progressive church in Albuquerque, and in order to keep playing with Next 2 the Tracks, would often make the four hour drive to El Paso for rehearsals and shows. While in Albuquerque Todd also played with several local musicians, one of them being bass player, Jonny Bang.
Next 2 the Tracks casually continued playing in and around the southwest, often times as a duo of Todd and Christian, or trio with Tony, or as a four piece with Juan on bass. Finally in 2011, Christian and Todd decided they wanted to tour and play music full time and making it to shows became increasingly difficult for the other two members. It was then that Todd had the idea of inviting his longtime friend Jonny Bang to join the band as a permanent bassist. Jonny also wanted to make music his number one priority and so the current lineup was born.
In May of 2012, Next 2 the Tracks embarked on their How the West is One tour, playing over 40 states across the US. Camping was a high priority during the tour to the members as a means of budgeting and drawing inspiration from nature. This goal proved easier throughout the western states due to less restrictions and more open space. The band did camp in the eastern states as well, but due to numerous restrictions became inspired to regain the lost freedom of enjoying the wilderness. In many cases it was illegal to set up camp or even sleep in wilderness areas.
How the West is One included two legs and lasted until December of 2013 with over 250 shows. It was during this tour, while in Los Angeles, that the band met actress Pauley Perrette, CBS star of NCIS. Pauley befriended the band, inspiring them after an exhausting six months of touring. She took them under her wing and invited them to make a music video to honor her close friend, Brandon Lambert, on the anniversary of his death. The video features the song “Never Fold” from the Caballo de Lumbre EP, stars actor/stuntman James Logan, and pays tribute to homeless veterans.
After their stay in Los Angeles the band returned home to New Mexico and Texas for a short break with a sense of accomplishment from the first leg of the tour and a renewed sense of purpose. Until this point Christian had only played acoustic guitar in the band and they were now forced to consider whether or not to search for an electric guitarist to replace Sanchez. For the time being the band continued the second leg of their tour, rehearsing and touring without a second guitarist. It was during a run of shows in Chicago, when they had a short but inspiring encounter with childhood hero and blues legend, Buddy Guy. The conversation with Buddy motivated Christian to embrace the opportunity to play more lead guitar, thus rekindling an old passion. Next 2 the Tracks became an official trio.
In November of 2013 How the West One came to an end with a homecoming show in Albuquerque, NM. The band took some much needed time off to write as well as spend time with family and friends in Texas and New Mexico. They also took the time to play regional shows and begin rehearsals for their Big Game North American Tour, which began in February 2014. This tour is set to be the band’s most extensive tour to date, ranging over 3 countries and supporting at least two new albums. The first album will be recorded in Los Angeles in June of 2014 and will be entitled She. Watch for Next 2 the Tracks as they will be coming soon to a town or wilderness area near you!
POLYPTYCH
Fusing many styles of metal, ranging from black, death and doom metal they seek to both challenge and absorb their listeners through layers of unique riffs and melodies.
MaLLy
MaLLy aka Malik Watkins sought out to build a name for himself and his craft, and ever since his debut record, The Passion, to his work with The Sundance Kid on the Free on the 15th series, and his most recent album, The Last Great…, he has cemented his place in the local scene as one of its most heralded artists. He was #8 in City Pages Picked to Click poll and voted the best Hip-Hop artist by the readers of the City Pages, and has been praised in many local and national press outlets, such as the Star Tribune, Okayplayer, Complex Magazine, Ruby Hornet, and 2DopeBoyz, and that’s just a few of a lengthy list. Not only has he gotten a fair amount of press, but he’s also been name checked by Monie Love, Sway Calloway of Sway In The Morning on Shade 45, and Chuck D for his music.
Aside from the critical acclaim, he has rocked stages with such luminaries as Souls of Mischief, Blue Scholars, Watsky, Elzhi, Evidence, and Blueprint. He also has done Soundset, the largest Hip-Hop festival in the Midwest not once, but twice; once as a performer, and the other time as a co-host alongside Brother Ali, and he was part of the lineup for Atmosphere & Rhymesayers Entertainment’s “Welcome to Minnesota” 2012 tour, and has also opened for Atmosphere at the famed Red Rocks Ampitheater. MaLLy has also been a part of First Avenue’s Best New Bands showcase, and has also performed at the Minnesota State Fair for Radio K’s artist showcase.
Aside from the accolades and the impressive list of talent that MaLLy has performed alongside with, the secret to MaLLy is his persona as an artist. Influenced by such artists as Joe Budden, Stevie Wonder, and Skyzoo, MaLLy has a penchant for writing rhymes that are accessible to a wide array of audiences. Within the blink of an eye, he can showcase his fury as a hungry artist with his very authoritative and direct style, and then can flip that to help bring him back down to earth as a man who is striving to do better for himself and his craft. Add to that an arsenal of expansive vocabulary, similes, and metaphors, and what you have with MaLLy is an artist who doesn’t have to compromise his integrity or personality to make bodies of work that speak to everyone.
“…wasn’t for my earth, or the unseen savior, might’ve quit rappin’, turned to unclean behavior, time for me to see I’m blessed, it sure took some, never front on life like that, it’s been a good one…”
DJ LAST WORD
DJ LAST WORD may not be a household name, but he’s earned respect for his work producing and live mixing for local rappers like Dialogue Elevators, Ernie Rhodes, and more. He’s been spinning since 2000, getting his start at former Dinkytown sandwich shop/music venue Bon Appetit.
BAMBU
Bambu is a father, MC and community organizer. Raised in Los Angeles, as a young boy he experienced a life that other rappers have glorified, but rarely experienced. As he navigated through a turbulent youth, Bambu turned around the destructive energy that surrounded him and poured it into making music. Bambu has been lauded by his fans and contemporaries for his lyrical storytelling abilities. Whether fictional or autobiographical, his vividly-detailed narratives are characterized by an honesty that is equal parts brutal, thought-provoking and liberating. Bambu music is not for mere performance – he utilizes his music as a tool for a larger goal – to reach and support youth who face similar issues that he did, and move them to question what goes on in the world. Bambu has reached audiences across the country and internationally with his explosive and engaging live performance. Being paired on concert billings with such acts as Immortal Technique, Blue Scholars, Zion I, Psycho Realm, dead prez, Evidence, Atmosphere and Brother Ali, to name a few, has afforded Bambu the opportunity to garner fans from varying demographics. With a catalog of music stretching the span of ten-years, the Los Angeles emcee has allowed his fans to witness the growth of a gracefully honest artist, who truly embodies the sentiment of the people.
SKULLVIEW
Your Band Kicks So Much Ass!!
USURPER
USURPER formed in 1993 and released their first demo in 1994. Since then, USURPER have recorded 5 full length albums, 1 mini album, 1 rarities CD and toured 17 different countries around the world. USURPER’S blend of 80’s inspired thrash metal, classic heavy metal anthems, over-the-top chaos and hints of dark, melodic atmosphere have been a trademark of the band since day one. USURPER doesn’t preach any political/religious ideologies, or sing about any socially relevant topics.
Topics such as: werewolfs, monster folklore, alien invasions, ancient civilizations, ancient battles, cryptozoological creatures, hauntings, prophecies, time travel, and the paranormal in addition to their trademark ‘Metal Anthems’ are the essence of Usurper’s words, which when combined with the music, and artwork create a strange fantasy world of dark heavy metal horror.
METALUCIFER
Heavy Metal Drill is watching you since 1995!
J.HOLLINS
A Chicago native, J. Hollins is highly respected amongst his peers for his ability to masterfully fuse the traditions of rock, gospel, funk, hip-hop, blues, and soul, all while keeping his lyrics fresh and reflective. He has worked with a number of industry heavyweights including, Grammy award-winning singer Mary J. Blige and Grammy-nominated producer Chucky Thompson. After much success in the UK as a writer, J. Hollins stepped away from a lucrative deal with a major recording company to release his first full-length solo album, The Chronicles, in 2005. Despite the album not reaching mainstream success, J.Hollins captured a faithful audience that resulted in unbelievable sales for an indie artist. In 2010, he released his second album, The Soul Renaissance LP. The album produced a number of radio hits, including Toast and the international smash Because of You. J. Hollins is now poised to release his next project This is Me Volume II. J. Hollins first offering from This is Me Volume II is a string, bass drum driven, heartfelt hip-hop and r&b hybrid titled, Me and My Pen;produced byCarlos Wilder. Me and My Pen will be available on iTunes, Amazon and everywhere digital music is sold November 27, 2013. This is Me Volume II is available now at www.jhollins.com and everywhere digital music is sold.
LEVER
“Drawing on a variety of ’90s influences, including Nirvana and the Vines, Lever present what they coin “bipolar grunge pop.” While a unique take on the decade’s sound, the likeness is undeniable. In fact, we challenge you to put them in a playlist alongside Nine Inch Nails and Soundgarden and tell us they don’t belong.”
-Alternative Press (2020)
Lever is a three-piece original alternative/grunge/pop/rock n’ roll band taking influences from artists such as Nirvana, The Vines, Oasis, Speedy Ortiz, The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, and Led Zeppelin.
They have had the opportunity to perform on legendary stages like the Metro, House of Blues, Vans Warped Tour in Chicago, and the Whisky A Go Go in West Hollywood.
In 2017, Lever was voted “Best Rock Band” by the Chicago Reader’s Poll and in 2018, Lever was awarded “Best Rock Entertainer” at the 37th Annual Chicago Music Awards.
Lever has released two full length albums, titled Hover Bored (2015) and Douse (2019). They’ve also released an EP titled Ms. Lead (2017) as well an an Audiotree Live Session (2021)
Lever is currently working on their third full-length album.
PHOSPHENE
Sometimes things fall apart so better things can come together. This is the mindset of Chicago’s hottest female-fronted pop rock band “Phosphene”. Vocalist Jeni (of Persistence Of Memory), Drummer Andrew (of Beautiful Nightmare), Guitarist Joey (of The Tragic Loss Of Veronica Lake), Bassist Michael (of The Last Petal), and Guitarist Dan ( of Epiphany Dawns) quickly fell together after parting ways with their previous bands.
Keeping their spirits resilient in the face of overwhelming odds, Phosphene is known for being the hardest working band in Chicago. Relying on their talent, their message, and their unconditional love for Rock n’ Roll, Phosphene took off into the music industry with a running start and continue to make their presence known as they embark on their 2nd year together.
Working as a highly driven quintet, the band finished their first full length album, Any Last Words, which they released January 5th 2014 headlining the House Of Blues in Chicago. Prior to that show, Phosphene marked their debut as a band while headlining the official Lollapalooza after party at the Hard Rock Café in Chicago. Soon after their debut, Phosphene released their first music video on YouTube for their hit single, Let You Go.
CITY OF THE WEAK
Mainly rock focused, City of the Weak combines catchy pop melodies with rhythmic riffs and moving bass lines to create a genre of their own. They are best known for their intensity on stage, as well as their big personalities off the stage. They released their debut EP ‘White Fire Alarm’ April 6, 2013, produced by Eric LaBrosse of Cherry Pit Studios. Their much-anticipated sophomore EP “Disclosure” was released April 23, 2014, also produced by Eric Labrosse. They are quickly gaining attention after the release of their first two music videos for “In a World of Bottles & Bedsores” and “White Fire Alarm,” which were featured on Blank TV, Bryan Stars, & Rormix.
STITCHED UP HEART
“Listen to the lyrics, they’re going to make you feel something… ” – Mixi
That something is the essence of Stitched Up Heart – a band built around the strength that comes from realizing we are the only ones that control our lives, and focused on the hope that reminds us there is always light at the end of the darkest tunnel. It’s something heavy and powerful, and it is something undeniable – Mixi’s voice taking flight amidst anthems of self-awareness that bridge the unrelenting confidence of In This Moment’s Maria Brink and the soulful transcendence of Adele.
“When I formed this band I was depressed and going through heartbreak. The name is supposed to give people strength and courage,” professes the frontwoman in a warm and certain tone. “We all go through things that make us think we can’t go further but, especially when times are bad, I want people to see that time will pass and it will get better. The hopeful lyrics on this record are on purpose – I’ve been living in the dark for too long, it’s time to come into the light. You need to pick yourself up because nobody is going to do that for you. There are some sick people out there, but there is beauty in everyone – and you need to love yourself before you can stitch that heart back up.”
THE RIGHT REASONS
Fused from the talents of five local Chicago musicians, The Right Reasons are a powerful blend of rock and soul that echo the sounds of yesteryear, while still remaining urgently relevant to modern times. The band in it’s current state grew out of the writing talents at ESU Records and includes members from many different reaches of the Chicago music scene. Led by the powerful vocal abilities of T Charles, the band can at one moment be in the midst of a soulful ballad reminiscent of Sam Cooke, and the next explode into an all-out rock fury on songs such as “Bad Loving Woman” and “Mother’s Love”. “It’s all about the songs” according to bassist Mike Morrison, an experienced bluesman who’s privileged career has had him cross paths with some of the most well-known figures in the history of rock and roll. To see the band live is to participate in an event that will display a variety of different influences, while still showcasing that unique sound that only The Right Reasons can deliver.
TEA TSUNAMI
Tea Tsunami began to take shape when Nick returned to Chicago after eight years “finding himself” in Colorado. Upon his return, he started collaborating with his friend and high school bandmate Gabe, and they started planting the seeds of what would later become Tea Tsunami. Two drummers later and feeling jaded, Nick turned to Galen, another old friend, for a fresh perspective and they started sharing ideas. Finally fed up with all the drummer drama, Nick started dragging his girlfriend Jen to all band activities requiring percussion; he realized the easiest way to acquire someone willing to practice the drums was to physically put the person in a car with him when he left his apartment, and then keep the doors locked for the duration of the trip.
As her Stockholm Syndrome took hold, Jen assured Nick that she would work hard and become a great drummer, despite having no percussion experience. Upon hearing a few ideas Nick and Galen were working on, Gabe suggested combining both projects, an idea that seemed natural to everyone involved. A regular practice schedule followed, which enabled the band to get their songs together and also afforded Jen a crash course in both playing drums and being in a band. Tea Tsunami plays raw catchy garage rock with subtle notes of punk, Americana, and new wave.
JOEL LEVI
Joel Levi is an energetic and engaging singer-songwriter from Anderson, IN. Joel’s music is a dense pitch of Rock, Folk, Indie and Americana sounds. Contrary to most solo performers, Levi primarily performs as frontman of his band, all the while maintaining the dynamic spectrum of his music, both sonically and emotionally. Levi recorded his first effort, The Little Places, by invitation at the studio of Grammy award-winning producer and songwriter Charlie Peacock. He is now recording his first full-length album, to be released in fall of 2012. He is also supporting his latest EP, Middle of Everywhere.
SCHOOL OF ROCK (OAK PARK)
For more than a decade, School of Rock has been inspiring kids to rock on stage and in life. Through its performance-based approach to music lessons, School of Rock students are inspired to learn, more motivated to excel and more confident as a result. To date, School of Rock students have played thousands of concerts to more than 100,000 people at such legendary venues such as CBGB’s, The Trocadero, The Knitting Factory, The Whiskey, The Roxy, The Experience Music Project, as well as major music festivals like Lollapalooza and Austin City Limits. The Oak Park School has enrolled close to 200 students since it opened in May 2013, teaching guitar, bass, drums, voice, and keys to all ages.
GREEDY MISTRESS
The one and the only Sexploitation Rock Band!
BRANDON CLARK
When Brandon Clark’s latest album, Burn, was released in early 2014, it was the album his most loyal fans had been waiting for. Much like previous Brand Clark Band releases, Burn provides the near perfect balance of Clark’s heartfelt songwriting, a few country and honky tonk influences, and a rock & roll heart. This time, however, Clark’s songwriting takes center stage more than ever. Sure, he called in a few friends and longtime associates to help him record the album, but the disc represents Clark as a solo artist in control of his career more than anything else he has released to date.
Maybe the most common question Clark hears asked of his music is what is it? At his core, Clark is a singer/songwriter, painting portrait of the characters around him: hard working men & women living life, experiencing love and heartbreak, doing what it takes to get by, and holding on to hope for the next day. Musically, there’s a touch of country in the mix, magnified by the honky-tonks and bars that Clark has played on a near nightly basis for over a decade now. When the guitars get turned up and Clark lets loose, however, it all boils down to good, old fashioned, blue collar rock & roll.
When asking Clark himself, he acknowledges his country and Americana influences, but also refers back to his college days playing in alt-rock cover bands. “That’s just how I was raised,” he will tell you. “I was always more of a rock kid and I think that still influences whatever I do.”
Part of the reason that audiences relate to Clark and his songs so well is because of the honesty that rings through in each of them. Clark is just as hard working and focused as the characters he sings about, having built his audience and success by playing night after night in bars all over Oklahoma, as well as touring the region, taking his music into Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, and Arkansas.
PHISH ROOFTOP PRE-PARTY
Phish Preshow Party at Reggies Trainwreck Rooftop Deck
$30 All You Can Drink Beer, Well Drink and Wine from 2-5PM
Free roundtrip bus shuttle to Northerly Island from Reggies!
GUITAR SHORTY
Legendary guitarist/vocalist Guitar Shorty is a giant in the blues world. Credited with influencing both Jimi Hendrix and Buddy Guy, Guitar Shorty has been electrifying audiences for five decades with his supercharged live shows and his incendiary recordings. Like a bare knuckled boxer, Shorty strikes with his blistering, physical guitar playing and his fierce vocals, connecting directly with body and soul. What really sets Shorty apart is his absolutely unpredictable, off-the-wall guitar playing. He reaches for sounds, riffs and licks that other blues players wouldn’t even think of. Amazon.com says his guitar work “sounds like a caged tiger before feeding time. His molten guitar pours his psychedelicized solos like lava over anything in his path.” The Chicago Reader declares, “Guitar Shorty is a battle-scarred hard-ass. He slices off his phrases and notes with homicidal fury. He is among the highest-energy blues entertainers on the scene.”
WERTICO CAIN AND GRAY
Wertico Cain & Gray is a seamless, genre-expanding marriage of sound and vision performed with a quality never before experienced. Paul Wertico, David Cain, and Larry Gray take musical artistry to unchartered waters with explosive, creative improvising that is truly on the cutting edge … and beyond. A passionate, trailblazing, mind-blowing performance, setting a new direction in music!
THE MONSTERS
The Monsters where formed in 1986 in small-town Bern, capital of Switzerland. Their sound is a fuzzedout mix between 60ies garage punk, wild teenage trash rockabilly and primitive rock‘n‘roll. Its 187% no MTV and top 100 shit!
The actual lineup is guitar, bass and the so-called clonedrum: means 2 drummers with only 1 1/2 drums, hitting thhe same bassdrum from each side. Besides the countless shows in Switzerland The Monsters played extensive tours through Europe including Germany, France, Holland, Belgium, Italy, Austria, England, Denmark and Spain. In 2003 the band toured Argentina, Brasil and New York, and in 2005 they toured in Japan.
The Monsters are a kickass live band who will burn every stage down. Over the years The Monsters recorded 6 albums, several singles and ep‘s and apeared on countless compilations. The record „Youth Against Nature“ was recored in the now famous Toe Rag Studios (London) by Liam Watson and Robert Butler (Miracle Workers). „I See Dead People“ came with a 1000-piece puzzle, booklet, sticker and button and was allready sold out during the tour.
The Monsters appear on Voodoorhythm Records, Switzerland. The label is famous for it‘s taste and style, as it is for the beautiful artwork. Voodoorhytm is run by Beat-Man, who (by accident…) is also the singer and guitar player of The Monsters. Beat-Man played – and still plays – in other projects called Lightning Beat-Man, Reverend Beat-Man, Die Zorros and some more. As a one-man-band he toured all of europe, played venues such as Jazz Festival Montreux, Frat Shack, Dour Festival, Eurocene and Las Vegas Grind (USA) on the same bill with acts like Dick Dale, Public Enemy, Ramones, Prince, Ramstein, Bob Log III and more….
WELFARE BEER LEAGUE
What do you get when two sappy drunks and a drummer with ADD become drinking buddies? A brand of alcohol soaked, beer fueled songs about love, drinking, loss, drinking, working, drinking and drinking.
Founded in early 2010, Johnny Marland and Christian Klotter spent the next few years fitting in practices and writing songs whenever they got a chance, finally playing out as a duo in 2013. Later that year Justin was added to the mix and the group had found it’s final, beer drenched form.
The recently released Day Off! EP shows the groups sound to a T. Soaring, melodic vocals, explosive harmonies, unrelenting drums and hooks that’ll stick in your head harder than a hangover.
LEPROUS
In a scene where it’s rare to stand out and make something truly unique, sometimes a diamond shines. The latest diamond to shine on the international prog-scene is the Norwegian band LEPROUS.
After paving the way with three studio albums: “Tall Poppy Syndrome” (2009), “Bilateral” (2011) and “Coal” (2013), LEPROUS’ latest musical endeavours on “The Congregation“ – the title of the new album – marvelously emphasize the amount of maturity the band has gained, also thanks to relentless touring activity across several continents in the lasty years. The attention that LEPROUS grip pinpoints the very unique spot in a variety of progressive music nowadays…
Their last album from May 2013 created a strong platform for LEPROUS, be it towards the press, the fans or live promoters, and showed an immense step upwards for the band on various levels. It virtaully seemed as if everyone woke up to smell the coffee when the “Coal” album was released. And as everyone knows, coal turns to diamonds in time…
Having steam-rolled all over Europe on a massive 7-week headlining tour in the fall of 2013 in support of ”Coal”, and also playing numerous European and US festival shows, LEPROUS paved the way for a die-hard fan base, that couldn’t wait for more, new material. LEPROUS kept the fans eagerly waiting, spending two years writing what is to be their 5th and absolute finest work to date, while continuing playing shows on tours in the USA, Canada and the UK throughout 2014 as well.
“The Congregation”, the newest album by LEPROUS on InsideOutMusic, is expressive, dark and catchy in a way that crawls under skin and overcomes all the senses, so that I most certainly has to be a magnificent dessert for open-minded progressive music lovers. Deep lyrics that shade serious matters of a modern life are masterly threaded into sharp, clear and tremendous musical arrangements. Developed and advanced in comparison to any of the band’s previous releases, “The Congregation” still keeps the authentic identity and recognizability. Moments when LEPROUS surprise, experiment and freely explore within their music are the ones that build their strength, fuel their power and make them so special. They band never had any tendencies of imitating other artists, and more importantly, their latest release shows the courageous act and art of not even copying themselves. “The Congregation” has given a fresh, innovative and new tone to the musical sphere of LEPROUS.
From the sharp and concise opening track “The Price”, through the omnipresent and über-exciting “Rewind” (a track that will surely be an audience favourite in a live situation) to the moody “Moon” and the strong but at the same time saddened “The Slave”, LEPROUS takes the listener through all corners in the room of emotion. These young Norwegians are an extremely diverse act, who cite influences ranging from Massive Attack, Radiohead, Arvo Pärt to even extreme contemporary acts like Gojira, as fine ingredients of their unique and versatile stylistic longdrink.
“This has without doubt been the most challenging album to write so far, if you count the amount of hours, blood, sweat and tears behind it”, stated LEPROUS vocalist, keyboardist and composer, Einar Solberg, and continued: “It makes me extra proud to have delivered what I consider to be the most daring, technical, fresh and mature album we’ve ever done. The music of ’The Congregation’ is mostly written by me on my computer, so that I this time around could use my ears instead of my knowledge as the main writing tool. If you use your knowledge and your usual methods to write every album, you will eventually find yourself stuck in a quagmire of old habits. Lyrically ’The Congregation’ covers the dangers and consequences of blindly following the flow, thus the album title will speak for itself.”
After more than a year of devoted and highly fine-tuning work on the album, while still at the same time touring and enthusing both new and old listeners around the globe, LEPROUS chose to do the recordings for “The Congregation” in the Fascination Street and Ghostward Studios in Sweden as well as in Mnemosyne Studio in Norway. Jens Bogren (Opeth, Devin Townsend, Katatonia, etc.), who already did sonic magic on the band’s both previous albums, managed to take things one step further as well in terms of mixing on “The Congregation” too.
INTERNAL BLEEDING
Formed in 1991, Internal Bleeding are pioneers of the style of death metal called “slam.” Their sound has paved the way for a whole generation of death metal and death-core bands who put heavy, groove laden riffs in the forefront of their music. After a long hiatus to settle their post-Internal Bleeding careers, raise families and settle down a bit, the core of the classic lineup is back to play shows and write new material that will hopefully end up on a release.
PYREXIA
The Year….1990. The place….Mineola Long Island New York. Death Metal was rising up in the music scene in New York . Chris Basile, Guy Marchais , Daryl Wagner, Mike Andejko, and Rob Shimonski met to form the New York Death Metal band PYREXIA. Coming from similar backrounds and driven by a drug like passion for music , PYREXIA began to imprint its own Firebrand style of Death Metal at local shows and underground murmurs. In the years leading up to PYREXIA meeting and forming, guitar player Chris Basile had been working with and writing songs in several bands along with Terrence Hobbs, Mike Smith , and Doug Ceritto all of SUFFOCATION. With dozens of songs written together, and going under the name “MORTUARY”, the band, with studio time booked, broke up as they were to record their first demo. Many of the riffs and songs written for this band made their way onto the first several SUFFOCATION and PYREXIA albums , hence the constant comparisons some times unfair over the years. The Huge difference between PYREXIA and any other so called bands that sound like SUFFOCATION or NEW YORK is that guitarist Chris Basile had been playing in bands and writing songs with Terrence Mike and Doug for years before there ever was a PYREXIA or a SUFFOCATION.
At the same time during this period , Guy Marchais was putting together several Death Metal bands, one called SUFFOCATION. After MORTUARY broke up, Guy began working with Terrence and Mike and they started SUFFOCATION. Not long after that Doug began working with Mike and Terrence taking the place of Guy which led Guy to begin working with Daryl Wagner to form PYREXIA. A short time later Guy and Daryl hooked up with Chris , fresh from the MORTUARY break up and they went in to record the 1991 PYREXIA demo ” Liturgy of Impurity”.
After several line up changes and many guitar try-outs,(including Chris Pervelas who later went on to form NYDM Powerhouse INTERNAL BLEEDING), PYREXIA recorded their first full lenghth release “Sermon of Mockery” on overseas label Hard Vynil. With great acclaim , this album would define the band as a true contributor to American Death Metal.
1994. Singer Daryl Wagner parts ways with PYREXIA in pursuit of a career in computers/IT. This gave the band the opportunity to make a change and stand out in a genre that was becoming increasingly overcrowded with gutteral vocal styles so similar sounding it was getting hard to tell one vocalist from another. Enter Keith Devito. His vocal range, especially at that time , was way more powerful and aggressive then most singers out there.. In 1995, with Keith behind the mic, PYREXIA recorded the 3 song “Hatredangeranddisgust” in efforts to introduce their new sound to the underground. By this time , PYREXIA had grown measureably and was doing a great job promoting themselves in an era before email , myspace or the internet. Keith was then asked by SUFFOCATION to fill in for vocal assasin Frank Mullen for an overseas tour supporting DEICIDE. Keith rose to the occasion, fronting SUFFOCATION for the tour. Upon his return , PYREXIA s immediate move was to record and release the 1997 full length album ” System of the Animal” on Danish Label Serious Entertainment.
In 1999 , while PYREXIA was in contract negotiations for what was to be their third full length, singer Keith was approached once again for temporary vocal duties. OBITUARY needed a singer to fill the tremendous shoes of John Tardy in order to tour .Keith once again rose up and did the tour. During the tour ,Keith became good friends with OBITUARY guitar player, Trevor Peres. After his their return, Keith asked the rest of PYREXIA to join him and Trevor in a new project to be called CATASTROPHIC , that was to be funded by METAL BLADE RECORDS. Unable to pass up the opportunity, Chris and the rest of band basically put PYREXIA on hold and went on to release the album “The Cleansing” in 2001 on METAL BLADE RECORDS.
Logistics, money problems and personal as well as musical diffences , caused guitar player Chris Basile to defect from CATASTROPHIC and reform the band he had been playing in since he was a teenager.
PYREXIA was Re-Born.
Putting together a ferocious line-up , including drummer Justin DiPinto, most know for his work with MALEVOLANT CREATION on the album “Will to Kill”. The next to enlist would become one of the most integral parts of PYREXIA today. That person is audio masochist and vocal prodigy Erick Shute. Erick came into the picture never singing in a band before and was 9 years old when “Sermon of Mockery” was released. Today , he is a huge part of leading the band forward and faster like never before. Packed with talent, in 2004, PYREXIA recorded and released what was to be a prelude to their next full length release “Cruelty Beyond Submission”. Containing 3 new songs and an assortment of PYREXIA ‘s more favorite older tracks through independant record label CRASH RECORDS.
UNIQUE LEADER . A label known for releasing some of the sickest, meanest , quality underground DEATH METAL , saw an opportunity in PYREXIA as the band did in the label. Joining forces in 2006, PYREXIA recorded and released the new album “Age of the Wicked” under the UL flag in January 2007. Currently abominating crowds in support of this new release , PYREXIA continues to Dominate with no end in sight.
DENIRO FARRAR
Dante Qushawan Farrar, aka Deniro Farrar, is a rising rapper born and raised in Charlotte, North Carolina. After gathering momentum in late 2011 with the release of “Destiny Altered”, his 25-track debut, mix-tape he’s went on to release several other projects since. h is Steadily gaining recognition from all the major blogs because of his unique rhyme style and exceptional production collaborations with some of the most progressive young producers in music. Deniro has toured and opened for Wiz Khalifa, Kendrick Lamar, NAS, Young Jeezy, Wale, Big K.R.I.T., Public Enemy, Chiddy Bang, and PAC DIV.