Based on the resumes of vocalist Sean Wheeler (Throw Rag) and multi-instrumentalist Zander Schloss (Circle Jerks, the Weirdos, Joe Strummer), you’d expect a rambunctious sound emanating from the Legendary Duo, but you’d be wrong.
The twosome plays a hybrid of folk, country, pop, ragtime, bluegrass and gospel that includes all the frenzied energy and spirit of the duo’s aforementioned bands, but is executed with a soulful dash of Americana charm not often heard west of the Mississippi.
Looking somewhat like Dracula’s nasty little brother who spent some hard years drinking and working as a carnival barker for a second-rate freak show, Unknown Hinson translates that vibe to his style of country and western-tinged psychobilly. The band is now touring nationwide, wowing audiences with outrageous and campy, white-trash persona and freewheeling, sleazy tone.
Hinson’s most recent CD release, “Live and Undead”, melds weepy twang, searing guitar riffs and lyrics that speak of love-gone-bad. Recorded at a sold-out show, an enthusiastic honky tonk crowd sings along with the King on every song.Raucous, theatrical and over-the-top, Unknown Hinson isn’t just for the trailer park set anymore!
Unknown is gaining notoriety in the 18-34 demographic as the voice of lead character “Early Cuyler” in the popular show from Cartoon Network – “The Squidbillies”. The first four seasons were so well-received that an immediate green light was given to future seasons.
Unknown Hinson is a winner in Independent Music Awards for his entry alternative Country track “Torture Town” from the album “Target Practice”. http://www.musiciansatlas.com Unknown Hinson is a featured artist for Reverend Guitars, representing them in many Guitar Player Magazine features. A signature Unknown Hinson guitar is currently part of Reverend’s celebrity instrument lineup. http://www.reverendguitars.com Rockabilly Magazine named Unknown Hinson as their “Find of the Year” http:// www.rockabillymagazine.com Live interviews with Unknown Hinson along with his music are broadcast nationally on XM Radio’s National Lampoon channel. (XM 154 along with FM radio partners). http://www.nationallampoonradio.com/
Sirius XM – Outlaw Radio has Hinson’s tunes in regular rotation. He’s toured with Hank3, Rev. Horton Heat, the Boxmasters and Willie Nelson.Appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live and other syndicated programming round out the list.
Hinson seems to collect quite a few celebrity fans. Billy Bob Thornton names Unknown as “one of my favorite songwriters and a genius picker”. Matt Groening (creator of The Simpsons) labels Unknown as a “guitar maniac (and funny as hell to boot!)” Hank3 has Unknown’s face tattooed on his bicep! Unknown was asked to join The Rolling Stones for sound check at their last show in Charlotte, NC. You must witness the encounter with Ed King (Lynyrd Skynyrd) in Nashville (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbFx0STLKqQ). You’ll find Unknown Hinson’s music everywhere from Snoop Dogg’s movie “LA Spectacular” to the newest version of the action-adventure open world video game “Saints Row 3”.
Hailing from Chicago, Illinois, singer-songwriter Kirby Kaiser delivers the retro melodies and lush harmonies of a 60’s girl group combined with bubblegum-sweet lyrics, often tinged with the melancholy of teen romance.
Only 19 years old, Kirby’s first-ever EP, both self-released and self-titled was released at the end of August 2011. Her lyrics are inspired by the likes of the Ronettes, Fiona Apple and Lesley Gore— the singer/songwriter prides herself on blending various genres to produce a sound that is all her own.
Deep Cricket Night has come out of the pandemic with a sonic – style shift through the wormhole. We used the roots at the portal’s gate as a ladder, climbing out of our past sound. The present sound regards fulfilling the new, post-pandemic range. For practical cliches, our sound is now akin to Joy Division meets 1970 Pink Floyd with Syd still in the room. The band is comprised of Lance Drake (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Greg MacAyeal (Bass), Dave Buoscio (Piano/Organ), Michael Ressler (drums).
Musically, DCN builds their original sound highlighted by the lead bass hooks of Greg MacAyeal and the vocal-lyrical strength of the band’s primary songwriter, Lance Drake.
Deadbeat is American lo-fi solo artist Jessica Risker, also lead singer of the electro-rock outfit Absinthe & The Dirty Floors. Channeling her songwriting into self-described folk apatheticisms, Deadbeat draws influence from the musical stylings of Beck, the do-it-alone attitude of Bob Dylan, and the poetic musings of Daniel Johnston.
The Half Hearts are an anachronism. Originally from Duluth, MN, this indie quartet combine a mix of anthemic choruses, ’90s grunge and power pop, along with classic rock riffs, and powerful duets. Each member has a unique style – the Vintage Queen, Twee, Mountain Man, and Meta-Nerd. You wouldn’t think this line-up would work, but it comes together like a classic cheese-wine-fruit pairing. You’ll keep coming back for more.
The Half Heart’s first album, After the Flood, graced many Midwestern 2010 year-end lists. Their upcoming sophomore album, Uptown Sound, has production credits from Luke Tweedy (Anti- Records), and Eric Swanson (Retribution Gospel Choir, Low, etc).
Catching your first live performance by The Hi-Tones is a bit like the title of one of their more popular songs, “Hit and Run” (not including the internal bleeding, of course). Everything happens so quickly, you’re left somewhat dazed and confused, and you can’t be exactly certain of what you’ve just witnessed. What you’re sure of is that it will take a little time before you go back to feeling normal after being run over by their retro brand of raw, jangly dance rock.
I’ve been playing American music of one form or another for many years. Played all around the country over those years. I’ve settled in my home town of Chicago, Illinois for the time being. In the last 2 years or so, I have traveled around the midwest and southeast playing shows for anyone that’ll listen and stopping into various recording studios, always with a few friends, to round out a debut album which will be ready and available in early 2012.
Until then, come on out to a show and say hello.
-Woodrow
Library Voices is a ten piece pop collective from Regina, Saskatchewan. Blending tremolo soaked guitars with analog synths, vintage organs, circuit bent electronics, accordion, saxophone, and glockenspiel, their songs play out like an AM radio jingle; mixing the best of the 60’s, 70’s, 80’s, and today.
Since forming in spring of 2008, the group has operated at a feverish pace, recording a 3 song demo, recording and releasing a 6 song ep, and are currently in the studio recording a full length follow up. They have participated in several high profile festivals and showcases including Sled Island (Mogwai, Of Montreal, Okkervil River), Regina Folk Festival (Broken Social Scene, The Weakerthans, Final Fantasy), Gateway Festival (Greg Keelor), and Ness Creek Festival. The band has also shared the stage with the likes of Stars and Plants & Animals. In addition, the band shot a television commercial for their single Step Of The Map & Float to promote the Regina Folk Festival (video available at www.reginafolkfestival.com), and has been featured on CBC Radio 1 and Radio 3.
Library Voices debut EP, Hunting Ghosts & Other Collected Shorts, offers a clear and concise introduction to the collective. The group’s song writing objectives are evident, bridging sophisticated pop hooks and melodies with complex harmonies and anthemic sing along choruses. Lyrically the album strays from bubblegum, addressing late night escapades, panic attacks, and the construct of home.
After a chance meeting with Roy Acuff, Stevie (then, a young man) was certain he would always be a musician. Born in rural Georgia, Stevie learned the ropes playing country, gospel, and blues. Rebelling against his roots, he immersed himself in the world of rock and the underground music scene of the 80s in Atlanta but never lost the twang of his childhood. Almost three decades later, he has become an accomplished performer and songwriter. Stevie has now released five solo albums and several music videos, produced music with his 1980s swamp rockabilly band, The Tombstones, and made appearances on compilations all over the damn place. In his early days, Stevie penned the college radio anthem and regional hit “Nobody”, which was later recorded by rock icon, Stiv Bators. After separating with The Tombstones in the 1990s, he toured as the supporting act for Jason & the Scorchers in Europe, which opened the door for his solo career. Taking a more serious approach to songwriting, he then began to write with as many accomplished song-writers as he could find in every realm of the music world, from street poets to music row regulars.
Bouncing between Atlanta, Nashville, and Austin, Stevie recorded Second Hand Sin (1999) and Acoustica (2000) and then settled in Texas. His full-length debut CD, 7:30 am (2003), showcased his singing ability and continuing growth as a songwriter. The CD spent six weeks in the top ten of XM Radio’s Channel 12 (X-Country) charts, including two weeks at #1. During this period, Stevie worked as a sideman for several respected Texas acts, including acclaimed songwriter, Rich Minus, and songstress, Texacala Jones. 2004 brought the Cash tribute/compilation, “Dear Johnny”, featuring Stevie’s version of “Folsom Prison Blues”, which received airplay and great reviews. Stevie followed up with a number of West Coast gigs with Supersucker front man, Eddie Spaghetti, in support of the disc. 2006 found Stevie briefly back at the helm of the Tombstones for a national tour to support the re-release of the bands earlier material. Leaving the band for the final time, he married Tombstones bassist, Melissa “Killene” Tombstone, returning to his solo work and fatherhood. In 2008, his sold-out show at the Red House Arts Center was broadcast in its entirety on XM’s Wired In series.
Miss Jackie and The Sass are a one-of-a-kind group of ladies and fellas from Chicago, Illinois. Their sound has been described as “candid blues”, with a tinge of old-school country. The Sass’ original tunes are well-constructed and catchy, with outspoken, honest, and occasionally obscene lyrics that tell of desire, relationships and self-lovin’.
Described by Chicago Tribune as “Pink Floyd vs. Led Zeppelin in a Barfight on Mars” Resurrection Larry has been delivering a full concert experience to audiences in the Midwest for the past 3 years. Augmented by the addition of a “Heavenly Choir” of concert quality vocalists, Resurrection Larry shows are even more engaging and interactive. Resurrection Larry is a “Don’t Miss” Show.
JoeBuck is the pseudonym of an American musician from Murray, Kentucky. He is a current member of Hank Williams III’s “Damn Band”, and a member of Williams’ punk-metal project Assjack. He is credited, along with Williams and Andy Gibson, with engineering and producing Williams’ most recent album, Straight to Hell.
As a solo artist, he is a one-man band called JoeBuckYourself.
Meagan McNeal is a powerhouse singer/songwriter and recording artist from Chicago, Illinois, versed in the genres of Soul, Jazz, and R&B. Known for her diverse range and soulful voice, she attracted great fandom on the local circuit and received international acclaim with the release of her debut album entitled “Mindset” in 2014. Gracing the stage of NBC’s “The Voice” in 2017, Meagan’s radiating vocals landed her on the team of Grammy Award Winning artist Jennifer Hudson. Using the tools and experiences, she attained from the mentorship and artist development on “The Voice” she furthered her music career. Since embarking on her solo journey in 2007, Meagan went on to perform throughout the USA and across the globe. With a fervent drive and dedication, she was a backing vocalist for world-famous artists like Eminem, Common, and The O’Jays. Compelling audiences with her sultry but graceful harmonies, her energetic stage presence was embraced as she opened for various artists, including The Velvelettes of the Legendary Motown Records, Dwele, and Avery Sunshine. Influenced by groundbreaking artists such as Patti LaBelle, Anita Baker, Ella Fitzgerald, Chaka Kahn, and Aretha Franklin, Meagan refined her talents throughout the years and shaped her signature style. Her music effortlessly transcends boundaries and spreads messages of love and universal truth. Seated at the core of her artistry are her unwavering determination, open-mindedness, and innovative mindset.
Hello world allow me 2 introduce myself. My name is Fabian R James Sr. a.k.a the son of soul and i hail from chicago the city of legends music is my life my passion i am married 2 this and i take music very seriously i am currently working on my e.p. “my heart,my soul, mysong due in stores on valentine’s day 2008 i have a lot of musical influences with whom i would not do this music without from donny hathaway to uncle charlie wilson to the king of pop micheal jackson to prince himself i also find inspiration from artists such as the great elton john so that’s just a lil bout me i hope you enjoy yourself as you listen 2 my music and remember the name son of soul one love!!!
BIG ANT’S JAM SESSION
Bring your BASS or HORN or GUITAR or STICKS or WHATEVER you play, and come sit in with some of Chicago’s best. Big Ants Jam session is an open improv session playing jazz, soul , punk , rock or whatever style of music is appropriate for the time at the time they play it. The ever changing band is curated by drummer, Anthony Capers.
Back then, growing up in the New York City suburb of Ramsey, New Jersey, Wesley spent his days drawing. Today, as bandleader of The Lumineers, Wesley’s replaced his pencil with a guitar and his drawings with songs. He still practices a lot, and it still turns out good.
In the spring of 2005, childhood friends Wesley and Jeremiah began to collaborate, writing together and playing gigs around New York. After battling the city’s cutthroat music scene and impossibly high cost of living, the two decided to expand their horizons. They packed everything they owned—nothing more than a couple suitcases of clothes and a trailer full of musical instruments—and headed for Denver, Colorado. It was less a pilgrimage than act of stubborn hopefulness.
The first thing they did in Denver was place a Craigslist ad for a cellist, and the first person to respond was Neyla Pekarek, a classically trained Denver native. As a trio, they began playing at the Meadowlark, a gritty basement club where the city’s most talented songwriters gathered every Tuesday for an open mic and dollar PBRs. Neyla softened Wes and Jer’s rough edges while expanding her skills to mandolin and piano. And so The Lumineers sound took shape; an amalgam of heart-swelling stomp-and-clap acoustic rock, classic pop, and front-porch folk.
In 2011, an eponymous, self-recorded EP led to a self-booked tour, and before long The Lumineers started attracting devout fans, first across the Western US, then back in their old East Coast stamping grounds. Young, old and in-between, they’re drawn by songs like “Ho Hey” and “Stubborn Love,” Americana-inflected barnburners in the vein of the Avett Brothers and Mumford & Sons. They’re drawn by songs like “Slow it Down” and “Dead Sea,” slow, sultry ballads that suggest the raw revelations of Jeff Buckley and Ryan Adams. They’re drawn by the live Lumineers experience—a coming-together in musical solidarity against isolation, adversity, and despair.
The roots revival of the last few years has primed listeners for a new generation of rustic, heart-on-the-sleeve music—the kind that nods to tradition while setting off into uncharted territory. The Lumineers walk that line with an unerring gift for timeless melodies and soul-stirring lyrics
Powered by passion, ripened by hard work, The Lumineers have found their sound when the world needs it most.
Begin with a solid bluegrass instrumentation, then add a layer of Wurlitzer piano, stark electric guitar, and haunting female vocals and you have the gypsy-chamber sound of The Poor Nobodys. Easily typified as music from a film score, their original compositions weave unconventional melodies through rustic roots, all the while refining a carefully chaotic meter.
The Alder Kings are a three piece, high octane, high gain, instrumental psycho surfabilly band from Chicago. Since forming in 2011, The Alder Kings have gained exposure on the national and international level. Rooted in the classics, but definitely not your Daddy’s surf.
