Chicago’s Westside is having a full blown rap resurgence at the moment and at the forefront of this wave is Lucki Eck$, one of the most unique voices emerging from the Chicago scene. Lucki is relatively new to the music business, as the 17-year-old MC has only been recording music for under a year. 2013 finds the phenom prepping the release of his debut project, Alternative Trap, which he describes as his own “subgenre.” Lucki mixes tales from the streets with cleverly crafted rhymes that Andrew Barber of Fake Shore Drive calls “incredibly cerebral.” It’s smart, it’s witty and it’s unlike anything else being created in hip-hop today. Alternative Trap is a lifestyle.
AFTRA (American Federation of Television and Radio Artist)
When it comes to performing, singing, songwriting, and entertaining, an amazing talent that definitely needs to be recognized and heard, is Russell Pike, Jr. Known as Russoul (russ–Soul!!!!!), this artist, fusses jazzy soulful vocals over rhythmically grooving, syncopated beats. His melodic songs of love, inspiration, and dance will sooth the ears, inspire the mind, and move the hands and feet of anyone who has a true appreciation of good music.
Currently Russoul, is a vocalist and songwriter for Cajual Records. Alongside Cajmere, also known as, Green Velvet, Russoul has written chart topping dance tunes in the House Music genre. In January 2011 Russoul released his First music video, entitled Let it Ride. In January of 2010 Russoul performed @ the Jamaica Jazz Blues Festival in Montego Bay!! In October of 2008 Russoul won the IMWS Midwest Regional Showcase, beating out 2000 bands in his region. Russoul has opened for artists Stevie Wonder, Kanye West, LL COOL J, New Edition, Eryka Badu, Chaka Khan, Cameo, Frankie Beverly and Maze, and Sam Salter. He also has performed for major events such as the Taste of Chicago 2004-2008; the Winter Music Conference 2006-2008 in South Beach, Miami, with world-renowned house dj Dj Mark Grant.
Attending church, practicing piano, and singing created the foundation for Russoul’s talent. His mother was the Minister of Music at several different churches. He attended Chicago public schools, participated in school choirs, and he loved performing in school plays.. After auditioning and becoming a member of the Soul Children, he continued to grow musically and spiritually. His passion and drive for singing was enhanced as he watched other soloists perform. In the spring of 2000, he later received a Bachelors in Music form Clarke Atlanta University.
Innovative, Exciting, Conceptual, Motivational…these are a few of the words that can be used to describe RoGizz, the artist and musician. After turning his love for poetry into hip hop music, RoGizz signed a record deal with Dreamworks. After moving to Los Angeles and witnessing many of the label’s resources being diverted to other areas, he decided to gain a release and put out his own music independently through his self promoted company Gizz Entertainment. His first project was called Worldwide Domination Volume I. It was a compilation disk featuring other Chicago independent artists where he utilized his skill at connecting people and providing strength in numbers.
Through a mutual friend, GIZZ also met his rap partner Pask-1. They formed a group called “Worldfame” and released a mixtape called “Cut the Games: Chi to L.A.” to much critical acclaim. After that, RoGizz moved back to Chicago and went on to collaborate more with some of the most accomplished producers in the game: TREE, S.C., Streety Wonder, Paperboy, Tony Baines, Matt Hennessy, 110% Pure, Sherm and Ekim Pahkwah. Currently, RoGizz resides in Miami and has released two more volumes of his Worldwide Domination series where he collaborated with artists from all over the country. The recordings famously took place over a Memorial Day weekend in Downtown Miami with all day and night studio sessions. These albums were titled Worldwide Domination II: The L.U.A.U and Worldwide Domination III: The Union.
At one point, RoGizz sought to diversify his entertainment portfolio by stepping back from his own music to do management deals for other artists, mentor up and coming artists, establish a clothing line and pursue different philanthropic opportunities. His love for creating timeless music though has brought him back to the mic with his new project titled “RoGizz vs. Black Blago.” In his own words, Rogizz stated: “This is one of my best works to date. I think it’s very layered because of the elements it involves. I think people can definitely relate to the battle one may have between the good and evil inside us. It can be sparked by what we experience in our daily lives. Politics have a lot to do with the creation of our daily lives. Thats what I wanted to convey with this work.” Now, the story continues with his latest mixtape release: “Interview with a Schizo”…
5 piece multi-genred rock outfit based out of Denver. The band has two records with multiplatinum Dave Aron who is noted for his work with Sublime, Prince, U2, Snoop, and Moe. to name a few. We’s Us has supported acts like Matisyahu, Collective Soul, Aqueous, Tea Leaf Green, Thundercat, Slightly Stoopid amongst others. Please let me know if you would like more of our press kit.
With equal parts Orange County punk, honky tonk country, and a tip-jar full of rockabilly swagger, Reno Divorce strikes a unique chord of their own with their brand of punk rock and roll. The band’s longevity is no accident. Their fans simply won’t allow them to quit and pursue real careers. The fact that they’ve been voted the best punk band in Denver by The Westword Magazine in 2011, 2012, and 2013 can attest to their stalwart status in their home state. A successful Kickstarter campaign and a growing number of their faithful willing to have the band’s name tattooed on their bodies keeps them climbing back into the van for tour after tour. They’ve never been ones to rest on their laurels, though. To the contrary, Reno Divorce has 7 European tours and several US jaunts under their belt, supporting Reverend Horton Heat, The Queers, and US Bombs, among others.
Sugar, spice, and everything nice.These were the ingredients chosen. To create the perfect little rockers But Professor Utonium accidentally Added an extra ingredients to the concoction– Chemical X
Thus, 51st & Union was born Using their ultra-super powers Dan, Zach, Matt, & Craig Have dedicated their lives to fighting crime And the forces of evil
Jack Cassidy has toured the world, and recorded /performed with, Blues Legend JuniorWells, “Better Off With the Blues” (Polygram/Telarc 1993). Van Morrison, Grover Washington Jr., Lou Rawls, Buddy Guy, and The Mighty Dells, Jazz Artists’ Bob Mintzer and Jimmy Haslip of the Yellowjackets, and Mike Stern.
In addition, he has performed for Her Royal Highness Princess Ann of Great Britian, Princess Caroline of Monaco, Billy Eckstein, and Jaco Pastorius.
Barbarian lurks in a dimension of futured nostalgia via proto and postpunk & modern reverb drenched melancholic pop. Ethereal Soundtrack to your Eternal Summer.
Saint Vitus are a highly influential American doom metal band from Los Angeles. They have been regarded as one of the first bands of the genre, starting out as early as the late 1970s, along with Pentagram and Trouble. For most of their career, the band comprised vocalist Scott Weinrich, bassist Mark Adams, guitarist Dave Chandler and drummer Armando Acosta. After breaking up in 1996, Saint Vitus briefly reunited for a tour in 2003, and are back together again as of 2008.
The band was formed in 1979 under the name Tyrant, with Scott Reagers (vocals), Dave Chandler (guitar), Mark Adams (bass), and Armando Acosta (drums), but soon changed their name to Saint Vitus after the song “St. Vitus’ Dance” by Black Sabbath. Their main influences were Sabbath and Black Flag, the latter of which Saint Vitus toured with during the 1980’s.
Unter this line-up, Saint Vitus recorded 2 albums (Saint Vitus & Hallow’s Victim) and an EP (The Walking Dead). After The Walking Dead Reagers left the band and was replaced by The Obsessed frontman Scott “Wino” Weinrich (at this time, The Obsessed had only released one 7″).
Weinrich-era
Wino recorded three studio albums (Born Too Late, Mournful Cries & V), a live album (Live), and an EP (Thirsty and Miserable, featuring the Black Flag cover of the same name) with Vitus. Weinrich left Saint Vitus in 1991 to reform The Obsessed after Vitus’s label, Hellhound Records, released an album of older Obsessed recordings.
Post-Weinrich period and breakup
Following Weinrich’s departure, Saint Vitus went on hiatus. The band finally found former Count Raven singer Christian Lindersson as Weinrich’s replacement. He would record only one album, C.O.D. before being replaced by original Vitus vocalist, Scott Reagers. Reagers recorded vocals for the band’s final album, Die Healing. After this, Saint Vitus decided to call it a day in 1996.
Reunion(s)
On July 1, 2003, the classic Born Too Late line-up (Weinrich, Chandler, Adams, Acosta) played a gig at Double Door in Chicago.[1] The performance was recorded and released on a DVD that is distributed through Chandler’s current band, Debris, Inc., which features former Trouble bassist Ron Holzner. Following the reunion, Saint Vitus parted ways again.
As of 2008, Saint Vitus have reformed again. The band will headline for Friday’s April 24 date at the 2009 Roadburn Festival.[2] The 14th annual Roadburn Festival will take place April 23-26, 2009 and will be held at the 013 venue in Tilburg, Netherlands. The lineup for this reunion was the same as the 2003 reunion.
Sadly Armando Acosta passed away from ongoing health issues soon after.
R.I.P. Armando, you will always be in our hearts and missed.
Saint Vitus moved forward with heavy hitter Henry Vasquez joining the band
as drummer for a headlining main stage performance at Hellfest in France and has sat behind the drum kit ever since.
As of this moment the band plans to record new Saint Vitus material.
In Early March the guitarist/vocalist quit an ill-fated metal band after 2 weeks of “membership”.That same day the guitar player/vocalist called the bass player and the drummer. They created the 3 piece metal band, “Whitehouse-Burning”.A couple of weeks went by before their 1st rehearsal on
March 18, 2013 @ 6:p.m. when they wrote their first song together.
March 20, 2013: first 2 track recording and 2nd song written.
March 25, more 2 track recording and 3rd song written. Impromptu performance video filmed. Song lyrics begin to take on a very violent, contrarian, revolutionary tone.
March 27, lead vocals are worked into the songs. More 2 track recording. Another casual video filmed.
April 1, the last of the 2 track recordings of the first 3 songs. Website, logo and artwork begin to take shape.
April 3, more sophisticated recording environment is set up with both guitar cabinets mic’d, vocals, bass recorded direct, and full drum set mic’d. Multiple recordings made while finalizing settings, levels and EQ. More artwork and web design created.
April 8, bass player not available for rehearsal but continues to work on the music from home. Drummer and guitarist rehearse new song together and experiment with microphone placement. Decisions are made about additional gear/mics that are needed.
April 8-14, The vocalist/guitarist continues to write and rehearse striving to get the vocals right in time for rehearsal.
April 15, Full band rehearsal. Song structure of 3rd song is solidified and the vocal melodies begin to take shape. We had a guest at rehearsal. Gear conflicts emerge.
April 16, gear conflicts resolved with some shuffling of inputs and outputs. Phantom power going to the passive bass output and passive vocal processor was the problem. Bass guitar signal will now be split between p.a. and bass amp by utilizing a digitech bass modeler with stereo output. More gear arrives. Microphones, stands and cables to finalize the live recorded sound. Digital converter arrives but is D.O.A. New one ordered from Musician’s Friend. Getting closer to releasing a commercial recording and video.
June 17 Wow…holy shit. Here it is the middle of JUNE 2013 already and we have been very busy. Our first single and video came out just a few days ago. “Dead Man’s Son” by WHITE HOUSE BURNING and me (Damon), Mikey and Dean are fuckin stoked. GOOGLE PLAY and the ANDROID market always get this shit first for some reason. It’s also available on ITUNES right now but I can’t provide a link until we have at least 2 releases with them. I know it sounds fuckin retarded and it is…just like apple. AMAZON should have it up and running in a few days too.
The 2nd single “Here I Am Free” by WHITEHOUSE BURNING is on deck now for release. The music is all done and mixed and mastered and shit. We’re just fucking around with the video now. It’s another video that shows us during the recording process mixed in with awesome footage from our favorite friends and independent fil-makers.
The 3rd single “White House Burning” by WHITEHOUSE BURNING is next to be recorded at our top secret bunker/studio facility deep in the bowels of Chicago’s underground. It will be avaialable in about 3 weeks or so and as usual will have a kick ass video to go along with it.
After those 3 songs we have also been regularly rehearsing and perfecting the music on 6 others…lol…this isn’t a game….
HEY HEY we are going to start doing shows around Chicago this Fall so we’ll see you out there.
July 2nd 2013. We just finished up the drums on our 3rd single so it should be available soon. We hope everyone is enjoying the music and videos from “DEAD MAN’S SON” and “HERE I AM FREE”.
July 27, 2013. We are holding off on the 3rd single until the physical release of our 1st 3 song CD which is exclusively distributed by ZAP DISTRiBUTION here in Illinois. In a few days we are shooting the band shots for a new video to go along with our 3rd single.
ON A MORE PERSONAL NOTE FROM DAMON CHRISTOPHER: My music is my life. My life is my music. I don’t have anything else. I don’t have anyone else but the 3 humans I trust and love (outside of my immediate family from which only 1 really qualifies at this point). Mikey, Dean and her. When I say trust I don’t mean what you think I mean. I trust them to be themselves. I trust them to say and do what they are free to do without my judgement. I love them unconditionally and I will always be DAMON for them. Which brings us to her. If I thought that I was capable of what most of the poor fools in this world call love, then I would say that I am hopelessly, madly in love with her. But, I don’t believe in love because of Queensryche and my own personal experiences. In all of my time on this Earth I have never met a woman more deserving of my respect, my regard and my trust. (see the above statement regarding trust). But (and I really fucking HATE using the word but) BUT there is another dimension to my fascination with her. Within that additional dimension is another dimension with unlimited universes exerting their influence upon our shared experiences. In other words, when she pays attention to me, it makes me feel like a God. So I remain alone for an average of 14-16 hours a day in silent, utter devotion to what and who she is. This is my weakness. This is why I hide sometimes. I am weak and imperfect without her regard and I fucking hate myself for it. The only time I feel really REAL. Like I am ACTUALLY in this thing you call your world is when I am playing music with Mikey and Dean or if I am in her presence. Any other time I feel completely imbalanced and utterly alone. Unless of course I have work to do such as mixing a song or recording guitars or vocals or mastering or promoting or editing a video. I also feel balanced and in the world when I am doing those things. This world is sick. This society is sick. There are far to many people who are inconsequential. They are not even real. The things that are important to them are fucking laughable when put into an historical perspective. I am not here to bring peace. I am here to bring the Sword. I am here to cut away the lies and show the people that everything they believe in, everything they have been taught and everything they are FORCED to do is a motherfucking LIE!!!! You are blind but someday I will make you see. My music is not a weapon. My music is the voice of God himself speaking through me. I am invincible. I challenge you to bring me low. Your laws no longer apply to me. No man can ever judge me. And in turn I will judge no human. You created me, now you have to live with me. Shit is about to get very interesting in this world. Yes, I tend to knowingly manipulate myself into situations in life where I know I will be angry, frustrated….passionate. This is who I am. I am chaos. I am pain. I am everything you fear because what I bring is true, sacred, holy, honest and pure.
July 29, 2013. We did a video shoot today for our 3rd single. It should be edited and uploaded in less than 2 weeks. We had a great time on the set. Mikey, Dean, Damon and the crew all did an outstanding job out in the hot July sun. Special thanks to Highland Entertainment, Zap Distribution, Midwest Guns, Mike Antonacci, Ken Bickerstaff, Jerry Riggo and all the shooters with the guns singing along. Great inspiration.
08/11/2013 I just wat to say we are grateful for all the good things happening for us right now and special thanks to John Page for booking our first show.
The Jailhouse Poets are an Alt/Country band from Northwest Indiana. Started in the fall of 2012 by frontman Jeff Shepherd (Whiskey Business) and friend Matt Patt as an acoustic duo, the two soon decided to bring others into the mix and in December of 2012 they recorded their first EP “The Steel Mill Diaries”. In the summer of 2013 they shot a music video for their single “The Worst Wothdrawal”. Look for it on YouTube!
This is the first release from The Harrow: a new four-piece band from Chicago, Illinois. The music is in the style of the American Songbook, from the perspective of an outsider looking at America and its many idiosyncrasies. These are not protest songs. They are written in love with the familiar shadowy things about ourselves; gluttony, violence, addiction, spirituality, and self-indulgence. Comprised of acoustic guitar, minimal drum kit, pedal steel, and electric bass, the first two songs from The Harrow were recorded and mixed in one day, without studio editing, or reverb, and with little amplification. Blemishes that would normally have been scrubbed clean by digital editing were left in. This is exactly how The Harrow sounds.
The members of The Harrow have worked in a wide range of bands. Nate Van Allen plays guitar, sings lead vocal, and has put out records with the Chicago country bar band The Siderunners, as well as The Ceiling Stars, and The Tossers. Drummer and vocalist Lawrence Peters has recently released his first solo record with the Lawrence Peters Outfit to glowing reviews, and also plays with Plastic Crimewave Sound, Golden Horse Ranch Band, and the Velcro Lewis Group. Bass player and vocalist Dan Padgett sings sweet harmonies and is the anchor for The Saps and Outlaw Family Band. Tommy McGettrick is the frontman for the brilliant instrumental band Mar Caribe.
Built around the grandson of cross-cultural rockabilly great, Ronnie Self, St. Dallas & The Sinners play with the same frantic enthusiasm and attitude that made Ronnie one of a kind. Blending originals with classics, mixing blues and soul with rockabilly and punk has developed the raw, pounding sound of rock and roll that St Dallas & The Sinners offer on a nightly basis. Their first full-length, Hail Mary, is out now and available on cd, vinyl and digital download. Rock & Roll, to save your soul.
The Dusty 45s deliver. Playing to a partying crowd at a packed club or for serious music fans in intimate cabarets, the Dusty 45s always put on a committed, exciting performance. These guys belong on stage.
Mixing roots styles as various as honky-tonk, jump blues, and rock and roll (and a few “where did that come from?” flavors) isn’t easy. Again, the Dusty 45s deliver; combining classic elements of American music into a natural sound that is all their own – harmonizing over acoustic and electric guitars, upright bass, drums and trumpet.
Singer/songwriter front man, Billy Joe Huels leads the band with an electric stage presence & fiery trumpet, and his original songs are delivered with panache by Seattle’s roots rock wrecking crew. The quartet was recently tapped to back ‘The Queen of Rockabilly” and recent Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Wanda Jackson in support of her blazing, Jack White-produced record. They continue to tour with Ms. Jackson, who with the Dusty 45s, will be opening for Grammy winner, Adele, on her upcoming sold out US tour.
Distinguishing themselves from the other talented roots bands by sheer energy and growth, the Dusty 45s have an impressive arc going back over a decade. The readers of the Seattle Weekly voted them “Best of Seattle” 3 years in a row, and Huels recently starred in the 5th Avenue Theatre’s successful production of “The Buddy Holly Story.”
With a deep discography, thousands of miles on the tour van odometer, and a committed fan base in the western US and Europe, the Dusty 45s are a professional, talented band with a creative fire that burns bright.
“A study in coordinated whiplash” wrote The New York Times about the Norwegian band’s performance at Knitting Factory in New York City in 2008, one of Shining’s few and legendary performances on US soil. Now they’re finally back with their unique musical amalgam called Blackjazz. There are tales about their unique live shows, and this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss! Shining was dubbed best show of the festival by Q Magazine for their show at Norway’s biggest festival Øya in August.
“Who the hell hasn’t heard of Shining? Well if you haven’t, fucking change that right now.”– MetalSucks.net
Austin, TX based duo The Ghost Wolves met in 2011 backstage at a local music festival and have been an inseparable force ever since. To Carley & Jonny rock n’ roll is an intangible spirit — an expression of absolute creative freedom, not a binding genre. Their stage show is wild, energetic and infectious. Bombastic guitar riffs, wild lyrical tales, explosive sing-alongs, scratchy acoustic cuts and slow-burning muddy grooves are delivered with glee. The songs stick in your head like a recurring dream.
Their second full length album, “TEXA$ PLATINUM” was released in April of 2017 by Berlin based rock & roll label Hound Gawd! Records.
Rock band Little Man, who’s fronted by Chris Perricelli, continues to be a strong live act and an amazingly diverse recording artist of the Twin Cities writing music with strong spiritual themes.
Classic Rock, Garage Rock, Psychedelic Rock
– Think George Harrison meets Bowie and Bolan meets Jack White.
Original Face
From the mind of Chris Perricelli comes this lofty spiritual journey as heard and told through the music of Little Man. Like a small statured mythological being of which the band takes it’s name, these songs act as catalyst to ones own personal journey. “Who am I really?” “What is enlightenment?” Investigating human emotions and attachments with many Zen inspired elements, Original Face will take you to the outskirts of infinity and back, and just then, you might see your true original face.
Hear the Bolan-esque boogie and horns on The Builder. Nods to Bowie with acoustic rhythms and Ronson like layered guitars throughout. Nods to both The Kinks and George Harrison’s influence on Medicinal and take part in yelling out the modern rock anthems like Face.
Orbital Amusement is a six song EP that sonically delights with sputnik sounds, layered vocals and fuzzy pitch-bending guitars. While reminiscent of classics (Led Zeppelin I, Flash Gordon-era Queen), more modern sounds like that of The Black Keys, Wolfmother and Smashing Pumpkins abound on this heavy, lustful yet astral collection released in May of 2011.
With “Of Mind and Matter” (Eclectone Records) Little Man has combined the big hooks of classic Brit-Pop with something uniquely fresh. Recorded in an old hunting lodge in Chicago with producer Ed Tinley (Liz Phair, Ike Reilly), “Of Mind and Matter” takes the listener into a world of wonder. Traces of Led Zeppelin, T.Rex, the Kinks and David Bowie can be found in songs like “Don’t Pray to Fantasy,” “Talisman,” “Get It To Ground” and “Not Quite so High.” Drummer Dave Cottini joins the band for the recording of this album.
Little Man’s third album “Soulful Automatic” generated a great buzz in the Twin Cities. The City Pages declared Little Man The Best Rock Band of 2007 with a cover story and The Minnesota Music Academy nominated Little Man’s leader, Chris Perricelli (lead singer/guitarist/songwriter) with Guitarist of the Year. “Of Mind and Matter” continues “Soulful Automatic’s” tradition of driving rockers and swoon-worthy melodicism.
The band’s name is taken from a character who appears in classic folklore. The little man of mythology often joins the Hero on his journey towards self-awareness when he is most needed. He provides wisdom and talisman and steers the Hero towards the correct path. This small-statured creature is one of the band’s primary inspirations.
At the crossroads of American roots music, TURCHI blends slide-guitar boogie and kudzu-fuzz with storytelling and folk narrative. Emerging from a collage of influences including Mississippi Fred McDowell, RL Burnside, Randy Newman, Kenny Brown, and the North Mississippi Allstars, TURCHI embodies the scenes, sounds, and stories of the American landscape.
The band’s debut album “Road Ends in Water,” was released in March 2012 on Devil Down Records, and was compared to the early work of the Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan terms of songwriting, vocals, energy, and spirit, as well as with the White Stripes, Drive-By Truckers, and Black Keys. The album was celebrated internationally as a prime example of raw North Mississippi boogie in a refreshed and modernized form. TURCHI finished tracking their second full-length album at Ardent Studios in December 2012, and recorded a live album in Lafayette, Louisiana during their November tour, making for two upcoming 2013 releases.
BanjerDan (Dan Mazer) a banjo player/multi-instrumentalist based in San Luis Obispo, CA. His music is an Americana mix, rooted in straight-ahead bluegrass and branching out to include folk, country, blues, oldies, and other styles. Dan has performed all over the U.S. and internationally, as a solo artist, as a member of bands, and in theatrical productions and orchestras, and as a member of “J.B. Beverley & The Wayward Drifters.”
“Scott Chism is a story teller. His warm drawl makes even the most simple of his stories seem like epic tales. Five feet away sits Lynsey Terry, the better half and conscience of the duo, looking on with a tender but skeptical look on her face. Rooted in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, their back porch poetry with its humor and old southern morals is set to a blend of americana, folk and bluegrass that inspires as it entertains.” -Sam Miller; Blue Healer Music: November 25, 2009
Andrew Ellis is an Americana artist from Toledo, OH (born in Webster, TX). He cut his teeth, as a teenager, playing blues (Delta, slide, hill country). In his twenties he was the frontman for Poe Ditch a psychedelic blues band with electric violin. After playing at the Black Swamp Arts fest together. Andrew persued an acoustic project with Lucky Lemont (upright bass). Incorperating roots of country, bluegrass, soul, reggae, and, of course blues. They have created a style that could easily fit with Ray LaMontagne, Avett Brothers, Justin Townes Earle, Old Crow, Devil makes three, as well as Elmore James, Black Keys, or Muddy Waters. Andrew’s honest and soulful voice allows his to adapt to any style and make it his own. Andrew and Lucky will be releasing a full length album in January.
Teenage Schizoid is a melodic punk band from the northwest part of Chicago. Starting in the summer of 2012, these kids have accomplished a great deal. Playing over 15 shows already, with some of the best up and coming bands, writing and fine tuning 11 original songs, all this while playing in a garage in the most frigid of winter and the scorching summer. With noticeable influence from band ranging from Rancid to Blitz to Cocksparrer, These boys are not to be written off. They are here to blast you in the head and leave you wanting more.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama brings us Gideon, an aggressive, melodic hardcore band with an already impressive repertoire. Well-placed gang vocals and a powerful front man set Gideon apart from many of their peers, while the band as a whole, whose members have been playing together only since 2008, come off sounding like seasoned pros. Their Facedown debut “Costs” (engineered by Brian Hood) will be released on March 1, 2011 and will be supported by non stop touring including Facedown Fest in Pomona, CA (April) and Cornerstone Festival in Bushnell, IL (July).
Tom “Soda” Gardocki spent years playing guitar in SoCal rockers Wax (go rewatch the credits of Mallrats; the band plays right after its pals Weezer) but more recently he’s devoted himself to more rustic purposes.
Either performing with his Large Band, his “Million Piece Band,” or solo with his 12-string banjo (like on the The South Congress Session bootleg, recently released by Hillgrass Bluebilly Records), Soda’s twangy voice hints ever-so-slightly at his punk past.
Dana DeStefano is a new artist posed to take over the airwaves with her band Dollparts. Breaking into the indie-rock genre, DeStefano’s acoustic-style guitar playing coupled with her vocals make her an upcoming artist to be reckoned with!
The Chicago suburb native, Dana DeStefano is a guitarist and singer with an extraordinary natural ability. She has a big heart and a big passion for music and life that draws fans in as they relate to her personally and musically. DeStefano is a performer who believes in working hard and has played venues all over Chicagoland.
After gaining the attention of many music insiders, DeStefano has had the opportunity to record with iconic producer Jimmy Messer, bringing us three lyric-driven indie/pop-rock tracks. The resulting songs, ’Change the Theme,’ ’New Year’s Eve,’ and ’Naperville,’ will leave you wanting more. The lyrics are honest and highly relatable.
Dana Destefano and Dollparts are rapidly gaining lots of fans and followers and have plans to release an album this year! Having all the necessary qualities for a successful music career, it’s only a matter of time before Dana DeStefano and Dollparts are household names!
” Chicago’s aboveandbelow are a band who play whatever the hell they feel like. Beit grunge, psychedlic, punk, indie, or anything in between, this trio refuses to be defined, which is a refreshing middle-finger to the microgenre-bending gymnastics that dominates the musical landscape.” -The Empty Bottle
The seeds to aboveandbelow have been sewn a few years back when Joe and Eric’s former band, The Memories, was winding down. Joe embarked on a, still, successful solo project, while Eric went on to play in other bands.
Those two have played together in various forms, and have had great luck in working together. They were always trying to figure out a way to work together more.
Fast forward to 2011 when Eric met Melanie while playing together in the shoegaze inspired bliss.city.east.
As bliss.city.east went on hiatus, Eric and Melanie still wanted to play some more. Eric contacted Joe about starting a project again. They all got together to jam, and things clicked. They began writing songs, and things were good.
Justin Boerema traveling and jamming around the country for the past 6 years, gaining inspiration for songs and music. Mostly a busker for the past ten years, and have played gigs from New York to Thailand. Jamming with a band and make new recordings this year!
Chicago’s skate punk rockers, THE RIDGELANDS, debut there brand new EP “Corey Webster Must Die!!!”, theme from the film “Thrashin'”. Combining young, snotty and out of control 90’s Lookout Records style era Punk Rock in vein of early Green Day, Screeching Weasel, and the Queers. Critical Mass rated “Corey Webster Must Die!!!” 4/5 stars. Check it out!!! – www.sexybabyrecords.com
It’s probably safe to say that you’ve never heard anything like Brothers Of Brazil before. For the past three years the brotherly duo of Supla and Joäo have been making some of the most original songs around by combining elements of traditional Brazilian music such as Bossa nova and samba with rock and funk to create a unique sound that’s won over countless fans in the band’s home base of South America—and now they’re finally ready to expand worldwide with the release of their self-titled album.
The duo was started when the brothers got a job hosting their own national variety show in Brazil called Brothers on Rede TV. It was then they realized that when they collaborated the results were beyond what they had ever imagined.
After the TV show ran its course the duo decided to pursue their newly found realization and start Brothers Of Brazil. Their debut album was produced by Mario Caldato, Jr. (Beastie Boys, Tone Loc). It may be the first that those of us outside South America have heard from the band, but judging by the reaction Brothers Of Brazil have gotten all over the world as a result of their raucous live shows it certainly won’t be the last.
From the instantly catchy samba sound of “Samba Around The Clock” to the rockabilly vibe of “Paparazzi” Brothers Of Brazil is an album that takes the band’s diverse group of influences and juxtaposes them into a very listenable brand of music that has as much emphasis on storytelling as it does songwriting. “We’re both into rock and Brazilian music so Brothers Of Brazil is very about that mix,” explains Joäo. The act has never relied on gimmicks: “The most important thing to us is to have a good song because if a song sucks it doesn’t matter how many styles you’re mixing together,” Supla clarifies.
The Brothers have already played huge festivals such as Planeta Terra and the SWU Music + Arts Festival as well as Rock In Rio in Portugal and now couldn’t be more excited about finally having a worldwide release for Brothers Of Brazil.
“I think we bring something different by having two brothers singing with great harmonies, crazy rockin jazz drumming, nylon string acoustic guitar playing with the bass notes played on his thumb and no bass guitar” Supla explains when asked what he thinks makes BOB stand out from other two-piece acts.
Supla continues, clarifying that while the band tackle every style from funk to rockabilly, Joäo’s traditional picking style and Supla’s distinctive drumming always ties these songs together. Ultimately no matter what language you speak or what type of genres you personally prefer, Brothers Of Brazil is a unique listening experience that will remind you that great songwriting is truly universal.
Hugh Cornwell is one of the UK’s finest songwriting talents and accomplished live performers. The original guitarist, singer and main songwriter in the British rock band The Stranglers, he’s enjoyed massive UK and European success with 10 hit albums and 21 Top Forty singles, etching himself into the UK and Europe’s musical psyche with classic songs, including Peaches, No More Heroes, Golden Brown, Always the Sun, Grip, Nice N Sleazy, Duchess and Skin Deep.
Cornwell’s last studio album, the critically acclaimed Hooverdam, produced and mixed by Grammy award winner Liam Watson, is available as a free download from this website.
Following rave reviews in the UK, Hugh Cornwell’s new studio album TOTEM AND TABOO is set to be released in the US on June 25th, via Red River Entertainment and through Red/SONY Distribution. Recorded at Electrical Audio Studios in Chicago, the album was engineered and mixed by the legendary Steve Albini.
In support of the album, Hugh will perform US dates in October and December 2013 and will feature the new songs, as well as classic Stranglers material. Dates to be announced soon.
Born and raised in South Carolina, drummer, composer, and arranger, Xavier Breaker, had been playing the drums since the age of five, playing for various groups and venues. But when he moved to Illinois to study Jazz at Northern Illinois University in 2009, he then discovered that writing music would be another avenue of expression for him. Shortly after graduating in 2011, Xavier began writing numerous tunes in hopes of one day to play them in front of people. That hope would be realized in January of 2013 when the Xavier Breaker Coalition came into fruition.
The Xavier Breaker Coalition can be described as a versatile group, which each of its members with different musical backgrounds ranging from gospel to R&B, rock, jazz, hip hop, classical and other different genres, coming together to form a unique sound. They can be described as being smooth and sensitive, as well as aggressive and powerful at the same time. They are not named the Coalition for no reason, for they are on a mission to uplift, inspire, heal, and take people on a journey to places where they have never been through the gift of music.
With a sound that rocks harder than Pop but more accessible than much of today’s Alternative Rock, the music of David Paige is a must for any fans of either genre. With memorable melodies, powerful grooves, and energetic live performances, David and his band will give you a show that you won’t soon forget.
The Thomas Nicholas Band has got a lot to say on their second album, Heroes Are Human (June 1st 2010). In fact, Thomas pens songs about all kinds of revolutions—from personal and emotional revelations to perspectives changing on a mass scale. However, the riff is just as mighty as the word for Thomas, and there’s no shortage of infectious, soulful rock on the new album. Showing humor and heart, Thomas has lit up the silver screen in memorable roles in American Pie, American Pie II, American Wedding and Rookie of the Year. However, his musical presence is just as vibrant, and his new record is proof. Bassist Thai Long Ly lays down solid melodic grooves while locking in with Shay Godwin’s energetic drumming. Rob Leifer adds explosively creative guitar playing that truly compliments Thomas’ compelling vocals and crunchy rhythm guitar. Plus, they write all their own songs while Thai engineers and produces, making this outfit wholly indie and self-sufficient.
Fletcher Rockwell is an American rock band from Chicago formed in 2009. With a classic heartland sound steeped in the grit and charm of their hometown, the group quickly built a loyal following on the strength of their raucous live shows.
The band’s new EP, Still Searching, finds them conjuring the spirit of early Tom Petty and the ragged honesty of artists like Wilco and The Replacements. In ‘’Scorpion Woman’’ and ‘’Too Late,” frontman Mike Nutt shares tales of love won and lost like a young Ryan Adams, and the band hits a sweet spot between No Depression-style rock and 70’s AM gold. A full LP is due in 2013, and judging from the band’s recent shows and latest release, it’s highly anticipated.
The Revies are a band which originated in 2006. The Revies played in Mexico and southern US for over 2 years and gained popularity as a band that combined a classic rock sound with a more modern approach, and also for being a great classic rock cover band. In the summer of 2009 they played in the “hellow fest” held in monterrey each year alongside several of mexico’s greatest bands such as Molotov, Kinky, and Fobia.
After this milestone, the Revies decided to try something different, and wanted to take their music to the United States. The band applied to a battle of the bands in Austin,Tx held in a bar called Aces Lounge in Austin’s well known 6th street. The Revies were among the finalists and won 1st place the competition. With this motivation from a foreign audience ,The Revies decided to play shows in the US and canada with the hopes of continuing to spread their sound to those who are willing to listen.
Not In The Face made their first appearances (in 2009) as a two piece outfit playing around the local Austin Texas music scene. Less as a career choice and more for kicks. A creative outlet for two friends to have some fun and experiment with different sounds.
Since then, the band has put on a more serious face while keeping with the same intent: to rock the fuck out and have a good time! In 2012, a new member was added to round out the “Loud, sweaty as fuck” straight up rock and roll sound. The now three piece band, featuring Jonathan Terrell on guitar and lead vocals, Wes Cargal on the drums and Michael Anthony Gibson on lead guitar, are building quite the resume:
– 7 successful, major market US tours
– 4 major festivals, including multiple official SXSW and main stage Fun Fun Fun Fest
– Concerts with the likes of ZZ Top, Guitar Wolf, Black Lips, Reverend Horton Heat, David Allan Coe and many more.
Born from the inner city of San Antonio and marinated in the lush Caribbean port town of Charlotsville Tobago Sol Tribe is a fresh sound contributing to the diverse landscape of modern Reggae. Unique in its foundation musical influences from blues to hip hop to rock seamlessly fuse with Reggae to form a sound representative of urban communities from which it comes. Still in its formative years Sol Tribe has quickly gained momentum from the very start.
After their debut in spring 2011 Sol Tribe leapt on to the scene releasing a full length album recorded in Tobago “Rising Sun”, two music videos, and shared a concert stage with artist like The Movement, Passafire, Ballyhoo!, Mike Pinto, Tatanka Stickfigure Supervillains, Kayavibe, Fayuca, and this past March Sol Tribe toured with 2012 Pier Magazines Reggae Breakout Artist of the Year Natural Vibrations. These accomplishments along with a string of local and regional performances gained them the confidence to reach out beyond their borders.
2012 would be the year the tribe took to the road touring twice through CA,NM,AZ,CO,UT,NV,& TX. A path that would find them on stage with acts like Natural Vibrations & Thicker Than Thieves. These tours would prove to build a solid foundation of venue and fan support in CA and the southwest.
Spring of 2013 saw the Tribe on the move touring across the South as direct support for NATURAL VIBRATIONS, a showcase at TX WILDFIRE FESTIVAL, numerous appearances at HOUSE of BLUES, and as a featured performer SPRING BREAK 2013 South Padre Island.
Sol Tribe has finished its second recording for Dub South Records “Radio Waves 4 Better Days”, a full length album set for release late summer 2013. Currently they are gigging across TX this summer as they prepare for a 4 month national tour kicking off Aug 8thand reaching every corner of the continental US!
Formed in the latter part of 2003, Sleestak started as a heavy rock band intent on delivering riffs in the vein of Clutch, Black Sabbath, and C.O.C. From the early days in the basement, with the many hours of open, free-for-all jamming, the band slowly gained their own identity and expanded their cumulative influences above and beyond the hard rock heroes they set out to emulate. More extreme and underground groups such as Isis, Sleep, Electric Wizard, Yob, Neurosis, and Esoteric were finding their way into the speakers and headphones of the band. Also, at once having an appreciation for that slower, sludge-filled pit that is Doom Metal, the band were drawn into the hypnotic voids of psychedelia created by the likes of Pink Floyd, The Doors, Dead Meadow, and Hawkwind. These elements have earned them the opportunity to share the stage and perform with the likes of Yob, Acid King, Black Cobra, Clutch, Totimoshi, High On Fire, and many, many more.
While many genre labels have been lain upon Sleestak, the one that the band embraces the most is “progressive doom”. This seems fitting as the group continually strives to push their creative limits, be forward in thinking, and ignoring current trends even within their own chosen genre. This became evident with the 2011 release of The Fall Of Altrusia. An epic concept album, Sleestak here were found to embrace and combine all aspects of their beloved influences and became a turning point for the band, now gaining praise and critical acclaim, letting them be seen and heard amidst the smoke-choked sea of their peers.
What the future brings is still a psychedelic vision shrouded in mist, unclear in its scope or purpose, but the path has been found and the journey has begun…
Here is the story…..ANTiSEEN started in 1983 with founding members Jeff Clayton and Joe Young. Named as a mis-spelling of the term anti – scene, meaning, against any scene that has it’s own rules, code of conduct, fashion and chain of command by hip scenesters. It’s only ROCK ‘N” ROLL and we LOVE it!!!
By 1993 the group toured with what is now known as the “classic” line up of Clayton, Young, Tom OKeefe and Greg Clayton. A few personal changes later and we are with the current line up of Clayton, Young, Sir Barry Hannibal and Phil Keller.
The band has done five full European tours and played all over the USA .With well over 50 releases world wide (many already into numerous repressings) they started the “southern punk” image that many latch onto today (by stefaniehere). The band backed up now legendary scum lord GG ALLIN on his first post – prison release “MURDER JUNKIES” and also recorded with guitarist / song writer for the original ALICE COOPER group, Michael Bruce. Live shows consist of violent bursts of musical blitzkriegs,and an unhealthy dose of Pro Wrestling influence that features barbed wire wrapped baseball bats or crowns of barbwire that cause REAL bloodshed (another thing many have latched onto) and the occasional auto self destruct finale that got them labeled “Destructo Rock” early in the group’s history.
Thirty years later the band shows no sign of packing it in or making changes to impress any major labels ( so ….no turntables or djs kiddies). They call the Orange County based TKO RECORDS . On September 20th, 2008 the band played it’s 25 year anniversary show in it’s hometown of Charlotte, NC which saw fans, friends and bands from all over the world coming in for the celebration. This marked the end of an era which had Greg Clayton and Doug Canipe saying goodbye after many years of dedication and service and hello to the new era with Bowman & Keller.After five years of duty Jon Bowman was replaced by SIR BARRY HANNIBAL but this time in the band he would take on the bass player position. Is the end in sight?Who knows?
The Vanessa Davis Band went to Amsterdam to play New Years Eve, and for 2 weeks of touring. For 30 years Vanessa’s high energy & strong vocals have rocked audiences. She currently keeps audiences infused with energy by playing jump blues, down home R&B, and a smattering of jazz.
PRIMER 55 was formed in 1997 by vocalist / guitarist Bobby Burns, and former vocalist J-Sin, whose groundbreaking fusion of Hard Edged Metal/Hardcore and Hip Hop earned the band a handful of hit singles including the omnipresent LOOSE, still a staple on Rock radio playlists today.
After the release of their self-titled debut on the independent Propellant Transmissions label, Primer 55 signed to Island/Def Jam and released their landmark major label debut, Introduction to Mayhem, co- produced by Burns, which featured appearances from Incubus␣ Chris Kilmore and Hed PE frontman Jared Gomes. The band toured relentlessly in its support, including an appearance on the 2000 Ozzfest alongside Soulfly, Ozzy, Pantera, Incubus, Queens of the Stone Age, Black Label Society and (THC labelmates) Slaves on Dope. In fact, from 1999-2003, Primer 55 did over 200 shows a year.
In 2001, P55 released their third studio album, (the) New Release, which peaked at #1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and #102 on the Billboard 200. The album’s single, “This Life” peaked at #37 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. In 2002, the band performed as the opening act at the 2002 Gathering of the Juggalos.
In 2003 Primer 55 took a hiatus, while Burns soon joined Soulfly as their bassist, a position he held until 2010, (also lending production to the album Conquer) when he left to focus on Primer 55 full time.
Windy City metallers FIST TO THE SKY are a four piece melodic metal band. They pride themselves on their ability to fuse great melodies into their heavy, but radio friendly sound. The young quartet formed in the fall of 2008. Lead vocals and bass are fronted by Mickey Murder. Flipp handles the lead guitar work along with most backing vocals. Rhythm guitarist Hollywood and drummer JD handle all the other backing vocal duties. The band was founded by brothers Mickey Murder and Flipp, and their cousin Hollywood.
“Nothing to lose, something to prove, it’s the fuel to the fire that is this band.” says Flipp.
After their initial formation in late 2008, the band focused the next year on writing for their first demo release. In May of 2010, FIST TO THE SKY’s first nine song self-recorded and self-produced demo album called “Light the World Up” was released. The release would later prove to be a success for FTTS, going on to independently sell over one thousand copies and counting. However, in lieu of the release’s success, the band was finding themselves looking for a replacement on drums shortly after the release. They found their perfect match in the addition of drummer JD in the summer of 2011.
The Ex-Bombers play dirtbag spy jazz or beatnik punk, depending on who describes it. Both descriptors hint and the pair’s decidedly avant and seedy approach to making pop music.
The duo started in 2010 in Columbia, MO before moving to their current residence in Charleston, IL (home of Eastern Illinois University). Keri Cousins provides the rhythm for the pair on a small Rogers drumset as well as her vocals. Scott Walus plays a weathered Hagstrom 8-string bass (EADG octaves) and shares vocals. They play dark but catchy songs using only these instruments, without distortion of digital trickery.
Their songs result from crashing into the awkward years of adulthood when the hangovers last two days instead of just one. This results in an uneasy but provocative alliance between the flippant sounds of early Velvet Underground/Sonic Youth and the content and style of Soft Cell or Girls Against Boys.
In 2012, The Ex-Bombers released their full-length debut album The Tightwire on Cavetone Records. The album was recorded entirely on open reel tape and was released exclusively on vinyl without digital counterpart. The record has 10 songs and 3 interludes that combine to tell a 31 minute sonic narrative. In October 2013, they will release a 7 inch split.
MICHIGAN CITY VANDALS
Described by NPR Sound Opinions and Chicago Sun Times Rock Critic Jim DeRogatis as a rollicking, optimistic and relentlessly tuneful indie band, the Michigan City Vandals first gained national notice when they donated 100% of the album profits from their first record ‘Little Slice of Hell’ to go toward building a Habitat for Humanity home in the state of Michigan. 18 months later, they released the ‘Revolve’ EP which took them on tour to regional college campuses, major Midwest cities and garnered them opening spots for Bowling for Soup, Hank III, Mute Math and the Avett Brothers. After a year hiatus the Vandals returned in 2012 with ‘Back to Life’ a record inspired by a year of loss, love, light, revelation, dark spirals, and all the moments in between. Currently MCV is currnetly releasing singles off their new album ‘Licking the Knife’ slated for full release in September of 2013. MCV has placed songs on shows for HBO and the soon to be released film Kathy T by Cinema Concepts.
This five piece indie-rock collective hails from the alamo city, creating a refreshing blend of melodic pop and timeless R&B. The combined efforts of complex chord progressions and du-op harmonies has become the very staple of what is known as, We Leave at Midnight. …. ..”Live, when each instrument, from Guerra’s twinkling keys to Tito’s sleigh bells, is mic’ed just about equally, the effect is more like hooking an industrial hose pipe to a candy factory.”.. .. Jeremy Martin, sacurrent.com
Carved after a decade of gigs and jams in sweet home Chicago, Joe Grez took his show on the road.
Now after a 3 year stint overseas both down under and in the Far East, he returns to the South Side of Chicago with his brothers and sisters The Tall Whites for a one off Rock and Roll Review.
The Tall Whites feature his heaviest hitters, yet his smoothest dealers. Take drummer Dave (Spiz) Marsalek and multi-instrumentalist Matt Tate. The three had a go in their critically acclaimed DjM Trio. Spiz is known for his steady tempo on an array of worldly beats while Tate crushes not only his trademark Chapman Stick but on the six-string electric as well.
Midwestern Mark Dollard of Chicago’s Front Runners brings a wide selection of tonality and rhythm on his six-string bass. Grez has also snagged the dynamic Brian Niebuhr of Cobalt & The Hired Guns to round the band out on trumpet. Throw in a few guest appearances and now we have an evening.
The fantastic Tall Whites will preform their finest Rock and Roll Review of British and American classics interlaced with original tunes you probably haven’t heard in years.
Sure to be a can’t miss night with this line-up. They’re on a mission…
BRAIN VACATION
Brain Vacation first appeared in 2008 as repulsive noise supposedly here from the post-apocalyptic future. Now that we’ve all survived 2012, BV re-emerges as an actual band from Chicago whose approach is a bit more tuneful but no less focused on the end of everything.
The Dickies are an American punk rock band formed in San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles in 1977. The band always had a humorous, comical style that has been called “easy listening punk”, “MOR punk,” and also “bubble-gum punk”.
You know how almost all new stuff coming out in the ‘heavy’ realm sounds like complete horseshit? That modern, compressed to shit, laptop metal bullshit sound? The sound of suburban white barrfff?
We hate that shit too and are intent on creating something polar opposite of that nonsense.
Ok, think Sabbath, Hawkwind, Motorhead, early Metallica, with a vicious tiger wielding a chainsaw on vocals and you are getting close.
Just come see us play, it’ll all make sense, we promise.
The Virus is an American street punk band from Philadelphia that formed in 1998. Reformed in 2013, the current lineup includes Paul Sorrels on vocals, Zach Kolodziejski on lead guitar, Fat Dave on rhythm guitar, Josh Howard on bass, and Tyler Capone on drums. The Virus is actively playing shows and booking tours.
