DEYV DEE
Deyv Dee started his solo career after the fall of the Regals, while in Leah Stargazing.
SLAVES TO THE PAVEMENT
Slaves to the Pavement is a 4/5/6 piece band based out of Ypsilanti, MI. that started in the late months of 2008. Drawing their influences from multiple genres of music, they create a fusion of melodic punk, prog rock, reggae, ska and thrash, while, lyrically, touching base on political issues, the every day life, and the want for something more. Though undergoing multiple line up changes and other minor set backs, these guys are determined to see the world through their music. They’ve often been compared to the likes of Propagandhi and Pennywise, as well as other 90s era Epitaph and Fat Wreck bands. They’ve done a great job of increasing their fan base within Southeast Michigan and have Midwest and continental US tour plans set up for the fall/winter and spring/summer 2013. Slaves to the Pavement is currently releasing their debut full-length effort “In a Perfect World” on October 12th and will be entering the studio late-September to record 5 more tracks for a followup EP and possible split.
WINO
Wino has been putting his soul on the line for more than three decades with his unique brand of Sabbath-inspired Doom/Stoner rock.
MONDO GENERATOR
Mondo Generator was formed in 1997 by Queens of the Stone Age bassist/singer Nick Oliveri. Initially intended as a solo/side project, the classic “Cocaine Rodeo” album was recorded that same year, but shelved until the Southern Lord label released it and its unique brand of criminal insanity to widespread acclaim and horror in the summer of 2000. The follow-up, “A Drug Problem That Never Existed,” was released jointly in the Summer of 2003 by Ipecac/Rekords Rekords to further critical acclaim. A worldwide tour followed that was chronicled on video for the DVD release “Use Once and Destroy Me”. In 2004, Mondo Generator recorded and released “III The EP.” Oliveri began a solo acoustic career shortly after, which would see two full releases, “Demolition Day”, and 2010’s “Death Acoustic.” In 2006, Mondo Generator released “Dead Planet: SonicSlowMotionTrails” on English label Mother Tongue. It would be released worldwide the following year on Suburban Noize Records. In late 2010, Mondo Generator would be put on a back-burner as Oliveri rejoined Kyuss, re-branded as Kyuss Lives!, which also featured John Garcia, Brant Bjork, and new guitarist Bruno Fevery. In early 2012, Oliveri exited Kyuss Lives and is now concentrating full-time on Mondo Generator. The new album, “Hell Comes To Your Heart,” was released on July 3 via Mondo Media/Cobraside.
OMEN (L.A.)
Omen is best-known for melodic yet aggressive power metal/fantasy metal along the lines of King Diamond, Queensrÿche, Savatage, Manowar, and Helloween; Omen is forceful and hard-driving, but they’re always been musical and melodic. The band was formed in Los Angeles in 1983 by lead guitarist Kenny Powell, who had been a member of an L.A.-based band called Savage Grace. Powell’s early influences included Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, UFO, Ronnie James Dio, Black Sabbath, and Rainbow (among others), and Omen’s Metal Blade and Enigma recordings of the ’80s reflected the guitarist’s appreciation of those headbangers.
Omen has had its share of lineup changes over the years; in addition to Powell, the band’s early members included lead singer J.D. Kimball (R.I.P.), bassist Jody Henry, and drummer Steve Wittig. In 1984, Omen signed with the L.A.-based Metal Blade and recorded their debut album, Battle Cry, which was followed by Warning of Danger in 1985, The Curse in 1986, Nightmares in 1987, and Escape to Nowhere in 1988. Throughout the ’80s, glam metal, pop-metal and hair bands were huge on the L.A./Hollywood rock scene — the Sunset Strip was inundated with bands that hoped to be the next Quiet Riot, Poison, or L.A. Guns. But when other L.A. bands were heavily into the glam scene, Omen was a power metal band first and foremost.
EXUMER
Formed in 1985, by singer/bassist Mem V. Stein and guitarist Ray Mensh, EXUMER went on to release two albums in 1986 (Possessed by Fire), and 1987 (Rising from the Sea), that are regarded as some of the most cult thrash metal releases ever to come out of Germany. EXUMER was also one of the first thrash metal acts to capture exotic, foreign markets like Poland and Brazil, where their albums were domestically released in the 1980s. The subsequent tours that followed those releases secured the band live shows in front of thousands of fans and an unusually large following outside of Germany.
Plagued by line-up changes and internal turmoil the band broke up in 1990, and did not perform live, with the exception in 2001 at the prestigious Wacken Open Air Festival, until 2009. Mem and Ray decided to re-activate EXUMER in 2008, and the band embarked on their first tour since 1988, where they played 5 shows in April/May of 2009. The “5 Nights of Fire Tour”, took the band through Europe (Germany, Holland, Greece), and the USA, where they headlined the Thrasho de Mayo Festival, in front of 1300 fans in Los Angeles. EXUMER returned to Europe in spring and the fall of 2010, where the band appeared at Norway’s Inferno Festival, among other stops in Italy, Germany, Switzerland, Poland and Bulgaria during their “European Ignition Tour Part I & II”.
In 2011, EXUMER completed writing and arranging material for their first new album release in 24 years. The band chose Waldemar Sorychta (Grip Inc., Therion, Sodom, Moonspell, etc.), to produce their 10-track strong, hard hitting album Fire & Damnation. Combining a punishing production with aggressive song writing, EXUMER manages to capture the intensity and feel of the 1980s thrash metal gems and yet sound up to date on their latest output.
Fire & Damnation has been released worldwide via Metal Blade Records in April 2012.
The new album will catapult EXUMER back in the forefront of the international music markets, and the following live assaults in 2012 will only further cement the band’s cult status among the ranks of classic thrash metal acts in the world.
OCTOBER 31
The underground Heavy Metal scene is certainly not for everyone. From the dreams of glitz and glamour that certain giants from the 80s and even modern bands that thrive from paycheck to paycheck, making it is the be all end all for some. Not that there is anything wrong with living off of what you love to do. It’s just almost scary how certain members of the human race can turn their integrity inside out at the flip of a dollar and history has proven, with exception (always), success to do more harm than good, especially if a band has or had any kind of staying power. Greed is a terrible thing. For others, its not always about being in the Top 40, having your video on Headbangers Ball, being on a major label, sharing the stage with the most happening band(s), free scrotum waxing, getting a gold record, etc. Some don’t care too much about that. Metal is a lifestyle to some and that has definitely been proven over the years by a certain US band.
October 31 have one main goal, to produce the most uncompromising, no frills Heavy Metal they possibly can spew forth. The latest, “No Survivors”, further proves this being the heaviest October 31 yet, and just as memorable as the rest.
SHOK PARIS
Bill Sabo started the band along with his cousin Eric Marderwald. Bob Piskac joined next to help with recordings and live sound. Bill auditioned Ken Erb and was very impressed with his guitar playing. It took some time after that to find Kelly Berkshire then finally Vic Hix.
SEAX
Seax was formed in 2009 by guitarist Hel with the intent to play Speed Metal.
The band found its first stable lineup late in 2010 and started playing live in 2011.
Their first album “High on Metal” was recorded in the same year, and released in 2012.
In 2013, they started recording their second album “To the Grave”.
It was mixed by the bands guitarist, Eli, and mastered by Jack Control @ Enormous Door Mastering.
It was released on December of 2014.
Right now the band is finishing the writing of their 3rd album, which will be released in the fall.
Seax is:
Carmine Blades – Vocal
Hel – Guitar
Eli Firicano – Guitar
Mike Bones – Bass
Derek Jay – Drums
HOUR OF 13
HOUR OF 13 have built up a formidable reputation in underground circles for their potent brand of occult-inspired doom-laden metal. The band recently performed their debut show at the ‘Dublin Doom Day’ Festival in Ireland, to rapturous response…
The line-up is:..
Phil Swanson – vocals..
Chad Davis – lead guitar..
Brandon Munday – rhythm guitar..
John Mode – bass guitar..
Dave Easter – percussion..
This line-up harnesses perfectly the dark and eerie atmosphere HOUR OF 13 are known for in a live setting, unsettling in sound and feeling… This line-up will also be creating a concept EP of the trilogy of the songs “Missing Girl”, “Possession” and “The Crawlspace”. These songs will showcase the haunting power of the HOUR OF 13 live band…
HOUR OF 13 is the conceptual creation of C. Davis with Phil Swanson. The focus is on abundant musical / lyrical heaviness and delves into themes of the macabre, darkness, satanic panic, cold atmospheres, complete bleakness / blackness. HOUR OF 13 plays True Original Occult Doom EXCLUSIVELY!
FLIP ORLEY
Since Flip Orley has bursted onto the comedy seen he has single – handedly reshaped the image of hypnosis from its vaudeville image, to an act hip and edgy enough for the MTV generation. Flip’s appearance on the “Today Show” brought rave reviews and stopped traffic in midtown Manhattan. His one-man show has set comedy club attendance records from coast to coast. Faithful fans and new comers alike find themselves screaming with laughter as Flip ignites his volunteers’ subconscious minds and transforms reality. What sets Orley apart from others in his craft, is his true comedic ability, delivering a hilarious stand up set before unleashing his volunteers creative imaginations. The Los Angeles Times attests that “…the beauty of Orley’s show is that, because most of the humor comes from the volunteers, and no two performances are alike.” The Dallas Morning News reports, “It’sdifficult to remain skeptical after seeing Flip transform a panel of well behaved audience members into a family of trailer-park dwellers from Arkansas, Southern accent and all!”
Orley has been seen on “Entertainment Tonight,” “The Martin Short Show,” “Comic Strip Live,” the “Ricki Lake Show,” Maury Povich” and “Space Ghost Coast To Coast.” It is his uncanny way with subjects, his finely tuned power of suggestion and rapid-fire delivery that keeps audiences coming back for more. Unlike past generations of hypnotists, Orley does not humiliate his subjects for comic effect, but entertains by enlightening his audiences…often with lasting beneficial effects on those who have been inducted. After making them forget their own names, having them regress to age 5, or pledge undying love to complete strangers in a highly original version of “The Newlywed Game.” Flip’s subjects often awaken from their hypnotic trance reporting less stress, sleep better, have more energy, and a renewed libido!
Flip is adamant about “not” embarrassing his volunteers. “I want the audience to laugh with them, not at them,” he says. “This is the purest form of improvisational entertainment you will ever see as the show rewrites itself every night, and the volunteers are my partners, not my victims. Each subject is treated with respect and gentility.”
Orley’s journey to becoming the country’s hippest hypnotist of his time began when he bought a book in the 6th grade called “How to Pick Up Girls Through Hypnotism.” Although the advice in that particular book did not pay off, Orley became obsessed with the subject, realizing the creative potential and learned everything he could about it. Flip studied psychology at University Of Arizona with the intention of becoming a clinical hypnotist. It was while majoring in psychology at the University of Arizona, however, that Orley discovered stand-up comedy.
Hypnosis took second place for a time as Orley honed his comedic skills in small clubs around the country
eventually merging the two. The rest is comedy club history as marquees across the nation invariably read “Flip Orley/Held Over By Popular Demand, for up to 12 weeks at a time.Realizing the value of the clinical side of hypnotism, Flip developed techniques in seminars and workshops to help people get in touch with their inner strength through the power of their own subconscious minds. Orley’s self-help CD’s address a verity of issues such as, stress management, weight control, quit smoking, and sleep disorders. Dentists, doctors and patients who are allergic to anesthesia have called upon Flip’s
abilities. Orley assisted one dentist who operated on a patient for almost 2 hours without an anesthetic. The subject awakened without pain and thought the whole thing was a scam, until she looked into a mirror. He’s been credited with helping to bring difficult pregnancies to full term through stress control, and aiding couples in rekindling the passion in their relationships. Orley maintains that he teaches his subjects how to
more successfully explore the creativity, imaginations and unlock their own subconscious minds.
When Flip takes the stage and rolls up his sleeves, his audience can expect two hours FUN and anexperience they will never forget.
PIERCE ELLIOTT & BACKPACK GANG
Pierce Elliott started writing music at the age of 13 and then later started recording at age 16. He has 5 mixtape releases with the “Long Awaited” Album EP being the most recent. He attends Columbia College Chicago where he hopes to achieve musical goals for the future. Check out his latest single for the music video “Long Awaited” on youtube and download the Long Awaited Album on Datpiff.com where it is sponsored.
RiFF RaFF
Former MTV reality show contestant-turned-rapper, Riff Raff, apparently landed a record deal last year, inking a deal with Soulja Boy’s SODMG imprint. The 20-year-old rap star delivered the news in a simple tweet on Wednesday (June 1), welcoming the Internet rapper to his label.
“everybody welcome my newest artist @RiFFRAFF_SODMG to SODMG,” Soulja Boy wrote (@SouljaBoy).
In response, Riff Raff thanked his new label boss with a tweet of his own. “THANK YOU @SOULJABOY …. iM BOU TO ‘BRiNG THE RiCE OUT’,” he wrote (@RIFFRAFF_SODMG), adding: “THE PRiCE OF RiCE WiLL BE AS HiGH AS GAS PRiCES …. DUE TO ALL THiS “RICE BRiNGTATiON’ ”
Since the announcement, Riff Raff has been tweeting and retweeting his legion of fans and supporters (over 100K) who have congratulated him on the latest development in his career. And, he even dropped a nearly three-minute freestyle called “Soulja Boy Signed Me”, in which he brags about how bright his future is now that he’s signed. Details regarding the deal were unknown at press time.
Riff Raff hails from Houston, Texas. He first came onto the scene in 2009, when he appeared as a contestant of Fonzworth Bentley’s MTV reality show, “From G’s to Gents”, during its second second. Although he was eliminated in the second episode, Riff Raff ran with his newfound fan, and has been heavily marketing himself on the Internet ever since.
MINOR WITS
Forever friends and now band-mates, Minor Wits (out of Chicago, IL) is a three-piece wind-surf-rock n’ roll band that started writing tunes together in the fall of 2011.
The band is comprised of twin brothers Brad (Percussion), Eric Nicpon (Guitar/Vocals) and Mike Nolan (Bass Guitar/Vocals).
Brad, Mike and Eric met through their local music scene in Arlington Heights, Il where every weekend they hung-out at DIY shows and venues in the city to catch bands like Spitalfield, Knockout and Fall Out Boy.
Around the ages of 13 and 15 the guys began to play in their own groups (The Local Scene, Upon Ember, Makai); they learned during that time that by writing sincere tunes, putting on energetic live shows and being themselves (on and off the stage) was what being a Chicago-based band was all about.
Fast forward 11 years, 3 college degrees and 3 full-time jobs and you have MINOR WITS.
[The name is something eric mouthed one day while studying the photographer minor white and started playing solo under the name MINOR WITS while opening for touring bands at the M-SHOP in Ames, Iowa]
In 2012 the band released their debut EP, “Bedroom Blues.”
Since then the band has played all over the Chicago scene– playing great clubs like Lincoln Hall, Double Door, Subterranean and Schubas on the regular. Keeping it cool while drinking brews, enjoying each others funnies and writing new tunes is what that band is currently up-to.
The band is set to record their second effort and will be in the studio this spring. Follow along as they do what they do — come and join them for spirits at a show and download the music for free.
It will continue to be Minor Wits for a long time.
TEN KENS
Two years after their acclaimed sophomore album, Ten Kens return with their most powerful and poignant record to date. The aptly titled ‘Namesake’ moves the band away from their signature genre-bending dither, into a darkened psychedelic voyage of self-discovery.
The product of this vision is the result of an intense yearlong recording period. Masterfully engineered and produced by Ten Kens own Brett Paulin and Dan Workman, the band utilized several different recording facilities to find the perfect balance of studio wizardry and natural resonance. A purified approach to songwriting enabled the band to design a sound specific to each individual story, and as is their custom, the band disappeared into complete isolation to keep their vision focused and devoid of any outside influence. It is this insidious exploration of sound, coupled with unremitting power, that makes ‘Namesake’ such an immense and profound listen. At its core, ‘Namesake’ is the thinking man’s stoner rock – an abstract art-piece constructed from the remains of decaying genres. Without delusion and with grounded ambition, Ten Kens present an epic auditory narrative of life, death, and all the sounds in-between.
The title track “Death In The Family” sets the scene for the imminent odyssey by lulling the listener into a false sense of security using hypnotic repetition and richly layered yet hauntingly pure vocal harmonies. Once the calm is collected, it transcends into a sonic cry only to erupt at the apex into a fiery crescendo of slaughtering guitar, relentless drums, spellbinding samples and deafening bass. The effectiveness with which Ten Kens stage these songs, play with them, allow them their much needed space and still let everything fall back into pieces again, shows stylistic parallels to their golden age forefathers Bauhaus, The Pixies and Radiohead. With a newly found musical aesthetic and rich psychedelic spirit, Ten Kens forge a brave new world that is as captivating as it is reclusive.
Based in Toronto, Ten Kens is the brainchild of songwriting duo Brett Paulin and Dan Workman. Discovered by Fat Cat Records in 2006, Ten Kens became one of the first Canadian acts signed to the famed UK label. In 2012, after two celebrated releases on both Fat Cat and Last Gang Records, and several successful tours in-between, Ten Kens carry on their mission as the ever-evolving, genre-altering, sound and vision no-scene music collective.
Having built up a reputation as a fearsome live act, and having shared stages with such bands as A Place To Bury Strangers, No Age, Deerhoof, The Joy Formidable and Surfer Blood, Ten Kens are set to widen their remit for 2012/2013 with scheduled US and European tours. Ten Kens third studio LP ‘Namesake’ is available now.
MIKE GALLAGHER
Mike Gallagher could easily be considered a journeyman musician, performing, recording with and backing many artists as a guitarist, keyboardist and vocalist. Mike has been a member of the band Zzaje’ for ten years, and guitarist/ vocalist for Walt Cunningham and the Dartmouth College gospel choir for 6 years. Other notable artists and groups Mike has performed alongside include Lupe Fiasco, Common, George Clinton, Carole King, R. Kelly, Bumpus, Rachel Yamagata, Umphrey’s McGee, M.C. Lyte, Rhymefest, Kindred and the Family Soul, The Roots, Bilal, Rick Nielsen (Cheap Trick), James Young (Styx), Jim Peterik (Survivor), Marsha Ambrosius (Floetry) J. Ivy and Tarrey Torae, Eric Roberson, Brian McKnight, Roy Ayers, Malik Yusef, Bebe Winans, Yolanda Adams and Darius Brooks. He is also featured as a guitarist on R&B artist Chico DeBarge’s album “Addiction” and keyboardist on R&B artist Joe’s album “Signature”. In performing alongside this eclectic group of artists, Mike has gained much depth in his playing style as well as his writing. Mike also is a producer for “Trackforce” productions which has placed his music on television shows for Oprah and MTV2. Because of his many journey’s in his musical career, in 2009 Mike began to compose music for his E.P. Traveler which was released in June 2011. However he will be releasing the full 11 track album this June 2012. Be on the lookout for great new music from Mike Gallagher!
FRENCH HORN REBELLION
We are two brothers who enjoy photoshopping French horns onto things they shouldn’t be photoshopped on.
DEATHFROMTHELEFT
Four men who share the same convictions when it comes to playing raw, unforgiving Rock n’ Roll. If you like your music fast and loud, DeathFromTheLeft will Rock your ass off!
MAGATHA TRYSTY
Up-and-coming indie rockers Magatha Trysty are a power-pop force to be reckoned with. Based in Chicago and founded in 2009, this four-piece outfit is making its mark with narrative songwriting, undeniable hooks, and sweet boy/girl harmonies – delivered with a kinetic punch.
Their exuberant live shows – featuring manic guitar riffage, tasteful keyboard color, witty lyrics, in-your-face delivery and bombastic rhythmic energy – bring their solid set of original music to the next level. The husband-and-wife team of Christopher David (lead vocals/guitar) and Catherine Louise (lead vocals/keyboards) front the group, share lead vocals and songwriting duties, and exude an enthusiasm and connection that goes beyond the music.
The commanding stage presence provided by Christopher and Catherine drives the infectious aural assault, and hometown rock veterans Billy Blastoff (bass) and John Monaghan (drums) round out the foursome, putting the “power” into this power-pop extravaganza. Taking their cues from artists both old (Big Star, Cheap Trick) and new (The New Pornographers, The Decemberists), the band’s debut album, “Your Clothes Will Wear Themselves,” was released in Summer 2012.
JACK & THE BEAR
In the midst of what could be the largest movement in folk-rock music since the 1960’s, revolutionary sounds from bands such as The Avett Brothers, Deer Tick, Arcade Fire, The Felice Brothers, and Mumford & Sons open new doors. With a similar sound and an admirable aspiration, Jack & the Bear were birthed in the downriver town of Monroe, Michigan in the summer of 2010.
Named after an inspirational figure in lead singer Brandon James’ life along with the initials of the founding members of the group, the five-piece band hit the ground running with the writing of their first self-titled EP, which received a self-distributed release in the spring of 2011.
With the core of the group being made of two sets of brothers, an outlier family friend and a sister collaborating comes comfortably and naturally to the band. Writers Brandon James and Reginald (Ryan) Servis provide a unique blend of two musical backgrounds; traditional guitar styling’s of artists such as Bruce Springsteen and Glen Hansard meet new-wave cascading instrumentals found in songs of Fleet Foxes and Beirut. The use of four part harmony and instruments such as banjo, mandolin, trumpet, and accordion in many of their songs set the group aside from many others.
More recently the group just set foot with their second EP release “The Stranger Amongst the Loyal” which was produced/engineered entirely by the bands drummer Adam Schreiber. Adam recently opened up his own studio, “White Wagon” and is take on new projects along with handling Jack & the Bear releases.
Jack & the Bear started off attempting to form a sound like many folk rockers around today but ended up walking into a new sound all their own. They have been compared to artists such as The Waterboys, Springsteen, and even Tom Waits. Their live show is another story that is completely unique to them; something that is a must see for any fan of live performance. They’ve shared the stage with acts such as Deer Tick, Hayes Carll, Nicole Atkins, Dr. Dog, The White Rabbits, Langhorne Slim, The Felice Brothers, Soja, Jessica Lea Mayfield, The David Mayfield Parade, and countless other national acts.
The group set off on their first tour of the East Coast in the summer of 2012 to reach out to new fans. They returned home with lots of inspiration, new songs, new friends, new fans and loads of success which included licensing negotiations with MTV’s Music Integration Department.
Now consisting of seven members (and manager Jake Nielsen) the band has matured and carried on to a whole new level with the addition of another female violinist Elizabeth Burroughs. With the release of their third EP “The Trade,” the band is now looking toward recording their first full-length album at Prairie Sun Studios with Grammy Award Winning producer Oz Fritz.
Fritz has produced a number of albums with the legendary Tom Waits, including 1999’s critically acclaimed “Mule Variations.” Given this information it should be obvious that Fritz is a man that understands the unique dynamics of Jack & the Bear. Undoubtedly, the band is looking forward to building a working relationship with Mr. Fritz and hope to release their debut LP in the summer of 2013.
WALSHER CLEMONS
Walsher Clemons is a Chicago based band formed in 2007. Our music is a unique combination of rock and jazz with a focus on both composition and improvisation. Our shows consist of both original material and a wide variety of popular music by artist such as Led Zeppelin, Steely Dan, Marvin Gaye, and other popular classics.
FACETIME
Tony Barba is a veteran Chicago/NYC based tenor saxophonist (Youngblood Brass Band, Brooklyn Qawwali Party) that has straddled the boundaries of many musical styles throughout his career. Tony has always fought to find a balance between his desire for experimentation while also appealing to his pop sensibilities, and his new album is no exception. “Facetime,” which includes Patrick Mulcahy (District 97) on electric bass, Conor Elmes (Youngblood Brass Band, Thought) on drums and Tony on tenor sax, bansuri and effects, explores the tried and true format of the jazz saxophone trio with a contemporary angle. Drawing influences from Indie Rock, World Music, Pop, Punk, Free Jazz and Electronica, this band looks to the future with a range of sonic motion and an aggressive approach.
PEVEN EVERETT
Peven Everett is an artist and voice of the generation. He was Born in Harvey,Il. outside of Chicago to a musical family. He was a toddler when he began playing objects as instruments and shortly there after acquired a drum kit from his mother. In grammar School he began playing music in the band under the direction of Sherman, John Weber,and David Eanes. He helped his band earn titles maintaining first chair in multiple instruments. He also Student taught to pupils in grade levels his senior and played with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie and Betty Carter.
Having gotten a perfect score on his exam at Merit the Carl Fischer Music Academy, Peven was awarded a full Scholarship to The Berkley school of Music at the age of seventeen. He played his first professional gig at Carnegie Hall and subsequently moved to New York to join Betty Carter performing and acting as her music director over seeing other musicians his senior. New York also gave Peven the opportunity to play with Wynton Marsalis appearing in his documentary Marsalis on Music as well as featured in the book by the same name. He toured with Buclshot Lefonque Brandford Marsalis’s band. It was at this time that Peven was featured in the NEW YORK TIMES magazine in an article entitled ‘The Next Miles Davis May Be On This Page” written by Stephen J. Dubner.
AHYMNSA
Ahymnsa is a world/groove jam trio based out of Central Illinois. Since coming together in 2010, Ahymnsa – an English adaptation of a Sanskrit word meaning “showing love through actions” – has brought positive, energetic performances to joyfully receptive audiences.
SHAHID MUSTAF
(BAD MUSIC FOR) BAD PEOPLE
playing the music of The Cramps til your head splits open
ERIC LAMBERT & FRIENDS
Eric Lambert has been pickin’ and grinnin’ his way into people’s
hearts for over 40 years. Specializing in the fiery art of flatpicking, he has built a distinguished career writing, performing, recording, and teaching Americana music in and around Chicago, IL and beyond. Traces of rock, folk, bluegrass, country, and blues can be detected throughout his music, delivered with energy, soul, and inspiration. His voice, presence, and precision moves audiences to their feet, while his playful spirit and warm sense of joy makes people feel right at home.
Eric’s music resonates the old school philosophy of the groundbreaking musicians who inspired him; music should know no boundaries. Influenced by Duane Allman and Dickey Betts at an early age, Eric discovered country and bluegrass music through the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band album, “Will the Circle Be Unbroken.” Raised on Chicago’s south
side, he cites diverse influences as catalysts in shaping his unique roots music sound. His original voice was crafted by blending the bluegrass approaches of Tony Rice, Clarence White, and Norman Blake with those of his main influences such as B.B. King, Bob Dylan, Jerry Garcia, and Old & In The Way.
Eric excels at every style of music he performs, moving through them with an uncanny ease and smoothness. The richness of diversity in his influences is evident in his playing and throughout his vast career, which spans 10 countries as a solo artist and as a band member. Some career highlights include playing with Virgil Kane along with Alabama and George Strait, and being a front man in bands such as Big Shoulders, Heartsfield, Valerie Smith Band, and most recently Chicago’s award-winning Henhouse Prowlers, being featured on their latest album release, “Verses Chapters and Rhymes.” He has also appeared in Flatpicking Guitar Magazine.
Music education continues to be a mainstay in Eric’s life, fulfilling a dream and supporting his mission of helping others learn how to play the guitar, and utilize a variety of guitar styles and techniques. For the past 35 years, he has been professionally teaching music, including the art of flatpicking, which is a style he has become known for. “It is the excitement of the style that originally drew me in years ago,” he shared. Eric believes teaching music is about more than just giving lessons; it should be a full musical education experience. Even further, he knows music can transform lives. His embrace of this ideal led him to teach music therapy to industrial workers for 15 years. The summer and fall of 2012 will be full of new and exciting ventures.
Some things to look forward to include a new album being recorded, his TrueFire classroom being opened to students, Eric Lambert & Friends performances, and much more! We invite you to join us on this exciting journey in person and online, and fill every day with a smile and a song.
PANCAKES AND BOOZE ART SHOW
The LA based event originated in 2009 and has since popped up more than 500 times in 35+ cities around Europe & North America. Batter sizzles, beer foams, and canvas lines the walls from ceiling to floor as hundreds, sometimes thousands, of revelers indulge in endless pancakes. This is no stuffy wine-and-cheese, pretentious, someone-gag-me art event. It’s an innovative reimagining of the art show concept. A welcoming vibe for up-and-coming artists to sell and strut their stuff in a free verse, anything goes environment.
SILVER LOVES MERCURY
Loud, destructive, seductive. Silver Loves Mercury, rock and roll with a gothic vibe, is a perfect mix of Angel and Devil. The band was founded by Kitty V.(guitars,drums, bass) and Roxi V. (vocals) as a studio project.
After overwhelming fan response to their first live performance,Silver Loves Mercury decided to cater to their growing fan base and take their spectacle on the road. In four short months Silver Loves Mercury grew their fanbase to over 20,000 on Myspace alone after playing regionally in half a dozen major markets. Their debut record, Treasures of Gomorrah (2010), was produced by grammy nominee JT Longoria and has garnered the attention and support of the likes of King Diamond, Izzy Straddlin, and Glen Danzig. After being in the top 80 on Jango Music for nine straight weeks after its inception and gaining extensive regional and international press with Lit (U.S.), Black Velvet (U.K.) and several others, the band, in less than a year, is already in the mix stage of their follow-up E.P. and in preproduction for their new full-length L.P.
“In a short time Silver Loves Mercury has proven themselves one of the most musically adept acts in Dallas…” – Lit monthly April 2010 FEATURE Full color half page
“‘Treasures Of Gomorrah’ is definitely a little treasure” “Silver Loves Mercury is a perfect mixture of angel and devil.” “…a tumultuous rebel with a rabid tone that you will want to turn up so loud the folk in the next road will get headaches.”
– SBV, Black Velvet 5/10
“Well-crafted lyrics only add to the violent dreamscape.” “powerful, commanding and natural.” “The music is not only good, but it eclipses the eye-candy aspect and forces the audience to take new notice.” “..Silver Loves Mercury delivers the full spectrum of the Periodic Table.”
– Mark Beneventi, Lit Monthly
“SLM is a focused, polished killing machine. With an arsenal songs mixed with a potion of vocal and visual euphoria” “What a complete package this band is. Nothing is out of place. Everyone in the room was touched by the sound and power of SLM.” “..everyone that hears the material is stunned by the shear power of this music.”
-Gary Long, Mastering Engineer – Izzy Stradlin, King Diamond
HIP-HOP ENSEMBLE
R&B ENSEMBLE
POP ORCHESTRA
BIG BROTHER SMOKES
Hailing from Hemlock Michigan Big Brother Smokes paints a musical sound scape with their unique blend of influences. The boys have been playing together for just a short time and have already had great success with their self titled debut EP. Big Brother Smokes plays music for the soul reason to have fun and allow others to join in the festivities. Big Brother Smokes has a dynamic sound headed up by lead vocalist Matt Wardin. Matt’s smooth smokey vocals remind many of the classic days of rock. Lead guitarist Travis Wardin brings a new edge to the bands sound with electric solos sweeping the mix. Holding down the backbone of the rhythm section you’ll find Joe Balbaugh on the bass guitar and Ross WIlkin on percussion. Together Big Brother Smokes unites to form a strong and diverse sound for all to enjoy.
TIM POLECAT
The names Slim Jim Phantom, Jonny Bowler and Tim Polecat are synonymous with rockabilly hits. They have secured their place as true rock n roll icons. Phantom, as the legendary drummer for the Stray Cats, Tim Polecat, lead singer of The Polecats and Jonny Bowler bass player for the Guana Batz ,they are part of the select few who were instrumental in reintroducing rockabilly into pop culture, providing the prototype for the modern rockabilly style and sound.
Slim ,Tim and Jonny have previously worked together with their band 13 Cats which garnered critical acclaim, they have also written songs for feature film soundtracks.
Tim has worked as a visual designer for top names in music. He also released a ground-breaking, solo album titled ‘Virtual Rockabilly’ and has produced several albums for other neo-rockabilly bands including the The Quakes and Wrecking Ball.
Tim continues to tour, record, and work as a film and soundtrack composer, his most recent film composing project is for the feature film “Isle of Dogs” to be released in US theaters in February 2012. Tim Polecat continues to be regarded as one of the best, live, front-men on tour in the rockabilly community
This three pronged frontal assault goes up to make “The Whammy” a formidable force of Neo- Rockabilly .
JONNY BOWLER
The names Slim Jim Phantom, Jonny Bowler and Tim Polecat are synonymous with rockabilly hits. They have secured their place as true rock n roll icons. Phantom, as the legendary drummer for the Stray Cats, Tim Polecat, lead singer of The Polecats and Jonny Bowler bass player for the Guana Batz ,they are part of the select few who were instrumental in reintroducing rockabilly into pop culture, providing the prototype for the modern rockabilly style and sound.
Slim ,Tim and Jonny have previously worked together with their band 13 Cats which garnered critical acclaim, they have also written songs for feature film soundtracks.
Jonny Bowler hails from the English town of Southampton and is an icon of the U.K Psychobilly scene , known for his early work with Get Smart and the Guana Batz Johnny has gone on to play with many artists in the USA such as Lemmy , Nick 13 and Levi Dexter .
This three pronged frontal assault goes up to make “The Whammy” a formidable force of Neo- Rockabilly .
SLIM JIM PHANTOM
Slim Jim Phantom has secured his place as a true rock-n-roll icon. As the legendary drummer for the Stray Cats, Phantom, alongside band mates Brian Setzer and Lee Rocker, spearheaded the neo-rockabilly movement of the early 80s. With a love for 50s rock-n-roll the Stray Cats took inspiration from that bygone era and mixed with their youthful energy and aggression produced the updated hard-edged rockabilly sound that saw them conquer London, Europe and later the U.S., gaining fans among the likes of Keith Richards, Mick Jagger and Robert Plant along the way.
Born in the Brooklyn Borough of New York City, Jim grew up listening to his parents’ jazz records and by the age of ten took up the drums. Immersing himself in the art of drumming and the world of music, Jim took lessons with Mousie Alexander (who played with Benny Goodman), which included the study of jazz and working through books by Jim Chapin and Ted Reed.
By the late 70s Jim was playing in bands with school friend and bassist Lee Rocker and they soon joined forces with guitarist Brian Setzer. The rest, as they say, is history. The Stray Cats had numerous hit singles in the early 1980s, their classic album “Built for Speed” went double platinum, and their song “Rock This Town” is in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of “The Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll.”
BIIKO
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, Biiko is an experimental pop act that’s as much Bonobo as it is Beach Boys. Formed with a combination of live instrumentation and electronic manipulation, his music manages to keep a strong, base sense of melody while boldly venturing into the realm of the new. On one end of the musical spectrum exists a land of simple, lilting pop melody, music that’s at one time both pleasant to the ears and almost groundbreaking in its simplicity. On the other is a much more involved category, that of electric weirdness; that commendable ability to take literally whatever ideas or sounds you can fathom and smash them together. Somewhere in the middle, fully aware of both pulses, exists Biiko.
THE WHAMMY
The names Slim Jim Phantom, Jonny Bowler and Tim Polecat are synonymous with rockabilly hits. They have secured their place as true rock n roll icons. Phantom, as the legendary drummer for the Stray Cats, Tim Polecat, lead singer of The Polecats and Jonny Bowler bass player for the Guana Batz ,they are part of the select few who were instrumental in reintroducing rockabilly into pop culture, providing the prototype for the modern rockabilly style and sound.
Slim ,Tim and Jonny have previously worked together with their band 13 Cats which garnered critical acclaim, they have also written songs for feature film soundtracks.
Beyond the Stray Cats Jim has worked with some of the world’s top artists and has played a part in many successful groups; notably Phantom, Rocker and Slick featuring guitarist Earl Slick which produced two popular albums, The Head Cat featuring Lemmy and Dead Men Walking an all-star affair which boasted original members of The Sex Pistols, The Cult, The Damned and The Alarm among the line-up. Jim also enjoyed a stint playing with The Killer, rock n roll originator, Jerry Lee Lewis. Over 25 years and millions of record sales later, Slim Jim Phantom continues to inspire and excite audiences worldwide. With a sound, style and image that remains as fresh today as it ever was Phantom has cemented his place among rock royalty. Considered by many as the coolest drummer in rock n roll, Phantom’s influence is still clearly felt on today’s music scene with countless rockabilly drummers imitating his pioneering stand-up style.
Tim has worked as a visual designer for top names in music. He also released a ground-breaking, solo album titled ‘Virtual Rockabilly’ and has produced several albums for other neo-rockabilly bands including the The Quakes and Wrecking Ball.
Tim continues to tour, record, and work as a film and soundtrack composer, his most recent film composing project is for the feature film “Isle of Dogs” to be released in US theaters in February 2012. Tim Polecat continues to be regarded as one of the best, live, front-men on tour in the rockabilly community
Jonny Bowler hails from the English town of Southampton and is an icon of the U.K Psychobilly scene , known for his early work with Get Smart and the Guana Batz Johnny has gone on to play with many artists in the USA such as Lemmy , Nick 13 and Levi Dexter .
This three pronged frontal assault goes up to make “The Whammy” a formidable force of Neo- Rockabilly .
CROQUET
Croquet is Chaetan Newell’s inexorable right to do whatever he wants. This includes aiming a blow dryer at various woodwinds, playing four different instruments at once, and providing handmade stage backdrops for ambience, not to mention surprise hip-hop shows. Beginning in 2007 by way of Boston, this project’s live show has spanned from one-man performance art to solid indie-pop quartet, from ethereal jazz improv to balls-to-the-wall psychedelic rock, and two things bind it all together: subtle complexity and raw, concentrated emotion.
Part of noise pop label Should Be Flowers’s catalog, Croquet’s first release in November of 2007 was a split LP with Steve Wood, a homeless man dying of AIDS who claimed to be the original singer for The J. Geils Band. This has yet to be proven or disproven. This texturally diverse 29 track album flows seamlessly back and forth between experimental yet catchy analog bliss and the sound of a man against great odds singing his heart out across Massachusetts Avenue. Two years later, Newell finished the Sodomize the Silence EP leaping out of the bedroom and onto the drum kit with fuller instrumentation and more passion and sincerity than ever.
A common fixture of premier Boston venues (TT the Bear’s, The Middle East, Great Scott, etc.), Croquet has also toured as far south as Athens, Georgia maintaining a strong presence in Newell’s home state of North Carolina (this is explains the airplay on multiple college radio stations as far as Tennessee). It was here that Newell began his training as a musician, picking up a new instrument every few years. After playing upright bass with various orchestral groups including The North Carolina Symphony and obtaining a Bachelors of Music with guitar, it should come as no surprise that he has worked with members of notable groups such as The Flaming Lips, Mercury Rev, Helium, Pele, Victory at Sea, Dumptruck, Bang Camaro, and even legendary Motown group The Chairmen of the Board. In fact, Newell lists the verbal thumbs up he received from iconic artist Thalia Zedek as a high point in Croquet’s existence thus far.
After playing lead guitar with St Helena (“every indie enthusiasts dream” according to The Noise Magazine), Newell relocated to Chicago in 2010 with plans to further conquer the world and has since played out with much success joining David Baker’s new group Variety Lights on drums. Is the world ready for such methodical madness? We can only wait and see.
MORE GORGEOUS
Members:
Alex Brittain
Ace Valentine
Taylor Wells
Peter Binggeser
THE CECY SANTANA BAND
THE FISHERMEN
The Fishermen are an Old Timey inspired Hard Grass band. From different cities, and with different musical backgrounds, the band formed in chicago and have a unique, energetic sound. Who knew songs about death could be so fun? They perform with all manner of stringed instrument, and aren’t afraid to switch things up.
TOM THE MASON
Classic Rock power trio sounds from Tom the Mason!
DAVENPORT ED
In the 40’s, Ed Kregor was courting his later to be wife, Nellie, of 65 years in the Quad Cities. They didn’t have a lot of money, so Ed would take Nellie out to the bars in the Quad cities where he would literally sing for their food and drinks (there were lots of drinks). His frequent performances made him a local celebrity, earning him the nickname of Davenport Ed. Being the grandfather of 3 members of the band, it only seemed appropriate to name a rock band after this great man.
The spirit of the 90’s rock scene is alive and well in Davenport Ed. The lead singer/songwriter, Johnny Perona, is a product of 90’s adolescence. Growing up, he was heavily inspired by the likes of Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, etc. This musical upbringing is very present in DavEd’s tunes. With a voice that falls somewhere within a vocal lovechild of Ben Ottewall (Gomez), Chris Cornell, Chris Robinson and Jim James (My Morning Jacket), Johnny commands the listener’s attention.
The band is a 6 piece outfit that features 2 rhythm guitars, a lead guitarist, a bassist, a pedal steel, and a drummer. Alongside Johnny on rhythm is the producer/engineer/mixer of the DavEd records, James Scott. James has played with numerous other bands in his career (Matthew, Paulina, and The Visitor to name a few). For DavEd, he brings haunting, George Harrisonesque guitar melodies to each song. On lead guitar is Jim Perona. Classically trained, but brought up as a shredder, it provides a unique spin on the modern rock guitarist. It’s not to be missed when he unhinges and lets it fly on a solo. Tom Perona lays down entrancing bass lines that are as melodic as they are in the pocket. He also provides a counter to Johnny’s aggressive vocal style by creating and producing the majority of the harmonies for the band. Mike Racky adds to the cacophony of sound by creating, and somehow making fit, pedal steel parts to these rock tunes. During aggressive live jams, he’s been known to leave his seat, while making full use of his effects. It’s a steel sound you never thought you’d hear, pretty much. Holding it down on the drums is Tim Rimbos. To round out the sound, he plays as aggressive as he needs to, creating an extraordinary sense of energy that translates into one hell of a live performance.
Come catch Davenport Ed, the band with the weird name that will rocking your f’ing socks off if given the opportunity.
ANCIENT VVISDOM
A dark, enlightening foresight into the future of humankind dictated by singer/songwriter Nathan Opposition.
Ancient VVisdom was founded in Austin, TX in late 2009 with the order consisting of Nathan Opposition , writer and vocalist, Justin “Ribs” Mason on acoustic guitar, and Nathan’s brother, Michael on electric guitar.
In 2010, they recorded and released a split 12” EP with Charles Manson entitled “Inner Earth Inferno” (Withdrawal Records), which garnished praise from critics and cultists alike.
The band spent the rest of the year sharpening their blackened craft, using acoustic guitars to give the music an organic connection to the nefarious rites they beget. Writing well over an albums-worth of material, they chose the most appropriate songs for their debut LP ” a godlike inferno” to record at The Bubble, a local, vvorld renowned studio in Austin, TX. For the recording , they enlisted additional instrumentation by
Alex Hughes (Hatred Surge, Iron Age) to play the bowed stand-up bass, Wade Allison (Iron Age) machete percussion and guest guitar lead on “lost civilization”, Chase VVarlow on bamboo percussion and Jason Buntz (engineer and co-producer) on select guitar and synth.
Not unlike early death rock and neo-folkore sound, Ancient VVisdom incorporates electric guitar effects, synth sounds, vocal harmonies and abstract percussion to create a deeper, ethereal quality to their minimalist arranagements. Nathan’s powerfully honest voice is complimented by lyrics ranging from mysteries of the occult, paganism, satanic philosophy, and forbidden knowledge.
PALLBEARER
Mind Burns Alive finds Pallbearer navigating the space between disquiet and serenity with a singular intensity. At times poetic and blistering, their fifth full length is a heartfelt meditation on isolation, trauma and mental breakdown, framed by the possibility of redemption and the quiet, aching beauty of escape.
Musically and lyrically stripped bare and vulnerable, Mind Burns Alive deals in universal themes of loneliness and the feeling of emotionally drowning in a world turning upside down. Bassist/vocalist Joseph D. Rowland describes the album as “an exploration of fate; when you are deceived by your own instincts and internal voice.” Guitarist / vocalist Brett Campbell furthers, “These songs are vignettes which tell the stories of people who deal with myriad sicknesses of the spirit. These are illnesses communicated by the world we live in, and the subjects are the symptoms of its disease.”
While the band’s earlier catalog leaned on walls of guitar, massive distortion and piercing vocals, they achieve more on Mind Burns Alive by stripping everything back. These six songs offer a singular perspective into the pain that lies at the heart of everyday experience. Mind Burns Alive is not simply an exposition on those complex feelings. It is the musical intersection where struggle collides with the will to carry on.
ENSLAVED
Enslaved was formed in 1991 by Ivar Bjørnson and Grutle Kjellson, and did their first demo “Yggdrasill” in the summer of 1992. Enslaved released the legendary mini album “Hordanes Land” in 1993 (this was released also as a split-CD with Emperor’s s/t MLP). Enslaved’s debut album came during the spring of 1994, while the historically successful second album “Frost” was released already late 1994.
“Eld” in many ways marked the opening of a horizon-widening era for the band in 1997 – the following year saw the release of “Blodhemn”; perhaps surprising some with its fury and blacker edges. “Mardraum (Beyond the Within)” was released in 2000; this aural nightmare of an album sent shock waves through the Extreme Metal scene with its experimental, innovative approach. The band followed up with “Monumension” in 2001; and again the band was shocked to see the positive response to their “no rules” approach to Extreme Metal.
Many see an important, if not the important milestone being “Below the Lights” – where the progressive yet darker Enslaved emerged – released in 2003; it presented the perfect blend of power, tradition, progressive elements and dark Psychedelia. A new line-up was put together after the recording of “Below the Lights”; introducing scene veteran Cato Bekkevold (Red Harvest founder), Ice Dale and Herbrand Larsen.
In short, Enslaved started climbing new heights with their live performances, adding strong visual elements in the shape of video art and more. The new line-up released the album “Isa” late 2004. The album put Enslaved at the very forefront of contemporary Extreme Metal; both as a recording and live artist. Enslaved received both the Norwegian Grammy and the independent Alarm Price for “Isa”, topping it off with the release of acclaimed live-DVD “Return to Yggdrasill”. The critically acclaimed “Ruun” was released in 2006, and received numerous great reviews from fans, magazines and websites worldwide. Www.blabbermouth.com concluded that “The metal world needs more bands this willing to throw out the rule book and go wherever their mad Muse takes them.” Early 2007 Enslaved sat out on tour in USA and Canada, and “Ruun” was rewarded with another Norwegian Grammy for Best Metal Album 2006. At the end of the year, “Ruun World Tour part II” commenced all over Europe and the North-American continent.
Whilst building a reputation as one of the very finest live-acts around; there was found the time and power to create Enslaved’s greatest piece in seventeen years of existence: “Vertebrae” was recorded during the first months of 2008 – then mixed by sinister mastermind Evil Joe Baresi (Tool, Queens of the Stone Age) and mastered by the legendary George Marino in Sterling Sound. Produced by Ivar Bjørnson, Herbrand Larsen and Grutle Kjellson themselves, “Vertebrae” comes across as one of the strongest album to emerge from the Extreme Metal scene: sound, songs and atmosphere marks a great leap for the band and genre as a whole.
KENNY NEAL
Kenny Neal, born in New Orleans and raised in Baton Rouge, began playing music at a young age. Learning the basics from his father, singer and Blues harmonica master, Raful Neal. Kenny is known as a modern swamp-blues master and multi-instrumentalist, that draws musically from the sizzling sounds of his native Louisiana.
JESSE BOYKINS III
Jesse Boykins III has a timeless sound. He shares a point of view that crosses all genres, generations and cultures. Every note and each word in all his recorded works, to his live performance is skillfully crafted evoking emotions that can move any listener across the world to examine and acknowledge those feelings within themselves.
CREATURE FEATURE
Creature Feature is the deviant brain child of two sinister composers from Lost Angeles known only as Curtis Rx and Erik X. Formed on Halloween of all days, these two maniacal groundskeepers in the torture garden of auditory delight have taken it upon themselves to draw from their twisted childhoods and invent a band that becomes everything that frightened you as a child, a band that becomes Halloween 365 days a year, a band that forces you to remember why you used to sleep with the lights on and fear the bumps in the night.
Pulling their influences from classic horror films, soundtracks, Halloween memories, carnival calliope music, cartoons, classic video games, and the terrifying writings of Edgar Allen Poe, H. P. Lovecraft, Ray Bradbury, and Edward Gorey, Creature Feature creates a wildly unique sound that seems like it’s been ripped from a the moldering celluloid of a forgotten horror film or a long lost episode of The Twilight Zone. The kind of music that paints a picture in your mind of dancing skeletons, evil carnivals, flesh eating ghouls, grim hauntings, body snatchings, premature burials, and kidnappings most foul. The mad monster party doesn’t stop there, add in an unhealthy dose of frantic rock guitar, haunted mansion organ, bone-chilling synth, electronic heart-pounding bass, creature voices from the beyond, and manic vocals reminiscent of early Oingo Boingo era Danny Elfman. Mix them all together in a poisonous cocktail and you have Creature Feature, a Saturday morning spook-show belting out creepy music to awaken the monster in all of us.
We are Creature Feature and you’ll dig us like a grave.
IT IS WHAT IT IS
Inspired by a love of vintage music and modern effects, IIwII has developed an energy-laden sound infusing electronic elements over a drum-heavy rock foundation. They call it Club Punk: retro rock remixed and reinterpreted with cutting edge studio programming fit for the street and dance floor. IIwII is also an acronym for It Is What It Is.
KEM
JAILBREAK
Ladies and Gentlemen, Please allow me to introduce to you Jailbreak! The Midwest’s ONLY Tribute to Thin Lizzy.
From the opening chords of Jailbreak to the sing along chorus of,
The Boys are Back in town, These boys will have you Dancin in the Moonlight !
With their dedicated attention to detail, these 4 Thin Lizzy fans will take you back in time.
BRIAN ALDRIDGE
Already with two television appearances under his belt and no doubt more to come, Brian is a rising comedy star. His sarcastic delivery and sharp wit will have you rolling with laighter one minute and asking yourself “did he really just say that?” the next. A Chicago native, Brian got his start opening for great comedians like: Dave Chappelle, Carlos Mencia, Chelsea Handler, Bill Burr, Damon Wayons, and others who will undoubtedly be offended now that they weren’t mentioned. A veteran of countless comedy festivals and headliner of great comedy rooms all over the country, Brian is set to soon be a household name. Don’t miss the chance to see this talented, good looking man!
FRANK ROCHE
JACK WARREN
I am a writer/Comedian, traveler, adventure seeker, etc…
MIDNIGHT MASS COMEDY
Open Mic!
OF WOLVES
Of Wolves are masters of overt catharsis. On Balance, their long-awaited sophomore full length, this caustic crew delivers a devastatingly intense blend of crusty punk, sludge, post-hardcore, gritty stoner doom, and enough noise rock experimentation to keep the listener perpetually on their toes. Their raw approach demonstrates an omnivorous application of genre, and every sound contained herein is employed as a vehicle for release. Nominally for fans of Melvins, High on Fire, Unsane, 16, and Gojira, Balance will, frankly, sit quite well with any fan of extreme music who needs a soundtrack to facilitate the release of their pent-up frustration and rage.
ROOFTOP VIGILANTES
We accidentally became a band, now we tour and record records. oops!
MOUTHBREATHERS
“Dirty and sludgy garage punk from this bunch. A lot of low end in the sound, which I like, and my neighbors don’t. The guitar sound is thick and near-syrupy, though there’s some biting distortion to give it more of an edge. The vocals sound like they’re sung through a bullhorn, usually annoying, but it works here…” –Razorcake
KILL THE CIRCUS
Kill the Circus exploded onto the Chicago rock scene in 2012, gaining an instant fan-base with their single, Everything Will be Alright. They continued to fuel their popularity with a number of tours throughout the Midwest. Their genre-defying EP, Stress Sessions, boasted the collaborative efforts of Maxwell Steger, and created a solid following for the band with its release in January of 2013. In the following months, their undeniable charisma and stage-presence earned Kill the Circus new fans with every live show.
Entirely at home on a stage, lead singer Mark Wendell has devoted his life to music since age fifteen. He considers Kill the Circus to be his crowning achievement, and dedicates himself to the music with a passion that can only be described as religious. Wendell made the decision to form Kill the Circus when he noticed the raw talent of drummer Sean Fagan, while the latter was only seventeen. Along with guitarist Adrien Lestat, Cody Carpenter on bass, Kill the Circus proved their intuitive chemistry on Stress Sessions. Since their inception only a short time ago, the band has continued to produce music that eludes categorization without sacrificing natural appeal.
As Wendell himself says of the band’s sound, “When we started writing for the EP, we were inspired by so many different artists.” Their music blends together rock influences with hints of alternative and punk rock influences. Kill the Circus stands out with their commitment to an authentic sound, described by fans as one of the most addictive up-and-coming bands around. Kill the Circus is emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the rock music scene.
Though Stress Sessions highlighted not only Wendell’s skill and diversity as a songwriter, but also the band’s natural cohesion and talent, Kill the Circus has really found their footing through writing their new EP, to be released in early Summer 2013. With an already impressive influence for such a new band and unmistakable potential, it is hard to ignore the passion and drive of Kill the Circus. Their pure love of music comes through in every song, making Kill the Circus a powerful new addition to rock n roll.
FUNBRELLA
Funbrella is a breath of fresh air in the Jam Band scene. With an extensive catalogue of original material, as well as covers from the likes of Phish, the Grateful Dead and The Band, Funbrella bridges the gap between modern Jam Bands and their folk roots.
KWESI DARKO
Kwesi Darko of B-Boards Intl
DUANE POWELL
FAMILY ORDER
THE KREUTZER SONATA
Hailing from Chicago,IL, comes a hardcore punk rock outfit, writing songs of love, despair, overcoming hate, and creating your life in your own fashion. We do not hold back, and we sing honestly. We are The Kreutzer Sonata.
THE DESERT VEST
In the Summer of 2010, Lucas Price (vocals/guitar) found Mike Hanzelka (drums), Aaron Kramer (bass), and Tom Mooney (guitar). though a bulletin website. In the start of 2012, Aaron left the band and Tom switched to bass. Following a strong DIY ethic and through being part of the Minneapolis network of bands connected by zines and Internet band networks, they eventually came into contact with Merritt Benton, who mixed their 2012 record, Name To Be Determined.