VIKING

In 1985, Ron Daniel had become tired of playing in the southern California punk scene. He’d joined the band The Hags when their lead guitarist went to jail, and had enjoyed the notoriety that came with being in one of Orange County’s most controversial stage acts. Billed as “Rock and Roll’s abortion,” the group was like a punk Black Sabbath with a genius sociopath at the mic. (Mark Dead regularly using surgically precise insults to provoke audiences towards violence against himself and the band.)

One night, when headlining a 12-band bill celebrating the grand reopening of a famous punk club, Ron was grousing to high school pals Matt Jordan and James Lareau about the scene, about having no creative control, and about the fact that this music was just too damn SLOW. He said he was ready to quit.

Matt was playing drums in Iron Maiden tribute band Barrier at the time. With no permanent singer or bass player, the future wasn’t looking promising. Bassist James was playing with the Schuerman brothers in punk band Lethal Gene, but the band wasn’t gigging enough.

Together, the three of them decided to dump their bands and form a new unit: Tracer (named after the visual effects LSD has on its user). They began writing tunes immediately. But even after auditioning half a dozen singers, the right vocalist couldn’t be found. They temporarily borrowed Tony Vargas (L.S.N./Vermin) to produce a three-song demo entitled “Sudden Death,” but the band was destined to dissolve.

Matt wanted to keep playing, and put an ad in the Recycler asking for musicians that were “into Slayer and old KISS.” A guitarist named Brett answered the ad. Brett Sarachek had come to L.A. from Kansas, and played in several metal groups with names that would later be recognizable: Blind Decree featured guitarist Glenn Rogers (Deliverance/Vengeance Rising/Hirax) and Mike Gonzales (Dark Angel), and The Hierophant had vocalist Julian Mendez (Heretic).Matt and Brett decided to jam, and invited Ron to sit in. Starting with Slayer’s “Black Magic,” they played a few tunes that sounded tight. As a joke, Ron picked up the mic and belted out another Slayer tune. Matt and Brett were floored. They emphatically told Ron that they didn’t need to find a vocalist. HE was the guy. Hesitant, Ron finally acquiesced. If they could find a bass player, they’d be up and running immediately. James was called, and in 1986, VIKING was born.They started furiously writing new tunes and reworking some of the Tracer and Hierophant material. In a very short time, they had a setlist and started booking shows.

 

VIKING managed to land a recording contract upon the completion of their second live concert, a feat practically unheard of in the clubs of Hollywood.VIKING went on to open for such acts as MEGADETH, FORBIDDEN, and SACRED REICH, as well as headlining many of their own shows.

Although VIKING had a six-album contract with Metal Blade Records and an upcoming U.S. tour with Helstar, Ron knew that his new-found Christian faith would not withstand the temptations of the road. He quit the band in 1990 along with Matt Jordan, who had also recently become a Christian. With only two members remaining, VIKING immediately disbanded. Brett, having replaced DARK ANGEL’s Jim Durkin on a world tour, joined the band full time, and released “Time Does Not Heal” before exiting the band himself. In the meantime, Ron and Matt had moved to Oregon, and James pursued a career in sculpture.

Fast-forward 22 years. A new generation of thrash fans revere the music of the “old guard”: that first wave of bands from ’85, ’86, and ’87 who followed Slayer and Metallica into the pit. Bootleggers are producing VIKING records and merchandise. Relentless requests from both long-time followers and new thrash fans demand the return of VIKING.

In 2011, Ron Daniel Eriksen and Matt Jordan reunited for the purpose of creating new tunes. The new VIKING page on Facebook gained over a thousand fans the first week — and continues to grow towards 20,000. A new, full-length studio album of original tunes has been written and recorded, soon to be released as “No Child Left Behind.” Original members Ron and Matt have teamed up with former Dark Angel bassist Michael Gonzalez, and Justin Zych of VadimVon, with live shows being booked for 2013.

STELLAR ROAD

Since brothers Jack and Michael Daly formed Stellar Road they have gone through much evolution. They’ve developed a love affair with songwriting and performing live in front of crowds, small and large, all across the U.S. They create a raw, eye opening, musically romantic and true experience for their listeners, with lyric and song at the forefront of their being. Their stories are those of love, life and loss woven into an unpredictable but meaningful canvas of music which is appreciated by all ages.

As their home Chicago and it’s neighbored cities caught on to their crafty pop-rock style and high energy live performances, Stellar Road started selling out local rooms and branching out to Midwestern college towns. As they turned the local page and started touring with additional musicians, local and national media started taking notice. Showcasing for Epic Records in L.A., opening slots for Bon Jovi, Nickelback & The Goo Goo Dolls, two successful independent releases, many battle of the bands competition crowns, and several national tours. Stellar Road’s enthusiasm and work ethic has never wavered.

After road-testing all of their initial material, in 2004 they released their debut album “Better Than Yesterday”. “B.T.Y.” was ranked in the top 5 albums of the year by Midwest Beat Magazine and has sold over 10,000 copies all over the globe. After a few months of touring for the album release, Stellar Road took a hiatus to write new music and find a collective group of more permanent band members to tour with. During their search for new musicians brothers Jack and Mike went back to their roots and started touring acoustically again.

In late 2006, Adrian Pacheco (bassist) was added to the SR Lineup. A short time later Maurice Jones (drums) was also acquired. They immediately gelled into what is now the newest edition of Stellar Road. The band started playing locally again to test and tweak new music that would end up on their 2009 self-titled release “stellar ROAD”. They celebrated their new independent album with a show at Chicago’s legendary Park West Theatre. Since then the band has toured relentlessly throughout the Midwest and East Coast. After spending the winter in Chicago and traveling for regional shows, they are eager to get back on the road to blanket the entire U.S. with their unique talents by the end of 2011.

DOGHOUSE SWINE

DogHouse Swine was formed in mid 2009 by Ian, lead guitarist and vocalist, CEO, and self-proclaimed unstoppable force of nature. B.T., former guitar player and co-founder for the Legendary punk band The Wretched Ones, and Chris DeBellis on drums. After playing various club shows in the NJ/NY area, in 2010 they recorded their debut album ‘Faster Side Of Normal’, and released it under their own label Banned Records. Their first single “Bitch” also featured a video, directed by Dave Neabore of Dog Eat Dog fame. They have continued to play shows opening for noteable international bands such as Electric Frankenstein, and Mucky Pup. In 2012 the band expanded to include another member Iron Rich on bass, who was the former bassist for the The Wretched Ones, thus moving B.T. back to his natural state on rhythm guitar. By doing that the band’s sound has become beefier and more sonic, witch is evient on their new album, titled ‘Dogs Of War’, just realeased in Aug 2012. Another video will also be produced as well for the Album, by Dave Neabore once again. Uncharted Radio .com writes, “If you like your punk rock as authentic as it can get, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed with these guys. This is punk rock to the core.” Rock N’ Roll Army ezine from Germany writes “Honest and pure old school punk rock with no frills.” The band’s goal is to continue building an international fan base, and for more extensive touring, on an international level, as well as domestically.

EXPIRED EMPIRE

2011 is the year of resistance and rebellion. Based out of Crete, Illinois Expired Empire has set out a goal to start a revolution among the music scene. The importance to instill a sense of innovation and bash ignorance within musical culture is the essence of Expired Empire. Being brought up in cultural variations and musical differences, each member of Expired Empire brings pristineness and individuality to form sounds of psychedelic proportions. Growing up together and understanding the importance of individual expression has made this five some, a power house of musical ingenuity. To fully understand and comprehend the magnitude of this new musical endeavor, come see them live and be prepared to undergo a revolution of your own.

THE OX KING

If nothing changes, then shut it down.

MONSTERS

OCEANO

Oceano’s ability to encode such transmission within the framework of tight, taught, and technical heavy music remains a key to their success since 2006. Over the years, the group has ignited a diehard fan base. Picking up where critically acclaimed 2015’s ‘Ascendants’ and 2017’s ‘Revelation’ left off, the band expands their patented deathcore punch with brutal heaviness and moments of unrelenting technicality and precision in their newest single, “Mass Produced”. Oceano utilizes thought-provoking lyricism that continues to elevate them within the landscape of heavy music, a key to their success over the past decade.

MANUEL CARRERA

ClassicERA! Everyday.Rep.Aurora Put On For The City!! #630!!!

SOLO XQUZIT

Hailing from the Dirty 130’s on the south side of Chicago, we introduce to you one of Chicago’s up and coming entertainers, Solo Xquzit.
Solo Xquzit was born and raised up on the south side of Chicago, Illinois. While growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball and basketball, but at the tender age of 10, he found his passion for entertainment.
He was influenced by some of raps biggest and brightest such as 2Pac, Biggie, Nelly, and Jay Z. Solo’s style and writing brings music and experiences that everyday people can relate to. As a youth and a teenager, he has won many talent competitions, he won first place in the Austin Town Hall Showcase. Undeterred by the competition, Solo’s performances on one of Chicago’s number one talent promotion show, The Royce Glamour Show, was by far a performance that lite up the place.
Honing his craft at various open mics and talent shows around the city, he has gained a huge fanbase. He has performed at The Regal Theater, Redemption Theater; at the ATL. vs. CHI-TOWN battle competition, Blue Star Lounge and etc., promoting his hit single,” DJ BRING IT BACK,” Solo attack’s the track with a way that has never been tried and done, so he knows what paying his dues is all about. Solo was once asked,” How do he see his self in the music industry?” Solo answered, “I’m not trying to be a follower or change the game. I’m trying to overcome the impossible when people told me it was a waste of time, and at the same time I’m trying to start trends.” He is ready to show the entire world what he has to offer to the world of music. I must say Solo Xquzit is one of Chicago’s rising stars.

COPASETIC MUSIC GROUP

Copasetic Music Group, also known as CMG the ‘Coolest Group Ever’ is a collective of artistic super heroes that hail from Chicago. CMG consists of P.Davis, Omega the Jack, Skillvorkian, Write Jus 1, Leadbelly, Spit Specialist, Furious Intellect, and DeCisive. The force is strong with this group of working class producers, emcees, and deejays. Each member has had past experiences pursuing a career in music that has shaped the desire to be an even stronger force in the independent market.

CMG crafts a unique sound that is as trial blazing as it is entertaining. Hip Hop music true to the essence of the golden era, with a modern day voice that crosses all walks of life. As gritty and competitive as the Wu Tang Clan with the soul and social commentary of the Stylistics… CMG is a refreshing glass of water for the thirsty music lover. Revitalizing the spirit with dope beats, dopes rhymes, great production, and energetic live performances.

CMG aims to bridge generational gaps thus giving a voice to those without one and who are misunderstood. Unity is the key to break down the barriers that currently hinders the progression of the Hip Hop culture, and more importantly the people in it. CMG works to achieve such unity with their mantra of ‘Camaraderie and Honesty’. Hoping to build a fellowship with not only artists in the Chicago music scene, but with artist everywhere. CMG shares their goals and music with the world, and hopes both will last for years to come.

KENN RETRO

Kenn Retro is an emerging underground MC from Chicago. Kenn was born and raised on the West Side city streets that has birth such artists as Common, Kanye West, The Cool Kids & Twista. Growing up in Oak Park, a diverse atmosphere, gave him much to talk about, allowing him to express his self freely, developing his talent, his gift that he would soon love and become one with. His Grandparents, already owning businesses, (Henderson Studio & Out of the Past Record’s) providing him with a diverse taste of music to marinate on, not only edged his style, but molded his personality. Growing up he performed cover songs with his cousins around the community, which gave him his first taste at stage presence. Perfecting his craft as an MC and lyricists, combining his words with the best flow possible, Kenn Retro has embarked on a journey to share his unique music with the world.

THE INTELLECTS

The InteLLects are a live hip-hop trio consisting of Banksthegenuis, theKidDirty, and Jonny Lew. The group was formed in late 2011 with one intention- to melt the faces of Generation Y with mind blowing, ear blasting, soulful and glorious music. It would be foolish not to boast of our raw skill and talent- not to mention that Britannica officially added “The InteLLects” as a synonym for swag.

But for real, we enjoy playing music, and we enjoy sharing it with you. That’s why we do what we do.

BROOKE CANDY

Brooke Dyan Candy is an American rapper, stripper, and Internet personality from Los Angeles, California. She is best known for co-starring in the music video for Grimes 2012 single “Genesis”. However, she is primarily known for being a bad ass both in her music videos and lyrical genius. Her style is incomparable and I’m sure that if you challenged her to a fight, you definitely would lose. Brooke Candy is infiltrating the scene and it is only a matter of time before she takes over the world.

HOOK N KROOKS

Old School Country with a Gritty mix of 80’s Punk Rock.

It’s what you get when Hank Williams Snr. and Jello Biafra artificially inseminate Stevie Nick’s and then she gives birth to the two headed siamese twin baby-HOOK N KROOKS!!!!!!!!!!

COLLEGE FOOTBALL GAMES

Games will be on with piped in sound. Come relax and enjoy some College Football action with your friends at Reggies. Celebrate with great Food and Drink Specials.

The Everscathed

THE EVERSCATHED

THE EVERSCATHED lineage dates back to 1996 when W. Frickenstein (bass/vocals) and his band mates chose a warpath of dark, dismal Death Metal to become known as ENMORTEM. The band went on to record and release 3 demos (“Bleeding The Sorrow” in 1997, “Their Blood I Offer The King” in 1998, “Manifestations Of Infernal Disgust” in 1999) and one EP (“Barbaric Displeasure” in 2000). In 2002, ENMORTEM were ready to record a full length and entered the studio to create the “Razors Of Unrest” album. Before the album was released, ENMORTEM decided on a name change, since the group’s past endeavors in no way represented the current song writing and purpose. As of January 1st, 2003, the band’s name was officially changed to THE EVERSCATHED. A series of injuries suffered by each of the band members (at different times) put off the release of “Razors” until 2006, when it was finally released by Open Grave Records. Many shows were played in support of the record, and in 2008 THE EVERSCATHED entered the studio to record “The Devils Cross” EP. Also recorded at that time was the two song “Path Of Soured Dreams” demo CD, which acted as a teaser to the song writing path the band was heading towards. In 2009, original drummer Tim Frickenstein left the band and was immediately replaced with longtime friend John Contreras, proven drummer and producer with the bands VEHEMENT and CONGLOMERATORZ. Shows in 2009 were the band’s strongest to date, with their stage presence increasing tenfold. The band continued writing for the next full-length album, and in 2010 recorded and released “Still Screaming World” through Allergicide Music. The band was now playing the biggest shows of their career, opening for nationals, headlining events and touring with other veteran Metal acts. In 2013 the band recorded the “Disgrace In Arms” EP, and shortly after it’s completion THE EVERSCATHED parted ways with long-time guitarist Brice Dalzell. Barely out of the studio and the band has already begun working on brand new material, along with honing the classic material with new guitarist Allen Mate (UNSOLEMN, EMBER, EMPYREAN SKY). With the new line-up intact, the band decided to record a brand new single. The song “Wave of Disaster” showcased the style that the band had been heading toward for many years – Death Metal for fans of All Metal. The single immediately took off as a fan favorite and led to 2014 being one of THE EVERSCATHED’s busiest touring years thus far. 2015 saw THE EVERSCATHED recording and releasing their most acclaimed album to date, with “Scars To Bare” finding an audience with more fans outside of the United States than ever before. Along with working on many new songs, 2016 will see the band celebrating the 10 year anniversary of “Razors Of Unrest”, an album that opened a lot of new doors for THE EVERSCATHED at that point in the band’s journey through the musical landscape. The band will continue to conquer new ears in new towns and celebrate past victories with longtime friends and fans along the roads already traveled. THE EVERSCATHED will continue to bring Death Metal to fans of All Metal!

CLOSED TODAY FOR THE HOLIDAY

THE MODERN LOVERS

The Modern Lovers is the first album recorded by the Boston-based band The Modern Lovers.

DJ BLOODSHOT SCOTT

EMPIRE STATE EXPRESS

Empire State Express is a power trio hailing from Chicago, with Chris Steele on vocals and guitars, Tim O’Donnell on bass and Derrick Martens on drums. Their music combines whipsmart songwriting with high-energy, neo-classic rock & roll in a series of controlled explosions. ESE’s first EP, “Land Speed Record” harnesses the band’s core momentum, taking the listener on a joyride through the city’s darker quarters. Their latest single, “Revolving Doors” sends up the music business and crams in all the energy and songmanship that make ESE shows a blast.

THE CLASH “THE CLASH”

The Clash is the eponymous debut studio album by English punk rock band The Clash. It was released on 8 April 1977, through CBS Records.

PAUL MCCARTNEY & WINGS “BAND ON THE RUN”

Band on the Run is an album by Paul McCartney & Wings, released in 1973. It was Wings’ third album. It became Wings’ most successful album and remains the most celebrated of McCartney’s post-Beatles albums.

DEATH WOLF

Formed in the year 2000 under the monicker Devils Whorehouse by Morgan from Marduk, and after releasing the highly acclaimed albums ”Revelation Unorthodox” and ”Blood & Ashes” as well as the eps, ”Howling” and ”Werewolf”, the band felt its time to change name as the music and philosophy behind the orchestra has outgrown its name. The end of one world and the birth of another. The band now continues under the name Death Wolf symbolising the strenght,dedication and will shown in its creations. The band just finished the recording of its upcoming album filled with Northern end themes and death hymns. Cold steel over the worlds throat. More info regarding its imminent release will follow shortly.. The band can also proudly announce its first live apperance which will be taking place in June at the Wave-Gotik Treffen in Leipzig, Germany on the 12th of June. Tracklist an info regarding release date will be announced very soon. Stay tuned!!!

THE FORESHADOWING

There’s only a two years gap from the release of the dark masterpiece “Oionos” and yet the Italian gothic-doom band THE FORESHADOWING is ready to get back in the store.

In the last two years the band had an intense live activity hardening its live performance and becoming one of the most appreciated live act of the modern doom scene. After shredding the crowd at worldwide famous festivals like Summer Breeze Open Air and Wave Gothic Treffen, travelling around Europe on tour and sharing the stage with the most important acts of gothic-doom scene (Katatonia, October’s Tide, My Dying Bride, Saturnus, Isole…) the band is finally back to give birth to the awaited third chapter of its gloomy apocalyptic saga.

Title and tracklist are still secret but interesting details will be revealed soon through their official Facebook page, together with clips directly from the studios. Mixing and Mastering will take place at the mighty Unisound Studios in Sweden by the living legend Dan Swanö (Asphyx, Dark Funeral, Katatonia, Edge of Sanity, November’s Doom, Opeth, Pain just to name a few) while artwork will be committed to Travis Smith (Opeth, Anathema, Katatonia, Nevermore, Amorphis and many others).

“This is gonna be, without any reasonable doubt, absolutely metal” states guitarist Alessandro Pace “we worked hard to step forward and gaining our melodic side, while at the same time we wrote the most groundbreaking rhythms we ever played. This is gonna be an album with no compromises, it’s gonna be a blast!”.

Recording sessions have been held at well-known Outer Sound Studios in Rome with the old time friend Giuseppe Orlando (Novembre, Klimt 1918, Stormlord, Necrodeath etc.) and mixing is about to be finished.

The album will be released worldwide by Cyclone-Empire in spring 2012, stay tuned for upcoming news and the band studio diary.

MOONSPELL

Moonspell returns to the scene with what might be the most important album ever to be released by this legendary Portuguese metal band. With a renewed focus, they have risen to a new level so as to reclaim their throne as the leading European dark metal band. “Alpha Noir” is a nine-track outburst that shows us a much more incendiary band than in the past. With an avalanche of memorable guitar work, deeply rooted in the thrash metal of legends, Moonspell perfectly combines it with their own brand of Southern black metal, which they have been crafting since their groundbreaking debut offering: “Wolfheart”. The special edition will also include a second CD, “Alpha Noir’s” remarkable counterpart “Omega White”. It follows a more atmospheric path, delivering epic and catchy songs in the vein of gothic rock icons, such as Sisters of Mercy and Type o Negative.

NICK HOOK

ZEPHUROS

folk tunes about animals, insects and nature

 

ELTON JOHN “GOODBYE YELLOW BRICK ROAD”

Goodbye Yellow Brick Road is the seventh studio album by British singer-songwriter Elton John. Released in 1973, it has come to be regarded as his best and most popular album.

 

ELIM BOLT

Elim Bolt — Nude South This self-assured debut taps into the classic Southern sound of Roy Orbison and roughs it up with fuzzy guitars and garage hooks, but never loses sight of melodic songcraft. —JS

NEEDLES IN THE RED

Headed by Neal Alger, who’s known in Chicago music circles primarily for his jazz guitar work, Needles in the Red is a new project that melds the visceral nature of rock with some of the harmonic sophistication of jazz. Add some thoughtful lyrics and a few of the most versatile musicians in the city and you have the power quartet Needles in the Red. Alger and drummer Eric Montzka of Needles have toured the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Brazil performing jazz together but this project represents a return to their musical roots of rock and pop. Bassist Dan Thatcher has been involved with bands such as Diana and the Dishes and curates the Eyes and Ears Music Series in Wicker Park. The newest addition to Needles is lead/rhythm guitarist Zoey Witz who has led bands that have shared the stage with Foreigner, Poison, Travis Tritt, and the Spinners.

BRAVE BABY

Brave Baby emerged from the dissolution of one band and the identity crisis of another with relations between members Keon Masters, Ryan Patrick Zimmerman, and Christian Chidester spanning back to 2008 in the Charlotte area of the Carolinas. They are set to release their debut album “Forty Bells” on Charleston based independent label Hearts and Plugs.

CHRIS PICKERING

CHRIS PICKERING is an exceptionally talented singer, musician and songwriter, from Australia, who writes remarkable songs with beautiful melodies, smart hooks and thoughtful lyrics. He fearlessly tackles all manner of styles and arrangements, fusing flavors of pop, rock, country, bluegrass, folk, blues and, at times, psychedelia into his music. Bridging the gap between indie-pop and alt-country, CP is close to truly claiming a style all his own. His third album, Work Of Fiction, was recorded at Ardent Studios, Memphis, with Stax producer, Don Nix. His new EP ‘Corners’ was released in September 2012 and is the first of three EPs to be recorded and released over the next 18 months.

THE BUZZHOUNDS

The Buzz on the Hounds.

Wow, these guys must really like to party with a name like that? The Buzzhounds will be the first to tell you that the buzz is not chemical, but natural. It is all about the live experience. The give and take between a performer, and an audience on a great night. That’s the buzz…..that’s what it’s all about.

These guys are honest, old school musicians. They do it because they love it, and this creed carries over into their music. “We made an honest record”, this is how we sound. We used the best vintage gear we could find, (including the same mics and soundboard that the Beatles used at abbey road), and went right to tape with very little editing,” says their front man Jeffrey Manga

The result is raw rock and roll. Natural tempo changes and subtle nuances are captured throughout the record, giving it a dynamic, human feel. The record plays like a modern take on 90’s rock, paying tribute to Jane’s Addiction, Guns and Roses, Smashing Pumpkins, Alice and Chains, and Wolfmother, while maintaining an organic, original feel. There is an underlying element of blues and classic rock DNA as well. Each song has a different sonic theme, leaving the listener on the edge of their seat, and asking what’s next ?

DIA MORTE

Disinter

DISINTER

Brought into existence in 1990, DISINTER can be described as old school thrash/speed metal with 90’s death/grind and blackened metal influences. The band released their debut full-length studio album “Desecrated” in 1997. With a few demos preceding, DISINTER has since released 3 more full- length studio albums. With 1 in the grave, unreleased. With lyrical topics such as the occult, zombification, demons wizards and warlocks, religious beliefs, pain and suffering, pent in hell, the maestro’s of misery have truly created sonic soundscapes of torture, death, and terror!

Deceased

DECEASED

These Virginia-based death metalers started out in 1985 recording and circulating demos, slowly building their reputation. In 1988, original bassist Rob Sterzel was killed in a hit-and-run accident and replaced by Les Snyder. Together with guitarists Mark Adams and Mike Smith and drummer/vocalist King Fowley, Deceased became the first band to be signed to Relapse records. The single Gutwrench was released in 1991 followed by their 1992 debut album Luck of the Corpse. Less than a year later they released The 13 Frightened Souls a five-song EP that covers a wide spectrum of death, speed, and thrash metal styles. Deceased offered two more releases in 1995: Blueprints for Madness, a full-length studio album along with Death Metal from the Grave, a mix of early demos and live cuts released on Last World Records. 1997’s Fearless Undead Machines brought Deceased wide critical acclaim and was followed by another critical success, Supernatural Addiction. ~ Kevin Odle, Rovi

FONZ-E MAK

Solo. 1 member of Super Group Brkf$t Club. 2008ighties

UG

TRENTINO

Trentino is a Beatport charting recording artist and musician who plays turntables and drums (in one performance). In addition to performing twice a week on the biggest current music station in Chicago, 103.5 KISS FM, he performs across the US, including tours with Red Bull. His compositions have received radio airplay across the world, and have been featured on TV networks such as MTV, VH1, ESPN, and Oxygen and more. “Spectrum,” his debut EP, was released in April 2011 with a release party at Mansion Miami, and his sophomore release “SQRM” was released in December 2011 with the single “Strength” dominating the number 1 spot on Movement Music for 6 months straight.

MADDJAZZ

Young Chicago upstarts Ghetto Division have been said to be making their “own lane in the club music game.” Integral to the group is MaddJazz, a SouthSider by way of Guadalajara, Mexico. MaddJazz has been honing his innovative style for nearly fifteen years. By 18 years old he was already DJing at raves, loft parties and clubs. Influenced by these early raves as well as his start in the turntablism scene ‐ where he placed 3rd three years in a row at the DMC Chicago heats. MaddJazz blends his favorite House, Techno, Rave, Hip Hop, Bmore, Electro, Booty, Juke, and latin elements in the attempt to find new inventive ways to showcase the emergent Chicago sound. Maddjazz helped form the DJ/production crew known as Ghetto Division, and together have brought their signature sound to the dance music scene. And the scene is listening. MaddJazz has shared the decks with celebrated talent by the likes of Diplo, Kingdom, Paul Johnson, Little Louie Vega, Drop The Lime, The Crookers, Dubbel Dutch, Kaptain Cadillac, DJ Rashad, Blaqstarr, DJ Tameil, Tim Dolla, Mike Dunn, CZR, Bad Boy Bill, Ron Carroll, NIck Catchdubs, AC Slater, Jubilee, Distal, DJ Sega, The X-Ecutioners, DJ Qbert, Keys N Krates as well as opening up for Hip Hop heavy weights such as UGK, Jadakiss, Styles P, Daddy Yankee, Maluca and Chicago’s own Kid Sister. He’s made raves and clubs bang across the Midwest, as well as WMC and SXSW. Maddjazz has even recently brought his sound to Mexico, Puerto Rico, Belgium, Poland, Germany, France, Spain and has collaborated and remixed for a list of well respected individuals such as Club Cheval’s own Canblaster (Sounds Of Sumo), DJ Kesmo (Booty Call Records), The Amplid (Tracy Recordings), Proper Villains (Nightshifters), Ultravid (Silverback Recordings), Modabot (Rot10 Musik) Acid Jacks (Idiot House Records) and fellow Chicago peers Rampage & Nader (T&A Records).

BOI JEANIUS

Recognized By Many Legendary DJ’s As “The Future”, He was givin his name “Boi Jeanius” to accent the nickname perfectly. Boi Jeanius is very involved in every aspect of the dj word and takes pride in his Profession and displays the love, attitude, and passion every night. With That, He Still Practices His Sets and Strives To be Better then the day before. Now proving himself to Chicago, going live every weekend on 1035 Kiss Fm, Mixing the ONLY Mixed Count Down on Radio, The Top 8 @ 8:48 is only a sample of what you can expect from Boi Jeanius! “Omg it’s Boi Jeanius” is the famous tag line, the brand has grown and spread like wild fire through the streets of Chicago all the way to New York City Where Boi Jeanius was named, by Latin Mixx, The 2010 Best Mid-West DJ! At 23 Years old and 4 years on the #1 Station In Chicago, Boi Jeanius Has continued to out do his opposition by always being just 1 step ahead. The Story of Boi Jeanius Has Just begun and is one for the history books! Stay Tuned!

TYPESETTER

Typesetter formed out of love for Midwestern punk rock in 2008, When a few friends and veterans of the St.Louis, Missouri punk scene began trading songs. The project languished while we were separated throughout the region, often the topic of late night conversations; “someday we need to start this band…” In 2012, we reunited in Chicago and began polishing off the old songs and writing new ones as well. We’re stoked about em, hope you are too.

TERMINAL MAN

Terminal Man is the newest musical incarnation of Scott Berhens, Daniel Wintercorn, Mike Graff, and Alex Kreller (ex-Call the Medic/ Dearest Fae/ Break The Silence) The quartet bring their grassroots hardcore background to a noisier, more experimental platform. The end result is something like the sonic equivalent of being executed by a firing squad while on heavy psychedelics.

Shawn Pittman

SHAWN PITTMAN

“Dallas-based blues/rock trance-inducer Shawn Pittman puts down some garage-blues dynamite on his new album Hard Road: a no-frills, gravel-crunching set of American guitar music tracked live in the studio. It’s a mix of new and old material, a creative decision that allows Pittman to give his fans a chance to hear how his current band handles certain songs from his considerable body of work.” -Mike O’ Cull

Vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Shawn Pittman was born in the small town of Talihina and raised in Norman, a city in Cleveland County, Oklahoma. At eight years old, he began taking piano lessons under his mother’s encouragement but later began sneaking into his older brother’s room to play on his drum kit. Shawn’s first concert was watching his grandmother play boogie woogie piano in her living room.

By the age of fourteen, he had switched to guitar and was soon introduced to the mysterious sounds of Lightnin’ Hopkins and Muddy Waters by Bracken Hale, a good friend and member of his seventh-grade football team. Their friendship would prove significant as Hale later collaborated with Shawn on writing material for many of his albums.

Pittman moved to Dallas, Texas, when he was seventeen years old to attend the Booker T. Washington High School of the Performing Arts, picking up his music education courtesy of his uncle who would take him to the Schooner’s jam in Dallas. This is where he first met and learned from musicians like Brian ‘Hashbrown’ Calway, Sam Myers, Mike Morgan, Jim Suhler, Tutu Jones, and many others. His first album, “Blues from Dallas,” was recorded in 1996 and later picked up and retooled for his national debut in ’97 as “Burnin’ Up” on the Cannonball Records label. His second album, “Something’s Gotta Give,” was produced by Jim Gaines and released in ’98.

Pittman toured as rhythm guitarist for Susan Tedeschi briefly in ’99, just long enough to make a television appearance with her on the Conan O’Brian Show. The following year he relocated to Austin and recorded his third album, “Full Circle,” backed by Stevie Ray Vaughan’s rhythm section, Double Trouble. In 2004, a more experimental and adventurous album titled “Stay” was released. After a much-needed break from the music business and some serious soul-searching from 2005-2008, Pittman returned to performing and planned to record one album per year. By mid-2010, he already had five independently released recordings under his belt. This flurry of activity eventually led to a new record contract with Delta Groove, and plans were immediately set to record another album.

“Edge Of The World” marked Shawn Pittman’s tenth release and contained an inspired program of original material by an accomplished singer, songwriter, and guitarist, recalling all the vintage tones and ambiance of the great blues recordings of the 1950s and ’60 s. Even more astonishing is that Shawn plays virtually every instrument on the CD, handling everything from vocals and guitar, to bass, drums, and piano, on top of doubling as the album’s producer and engineer. Special guest Jonathan Doyle (Mighty Blue Kings, Jimmy Sutton’s Four Charms, White Ghost Shivers) represents the album’s only other personnel by contributing tenor and baritone saxophone on four songs. When asked to comment about the inspiration behind his latest and most ambitious project, Pittman stated, “I’m just playing the music I want to hear!”

After seven years in Dallas (1993-1999) and fourteen years in Austin (2000-2013), Pittman moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he resided for five years, finishing a degree in Information Technology. During that time, he also released his 11th album, “Backslidin’ Again” (2015).

In January 2018, Pittman recorded his 12th album, “Everybody Wants to Know,” with longtime friend and drummer Jay Moeller. In the Spring of 2020, Pittman returned with ‘Make It Right,” in partnership with Netherlands-based Continental Record Services (CRS).

Opening for B.B. King twice, B.B. shared his secret for longevity with Shawn: “Treat people how you want to be treated — and remember everybody has a boss.”

In 2021, as an adaptation to the pandemic, he expanded his repertoire to include solo acoustic music and released ‘Stompin’ Solo,’ his first all-acoustic album on the CRS subsidiary Must Have Music. In May of 2022, Pittman toured Europe with Anson Funderburgh and Mike Morgan as part of the Texas Blues Guitar Summit, totaling fifteen countries where he’s performed.

He just released a raw new album, “Hard Road,” recorded live in studio in Austin with his new trio — with no overdubs, adding more than 100 original songs to his repertoire. His tight trio, including Jason Crisp on bass and Mike King on drums, is now touring regionally in support of the release.

Jason, born in Colorado, moved to Dallas in 1989 and currently resides in Austin, TX. His innovative, and old school approach to playing bass guitar is distinctive, mimicking the sounds of an upright bass.  He achieves this sound by strumming with his thumb across the strings. Jason’s talent also crosses to guitar playing, allowing him to hold down the bottom end of the team’s dual guitar showcases.  He has performed with Shawn for over 20 years and can be heard at live shows and recording projects. Jason comes from a musical family:  His father, also a bass player, sharing the stage with Jackie Wilson and the Doc Serverinson Band. Music is in his blood and has led him to perform with other musicians including: Omar and the Howlers; The Moeller Brothers; Joe Jonas; Ronnie Bramhall; Paul Osher; Pinetop Perkins; The Fabulous Thunderbirds; Eric Johnson.

Mike, a native of Dallas, has been playing drums since he was old enough to sit behind the drum kit. He is also a multi-instrumental talent, starting with playing piano at the age of eight. Mike continued his musical career by playing shows with guitar, and shared the stage with Jim Suhler, Texas Slim, and Charles ‘Sugar Boy’ Myers. His influences include Art Blakey, Buddy Rich, Fred Below and Earl Palmer.

THE NICK BELL BAND

Nick Bell’s background comes from Moscow, Russia. He is originally from Chicago, IL and that gives him a tremendous feel for the Blues. What better city than Chicago!? With a mix of spending his childhood in Europe, and living in Chicago, his musical admirations spanned between two continents. Growing up on cassettes and CD’s of Deep Purple, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, Jethro Tull, The Beatles, Rainbow, Nazareth, and countless others, introduced him into the music we know as the Blues and artists such as Gary Moore, Walter Trout, Robin Trower, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, and likewise, this loop stretches on and on and on.

Around the time he was 16 years old, he was introduced into a Blues based band out of the Suburbs of Chicago. For a few years the band spanned with little direction of where they were headed. Countless musicians walked through the group, and the main focus was the enjoy the music they were playing. In due time the group picked up tremendous steam, and got the notice of the Chicago music communities, and Legendary Illinois musicians all over. All the while, the young guitarist’s skills were being fine tuned and honed through personal ambition and replication of the music from his heroes. With no formal musical training, Nick has shown to audiences all around, that music does come from the soul. With notice from organizations such as “ROCK CHICAGO MAGAZINE” and “NEW LIFE RADIO”, the talents of the young guitarist has been featured on the Air Waves, and pages of prominent sources of entertainment. The endorsement and ability to share the stage with some of Chicago’s finest established bands prove that shows from this guitarist are not something you want to miss.

KELLY ZULLO

Cleveland based musician Kelly Zullo has been around the world playing music since the late 90’s. Moving briefly to NYC, Europe & Nashville, as well as experiencing great wanderlust, this lyricist and guitarist molds the gypsy-esque mantra with philosophical bite over a riotous acoustic guitar.

Not often has a more energetic acoustic music emerged which features a female guitarist shredding acoustic guitar riffs over a percussive bang, which not only highlights a unique style, but showcases an ability to blend the drum set in a loop with the top shelf songwriting.

Recently winning the International Acoustic Music Awards for “Best Female Artist, comparisons from Ani Difranco to Kaki King are drawn.

DON’T SPEAK

Don’t Speak non-apologetically owns the stage as they whip into highly energetic frenzies – skanking through every show while loyally producing every note, lyric and cadence. Fans of No Doubt, wait no more; the ultimate live experience is here!

 

LAST YEAR’S WINNERS

Last Year’s Winners is a rock band. Three guys that love to play. Carl Johnson is the writer, singer, the lead (and only) guitar player. He is as at home singing and playing acoustic in a coffee shop as he is on stage playing as loud possible. Luke Leeman is a bass player’s bass player, perfecting not only a bass line, but a counter melody or a hook that the song grabs onto. Zach Dresser has the task of making this power trio groove, keeping it feeling good whether it’s a spacey acoustic driven number or a loud, bombastic rock song. Last Year’s Winners started as a collection of Carl’s songs that begged to be recorded, and a couple friends that were as much fans as collaborators. As children of the grunge and alternative rock filled 90’s, Last Year’s Winners takes that straight forward yet personal sound in a modern and original direction.

STEELY JAMES

On Independence Day in The United States of America, Nashroc Records released what could be the most powerful political album of all time-Free Speech Experiment by Steely James.

This incredible, incendiary and important release by Steely James has made a statement that will reach far beyond the limits of the pop world. His mission with Free Speech Experiment seems not for fame, money or the trappings of success, but to get a message out from The People… to The Politicians. Through his incredible talents as a songwriter, singer and multi-instrumentalist, he is speaking for the masses in a way few are able to do. In many ways, Free Speech Experiment continues the US tradition of great protest singers from Woody Guthrie right through to Chuck D. Now the modern day protester, Steely James pulls no punches with songs such as Unmanned Police Drones, Things That Kill People, No More War, The Corporation, and Black Gold.

People have eagerly embraced the message and are buying into James’ music. A nationwide acoustic tour is already in the cards. Bit by bit, town by town, his voice is being heard. James is not only singing a lament for the terrible wrongs that have been done to America by political corruption, but is, more importantly, uniting the people. It takes many together as one strong voice to bring positive changes, the Free Speech Experiment has begun…

THE AMERICAN SCENE

We are five gentlemen from the great state of California. These are the songs we couldn’t trust anyone else to sing. Come hell or high water we intend to play them for whoever will listen for as long as we’re allowed. We want to be your friend.

TONIGHT ALIVE

It’s an unlikely tale. Rising from the fevered hotbed of Sydney, Australia’s underground hardcore scene, boy meets girl. Or rather, two boys meet girl to make kick-ass rock music.

Try to keep up – the story goes something like this…

Guitarist Whakaio Taahi and his compadre bass player, Cameron Adler, needed a frontman for a rock project. Scrap that. Frontwoman. Enter ingenue-with-attitude, Jenna McDougall – as soon as the sixteen-year-old songstress’ soaring contralto and sweet strains took the mic to their songs, something clicked. Already onboard, rhythm axeman Jake Hardy and new recruit, drummer Matt Best – a childhood buddy of Whakaio’s. One jam later, the writing was on the wall. Tonight Alive were up and running, pedal to the metal.

The band stepped up, and fast. Songs honed, stagecraft already a dead cert, they entered Sydney’s subterranean circuit of metalcore and heavy bands, playing their own brand of catchy-as-all-hell pop-punk… and promptly took the scene by storm, developing a rabid young fanbase in thrall to the band’s ebullient, fist-pumping anthemery, arena-sized hooks and high-voltage live performances. Right from word-go, it was clear Tonight Alive were going somewhere.

A year on, courted by labels and management secured, with two stellar EPs (‘All Shapes & Disguises’ and ‘Consider This’) under their belts, a demo of Tonight Alive’s new material landed on producer-extraordinaire Mark Trombino’s (Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, The Starting Line) desk. He rang the band immediately, wanting in.

“For him to contact us, and say he was interested, was a big deal,” says Jenna, now 19. “We couldn’t believe he’d put himself out like that. He’s amazing. Mark created the albums we all grew up listening to – the albums that launched the careers of all these great bands.

Whakaio weighs in. “Yeah, it felt right that he do our first album, that he be the one to kick-start us off. As soon as we got over there, we found Mark felt the same.”

Recorded at LA’s infamous NRG Studios over two months, Trombino’s personal interest in the project played out in other fortuitous ways. “Nothing was left to editing or over Pro-Tooling,” notes Whakaio. “Jenna sang every line until it was right. I played every guitar part. The drum sound is natural and not heavily sampled. There was no copy-pasting. That was really important to us, as well as Mark. That it sound real. Natural.”

“It was great because it made us really step up as musicians,” says Jenna. “I know I definitely came back from the experience a better singer.”

What you’re listening to now is the inspired result of that auspicious partnership between a bunch of Aussie kids and an auteur with a canon of classic records already to his name. What Are You So Scared Of? is one more album to add to that list.