Creeping Death

CREEPING DEATH

CREEPING DEATH is on a quick and furious ascent from the underground. The Texas death metal crew repeatedly delivers a relentless bludgeoning summoned from the furthest reaches of the genre’s past, present, and future. A triumphant celebration of the style itself, the Lone Star State fivesome whips up gruesome riffage and Southern grooves with an improbable cathartic glee.

As Revolver Magazine observed, CREEPING DEATH “assemble hulking riffs, screaming guitar solos, and ghastly vocal lows, and play them with the urgent momentum of a sterling hardcore band.”

The band’s formula hits perfection with the brilliant Boundless Domain, a sophomore slab of spectacular weight, dimension, and might. Produced by Killswitch Engage guitarist Adam Dutkiewicz (As I Lay Dying, The Acacia Strain, Underoath), Boundless Domain is a certified ripper, top to bottom.

“We’ve never sounded better,” guitarist Trey Pemberton shares enthusiastically. “We love the people we’ve recorded with before, but we’ve never had anybody challenge and push us as Adam did.”

In the wake of the passing of local heroes Riley Gale of Power Trip and Wade Allison of Iron Age, the band (Pemberton, singer Reese Alavi, bassist Eric “Rico” Mejia, drummer Lincoln Mullins, and guitarist A.J. Ross, III) found themselves digging back into some of their metallic hardcore favorites.

“We made it a point to bring in more influences from hardcore bands we came up loving, especially Texas hardcore,” Pemberton explains. “There’s a lot of Mammoth Grinder, Iron Age, and Power Trip influence. Having Riley and Wade pass so close to one another left a huge hole in the scene. We all went on a kick of listening to the Texas stuff for a while, and it definitely seeped into our writing.”

Early into the band’s career, MetalSucks encouraged headbangers everywhere to “get your old school death metal fix with new school band Creeping Death.” Naturally, the crushing brutality akin to Gorguts, Grave, Blood Red Throne, and similarly legendary bands remains part of their foundation.

Originally hailing from Denton, Texas, and now situated in the greater Dallas-Fort Worth area, CREEPING DEATH summons a vibrant sound that is somehow both familiar and fresh. Their initial outburst, 2016’s three-song Sacrament of Death, introduced them to death and thrash metal audiences, followed two years later by the Specter of War EP. By the time they unleashed 2019’s Wretched Illusions album, Kerrang! hailed Creeping Death as “an underground juggernaut” that “channels all the raddest aspects of metal without getting shoehorned into any clichés.” 2021’s The Edge of ExistenceEP further demonstrated the power, fury, and revelry at the heart of their identity.

Tours with High On Fire, The Acacia Strain, Rotting Out, Terror and The Warriors spread the CREEPING DEATH message. Crowds succumbed to the group’s combination of endlessly catchy riffage, precise percussion, and storytelling lyrics.

Early 2023 saw Creeping Death travel overseas to the UK and Europe with Revocation and Goatwhore. A US trek supporting Carcass, Municipal Waste, and Sacred Reich is on the books.

“We’ve freely admitted that we are a selfish band, in so much as we really only write music for us,” guitarist Trey Pemberton explains. “We make music that’s fun for us to play and that we like to listen to ourselves. After all, we’re the ones who are going to hear these songs the most, night after night.”

Boundless Existence boasts future death metal classics like the super heavy, fast, and groovy “Intestinal Wrap” (which features George “Corpsegrinder” Fisher of Cannibal Corpse). “Vitrified Earth” showcases Creeping Death’s increasing skills at songcraft, most evident with the cadence and phrasing of Alavi’s vocals while never neglecting the sick riffs. Toward the album’s end, there’s even a bit of a spaced-out atmosphere, with guitar effects, harmonies, and heady time signatures.

“We just want to be heavy and fun,” Pemberton says without apology. “You’ll hear a natural progression from Wretched Illusions to Boundless Domain. Each release will be at least a little bit different from the other, but they will all still sound like CREEPING DEATH. That’s who we are.” 

LINEUP

  • Reese Alavi – Vocals
  • Trey Pemberton – Guitar
  • J. Ross III – Guitar
  • Eric “Rico” Mejia – Bass
  • Lincoln Mullins – Drums

SELECT DISCOGRAPHY

  • Boundless Domain (2023)
  • The Edge of Existence EP (2021)
  • Wretched Illusions (2019)
  • Specter of War EP (2018)

Sacrament of Death EP (2016)

Backlash photo

BACKLASH

Thrashing from the Chicago Southlands, Backlash indoctrinates audiences to their live performances with diverse heavy riffs, robust bass, powerful and guttural vocals accompanied by precision drum grooves. Releasing their debut LP in 2021, “Colossus”, Backlash have since played throughout the midwest with bands such as: Cavalera Conspiracy, Warbringer, and Exciter. Crowned the victors of the fall 2022 Dirtbag Michigan Metalfest competition, Backlash have since released their emphatic thrash anthem “False Flag” to commemorate the achievement. Slated to release their second full length LP in 2024 – Backlash continues to raise the bar in terms of authentic live performance, songwriting and imagery.

For fans of Metallica, Megadeth and Pantera

EVIL INCARNATE

Death metal from Illinois, since 1997

THE SUFFERING

The Suffering is Jeff Holmes guitars, Jon Billman bass, Scott Davidson Drums & Casey Loving vocals

THE BOBBY LEES

Upstart garage punks the Bobby Lees formed after guitarist-vocalist Sam Quartin moved to Woodstock, New York, and took a suggestion from a friend to recruit her new bandmates from the local School of Rock. Now in her mid-20s, Quartin is an established actress who’s played alongside the likes of Crispin Glover, Michael Pitt, and Marilyn Manson, but in the Bobby Lees she gives you the idea that she might prefer basement shows to red carpets. On the new album Skin Suit (Alive/Natural Sound), produced by Jon Spencer, the band show they’ve got the chops and the weirdness to refresh vintage rock, punk, and blues (they do a gritty take on Bo Diddley’s “I’m a Man”) without the commercialism that has plagued other prominent garage bands of their generation. Quartin’s unpolished vocals often recall Richard Hell (the record closes with a rousing cover of “Blank Generation”), but the music is memorable enough in its own right to make you want to put highlights such as “Coin” and “Guttermilk” on repeat. The swaggering, minimalist “Ranch Baby” is equally funny and gross, with lead guitarist Nick Casa taking a turn at the mike to ponder a mysterious (and apparently sexy) creamy white substance. On “Last Song,” with its backdrop of sweet, 50s-flavored pop, Quartin delivers a take on “crooning” that sounds like Bobby Darin as a serial killer. Like so many other bands, the Bobby Lees had to cancel their spring tours, but with help from a little word of mouth they’ll surely be playing packed punk shows as soon as social-distancing measures allow.

NIGHT SPICE

Night Spice is a synth based electronic project from Miami, IL. Positive vibes only.

FALL OUT BOY “FROM UNDER THE CORK TREE”

From Under the Cork Tree is the second studio album by the American rock band Fall Out Boy, released on May 3, 2005, through Island Records as the band’s major label debut. The music was composed by lead vocalist and guitarist Patrick Stump, with all lyrics penned by bassist Pete Wentz, continuing the band’s songwriting approach they took for some songs on their prior 2003 effort Take This to Your Grave. Neal Avron handled production duties. Commenting on the record’s lyrical themes, Wentz said the lyrics were about “the anxiety and depression that goes along with looking at your own life.” In support of their release the group headlined tours worldwide and played at various music festivals. For their Black Clouds and Underdogs tour the album was re-released as From Under the Cork Tree (Limited “Black Clouds and Underdogs” Edition), featuring new songs and remixes.

Laini Marisa

Laini Marisa is a singer/songwriter and an International Recording Artist. She has recently performed in Kaiserslautern, Germany and recorded in Frankfurt, Germany.  She had the pleasure of touring in Japan and most of the major cities in the US with the Steve Arrington Band (former lead singer of Funk Band Slave), and has performed on stage, singing background and opening up for such acts as: Ronnie Laws, Tom Browne, Marzette Griffith, Dee Alexander, Garland Green with the Chi-Lites, Gerald Butler, Lil’ G of Silk, Frank McComb, The Average White Band, The Temptations, Musiq Soulchild, and Rachelle Ferrell, Mikki Howard, Jodeci and Brian McKnight just to name a few. Laini is Afro-Cuban born in Chicago, Illinois. Being Afro-Cuban, Laini was musically influenced by Tito Puentes, and Celia Cruz who were favorite artists of her mother’s growing up, among many other Latin artists. Other favorite artist influences of hers are:  Chaka Khan, Teena Marie, Natalie Cole, and Brazilian artist, Rosalia de Souza. Laini has also performed jazz and created a buzz amongst her listening audiences in appearances all over Chicago with Imagine That Jazz Duo, the John Wright Trio, Crosswinds Jazz Band and was great vocalist in a tribute to the late jazz musician Eldee Young.
Big Shoulders Brass Band

BIG SHOULDERS BRASS BAND

Formed in Chicago just after the turn of the century by a couple of Colorado transplants, the Big Shoulders Brass Band has been a staple of a prodigious New Orleans second-line groove scene in the Windy City for close to two decades. Mixing traditional Dixieland with street funk sensibilities, Big Shoulders brings a tight horn sound to the stage.

SUNLESS SKY

Power Metal band from Cleveland, Ohio on Pure Steel Records featuring:
Juan Ricardo – Bass and Vocals
Ed Miller – Guitar
Ewell Martin – Drums

PUBLIC SERPENTS

Skwert – Curses, Threats, Truth-Telling
Keith – Banging (Drums)
Ben – Giant Slidey Whistle/Computer noises
Weftin – Big Strings
Ferris – Loud Little Strings
Kyle – Aggressive Little Strings

PUSHING DAISY’S BAND

Pushing Daisy’s Band. Psychedelic Funk from Outer Space.
Max Heyob (guitar, vocal), Michael Mead (guitar, vocal), Ethan Rupert (keys), Mark Stinnett (bass), Tony Stinnett (drums), Chris Willsey (percussion, vocal)

JXDN

Rockstars may look and sound different from generation-to-generation, but the attitude remains the same. Defying any rules, jxdn authentically bridges subcultures, exuding reckless charm and boundless ambition to position himself as a rockstar for the new generation. Generating 15 million streams within a month on his self-released debut song “Comatose,” he became the first artist signed to Travis Barker’s DTA Records. jxdn’s label debut single “Angels & Demons” notched the top spot on the iTunes Alternative Chart upon release and debuted at #6 on the Billboard Hot Rock Chart, allowing the 19-year-old genre breaker to present his signature style and a glimpse of what’s to come on his forthcoming full-length debut.

“Music was always therapeutic for me,” jxdn explains. “Instead of simply listening to what I make, I want people to really feel it.”

Born Jaden Hossler in Dallas, TX, he grew up with two older sisters. He spent his formative years in Texas before his family relocated to Chattanooga, TN. Adjusting to the new surroundings and high school offered its own set of challenges.

“I didn’t enjoy high school. So I began to explore social media. It gave me the ability to control my life.”

In 2018, he developed a presence online through a consistent stream of engaging and clever content. He quietly exploded on Tik Tok, attracting 5.9 million followers and 202.3 million likes. He utilized it as a platform to introduce his voice. Packing up and heading to LA, he holed up in the infamous “Sway House” alongside a crew of rowdy influencers, and finally dove head first into his own artistry. Catching an arena show by the late Juice WRLD would be the tipping point.

“I was moshing to ‘Empty’,” he recalls. “I had the biggest revelation in my life. Music has the power to change us individually. It’s the most beautiful thing. So, I decided to really give it a shot. I had just graduated, and I wanted to do something for myself. I finally went after my dream.”

He pursued the dream full force with the single “Comatose.” The track caught fire, racking up over 15 million streams in a month and caught the ear of Barker’s son Landon Asher. He shared “Comatose” with his dad just as Russell Ali, the track’s producer and a friend of Barker’s, sent it to him too. A further coincidence, Ali used a Travis Barker Splice Drum sample pack for all of the song’s drums. Blown away, Barker signed jxdn to DTA. Now, the next chapter is ignited with the single “Angels & Demons,” co-produced and powered by drums from the legendary label founder himself.

“It talks about the duality between the light side and dark side of my brain,” jxdn states. “I’m getting into my mental health struggles,” adding, “I believe music can change culture. That’s what I care about. It’s the best way to express love and who you are.”

Joey J. Saye

JOEY J. SAYE

When you look at Joey J. Saye, you see a promising, young musician with his entire life ahead of him. When you hear him, his sound and his musicianship far surpass his age. The way he attacks the strings with finesse embodies the roots of blues as if he was around when the Blues were born.

Joey grew up just west of Chicago and music has been a part of his DNA since he was child; living in a household that provided him with a multitude of music genres and styles. Hearing his grandmother break out in song at any given moment helped him to appreciate music and its art of bringing people together, soothing the soul.

Even though he was introduced to the blues community at 16, he first heard the haunting melodies and guitar licks at 13 years of age when he was already dabbling in music and creating songs with his friends. But hearing Muddy Waters and Memphis Minnie’s music ignited his passion for the blues and he traded in his athletic gear for his guitar. And we are so glad he did.

Joey is making a name for himself throughout Chicagoland and all over the US, he is being recognized abroad, becoming an international artist with audiences embracing him with open arms.

His love of blues is infectious, and he shows the audience that the blues are alive and well and will still live on for years to come.

BILLY BRANCH AND THE SONS OF BLUES

Billy Branch was discovered by Willie Dixon, the “father of modern Chicago Blues,” while Billy was still in college. Willie encouraged Billy to finish his college education, which he did, but instead of going to law school after receiving his political science degree, Billy began touring with the Willie Dixon Chicago AllStars. This gave Billy the unique opportunity to travel and work as an under study for the legendary Carey Bell who was planning to leave the All-Stars and form his own band. When Carey took his leave, the young Billy Branch took his place, touring with Willie Dixon for
6 years.
Since those early days, Billy has played on over 150 different recordings, including 12 under his own name. He’s recorded with Willie Dixon, Johnny Winter, Lou Rawls, Koko Taylor, Eddy Clearwater, Honeyboy Edwards, Syl Johnson, Lurrie Bell, Ronnie Baker Brooks, John Primer, and Taj Mahal, just to name a few. In addition, he has received three Grammy nominations (losing one nomination to BB King and Eric Clapton). He served two consecutive terms on the Grammy Board of Governors, and founded
the Grammy Blues Committee. In addition, he has won multiple W.C. Handy Awards from the Blues Foundation, an Emmy Award, an Addy Award (this is like an Oscar for TV ads), two Chicago Music Awards, and numerous humanitarian achievement awards. Billy Branch has become the ambassador of the Chicago Blues. During his 6 week tour of Turkey, he represented the USA in Turkey’s Parliament, teaching political party leaders to play harmonica! Thousands of fans showed up every night of the week
to experience the authentic Chicago Blues! He and his band, the Sons of Blues have delivered this cultural legacy around the world, having made over 70 international tours. The 2007 Chicago Blues Festival honored the thirtieth anniversary of Billy Branch and the Sons of Blues with a 3 hour performance. In fact, they also headlined the 2011 Chicago Blues Festival. Billy is a Blues education pioneer. He was one of the first artists to develop a Blues in the Schools curriculum. Since 1978, in addition to recording and performing, he’s taught thousands of children around the world. His internationally recognized “Blues in Schools Program,” is committed to teaching both young and old about the Blues as the roots of America’s music. He has brought his interdisciplinary
program to Europe, South America, Asia, and most recently to Mexico where he taught his two week program in Spanish. In addition he teaches in the Grammy Museum Music Revolution Project.

INDIKA REGGAE BAND

Indika Reggae Band is one of the most innovative and influential reggae bands in the Midwest, having won numerous recognitions and awards. By incorporating and expanding their musical repertoire to include genres such as soca, calypso, punta, reggae, dancehall, R&B, jazz, and even some kompa they have market themselves to reach a larger and more diverse audience. Indika, with their highly energetic, multi talented, and versatile front man, Uroy Mushla, has entertained at venues all over the Midwest and southern United States. Recently, Indika has perform at Chicago venues such as The Wild Hare, United Center, Navy Pier and festivals in Illinois, Arkansas, Kansas, Michigan, Indiana, and Minnesota just to name a few.

NANETTE FRANK & FRIENDS

Nanette Frank is a vocalist, songwriter, vocal arranger, and producer with a successful international career. She has an impeccable five octave vocal range giving her many commercial recording opportunities.  While her success has crossed many areas of the music industry, her foundation in jazz and her love and history in the world of jazz is at the core of this wonderful new release, Nostalgia.

Carl Brown and The Solid Gold Reggae Band

Truly Mr. Solid Gold, Carl Brown is a performer that has been fascinating audiences for some time. His signature style and presentation cannot be mistaken. This sweet-voiced vocalist has had great success singing with his band Solid Gold International since 1988.

Carl Brown’s showmanship and vocals are unmatched, a gift that has earned him a record 17 consecutive years Best Male Vocalist at the Chicago Reggae Music Awards.

MY CHEMICAL ROMANCE “THE BLACK PARADE”

The Black Parade is the third studio album by American rock band My Chemical Romance. Released in Europe on October 20, 2006, through Reprise Records, it was produced by the band with Rob Cavallo, known for having produced multiple albums for the Goo Goo Dolls and Green Day. It is a rock opera centering on a dying character with cancer known as “The Patient”. The album tells the story of his apparent death, experiences in the afterlife, and subsequent reflections on his life. It is the band’s only studio album to feature drummer Bob Bryar before his departure in 2010.

BUDDY HOLLY “BUDDY HOLLY”

Buddy Holly is the debut studio album by Buddy Holly. It was released by Coral Records on February 20, 1958. The album collects Holly’s four hit singles released on the Coral label; “Words of Love”, “Peggy Sue”, “I’m Gonna Love You Too”, and “Rave On!”. The backing group was Buddy Holly’s band, the Crickets.

R.E.M. “FABLES OF THE RECONSTRUCTION”

Fables of the Reconstruction, also known as Reconstruction of the Fables, is the third studio album by American alternative rock band R.E.M., released on I.R.S. Records on June 10, 1985. The Joe Boyd-produced album was the first recorded by the group outside the United States. It is a concept album with Southern Gothic themes and characters.

wht.rbbt.obj

WHT.RBBT.OBJ

wht.rbbt.obj (“White Rabbit Object”) is a rock ‘n’ roll reckoning. Lauded by Rolling Stone for their “late-night decadence and velvet tones,” this femme fatale fronted powerhouse blends garage rock, blues, and soul with an unapologetic edge. What started as a covert side project between married duo Frank and River (Toussaint) Rabbitte has evolved into a four-piece tour de force, crafting music that lives on the edge of chaos and melody, delivering a sonic gut punch with every note.

Their sound defies easy categorization—described as “Bluesy, Smoky, Sexy, and Raw,” wht.rbbt.obj has been likened to “Amy Winehouse meets The Black Keys in a game of strip poker” (James Van Osdol, WKQX’s Car Con Carne) and “Heavily distorted roadhouse raunch” (NPR’s Sound Opinions). UpToHear Music claims, “wht.rbbt.obj will blow everything you own out of Earth’s orbit,” while Music Republic Magazine put it bluntly: “If Amy Winehouse and Janis Joplin are your bag, then get a load of River Rabbitte.”

wht.rbbt.obj was recently named one of Do312’s Chicago Bands You Should Be Listening To.

wht.rbbt.obj isn’t here to blend in. They’re here to bring back the danger, the romance, and the raw, electric thrill of rock ‘n’ roll.

MUDFLOWER

Close your eyes and Burn Down Reality! Which is exactly what your ears will be doing as they take in the heady sounds of Tim Bernard, Dan Lopez, Tom Scofield, and Danielle Spence. Their newly emerging sound of modern rock drumming, grunge-kissed guitar riffs, and sumptuously moody vocals create a unique blend of rhythm and blues influenced by the likes of Junior Kimbrough, The Black Keys, and Gary Clark Jr. Hailing from the Chicagoland area, Mudflower was conceptualized in August of 2019 when Tom and Dan, friends and band-mates had the brilliant idea to venture on their own and create a new sound. After the first jam session with Tim, the music chemistry between the trio was immediate. They knew they were onto something fascinating with their raw, gritty, modern blend of soul rock fusion. After months of collaborating they were ready to take to the studio, but before that, they wanted to experiment with adding a female vocalist in the mix. To their good fortune they just happened to meet Danielle Spence, whom they officially declared the fourth member of the band after hearing her soulful jazzy vocals that even Amy Winehouse herself would applaud. The final ingredient they fondly refer to as their “secret sauce.”

EGO MECHANICS

Ego Mechanics is a two-piece rock duo hailing from Chicago, Illinois. They use a combination of melody and raw power to craft songs that call back to the glory days of instrument-based DIY musicianship.

DAN WHITAKER

Singer-songwriter Dan Whitaker’s music defies easy assumptions, moving from dark ballads to intricate country jazz instrumentals to character-driven stories set on the road and in honky tonks. Since the mid-‘80s he has created independent original music in Chicago and the Midwest in bands such as Dan Whitaker and The Shinebenders, The Gyps, Great Plains Gypsies, and June Bug Massacre. On U.S. tours and at home Whitaker has shared the stage with artists like James Hand, Shooter Jennings, Corb Lund, The Bottle Rockets, and more.
With his latest album out August 13, One More Story Told, Whitaker introduces the deep scope of his songwriting range and evolution to newer listeners for the first time. One More Story Told is an acoustic anthology of updated songs spanning 1985 to 2015, produced by Todd Rittmann (U.S. Maple, Dead Rider) and released via Empty Highway. Sparked by a revisitation of his older material as a way to reconnect with his audience online during the pandemic, One More Story Told sees Whitaker swapping his trademark Telecaster for an acoustic guitar. The result is a warm, engaging, ‘70s colored journey into a past made new again.

Stormruler

STORMRULER

Pure Imperial Black Metal Warfare featuring members of Bastard, Oracle, Harkonin, Cast The Stone

Fareed Haque

FAREED HAQUE GROUP

Fareed Haque is a modern guitar virtuoso. Steeped in classical and jazz traditions, his unique command of the guitar and different musical styles inspire his musical ventures with tradition and fearless innovation. Haque will bring all that and more to Reggie’s for a night devoted to paying tribute to legendary New Orleans funk staples the Meters.

Considered by many to be one of the founding fathers of funk, The Meters created a unique sound that lasted through the sixties and seventies and was reborn in the late eighties. Their trademark sound blends funk, blues, and dance grooves with a New Orleans vibe.

Haque shares, “For the past 5 years or so I have been running a jazz festival in the Chicago area. Each year we pick a theme and last year’s theme was the music of New Orleans. We had all kinds of New Orleans jazz at the festival but I had to pick something for my band to play something that featured guitar. . . And what better way to celebrate that music than for me to jam out on some Meters! [Meters guitarist] Leo Nocentelli was a special guest with Garaj Mahal [Haque’s jamband, formed in 2001] a few years back and he showed me the right way to play ‘Cissy Strut’!”

 

BILLY, BOB AND DAVE

Billy Flynn, Bob Stroger and Dave Katzman are all seasoned Blues Veterans bringing an Old School Front Porch Jam to REGGIES sidewalk cafe this Friday June 11th. at 5:00 till 8:00 p.m. Come enjoy some straight up Chicago Blues and imbibe with REGGIES great food and strong drinks
Emerald Eye

EMERALD EYE

Emerald Eye is a Kansas City-based heavy metal band formed in 2020 by members of Midwest underground staples such as Vänlade, Relic, and Alsatia.

Brett Scott – Vocals/Keyboards
Nick Poffinbarger – Bass
Alex Moran – Guitars
Nolan Weber – Drums
For fans of Queensrÿche, Dio, Helloween, Lost Horizon, and Iron Maiden

Adamantis

ADAMANTIS

Already a cult curiosity via their 2018 Thundermark EP debut and initial self-release of their 2020 Far Flung Realm first full-length, Massachusetts power metallers Adamantis quickly entered the collective global melodic metal conscience when they signed with Cruz Del Sur Music. The first order of business was to re-release Far Flung Realm. In doing so, Adamantis was immediately thrust to the top of various “best newcomer” lists — proper accolades for an album that so brilliantly recaptured the spirit of 1990s European power metal. No longer one of American power metal’s best-kept secrets, Adamantis crafts with depth and triumph — a sterling display of memorable, anthemic melodic metal.

STEVE RAMONE

Like many Chicago based Power Pop-Rock musicians before him, Steve Ramone plied his trade in and around the Midwest for many years before signing with a major label in 2020 (Pavement Entertainment). Dealing in sweet but edgy 3-minute pop-anthems that are the hallmark of the South Side music scene, Ramone built a loyal following by delivering high energy, easy to enjoy performances backed by a crack band comprised of some of the best musicians from Chicago and Nashville.

The safe return of live music promises a busy schedule for Ramone in 2021; his first full length release on Pavement, live shows with the Steve Ramone Band and Heroes, session work as an acoustic guitarist and touring commitments as guitarist/vocalist with Frontier Records recording artist Enuff Z’Nuff will have him traveling from coast to coast as well as overseas.

Regardless of the format, it’s worth knowing that he treats them all the same and puts every bit of skill, creativity and love for the arts into everything he does. It shows – you need to hear it and see it for yourself.

FREEDOM HAWK

Emanating from the tidewaters of Virginia, Freedom Hawk’s heavy riffs, rolling groove, soulful guitar melodies, and harmonic metal packaging to produce a sound that is distinctly their own. The quartet’s brand of heavy rock captures the best of the heavy ‘70s with touches of early 80s heavy metal, and presents it in a way that’s unique yet very familiar. Inspired by their experiences that could only come from living close to the ocean, there songs speak to that lifestyle and conjure images of the warm sun, a day of surfing, and partying on the beach.

Founding members T.R. Morton, Mark Cave, Matt Cave, and Lenny Hines formed the band in 2005 and played their first show as Freedom Hawk in January of 2006, opening for Year Long Disaster and Throttlerod. Their debut album, Sunlight, was self-released soon after in early 2008. In this debut, you can hear the beginning of the band forming their sound and writing style that would be expanded on in later releases. Songs “Executioner”, “Land of the Lost”, “Going Down” and title track “Sunlight” embody their sound and can be found as a backing track to many surfing videos (and other beach related sports).

Their second release in 2009, Freedom Hawk (Meteor City Records), is a continuation from their debut in style and writing, and captures a point in time that reflects the beginning of the bands musical journey. Being a popular choice as the sound track for online videos, this is album is unique in that all 7 songs were picked up and used throughout the years.

Building off of the success of the first two releases, 2011 brought their third release, Holding On (Small Stone Records), is a reflection of the band becoming more comfortable with each other musically and expands on their sound. “Zelda” and “Faded” are perfect examples them reaching beyond the boundaries they’ve set for themselves, while tracks like “Living for Days” and “Indian Summer” provides a heavier take on their original sound. The song “Her Addiction” was sampled and used in an episode of CBS’s Hawaii Five-O and could also be heard in an episode of MTV’s Ridiculousness, along with “Indian Summer”.

With the departure of Matt Cave, the band releases their fourth album, Into Your Mind (Small Stone Records) in 2015 as a three piece, without veering too far from their original sound and style. The songs embody the same slow groove and heavy rock anthem songs seen in previous albums, but a cleaner purer package. The rhythm tracks were recorded with all three members together in one room, to help capture their sound in a more organic fashion, which was typically done in the early throws of rock ‘n roll. Tracks like “Beyond Our Reach” and “The Line” shows a more laid back bluesy sound from the band, while heavy hitters “Blood Red Sky”, “Radar”, and “All Because of You” stay true to the bands form. “Blood Red Sky” was also used and can be heard on an episode of MTV’s Ridiculousness.

2017 was an exciting year and brought the re-release of the band’s first records, Sunlight and Freedom Hawk, by Ripple Music. Both albums were re-mastered and release on vinyl for the first time since their original release.

The bands fifth release, Beast Remains (Ripple Music), is set to be released in 2018 and will be a return to a four piece with the addition of Brendan O’Neil. The culmination of years perfecting and solidifying their sound, combined with the energy that can only be captured by a four piece, with songs like Solid Gold, Darkness to Light, Champ, and more the stage has been set for what could be another reinvention and expansion of the sound they started ten years earlier.

Over the years, the band have gone on countless tours taking them to across the U.S. and to multiple countries in Europe. U.S. festivals include SXSW, Doomed Fest Maryland, and Doomed and Stoned. European festivals include Roadburn, Freak Valley Festival, and in 2018, Desertfest London and Desertfest Berlin with more live dates to follow as they continue to expand their reach both in terms of music and fan-base around the world!

Check out Freedom Hawk’s latest release, Beast Remains, on Digital, CD and Vinyl at www.ripple-music.com

BIG GIDZ & GUEST

YOUNG MEDICINE

Rising synthwave rockers Young Medicine pull the best from diverse genres to build a
carefully constructed music identity that defies simple categorization. Thumping
double-bass beats and crunchy guitar riffs hammer out hard-hitting rhythms while
chorus lines partner with sparkling retro synth tones for a stunning mix of audio ideas. If
synthwave and metal got together and started a boy band, the result might sound
something like Young Medicine, who have put themselves on the map as pioneers for a
new era by bringing rockstar swagger to the retrowave movement.

Young Medicine made a statement early, releasing their debut album Interlinked in 2019
to widespread fan and influencer support, including the group being named in
Alternative Press’s Top 12 Bands You Need To Know. The album also received
prominent Billboard charting, landing spots on the Top 10 Alternative New Artist Albums
and Top 25 New Artist Heatseekers charts. The band propelled themselves into tens of
thousands of Spotify monthly listeners practically overnight while a series of original
music videos piled up hundreds of thousands of views on YouTube.

The red-hot recording soon caught the attention of independent synthwave label FiXT
Neon, who signed the group to a deal in early 2020. The new partnership led to a
re-release of Interlinked along with brand new remixes while setting the stage for
original material to come.

Essenger

ESSENGER

Essenger stands on the cutting edge of electronic music, blending an array of influences for a sound that pays tribute to modern alt rock, EDM, and synthwave. The artist marks his highly personal songwriting style with striking lyrics, and the result is a singular creative style that opens new possibilities for both retro and future synth music. The artist’s adept compositional skills and production chops helped his early singles attract a significant following while racking up hundreds of thousands of streams on individual songs. Essenger soon connected with prominent labels including Seeking Blue and Monstercat, and those early successes led to an album deal with independent synthwave label FiXT Neon in late 2019.

DOLL SKIN

Two desert rats from Phoenix, Arizona, touring the world since the age of 13 alongside acts such as Creeper, Trash Boat and New Found Glory with total world domination top on their agenda. From Warped Tour to Slam Dunk, Doll Skin have been recruiting fans to the Rat Pack with their genre-fluid rebellion all across the map.
Since releasing their debut album ‘Love Is Dead And We Killed Her’ under Hopeless Records the duo look to the future, Doll Skin look to the future with new single ‘Control Freak’; a reflection of the dark times faced in 2020 and noticeable developed sound from the band, a middle finger to assumptions of who they are or who people want them to be.
With the battlefields of their teenage years now in the rear view mirror, Doll Skin are taking the Rat Pack on a new mission: To define what rebellion means to them now.
RAT PACK FOREVER.

KEN DAVIS PROJECT

Ken Davis Project is a Soul/R&B band from Chicago.

LORD WAFFLE

Members of Mungion and Elysian Green join forces in a power trio! Drummer Matt Kellen, bassist Vinny Kabat, and guitarist Cole Runge create a tight rock-fusion sound that’s as grooving as it is technical.

CATBITE

Catbite is a neo-two tone ska band from Philadelphia formed in May of 2018. Influenced by the jolting energy of the Specials, the Selector’s edged lyrics, and Elvis Costello‘s love of melody, the group cranks out short, catchy tunes that usually have a deeper meaning… and sometimes don’t. The band’s debut self-titled LP was released in 2019 on Bad Time Records and has sold of the first 2 pressings of 500 with the 3rd pressing on the way. The highly anticipated Sophomore album, “Nice One” , also on Bad Time Records, was released on August 6, 2022 and has already sold out of its first pressing.

MOUTH FOR WAR

Colorado hardcore

BOUNDARIES

CT Heavy

Cryptum

CRYPTUM

Death Metal band from Joliet, Illinois. Enter The Cryptum demo available via Sewer Rot Records!

Rotted

ROTTED

cunning like cobras

CUNNING LIKE COBRAS

Too late to explore the Earth, Too early to explore Space, The Esoteric Mind is our domain! Fast Paced, ThrashPunk Trio from Chicago…welcome to the Era of the Cobra! Raw tone, Thunderous Drums and Piercing Solos: The Three Headed Cobra- Ready to STRIKE!

Metal Never Dies!

Karly Driftwood

KARLY DRIFTWOOD

“Eddie’s Attic Songwriter Top 3 finalist, Karly Driftwood, has one of the most intriguing and original backstories. The singer-songwriter was a mortician before quitting to pursue music in Nashville. Because she couldn’t afford to make the move to Music City, she became a stripper to save up enough money to leave her hometown. She left for Nashville a week after graduating mortuary school and hit the ground running. After recording and writing her debut album, Too Mean To Die was released into the world. Since then, she has opened up for acts such as Lucero, Chuck Ragan, and Cory Branan, etc.

THE MIDNIGHT DEVILS

The Midnight Devils are a national touring high energy glam slam boogie woogie rock n roll band out of Omaha, NE and Chicago, IL. Featuring Sam Spade on bass and vocals, Sniper on guitar, and Jimmy Mess on the drums. Throwing all caution to the wind this power-trio is a bad ass-lipstick smeared party rock n roll band that takes glam to the next level. Having done hundreds of shows from coast to coast in support of their debut album Something Bigger, The Midnight Devils’ mix of rock n roll, sexuality, and depravity are the perfect combination. The Midnight Devils have also toured as the direct support act for UK rock legends The Quireboys in early 2020.

COSMIC SUGAR

Rockers from Chicago

LA ROSA NOIR

Born & Raised in Chicago, IL. La Rosa Noir is known for their unique blend of
post-punk, surf, and Latin rhythms, tying them to their cultural heritage. Their debut
album, “Arellano,” named after frontwoman Yeshi Regalado’s grandmother’s maiden
name, pays tribute to her significant musical influence. With storytelling lyrics inspired
by personal experiences, the album explores themes of relationships, loss, and
self-discovery, set against a backdrop of dreamy dissonance and fiery punk energy.
Since their inception in 2018, La Rosa Noir has showcased their musical versatility
across various venues. Starting in the DIY scene, they have performed at notable local
spots like Empty Bottle and Sleeping Village. Their dynamic presence has also graced
stages of Navy Pier, the National Museum of Mexican Art, and the Taste of Chicago,
highlighting their growing influence and appeal. They have opened up for bands like
Jenny & The Mexicats (CDMX), Grlwood, Noa Sainz (CDMX), and The Red Pears.
For fans of: La Luz, Soda Stereo, Siouxsie & The Banshees, Slow Pulp, Mazzy Star, The Cramps.

Daisychain

DAISYCHAIN

Similar to the dichotomous nature of their name, blues/psych rock foursome Daisychain produces a sound that is a beautiful series of contradictions: ambiguous, yet easily comprehensible; brutally honest while also soothing; rooted in classic rock and still trippy enough to please the ears of 21st century listeners. The female-fronted band from Chicago, who are also the best of friends, use music as a tool to connect and most importantly, channel feelings around the craziness of modern life. Moody, soulful, and sultry, Daisychain’s classic rock ‘n’ roll sound is one that a wide variety will relate to because it is based around universal emotions.

RENO CRUZ

Meet Reno Cruz. He lives in Chicago, writes songs about love, and might be your new best friend. His debut single, Your Love, is a deconstructed bossa nova anthem dedicated to the futility of a codependent relationship.

ALAYNE MAY

check out my EP, Home is Coming, on all streaming platforms.
Jackson Shepard

JACKSON SHEPARD

Jackson Shepard is a 25 year old multi-instrumentalist, singer/songwriter, and producer currently residing in Chicago, IL. He has performed with artists including Maurice Brown, MonoNeon, Makaya McCraven, and Braxton Cook; and is currently producing for artists including Silas Short, Adam Ness, and Makena Hartlin. His main project is with the band ‘Human Bloom’, with vocalist Imani Rousselle.

He is currently wrapping up a solo project set to be released in the fall of 2021. The album, almost entirely recorded from home, explores various forms of electronica, soul, ambient, dance, and Brazilian music. Some of the features include 99TheProducer, Luke Titus, Josh Griffin, and Irvin Pierce.

His current live band consists of Ryan Person on drums, Erik Hunter on bass, and Irvin Pierce on sax.

AATHEE

Collaboration. Label. Sunrise vibes.

YOGA AT REGGIES ON THE BEACH

Join us at Reggies on the Beach (63rd St Beach) for a yoga class with Gillian McGhee followed by drinks on the deck. Hang out on the deck after the class for a complimentary drink. Our food menu will be available too. All skill levels welcome! BRING YOUR OWN MAT!

PETE BENSON TRIO

Pete Benson on Keys
Kyle Asche on Guitars
George Fludas on Drums

One of Chicago’s premiere Hammond B3 players, Pete Benson has been in-demand as both a pianist and organist for over 20 years. Voted one of the top jazz organists for Down Beat magazine’s Rising Star Critics Poll seven years running, Pete can be heard at venues such as the Green Mill, The Jazz Showcase, Le Piano, Andy’s Jazz Club, and Winter’s Jazz Club. He regularly plays weddings and corporate events with David Rothstein Music and recently performed as organist with the Lyric Opera of Chicago for a highly acclaimed production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Recordings include: Live at The Green Mill, the George Freeman & Mike Allemana Organ Quartet with Special Guest Bernard Purdie, Sabertooth Live at the Green Mill, Sabertooth Plays Dead, Kyle Asche’s The Hook Up and an upcoming release with the Kyle Asche Organ Trio. Pete holds a Master of Music degree from DePaul University.

Dave Schmidt and the Smokin' J's Promo Pic

DAVE SCHMIDT AND THE SMOKIN’ J’S

Dave Schmidt is a Chicago area musician playing Rock, and Rockin’ Blues music all over the midwest. The original music features searing guitar, vocals, and passionate songs in these genres.

SHAYNE SMITH

Through his excellent storytelling and unique style, Shayne Smith is quickly becoming one of the most talked-about comedians on the scene. He most recently self-released a half-hour special “Alligator Boys” and previously released an hour-long special “Prison for Wizards” on YouTube and Facebook, which has amassed over 32 million views.

STEVE HOFSTETTER

Author, columnist, and comedian Steve Hofstetter is often called the hardest working man in show-business. With all due respect to the late James Brown.

Hofstetter’s national TV debut came on ESPN’s Quite Frankly, where Stephen A. Smith yelled at him for three minutes. Hofstetter has also appeared on CBS’ “Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson”, Showtime’s “White Boyz in the Hood”, VH1’s “Countdown”, Sundance’s “On the Road in America”, and ABC’s “Barbara Walter’s Special”, where he thankfully did not cry. He is the host and executive producer of “Laughs” on Fox networks, where he only cries occasionally.

One of the top booked acts on the college circuit, the original writer for collegehumor.com has also released six albums. Hofstetter has written humor columns for the New York Times, SportsIllustrated.com, and NHL.com, where he publicly admitted to being a Ranger fan.

After hosting Four Quotas on Sirius Satellite Radio for two seasons, Hofstetter moved to broadcast radio, and his Sports Minute (Or So) was syndicated on over 170 stations and in over 30 newspapers. Hofstetter’s second live comedy album (“Cure For the Cable Guy”) reached #20 on Billboard’s comedy charts. His third album (“Dark Side of the Room”) was the first ever pay-what-you-want” comedy album, since people were going to steal it anyway. His fourth album consisted of an hour of 100% ad-libbed material, which is, frankly, nuts. And his fifth album hit #1 on iTunes’ comedy charts, which is also a bit nuts.

Hofstetter’s brutal tour schedule consists of over 100 colleges and dozens of clubs every year, and is fueled by an immense online popularity, tons of press, and a Prius with great gas mileage. He reached 200,000 friends on Facebook (still the world record), 400,000 more on MySpace, and high shelves in grocery stores.

While Hofstetter’s live shows are routinely sold out, he is best known for his writing, first published at age 15, mainly to impress girls. At 18, he co-founded “Sports Jerk of the Week”, an irreverent website featured by press like USA Today’s Baseball Weekly, Sports Illustrated and CNN. And at 20, Hofstetter took a year off of school to head up web content for the New York Yankees. The Yankees won the World Series that year, which would have been wonderful if they hadn’t beaten Hofstetter’s Mets. Yes, he’s also a Mets fan. Poor kid.

While an undergraduate at Columbia University, Hofstetter was a well-read columnist for the Columbia Daily Spectator and a voice of the Lions. After a summer writing for Maxim, ESPN, and Sports Illustrated for Kids, Hofstetter syndicated his column in several newspapers.

Without his glasses, Hofstetter also looks a great deal like Michael Rappaport.

BEGAT THE NEPHILIM

Begat The Nephilim is an extreme metal band from Dover, NH
Pronounced Begat The nef – fil – um
The New American Bible commentary draws a parallel to the Letter of Jude and the statements set forth in Genesis, suggesting that the Epistle refers implicitly to the paternity of Nephilim as heavenly beings who came to earth and had sexual intercourse with women:
“The angels too, who did not keep to their own domain but deserted their proper dwelling, he has kept in eternal chains, in gloom, for the judgement of the great day.” According to the New American Bible, the Nephilim appear as part of the “increasing wickedness of mankind”

THE DEAD BEAT JACKS

The Dead Beat Jacks is a mighty trio prowling the edges of psychobilly and rockabilly! Bursting out of Chicago’s South Side with a Gretsch, a doghouse bass, a major set of toms, and the occasional demented cackle, the DBJs deliver a big ass sound.

Dead To Rights

DEAD TO RIGHTS

The BEST Grateful Dead tribute band in Northwest Indiana! Featuring highly energetic music and the most youthful group of musicians to play the music since the Dead in 1966. Constantly playin’ our respects to Jerry and the Boys!

Spocket

SPOCKET

For nearly a decade, SPOCKET has been delivering it’s signature sauce of technical, upbeat jams and harmonically sound arrangements to it’s loyal and wildly entertained Chicago fanbase.

This sextet’s mission is clear: Deliver a high energy, windbreaker-laden and solo wheel spinning performances to unsuspecting crowds, while backing their flashy stage presence with catchy hooks and an extra helping of chops to boot. So if you’re looking for a band to cure your chronic ailment of boring and mundane instrumental Fusion shows… “Put some SPOCKET on it!”.

DARK SIDE OF THE BOOB

Dark Side of the Boob movie screening
A fusion of story, sound, and show, celebrating L. Frank Baum and Pink Floyd’s cult combination and taking audiences soaring to the sublime. Premiering in October of 2020, a visual and audio FX design synthesizes Pink Floyd’s classic hits with the best of Chicago’s nightlife entertainment to transport audiences in a psychedelic tornado to the wonderful world of Oz, all in the comfort and safety of your own home!
A stimulation of all five senses and an event not to be missed.
https://www.subversionproductions.com/current-season

Sex Dream

SEX DREAM

Ramones style punk rock haunted with twee pop lurking in the background. Fronted by Maria Surfinbird. Straight out of Chicago suburbs
The Rumours

THE RUMOURS

The Rumours are a chick fronted rock band based out of Waterloo, IA. Talk about a bad to the bone crüe straight out of the sleazy pits of Rock N Roll Hell. Although it’s clear it’s clear this band sold their souls to Rock N Roll, they often flirt with Glamish-Punk, and even Blues ideas. The Rumours and their feisty attitudes are gonna rip your heart out and leave you beggin’ for more.

Snake Oil Bandits

SNAKE OIL BANDITS

Snake Oil Bandits is a bluegrass inspired acoustic folk group that blends several musical styles, giving a unique voice to their original and cover songs.

Paul Bolger from Mr. Blotto

Paul Bolger from Mr. Blotto and Friends (Alan Baster, Steve Ball and Garrett Degnan) playing some jams.

Jon Nadel

JON NADEL TRIO

Since 2015, Jon Nadel has been the sole bassist of Marbin (a nationally touring Progressive Jazz Fusion band). Jon released his debut album “Urraca” in 2019 and leads a Contemporary Jazz trio.

He is accompanied by:
Steve Nordin, the drummer of Terrapin Flyer and The Mudmen. Chicago’s premier Grateful Dead and Pink Floyd tributes.

Isabella Isherwood, a rising start in the jazz piano world. Isabella has been featured twice as a bandleader for the Chicago Jazz Festival. She is a proud alum of the CYSO Jazz Orchestra and is an active member of the Jazz Institute of Chicago’s Women’s Jazz Leadership Initiative.

ALI & BEN

1962. A damp, sweaty cellar on a narrow cobblestone street
in Liverpool, England. You descend down a narrow staircase
and enter a wild new world of raucous, primitive Rock&Roll played
with reckless abandon to an enthusiastic mob. On the small stage
is a group of young upstarts in leather jackets and cuban-heeled boots, pounding away a relentless beat that drives the crowd into a frenzy. This was the birth of Rock&Roll in Britain. This was the launching of the British Invasion that would soon conquer America.

This is the inspiration for Grand Rapids quartet, The JetBeats. The band was formed in 2013 based on a shared infatuation with British Beat Rock of the early 60’s. Part Rhythm&Blues, part Rockabilly, part Pop – ALL Rock&Roll. Legends like The Beatles, The Kinks, The Who, The Stones, The Searchers, The Dave Clark Five, and modern groups like JD McPherson, The Fratellis, Arctic Monkeys and Oasis provide the musical lineage.

As opposed to other bands that claim the same influences, The JetBeats capture the magic of that early 60’s sound with their own originals – done to vintage spec. A JetBeats show is a rocket ride to the fabulous early 60’s, with a contemporary twist. The gear, the threads, the tone, the LOT. The JetBeats will remind you of a time when rock&roll was fresh, wild and unjaded.

Feel THE BEAT!