Flamingo Nosebleed started in late 2007-early 2008 after the breakups of other local fort wayne punk bands. Founded by Jake Emissions (vocals, guitar), Drew Snyder (bass), and Josh Peebles (Drums). They released S/T album in 2008 which was recorded by Emissions and Kevin Gaskill (bricktops). Shortly after Josh Peebles left and was replaced by Pete Dio. They dudes started to tour and play a lot more shows all over the Midwest and eastern u.s. Including a recording of 6 songs with Jim Tierney at Joe Queers studio in New Hampshire. After a year, Pete and Drew left to pursue Petes band and Jake picked up Philthy Phill (bass), and Turbo (drums). Continuing to play more and more the guys played a ton of Midwest and east coast shows and recorded Headbanger Demos (very limited to 100 copies) which was handed out at some of the shows including insub fest in Baltimore. Wanting to tour more extensively, the guys moved on minus turbo and picked up mad mike in 2010. This has been the main lineup ever since. The guys recorded Headbanger and went on their first full U.S. tour. Followed by more touring and the Recording of “Blood on the Basement Floor” in 2013 on Kid Tested/Go Kart Records. Since this the dudes have continued to play all over the U.S. and Canada, sharing bills with a ton of bands including Agent Orange, The Queers, The Spits, Teenage Bottlerocket, The Lillingtons, Guttermouth, Toys that kill, Mustard Plug, Off with their Heads, Manges, Parasites, Sloppy Seconds, The Business, Suicide Machines…..etc.
Yawning Man, who hail from the arid desert area of Southern California, have been playing, jamming, and recording since1986, and are a highly influential band. Most of their fans and those heavily influenced by them consider them to be ‘the originators’ of the entire “Desert Rock” movement/genre, and their influence has reigned far and wide across the globe.
Almost by definition, musical side projects aren’t meant to last very long, but rather serve as brief, often one-time departures for musicians otherwise engaged with far more pressing or successful bands — and that’s why Greenleaf has proved itself to be anything but your typical “side project.”
Yes, this Scandinavian music collective has gone through quite the revolving cast since their arrival on the scene, much like an auditory Y2K virus in that fateful millennium flip; but the one constant bond that has repeatedly drawn them together, every few years, like an irresistible gravitational force, is a shared musical vision, straddling the realms of stoner and alternative rock.
Such was the case when Greenleaf first assembled behind Lowrider vocalist Peter Bergstrand for that eponymous, year 2000 debut EP; welcomed Dozer frontman Fredrik Nordin for is 2001 follow-up, Revolution Rock; added Demon Cleaner guitarist Daniel Jansson for 2003’s Secret Alphabets; integrated Truckfighters singer Oskar Cedermalm in time for 2007’s Agents of Ahriman; and powered ahead behind reliable mainstay, guitarist Tommi Holappa, for 2012’s Nest of Vipers.
Now, Greenleaf is on the move again, bidding Cedermalm “adieu” and saying a hearty “hola” to a tandem of new recruits in frontman Arvid Jonsson and drummer Sebastian Olsson, who joined Holappa and long-serving bassist Bengt Bäcke in time to record (incidentally, with no outside help, guest musicians, or other additives) what would become Greenleaf’s next and fifth long-player, Trails and Passes, which is now ready for global release in May of 2014, via Small Stone Recordings.
And, as has always been the case with this ever-evolving sonic beast, the music magically draws out the best talents of whoever happens to be involved, resulting in a modern rock amalgam as impossible to simplify as it is futile to want to; after all simultaneously familiar and surprising new sounds seem to be the ultimate thread connecting Greenleaf’s long career.
A career that now sees the group categorically divesting itself of any lingering “side project” associations (ask Holappa and he’ll bluntly tell you it is Dozer that’s become his “side project” these days) and graduating to well-deserved headline status — the better to take the Greenleaf name to the next level on the abundant strengths of Trails and Passes.
A clever blend of classic & modern rock & metal sounds, saturated with memorable hooks, monstrous riffs, chest pounding rhythms & soaring vocals. Thick, gigantic layers of guitars complimented by intelligent drumming and an utter wall of earth pummeling bass interwoven with the lush sounds of 360 degree Hammond organ.
“I love Chicago” is about encouraging a different narrative in 2017 and showing love to a city we call home. Hosted by the Chicago in 77 Project, “I love Chicago” will bring together several local authors to read stories about their relationship with the city. Share some of your favorite Chicago experiences while connecting with other local singles. Soulful and funky sounds provided by local Chicago band Willy Dynomite.
The Chicago in 77 (Ci77) Project was born out of the book with the same name – “Chicago in 77.” Written and published by Karen Roddie, the book chronicles her day-to-day visits for work and fun through Chicago’s community areas. The Ci77 Project aims to encourage residents to cultivate a deeper understanding of Chicago. Through a variety of events, The Ci77 Project will bring Chicagoans closer together to rebuild a network of trust among neighbors and neighborhoods. We may be 77 community areas, but we are one city.
Serving up original sounds since January 2014 our music takes audiences deep into the minds of song writers: Josh Therriault and Stella Steel. Complete with a horn section and a duo of sultry back up singers we’ll keep your hands clappin’ and toes tappin’.
Josh Therriault has been playing saxophone, clarinet and flute professionally in Chicago since 1996. Heavily influenced by the blues, Josh lends his gritty sound to various projects throughout the city. In 2013, Josh completed a nine month stint as the primary saxophone player for the award-winning “Smokey Joe’s Cafe” at The Royal George Theater. You can catch Josh performing on a regular basis with The Opposition Party, ContraBanda, The Morphtet, and of course Willy Dynomite.
Stella Steel (Stephanie Stahl) has been part of Chicago’s music scene for 10 years. Originally from Cudahy, WI, Stella moved to Chicago in 2003 to study trombone performance at Northeastern Illinois University. After years of nurturing her inner song writer in 2007 Stella fronted her first band, The Heat Birds until 2011. Stella currently teachers privately at the School of Rock Evanston and as a music teacher at Rogers Park Montessori School. Currently, Stella can be found performing on guitar and vocals with Girlband, The Pryzmatics, Dean of Women, and Reality Bytes.
Holey Miss Moley is a Funk-Flavored Rock-Soul Infused Groove Factory based out of Florida (St.Petersburg to Orlando). Their high-energy sound is reminiscent of old school 70’s funk melded with elements of Disco, Jazz, Soul and Hip-hop creating a superb fusion that delights and energizes the crowd getting people up and dancing all night!
The musicians in Holey Miss Moley have collaborated together for years and it shows through their tight-knit sound and well orchestrated music. Even better, they enjoy playing together and it creates an atmosphere of funky fun for everyone.
NATTALI RIZE – Ask her where she comes from, she’ll tell you “All Directions”. In line with her philosophy she claims not to belong to any nation state but to the ever evolving community of conscious thinkers and creators anywhere & everywhere. Of mixed global heritage, with dominant Native American and Samoan roots, Nattali Rize has been known around the world for her work fronting epic roots band Blue King Brown as well as for her unwavering commitment to using her voice and music for the global struggle toward the realization of Full Freedom and the movement of Truth and Justice over the systemic exploitation of the people and our planet.
“Nattali is a bright light in the world with a vision that extends beyond the stage.”– Michael Franti (Spearhead)
The ever evolving and dynamic front woman now leads out fresh as a solo artist, with a heavy Reggae influence she describes her universal sound as World Beat. Lyrical. New Era. Nattali is Known for her high energy, thought provoking and uplifting live performances, whether it be fronting her electric band, performing solo, unplugged, or accapella. Her new international band is a Jamaican / Global Mash up of raw energy and vibe that has been rocking hearts, hips and minds since they launched onto the scene in 2015. An exciting evolution of this multi-dimensional Heartist!
“One of the nation’s most refreshing voices” – Rolling Stone.
After spending most of 2014 living, writing and recording, in Kingston Jamaica, 2015 has seen Nattali Rize drop some heavy hitting tracks. Including a collaborative project with cutting edge Jamaican production crew ‘Notis’, aka heavyweight rockaz. Dubbed “A HEAVY HITTER” and to high acclaim, Nattali’s collaborative EP with Notis dropped in August 2015, entitled New Era Frequency, featuring singles/videos ‘Rebel Love ft Zuggu Dan’ and ‘Generations Will Rize ft Kabaka Pyramid’ with over half a million views and rizing.
“Working with Nattali is fluid and natural. The connection was there from the first track, then to see her move to Jamaica and show us how passionate and strong her commitment is to the movement was inspiring. We’ve brought two cultures together to create one, naturally this has created something exciting and fresh.. Notis loves to be part of fresh innovation.” – Wayne ‘Unga Barunga’ Thompson, of Notis.
“This set contains heavy hitting tracks, both musically and lyrically, and brims with rebelliousness and emotion.” – Reggaemani
“INFECTIOUS!”– NPR
“The tracks will transport your Soul into another place, where everything is just right.”– Top Shelf Reggae
Nattali Rize launched her live presence out of Jamaica into the US & beyond with a strong run of mesmerising festival performances & national club shows. Now with tours alongside the likes of SOJA, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Katchafire, Third World, J Boog, Julian Marley, Chronixx and more under her belt, 2016 is set to be a big year of worldwide movements!
“it’s about being part of a movement, shifting perception and helping to amplify pathways to higher consciousness. Music is a powerful force toward this realization when used in such a way…” – Nattali Rize
Matthew Kopecky started writing and recording under the name ‘Oblio And Arrow’ in 2009 and continues to write, record and perform as ‘Oblio And Arrow’ with long time friends and collaborators, Mike Krieglstein, Brian Whitebread, Jenna Heerdt and Emily Douglas
DIRTY WATER
Dirty Water formed out of a common need to create a music which was both passionate and critical about the environment they lived in.
Dirty Water brings a unique and charismatic edge to each performance out of a brotherly togetherness.
Playing together for over 5 years now, they have gathered a variety of different music, bringing a full and distinct sound to the stage- and have released their new album One Percent.
Lordi is ready for the release of their eighth studio album MONSTEREOPHONIC (Theaterror vs. Demonarchy). The new album introduces two very different sides of the band.
The “A side” of the album, Theaterror, is a damn catchy collection of traditional hard rocking Lordi songs. The riffs and obscene words of “Hug you Hard Core” will stick in your mind forever – whether you like it or not.
The thematic “B-side”, Demonarchy, tells the story of The Undead Son, The Bloodsucking Count, The She-Wolf and The Witch. Musically Demonarchy represents Lordi more modern than ever. Highly complex song structures and aggressive in-your-face riffing is something we have never heard from these monsters before.
The album was recorded and mixed at Sonic Pump Studios in Finland with the producer Nino Laurenne, who was already a familiar guy for the monsters as a producer of the Deadache album 2008.
Lordi was originally formed in 1992, when Mr Lordi started doing demos under this name, but the project was still more or less a one-man-band, with few extra members playing guitar solos and bass here and there. The now infamous monster masks and costumes iced the cake in 1994. In 1997 guitarist Amen joined the band, alongside with keyboardist Enary and G-Stealer on bass. After a full decade of sending demos to record labels, Lordi finally landed on a record deal in 2002 with BMG Finland. G-Stealer was replaced by Magnum on bass, and drummer Kita was the last one to join to complete the 5-member combo. The release of their first single Would You Love A Monsterman and the debut album Get Heavy both saw daylight that year. Before the album release, Magnum was let go and a new bass player Kalma took his place.
Lordi´s bold and shameless combination of 1980´s influenced melodic heavy metal with the outrageous horror image immediately caught the attention of the rock media and genre fans around the world. The band´s live shows became known for their horror film-like theatrics and bombastic pyros.
The band released their sophomore album The Monsterican Dream in 2004 and continued to tour in Europe, gaining fans and recognition around the world.
In 2006 Lordi went through another major line-up change. The new keyboardist Awa joined the band and Ox became the new bass player. Lordi took part in the Eurovision song contest and won the whole competition as the first and only winner from Finland, with all-time record breaking points at the time in Eurovision history.
The third album The Arockalypse was released within the same time frame, with the band´s own idols Udo Dirkschneider (Accept, U.D.O.), Bruce Kulick (ex-KISS), Dee Snider and Jay Jay French (Twisted Sister) appearing as guest stars. The success of the victorious single Hard Rock Hallelujah launched Lordi to new heights of media exposure, fan recognition and success, that opened new doors for the band. Mr. Lordi´s hometown Rovaniemi named a market place area in the city center the “Lordi Square”. The Lordi brand was hot in the area of merchandising as well, with items such as Lordi postage stamps, Lordi candies and Lordi Cola coming out in the market.
In 2007 Lordi toured outside Europe for the first time, for example in Japan and in USA, where they played on Ozzfest and toured with Type O Negative. The band also released their own horror film Dark Floors in February 2008.
Late 2008 saw the release of Deadache, the band´s fourth studio album. It was a bit darker and heavier than the previous Lordi material, with the new costumes and parts of the stage show designed and built with a little help from Weta Workshop in New Zealand, award winnig cimena special effects house.
Lordi´s fifth album Babez For Breakfast was released in 2010. The album was produced by one of the world´s most famous heavy metal producers, Mr. Michael Wagener. Just weeks before the tour, the band´s long time drummer Kita was let go and the new drummer Otus joined in the group.
Year 2012 marked two anniversaries for Lordi, both the 20th year birthday since the bands birth and the 10th anniversary of the release of their debut album Get Heavy. However, all the planned celebration was quickly toned down hard, as the drummer Otus passed away on February 13th. After the time of silence, the band played the confirmed gigs and summer festivals accompanied by a musician mysteriously named as The Drummer. Another line-up change became reality in early August, when the long-time keyboard player Awa played at the anniversary show in Rovaniemi. That was her last gig with Lordi.
When finally the new drummer and the new keyboardist had been found, the band went again to the USA to record their sixth studio album, To Beast Or Not To Beast, under the production of Michael Wagener. The album was musically the most aggressive Lordi album yet, inspired by the technical and brutal way the band’s former drummer Otus played Lordi songs. In December, the keyboardist Hella and the drummer Mana were officially announced to be the new members of Lordi.
On Halloween 2014 the seventh album Scare Force One saw daylight. This time all recordings and production was done in Finland with the producer Mikko Karmila. The album included ten songs as well as solo tracks by Amen and Hella, and a special German release came with a booklet of Illustrated lyrics where all the songs were seen also in comic book form.
Line-up:
Mr Lordi – vocals
Amen – guitars
Ox – bass
Hella – keyboards
Mana – drums
After a few years in the sprawling spectacle of Los Angeles, Illinois raised brothers Robert and Scott Cerny moved out of their apartments and hit the road. Everything but their instruments were packed into a moving truck and shipped to Tennessee while they performed across Texas and Colorado heading to where they now call home, Nashville. Buzzbands.LA call The Cerny Brothers “a group without any trendy gimmicks, a lead banjo player strumming with the same vigor as if on the electric guitar and simplistic lyrics delivered with strength.” This year marks the release of their new album, Sleeping Giant, recorded at Bear Creek Studios in Seattle with producers Jerry Streeter and Ryan Hadlock, who are known for their work with Brandi Carlile and The Lumineers. The album signifies a new direction for the band. Adding keys and electric guitar, the music is evolving into a true American rock sound while keeping the acoustic folk spirit from their earlier work. The songs on Sleeping Giant deal with becoming a man and finding identity in a constantly changing world, staying rooted in something that can be shaken but not moved, and realizing that we all have a sleeping giant inside of us waiting to be set free.
Join us for a live, on stage version of The Dating Game… But! This version will include a whole lot of booze, wild sexual innuendo and so much hilarity that there is a strong possibility of wetting your pants one way or another.
UDUSIC
NO TURN ON RED
We are a Groove/Funk/Dance band that plays everything from old school to the new cool. Come check us out on stages across Chicago!
Equally at home in jazz, soul and folk music…” –wmuk.org, NPR Affiliate
Where Amy Winehouse meets Corinne Bailey Rae, Nashon is a soulful songstress set to release her first studio album, The Palace & the Hut, September 30th, 2016. Performance credits include features on The Oprah Winfrey Show with David Foster, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Carnegie Hall, Taste of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar. In addition to being a recording and performing artist, she teaches private voice to children in the states and visits alternative schools, juvenile homes, churches and hospitals in an effort to collaborate with students of all ages on music as healing, communication and artistic therapy. Nashon is a one-of-a-kind singer/songwriter with an artistic, jazzy style and relevant essence born of authenticity.
Chicago 3 piece playing high energy fuzzed out rock with inspirational nods to genre legends of punk, garage, and 70’s stoner guitar riff apocalypse. There’s catchy hooks, sweat, and a fast action feast for all your attention deficit eyes & ears.
Double album being released in early 2023, featuring the debut recording from Electrical Audio in 2018, and a live side spanning the 6 year history of the band. More info @ Another Riff Raff Label
We write songs about brains and rats and trees and sometimes rain, and whatever we’re looking at. Sometimes it’s folky, or bluesy, and sometimes Haley lets Josh write metal. We invented whiskeycore. We regret trying grocery store moonshine.
“The Streit brothers have been making music since they were toddlers and can play just about anything with strings on it (and plenty of other stuff). While Tim is a few years Kyle’s junior, his musical output is certainly on par with his older brother. Together, with a few other brilliant Midwesterners, they form folk-country-alternative-rock band Bad Saddles.” –Dan Jarvis of Midwest Action
ProgNation is one of the most talked-about classic prog-rock acts, demonstrating first-class performances of YES, King Crimson, Genesis, ELP, Moody Blues, and more all in one band! ProgNation is a huge hit with classic progressive rock fans old and new at concerts, festivals, and special events.
Katy Guillen and The Girls, out of Kansas City, MO, formed in September of 2012. The blues influenced roots rock trio is made up of Katy Guillen (guitar, vocals), Claire Adams (bass, vocals), and Stephanie Williams (drums). The group’s sound is characterized by Guillen’s searing, lively guitar licks; Williams’ heavy, driving drums; and Adams’ rock solid bass lines. Guillen’s soulful vocals backed by Adams’ intense harmonies add a fierce punch to Guillen’s songwriting. KG&G draw influences everywhere from rock and roll contemporaries like Heartless Bastards and the timeless guitar god Jimi Hendrix to sweet songstress Patty Griffin. They’ve been known to pack a blues and BB-Q roadhouse, just as easily as they will fill up a multi bill rock/alternative venue.
FIRSTJASON is a punk-metal project fronted by ARI LEHMAN. the singer/actor who has the unique honor of having played the role of the First Jason Voorhees in the Paramount Classic Horror Film “Friday the 13th” (1980). A native New Yorker, seasoned artist and professional musician, Lehman rips through the tight melodies and vicious hooks with his arsenal, a shredding Keytar and powerful voice. FIRSTJASON performs in punk/metal clubs, metal fests, film festivals, and horror conventions throughout Europe and the US, including THE VIPER ROOM, THE WHISKY A GO-GO, LUCKY 13, THE HARD ROCK CAFE, LEBOWSKI FEST, DAYS OF THE DEAD HORROR CON, HORRORHOUND WEEKEND, FANGORIA WEEKEND OF HORRORS, ROCK AND SHOCK, MOTOR CITY NIGHTMARES, FESTIVAL DE CINE DE TERROR in SPAIN, FANTASY HORROR AWARDS CEREMONY in ITALY, BLOODY WEEK-END in FRANCE, SAVAGEFEST, THE MILWAUKEE METAL MASSACRE, METAL MERGENCE, THE COBRA LOUNGE, HEARTBREAKERS, THE DUCK INN, NATHAN P. MURPHY’S, THE I-ROCK, HOUSECORE FEST and THE EARL. The new album by FIRST JASON called “To Be a Monster” has been signed to Eternal Sound Records and Katzenjammer Records for May 2017 release. Press Quotes: “First Jason is amazing…hits you over the head with an anvil being swung at 1000 miles an hour by the metal gods. …Lehman a”First Jason is amazing…hits you over the head with an anvil being swung at 1000 miles an hour by the metal gods. …Lehman and crew break out of your speakers in surround-sound, get in your face, flash you the devil horns … will leave your jaw dragging across the floor.” -COLLEGE NEWS
“First Jason, with ‘Heed My Warning’, has almost developed a brand of thinking man’s horror-themed rock” – Gaz E UBER ROCK UK
Based in Chicago, IL, Without U2 is named after the song “With or Without You”, from U2’s breakthrough album The Joshua Tree.
Without U2 performs hits from all the albums, from Boy, October, War, The Unforgettable Fire, Joshua Tree, Rattle and Hum, Achtung Baby, Zooropa, Pop, All That You Can’t Leave Behind, How To Dismantle An Atomic Bomb, and No Line on the Horizon.
Our members are professional musicians and huge U2 fans. We will not settle for less than complete authenticity. Prior to Without U2, Duo (our Bono) entertained all over the world with Vertigo USA (U2) and Ten (Pearl Jam) to name a few, opening for such acts as Gin Blossoms, Quiet Riot, and the Bullet Boys. Bag Edge recreates the tech guitar wizardry of “The Edge”, and Sparky (bass) supplies the melodic low end of Adam Clayton. And true to his real-life counterpart, Larry Mullen Jr., drummer Kropper provides the heart, soul and attention to detail that makes Without U2 unrivaled, except by U2 themselves.
Without U2 is available for stadium shows, festivals, clubs, casinos, weddings, birthdays, concerts in the park, Christmas parties, fundraisers, churches, Armed Forces Tours (USO Tours), as well as private parties and corporate events within the U.S. and around the world.
“They may be all but just two people, but The Two Tens are a hot new L.A. duo to be reckoned with. Made up of Adam Bones on the punk rock vocal vibrato (and shredding guitar), and Rikki Styxx playfully pounding away on the skins, The Two Tens exude a ferocious sound live. The band just released three back-to-back EPs, with a fourth on the way, and we don’t see any signs of them letting up.” – Los Angeles Magazine
Anthem –– Classic Rock with an Edge
Anthem, Classic Rock with an Edge is an experience you just have to see and hear! This line up of experienced artists have performed at major venues and festivals throughout the Midwest for the past two decades Anthem’s song list extends from their trademark proven classic rock favorites all the way up to todays popular selections. The musical chorus will stay with you long after the show is over, making you want to come back and hear all your favorite songs again and again. Matt Medlen of Chicagoland Concert & Event Review says “These guys bring years of experience to the stage and it shows, various members take turns performing the lead on songs that fit their broad vocal ranges. Amazing that these guys packed so much music and talent into a single show. An Amazing performance and well worth the price of admission.” Kevin Willison, Lead singer, says “this is your show, we are just hosting the party.” If you are looking for a band that is not only entertaining but also willing to work with you to make your event special Anthem is the band to book.
Inspired by bands like the Ramones, Pixies, and Green Day that combine the energy of punk with the bubblegum hooks of pop, the Dollyrots started as a scrappy trio aligned with Lookout, and their 2004 debut, Eat My Heart Out, firmly places them in the Muffs camp of loud noise with sweet melody. The band slimmed down to a duo of bassist/vocalist Kelly Ogden and guitarist Luis Cabezas, and shifted to a streamlined, more mainstream brand of punk-pop that landed them in commercials and TV shows. Their sunny, hooky songs are easy to digest, and albums like 2010’s A Little Messed Up, 2017’s Whiplash Splash, and 2019’s Daydream Explosion have won them a devoted fan base. Along with raising a family, the pair continue to tour frequently and keep the punk-pop flame alive.
The group started when Ogden and Cabezas were students at the New College of Florida in the late ’90s. Initially named No Chef, the lineup included bassist/lead vocalist Josh Harrold and drummer Mike Benbow; the band was something of a lark until Ogden and Cabezas decided to make it a full-time concern. Harrold left the group at this point and Ogden took over vocal chores. Benbow was the next to depart, and he was replaced by Frank Beasley. This was the trio that took the name the Dollyrots and left Florida in 2001 in search of a new home. After a long road trip, they settled in Los Angeles and began playing shows as soon as they got settled. After replacing Beasley with Josh Valenti, the band recorded their first EP, Feed Me Pet Me, and released it themselves in 2003.
The group met producer John Fields not long after and went into the studio with him to record their debut album, Eat Your Heart Out. Initially self-released, the record was picked up by Panic Button, a label housed under the Lookout umbrella. By the time it was released in July 2004, Valenti had left the group and was replaced by Amy Wood. The Dollyrots spent most of the next two years on the road, including a stint on the Warped Tour. In between dates, they started working on their second album but were derailed when Lookout went out of business. Luckily, the band had a fan in Joan Jett, who was so taken by the Dollyrots that she offered them a spot on her Blackheartlabel roster. Produced by Jacques Wait and Fields, the group’s second album, Because I’m Awesome, was issued on Blackheart in March 2007. They toured incessantly to promote it and popped up all over the place, recording a version of Jett’s song “Bad Reputation” for the soundtrack to the film Endless Bummer, playing themselves on the TV series Greek, and doing a commercial for the Kohl’s department store.
The Dollyrots’ next album was recorded in 2009, with Cabezas taking over some production duties for the first time. A Little Messed Up was released in 2010 and saw the band folding more pop elements into their sound and working with outside songwriters too. The group left Blackheart after that release, and their next record was an EP on their own Arrested Youth label. Sticking with self-releasing their work, the band turned to crowdfunding site Kickstarter for support, launching a wildly successful campaign that yielded the funds needed to record 2012’s The Dollyrots. Working again with Fields, the album featured Ogden and Cabezas firmly in charge for the first time in their career as they played all the instruments (save for a few parts done by Fields) and had final say over all facets of the process. They hit the road after the record’s release and only stopped when Ogden became pregnant. That didn’t stop them from making a record, though, and 2014’s Barefoot and Pregnant was recorded during Ogden’s pregnancy. The album fared well critically and reached number seven on Billboard’s Heatseekers chart.
The all-acoustic Love Songs, Werewolves, and Zombies was released digitally in 2013 to the band’s PledgeMusic supporters, and received a public release the following year. The Dollyrots continued to successfully fund their projects through PledgeMusic, and in 2016 they released their first concert album, the ambitious, double-disc/DVD set Family Vacation: Live in Los Angeles. That same year also saw the release of the three-song EP Mama’s Gonna Knock You Out. By the end of the year, they were working on two new projects: another kid and their next album. The couple’s baby girl was born in November and the John Fields-produced Whiplash Splash was released in early 2017.
The Dollyrots continued touring — with drummer Rikki Styxx, who had been with them since 2014 — and raising a family before hitting the studio again. They released the single “Get Radical” on their new label home of Wicked Cool Records, and followed it in 2019 with their eighth studio album, Daydream Explosion. 2022 saw the release of the career-spanning Down the Rabbit Hole, a compilation of rarities, B-sides, and covers. ~ Katherine Fulton & Timothy Monger, Rovi
In March 2021, The Rumjacks released their fifth studio album ‘Hestia’, rejuvenating the bands collaborative spirit, and marking an explosive new era of energy and creative release.
Hestia introduced new singer and songwriter Mike Rivkees on lead vocals, heralding a refreshing evolution for the band that connected fans old and new. The album was an unmitigated success, both critically and artistically, and signified a fresh page in the story of The Rumjacks.
Invigorated by the release of Hestia, The Rumjacks quickly went back into the studio to record ‘Brass for Gold’ EP, capitalising off their new sense of artistry.
“After the amazing response we had from Hestia’s release, we knew we had to back it up, do it justice and show we aren’t messing around with any of this,” Bassist Johnny McKelvey said.
“I guess while COVID ‘slowed everyone down‘ it just made us want to work harder, record more music, plan and think ahead to when all this mess ended that would be ahead in every way”
The resulting EP a clear representation of a band finding a new voice and making sure that voice is heard as loud as possible. Grounded by the eclectic Celtic punk sound that The Rumjacks have become synonymous with, ‘Brass for Gold’ sees the band dig deeper into their ska and hard rock influences, all the while holding onto the defiant energy that ignites their sound.
While ‘Hestia’ had the band conquering a global pandemic in order to record, ‘Brass for Gold’ saw the boys united in person for the first time. Producing a sound that is seamless and cohesive.
“Brass for Gold is as much as an EP can possibly offer and still be called an EP. In true Rumjacker fashion, these songs represent a variety of different stories. The topics range from lovesick nostalgia, to misfortunate war heroes, and a few lighthearted drinking songs for good measure,” Rivkees said.
“While some EP’s tend to be quite experimental, Brass for Gold represents a solid continuation of the newly reformed Rumjacks. Once again stating (almost literally in some of the lyrics) we are passionate and dedicated songwriters.”
From the raucous comradery of first single ‘One For The Road’ to the crashing crescendo of ‘Blinding Flashes’ to the confident sentimentality of ‘Falling Back’, the cumulative energy of ‘Brass For Gold’ sees the band communicate one thing loud and clear.
Tim Vee is a nationally Touring musician from upstate New York. Having been involved in the touring circuit, as well as traveling the country for The last 12 years, he has been in and out of bands, sharing the stage with a variety of groups anywhere from T.S.O.L ,to Demun Jones (Rehab), before deciding to try his hand at a solo career three years ago. After spending some time in Texas to work and write, he’s back on the road in support of his first EP “snake charmer”
FINAL SIGN is a North Carolina based Heavy Metal band. Incorporating elements of Thrash Metal, US Power Metal and Traditional Heavy Metal, FINAL SIGN delivers the goods. Made up of veterans from the Metal scene, FINAL SIGN is a band ready to charge headlong into the swirling masses of Metal fans around the world!
LEGENDRY
Legendry is an epic heavy metal band. Their music is heavily influenced equally by early 80s heavy metal and the works of Robert E. Howard.
Legions of Metal Festival are very excited to announce the re-union of US Metal act CEREBUS. We also really want to thank Jeremy Golden of Heaven and Hell Records for putting us in contact with this band and helping make this happen. This classic North Carolina act from the 80’s is back and will be playing the main stage at the festival this year. We are very excited to hear the songs from the “Too Late Too Pray” album. To quote one of the song titles….I think they are going to “Rock The House Down” for sure. Please let us know what you think of this great addition to the festival.
Helion Prime was formed in 2014 based out of Sacramento, CA by guitarist/songwriter Jason Ashcraft. Blending heavier metal genres with his first love power metal Helion Prime brings a different attitude to power metal. While keeping with the big bombastic vocals you love in power metal they also drag into the mix heavy guitar riffs and even a taste of American metalcore.
Who knew that those three legendary chords could create such a long, interesting history for The Shadows of Knight. The band was formed in 1964, originally as The Shadows. They became The Shadows of Knight in 1965 featuring Jim Sohns, Warren Rogers, Wayne Pursell, Tom Schiffour, and Norm Gotsch. Right as they were hitting it big, Pursell and Gotsch left the band, recruiting Jerry McGeorge and Joe Kelley. This is the lineup that recorded the two most well known Shadows of Knight albums, “Gloria” and “Backdoor Men”. David “Hawk” Wolinski was recruited as the Organ Player, and later replaced Rogers on bass after he was drafted into the US Military. This lineup lasted about 18 months before Sohns fired the entire band. After 4 billboard charting hits, the “classic” lineup of SOK was no more. Sohns performed as the SOK with many different lineups, and in 1969, the Shadows of Knight released one last million seller, “Shake”. This was with a Jimy Sohns and a totally different Super K lineup. Sohns has never stopped touring as The Shadows of Knight. After 37 years of no new albums, The Shadows of Knight released “A Knight to Remember” in 2006, to critical acclaim. In August of 2016, The ORIGINAL Shadows of Knight got back together for one last show in Arlington Heights for the first time since 1967. But the history doesn’t end there…Sohns continues to rock festivals, arenas, casinos, clubs, and anywhere that he feels like to this very day. 51 years later and you can still hear the crowd scream “G L O R I A!!!!”
She may have Mercury and Mobo nominations, Ivor Novello and NME Awards, a critically garlanded music career and a starring role in Top Boy, one of the most talked about Netflix reboots, but you best believe when we say that 27-year old Simbiatu Ajikawo, aka Little Simz, is just getting started. Three wildly praised studio albums in, Simz is at a critical crossroads – her wild ambition, fierce talent and furiously diligent work ethic has won her devoted fans with the likes of Kendrick Lamar, Damon Albarn and Jay-Z, and seen praise heaped upon her from publications on both sides of the Atlantic, but what’s next? Luckily, she has risen to the challenge tenfold with Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, her most important and ambitious record yet, a coruscating journey into the heart of what it means to be alive in these tumultuous times, and one which looks set to handily cement her position as one of the most potent and vital young talents around today.
Badwater Sound is a Chicago based Americana Rock’n’Roll and Punk’n’Soul band for misfits, givers, takers, leaners, and shakers, for dancing, deliberating, fornicating, and burning things down.
Plugged In: Contemporary guitar music in the tradition of excellence
Guitarist and composer Galen Weston unleashes a lifetime of music on his ambitious debut album, Plugged In. After laying down his guitar for more than a decade, Weston breathes life into 10 original tracks and two covers with fine craftsmanship and intense focus, while showcasing an unwavering dedication to tonal quality and nuance.
Fueled by jazz and rock guitarists such as Pat Metheny, Mike Stern, Wes Montgomery, Mark Knopfler, Eric Johnson and Steve Vai, the record showcases his formidable guitar talents in the company of some of finest cross-genre musicians in Canada: David Woodhead (fretless bass), Al Cross (drums), Matt Horner (piano & keyboards), Richard Underhill (alto sax) and Rick Shadrach Lazar (percussion); as well as a guest appearance by Prague-born vocalist Lenka Lichtenberg. It was produced in Weston’s own Rose Room Recording Studio by Jim Zolis.
“Plugged In represents a two-year journey of writing and recording across a vast musical territory. It’s a sonic and personal exploration with my Yellow Stratocaster, ES-335 and other instruments. The album is the culmination of many hours spent taming the howling of vintage Big Muffs, cleaning tape heads on old echo machines, and tweaking the tone knobs on classic Marshall and Fender amps in the simple yet enduring search of great tones,” says Weston.
Galen’s story: A coda of success
Galen’s guitar story began in his hometown of Freelton, Ontario (pop. 500), clandestinely listening to and playing rock guitar at home, and at backyard parties. His musical journey turned toward jazz when an older musician friend introduced him to the art form, gifting him with two boxes of records by Mike Stern, Weather Report, and Pat Metheny as well as other great musicians. The newly-minted jazz enthusiast attended Humber College’s prestigious jazz education program, where his musical tastes and abilities matured. After four years in school, completely on his own and needing to earn a living, Galen laid down his guitars to pursue more typical jobs.
This 15-year coda to his music career came full circle in 2011 when Galen was on a trip to Greece with his wife and their newborn daughter, Rose, and his wife made a passing remark to a musician in a local bar. The musician, despite Galen’s protests, compelled Galen to join him around the table and play with him. Hours passed, and Galen knew his guitarist fire had been rekindled. When he returned to Toronto, he entrusted his thriving online marketing business to his partner and wife and began building The Rose Room Recording Studio. It’s been three years since that serendipitous night in a beachfront bar. And, just as he did when he was 13 years old, he’s once again spending 10 hours a day making music with his beloved collection of guitars and vintage gear; and putting his head for business into bringing those creations to connoisseurs who appreciate the visceral experience of instrumental guitar music.
Since the beginning of the Northwest Sound, the Sonics set the precedence and the pace that gave to every musician and band that followed the inalienable right to take rock to the edge of the universe, to explore the possibilities, to get out of the rut, experiment, and to scream your guts out, that you have arrived, and to continue that thought.
The Sonics have remained the most recognized sounds ever listened to by aspiring musicians and multitudes of fans around the world.
Originally from Tacoma, WA, The Sonics are claimed worldwide to be the first punk band, or garage, or hard rock, or alternative, setting the stage for all that would follow. The Sonics are still based in the Northwest USA.
Following their early retirement from being the SONICS they left a legacy and decades of fans who continued to spread the word and the music. Still revered, in late 2007 the Sonics regrouped and reignited on the scene in Brooklyn, New York headlining two sold out shows at the Warsaw.
The Sonics return has sparked international promoters, journalists, reviewers, festival organizers and hordes of dedicated and new fans to embrace the group whose music has thrilled and inspired so many for so many years.
Original members of the Sonics included Bob Bennett, Drums; Larry Parypa, Guitar; Jerry Roslie, keys and lead vocals; Rob Lind, sax, harp and vocals; Andy Parypa, bass;
The Sonics today includes: Jerry Roslie keys, lead vocals, Rob Lind, sax, harp and vocals; Larry Parypa, guitar bkg vocals; Dusty Watson, drums, and; Freddie Dennis, bass and vocals.
COMPOSER / GUITARIST
Sold Music to Leo Burnett, Weds at Green Mill Jazz Club w/ Alfonso Ponticelli2004-2016… Performed with Robin Nolan & Arnold van den Berg… Opened for Bodeans… Some Venues: Jazz Showcase, Andy’s Jazz Club, Martyr’s, Pritzker Pavilion at Millennium Park, Hot House, The Thirsty Whale, Double Door, Schuba’s Tavern, California Clipper, Fitzgerald’s, MCA, Whistler…
Maybe it is something in the water in that portion of the country, but Olympia-based band Ēōs has the discipline to craft long and overpowering compositions.
Tempo shifts move between Death Doom and Dirge seamlessly as the new progenitors of American Funeral Doom.
If music is food for the soul, then The BellRays are Thanksgiving. At a BellRays show they know how to cook.
Lisa Kekaula and Bob Vennum dish up plate after plate, hot and ready to eat.
Each song gives you flavors that both taste good going down and make you wonder what’s in it. Yes, the ingredients are important, blues, punk, rock, R&B…But even the best ingredients, used too much or too little, can ruin the experience and tire out the senses.
The BellRays have been perfecting this recipe for years now and may not win awards but if you are in earshot no one leaves hungry.
The BellRays give you not only what you crave, but what you need in every bite.
