Sepultura’s Roots marked a dynamic shift in the Brazilian thrash band’s career as the musicians took inspiration from the native music of their home country. The experiment paid off, with Roots selling over 2 million albums worldwide and remaining a major point of celebration in thrash’s rich history. Neither Max nor Iggor is in Sepultura anymore, but they are the founding members of the legendary band.
“Metalheads! It’s time,” declares Max Cavalera. “20 years ago, we released the Roots album and changed the face of metal forever. Now, we’re returning to ‘the roots’ to show everybody the magic and inspiration of the Roots live experience! You cannot miss this RETURN TO ROOTS 2016!”
Iggor Cavalera adds, “I am very proud to play Roots again, to reaffirm that after 20 years, it still moves people! We hit the stage again with Roots to destroy everywhere we pass by!” Max and Iggor will perform their set with their Cavalera Conspiracy brothers, guitarist Marc Rizzo and bassist Johny Chow.
The Bionic Cavemen are vintage heavy. And they’ve come to destroy the future. They began when the guitarist and the bassist met in high school. They were the only two who fit in, and they bonded over pep rallies and bake sales. The drummer met the guitarist in the woods and asked what he was doing with his life. They jammed and eventually brought on the singer because he is the guitarist’s brother, and the only person they knew to have a credit card. Over a series of car crashes and smoke-filled garages, they honed their sound, embracing the loud blues rock that allowed for the occasional psychedelic trip, while still maintaining their meat-eating, whiskey-drinking roots.
Veseria is a 4-piece rock group with an engaging fusion of raw power of the classic rock and early punk beats. Then add in the lyrical and melodic tones of American folk music and discover a sound that has captured the admiration of an entire city and audiences across the midwest.
On the heels of their second album, “Voyager” and new EP “Songs of War”, Veseria is already back at work on their next record and setting sites on their Fall/Winter tour before the new album is finished.
Stoop Kids’ sound is an eclectic mix of soul, hip-hop, surf, jazz, and rock with a psychedelic aftertaste. This, combined with their high-energy, theatrical, performances, makes Stoop Kids unique and unpredictable. While based in New Orleans, the band has toured extensively throughout the eastern United States over the past two years and plan to expand upon that. Their sophomore album, Already Out of Time, was described as “a genre-bending masterpiece” and “an essential album of 2015”.
The group is fronted by Griffin Dean singing, rapping, dancing, playing guitar, and writing the majority of the music. He is backed by Thomas Eisenhood (Baritone Saxophone, Harmonies), Sam Fruend (Bass, Harmonies), David Paternostro (Keys, Guitar), and Joe Tontillo (Drums). The five-piece band has independently released two albums and self-booked over 200 shows over the three years since their inception.
The seekers in New York City’s Psychic Ills have spent more than a decade following their muse wherever it takes them. Inner Journey Out, the band’s highly anticipated fifth album and first since 2013, is the culmination of an odyssey of three years of writing, traversing the psych-rock landscape they’ve carved throughout their career and taking inspired pilgrimages into country, blues, gospel, and jazz.
Inner Journey Out started out the way many Ills records have – with frontman Tres Warren’s demos. Like all of their records, Elizabeth Hart’s bass is the glue that holds everything together. Where other recent albums found Warren overdubbing himself to create a blown-out, widescreen sound, this recording handed the reigns to a multitude of guest players. A cadre of musicians and vocalists – including Mazzy Star’s Hope Sandoval, who duets on lead single “I Don’t Mind” – join in on the journey. This is also the first record to feature touring keyboard player Brent Cordero, his Farfisa and Wurlitzer work is a staple throughout. Rounding things out, is a platoon of drummers and percussionist. These musicians build the frame on which Warren lays his hazy guitar and vocals. An endless array of friends and guests join the proceedings to provide pedal steel guitar, horns, strings, and gospel backing vocals, which culminate in a career-defining moment for the Ills.
A decade on from releasing their critically lauded cult debut, Dins, and the deep dive into cosmic improvisation of Mirror Eye that followed, through the more recent and straightforward outings of Hazed Dream and One Track Mind, Psychic Ills have delivered their most remarkable statement yet with Inner Journey Out.
Nam Land crawled out of the gutters and back alleys of Chicago. We play our music to enlighten those who are too blind to see the atrocities committed against this world we all share. There’s a Cabal controlling the world ( the 1%) who manipulate us through the media and dominate using law enforcement, oil and war. They will try to crush us through intimation and force. Our words will not be silenced. Nam Land is not just a band. It’s you and me, a voice to be heard and reckoned with. Insurrection.
A gritty duo rooted in Americana, Pidgin delivers a stellar mix of soulful, singer-songwriter lyrics with pounding rhythms and a rock and roll attitude.
WAYFARER (Century Media) is the pre-eminent Western American Metal band. Composed of four black clad players from Denver, Colorado, the band’s sound draws from the deep wells of black metal, gothic country, and americana – creating a thunderous and uniquely American genre of metal all to their own. After ten years of existence, the band presents AMERICAN GOTHIC – a defining statement of Western heavy music that explores the dark soul of the nation itself. This time working alongside accomplished producer Arthur Rizk (Eternal Champion, Kreator) the band brings an aggressive and expansive vision to life in a new full length LP. Led by powerful riffing, bleak melodic sensibilities, and pointed songwriting, this record serves as a funeral for the American dream. Caked in dust, and buried deep in blood and gunpowder, it paints a brutal and beautiful portrait, and sees WAYFARER elevate their unique and genuine brand of metal to new heights. “What we have now is a world full of oil drillers, and railroad barons. Cattle thieves and company men. This is the new American Gothic.”
Hailing from Portland, OR, Rum Rebellion blends Irish tunes, sea chanties, oi!, and street punk into a hard-hitting yet carefully orchestrated frenzy which is usually compared to The Pogues, Flogging Molly, and Dropkick Murphys. Rising from the humble roots of a bunch of young working class punks playing drinking tunes together, Rum Rebellion has grown into a headlining act in cities across the Western US. Often described as hard-working and talented, Rum Rebellion presents an energetic and unique live performance experience.
Named after the actual “Rum Rebellion” of New South Wales Australia in 1808, Rum Rebellion began as an acoustic group early in 2005. The addition of bass and drums soon after led to stage shows in local clubs starting in January ‘06. “Cruisin’ For A Boozin’”, the band’s first full-length album (released in November ‘06) brought good reviews, opening the door for touring. Rum Rebellion has since released several recordings, including a second full-length album, a split, and several compilations, and is frequently touring both on the West Coast and in cities across the country.
Cult New York thrash metal act DEMOLITION HAMMER has reformed.
The band’s 2016 lineup consists of original members Steve Reynolds (vocals, bass) and James Reilly (guitar) alongside longtime guitarist Derek Sykes and the group’s latest addition, drummer Angel Cotte (EYES LIKE CYANIDE).
If you are looking for the heaviest, fastest, most violent thrash metal besides Slayer’s cult classic “Reign In Blood” pick up DEMOLITION HAMMER’s highly sought-after first two albums “Tortured Existence” (1990) and “Epidemic Of Violence” (1992) which are now available on Century Media Records incl. never before released live bonus tracks and new artwork! Rabid vocals, ripping riffs, furious high-paced beats, headbanging-friendly moshparts and brutality en masse – these are the trademarks of New York’s DEMOLITION HAMMER.
Mr. Funnyman performs a variety of different cover music including Micheal Jackson,Elvis,Pink Floyd,ABBA,The beatles,Meatloaf,Big and Rich, Fun,Def Leppard, and dozens of artists that would make this list too long.
Mr. Funnyman has been performing in the Chicagoland area for over 20 years and has grown into a multi talented 8 piece super group that will get your party to the next level. Jason, Jessica and Alison front this band with their harmonies as a five piece band backs them up packing some serious thunder. We play a wide variety of music that will stretch your musical imagination.
HE MYSTICAL STORY OF HALO MOON……….
(by Mitchellini Avi)
In a small coffee shop at the foothills of the whispering mountains four friends met for the first time.
This seemingly chance meeting quickly led to a river of sound:
Rhythms, harmonies, subtle dynamic words and music were soon to fill the air …
As they waited for the rain outside to stop they each noticed that
the others had carried in instruments.
The head barista at the coffee shop, Mitchellini Avi, picked up his
guitar from behind the counter and let his fingers fall over an A minor 6/9 chord.
Over near the fireplace Countess Shantinakoff played a descending line on her melodica and then sang a wordless melody in answer to the guitar arpeggio.
As if by magic, a djembe and a set of cymbals appeared next to a table by the door and a body swaying groove flowed from the fingers of Tosho the ArtTeo.
Next, a bass line came in from a place at the end of the counter as Soulriser added a jazz tinged favor to the sound – both melodic and funky at the same time.
Something was clearly taking form …..
Soon voices were singing and blending in harmony.
As the music morphed and grew before their eyes, the musicians looked
at each other with smiles all around …..
Outside the full moon was shining down through the mist.
Halo Moon was born.
The band played their first show later that night at the coffee shop.
Since then they have dedicated their lives to exploring the path of music with
their Songs of Spirit, Nature, and Life ……
And now they send out an invitation, especially for you,
To join them in the circle of fire,
In the caravan of souls,
In the flowing music of life …………………………….
OneLove — the backing band that powers Adam Gottlieb’s music — is a ragtag group of philosophical free spirits who happen to be highly skilled musicians from Chicago. With an eclectic sound that melds strands of Folk, Funk, Rock, Pop, Hip Hop, Reggae, Jazz and more, they create highly danceable soundscapes that take audiences to the heights and depths of the human experience. Each member plays an essential role in crafting the overall experience.
More than a band, OneLove is a tribe of inspired individuals using music to transcend boundaries, bring people together in life-affirming communion, creatively protest against injustice, and uplift the social movements of our times to move history forward. The project is about love as action, about justice as a natural law, about revolution in the most profound sense of the word: the process of nature unfolding, with the long march of humanity toward eventually expressing its highest qualities in a world where peace prevails and where we take care of each other and our planet.
At the end of 2011 from the remains of previous band Spirits Asunder, Jared Muench and Brett Hornick put together UNSANCTIONED after continuing frictions with the bands drummer. The Current members (James Arias and Nathan Monaghen) agreed to stay on with a new direction in the works. This was the formation of UNSANCTIONED.
Jared Muench was working with Death Metal Band Mordatorium at the time as live rhythm guitarist, along with Pat O’Hara who joined on to fill the drum position. With eager intentions to get the new UNSANCTIONED kicked off Jared asked Pat to try out the open spot in UNSANCTIONED. Pat accepted the offer with enthusiasm to play drums in a Power/Thrash Metal Band.
With the line-up confirmed Jared and Brett worked quickly to revise the old Spirits Asunder songs into a tighter and lyrically improved new UNSANCTIONED versions.
At the beginning of 2012 UNSANCTIONED pushing forward, now on track with a exciting new outlook for the future.
Chicago Area Power/Thrash Metal returns!
In May, 2012 Pat O’Hara Made the decision that he would have to leave the band to do conflicting circumstances. UNSANCTIONED parted with Pat on good terms. The last practice was May 27. We wish him the best and still stay in contact.
As a result of Pat’s departure UNSANCTIONED recruited bass player Nathan’s brother Danny Monaghen to fill in on drums, which soon become a committed full time Member. With Danny’s fast grip of our Songs and Style this was an obvious choice, Along with his wide versatile Range working with him is a ease and fun.
At the end of 2015 we have decided to let James Arias part ways with the band because of lack of interest on his part and personal endeavors of his own.. We may meet again in the future.
The beginning of 2016 we starting working with Kevin Nelson. We enjoy his enthusiasm and drive to bring it his all to UNSANCTIONED. This should bring a whole new taste to the bands sound!
Chicago native Joey Purp has arrived. A vivid lyricist from the west side of the city, his love for the culture led him to join forces with like-minded individuals and form the SaveMoney collective. Through these endeavors, Purp contributed memorable features to critically acclaimed projects including Surf by Donnie Trumpet & Chance The Rapper, Innanetape by Vic Mensa and .wav Theory by Towkio.
Over the last few years, the 22 year old has spent time exploring sonic boundaries as part of the duo Leather Corduroys. The group’s project Season attracted the attention of major music publications such as Pitchfork, The Fader and Complex Magazine. The album has amassed over 1.5 million plays since its release, and made way for them to grace the stages of RedBull Sound Select and North Coast Music Festival, amongst others.
Following success with singles and features in 2015, which yielded a performance on Comedy Central’s “Why? with Hannibal Burress”, Joey provoked the attention of critics and fans alike as he neared the release of “iiiDrops”, his debut project, blurring the lines between an album and a mixtape. The project’s three singles, released in the weeks prior, led to a skyrocket in hype. “Cornerstore”, “Photobooth”, and “Girls @” periodically racked up accolades including Pitchfork’s Best New Track twice.
“iiiDrops” was immediately recieved as one of 2016’s best endeavors in hip hop, accumulating rave reviews, including an 8.2 from Pitchfork, earning Best New Album, a 3.5/5 from Rolling Stone, as well as recognition from publications such as The Fader, Complex, Spin, and more.
Joey’s triumph has landed him on the cover of Red Eye Chicago, as well as his first US tour with fellow SaveMoney member, Vic Mensa.
Pleasure Horse was formed in 2012 by Shukin and Wiegard, two open-minded, creative, sick and twisted young men. Set out with the the goal to create something unique and original, the duo has been writing music since 2008 in various avant-garde projects and metal bands. It wasn’t until Pleasure Horse that the general idea had been solidified into something real. The Spook Rock quartet’s debut EP was released December of 2014, and is available at pleasurehorseexperience.bandcamp.com.
The band has recently been seen at The Taste of Chicago Fox Main Stage, Beverly Arts Center, American Lawmen Bluesfest, and many other Chicago area venues. Shows can be all original or cover music, ie: SRV, Clapton, Hendrix, Thouroughgood, blues standards, featuring soulfull scorching renditions of these artists, as well as all original music from any of Dave’s 6 original CD’s.
CookUp Cam, also known as Cam Marino, is a 21-year old producer and DJ that resides on the North side Chicago, IL. Having composed his first beat in 2007, it was the creation process that got the beatsmith started in music and art: creating something that fit into his own idea of awesomeness. He used his knack for learning how something is made and then recreating it to get his start in music and has since been regularly applying that same process to all fields of art and business. Nowadays even when you don’t hear “CookUp CookUp” you can still hear and feel that signature Cam vibe. That’s the hard-hitting bass and heavy drums on a cinematic canvas provided by wavy, melodic sounds.
In addition to DJ’ing events in Chicago for the likes of RiFF RAFF, Savemoney, Curren$y, Alex Wiley, and more, Cam has produced multiple albums and came out with instrumental sets of his own. This includes two albums for Kollateral (QP EP, Meet the Robinsons), one for Teek Hall (Murals), and another for Robby Ra’$hu (Illanacci Sequence).
TALES OF MURDER AND DUST
have roamed the Danish psychedelia and noise rock underground scenes since 2007.
Formed with a shared passion for twisted cinematic soundscapes, the band has released two EPs, Peyote (2009) and Skeleton Flowers (2013), and debut LP, Hallucination of Beauty (2012), gaining them significant international attention and earning them a solid place in their own dark corner of the psych scene.
THE FLOW IN BETWEEN
marks a new, dark chapter in the band’s long history of exploration with stirring and inspiring sounds.
This brand new album shows the band from a much more gothic vibe than before. With its strident yet alluring soundscapes, it is a masterstroke of blending post punk and noise rock together.
The album was completed across multiple recording sessions through 2014 and 2015 and produced by the band themselves.
Acid Witch is an American heavy metal band formed in Detroit, Michigan, in 2007. They released their first album, Witchtanic Hellucinations, in 2008 on Razorback Records. The band then released two EPs, Witch House in 2009 and Midnight Mass in 2010. The band released their second album, Stoned, in 2010, on Hell’s Headbangers. In 2012, Witchtanic Hellucinations was re-released on Hell’s Headbangers.
The band’s musical style draws from many genres of music including death metal, doom metal, stoner metal, psychedelic music and horror films and their soundtracks such as the music of John Carpenter’s Halloween. Some have also noted the influence of NWOBHM.
Lead vocalist Slasher Dave has cited Pagan Altar and Witchfinder General as some of his influences. Due to the main overtones of the music, the band has dubbed themselves “Halloween metal”.
Mystic. Earthen. Psychedelic vision. A compelling tapestry. A resonant journey.
These are words others have used to describe Hercyn.
Hercyn formed in 2010 as a personal folk conclave to explore deep, dark and epic music between friends Ernest and Michael.
The acoustic timbres explored visions of death, forests and esoteric space all while living under the shadow of urbanism. As time progressed, the duo realized they needed to expand their sonic visions if they were to continue to fuel their desire to compose epic songs. Overdriven guitars, mossy synths, and thundering drums were added to create a live constellation of what is present day Hercyn channeling the desire for a world beyond our own.
The fall of 2013 saw the DIY release of Magda, the 24 minute epic with mournful and somber rises and atmospheric decays. Juxtaposed next to the electric and dense Magda was the B-side (2014) chamber version of Magda feature prominent acoustics, mandolin and violin. 2014 continues with the late summer release of All This Suffering Is Not Enough – a split release with Brooklyn doom act Thera Roya. The darkness grows for Hercyn.
Magda EP 2013
Magda (Acoustic B Side) 2014
All This Suffering Is Not Enough (split w/ Thera Roya) 2014
Fin’amor was founded in the fall of 2008 by guitarist Julian Chuzhik, vocalist Benjamin Meyerson, and keyboardist/bassist Nodar Khutortsov, as an ambitious effort to manifest a sound inspired by the sorrow and down-tempo of doom, the atmosphere and orchestration of goth, the versatility of progressive, and the strength and resolution of death.
The band is set to venture from the New York scene in the summer of 2015, beginning with the release of their debut full-length album. The album “Forbidding Mourning” explores themes of hope, despite a despairing existence, the paradoxical nature of love, and the desolation of apathy.
WINGS DENIED became a cohesive unit in February 2012. Three months later, the band self-released the Awake EP and ran out of free Bandcamp downloads, being downloaded 200 times in less than 24 hours. After releasing their first EP, the band embarked on a 14-day East Coast tour, co-headlining with Canadian progressive trio The Isosceles Project. The Awake EP was well-received, and was called “truly progressive in a landscape of music where progressive is becoming a dirty word.” Other critics praised the band’s “organic sound” and “[ability] to stand out from the ocean of copycats.”
After embarking on another five-day tour in January 2013, WINGS DENIED released The Split EP with North Carolina’s As Oceans, followed by a 30-day headlining tour supported by Philadelphia’s A Minor Error. Immediately after this tour, WINGS DENIED enlisted renowned producer/engineer Jamie King (Between The Buried and Me, Scale The Summit, The Human Abstract) to record their first full-length LP. In October 2013, band released a single named “Generation Y,” which is lauded as being “filled with borderline-obsessively intricate guitar and drum parts, soaring vocals, and massive production.” The band released their debut album “Mirror’s For A Prince” in early 2014 and continue to write new music and tour throughout the US.
Hi, I’m Tommy. I play in a few bands like, Murder Party!, 40oz of Spite, The Hubies. I used to be in Nuke and the Living Dead, Necrophilicons, Ten Second March, The Beat-Ups, Switch 76, Robbery In Progress, and plenty others. Solo, I have recorded a bunch of EP’s and a couple full lengths. Such as…
– The Misadventures of a Deadbeat (2003)
– Drop Dead EP (2004)
– I’m Poison (2006)
– The Rotten EP (2006)
– Working With Rats & Thieves (Full length)(2007)
– The Soapbox EP (2008)
– Ten Necromantic Classics: Split w/ Christophe (2008)
– The Splatter EP (2009)
– Broke (Full length) (2010)
I play shows from time to time, you can probably catch me somewhere! If you want me to play, send me a message!
Throughout the years of playing in bands I’ve shared the stage with some noteable acts: Agent Orange, Misfits, Kevin Seconds (of 7SECONDS), D.R.I., Koffin Kats, Blitzkid, Calabrese, Cryptkeeper Five, The Tossers, The Meteors, Left Alone, Mad Marge & The Stonecutters, Far From Finished, Flatfoot 56, The Swellers, Hellmouth, Mustard Plug, The Vibrators, Masked Intruder, The Meatmen, The Meat Puppets, Michale Graves (Ex Misfits), and plenty others!
Stump Tail Dolly was founded in 2015 by Ryan Clackner and Lucy Cochran. It’s purpose is to mess your head up with an off-center mix of metal and country with other influences snuck in for good measure.
Ryan Clackner and Lucy Cochran (sometimes separately, sometimes together) have toured, performed or recorded with Bob Wayne, Fifth on the Floor, Shooter Jennings, JD Wilkes, The Legendary Shack Shakers, Sarah Gayle Meech, Red Simpson, Travis Harris and many others. They’ve opened for Social Distortion, Tiger Army, HankIII, George Thorogood, Unknown Hinson, Roger Clyne, JJ Grey, Scott Biram and more. Ryan has appeared in multiple music videos, including “Hush Hush” by The Pistol Annies.
From the south side of Chicago! Their music combines power with melody, music that refuses to be ignored! The bands current members include founding members Vocalist Melinda Arce, and Guitarist Mike G., as well as Bass player Dallas. and Drummer Marc. The band is currently Playing shows throughout the Midwest!
We’ve completed our next release (ready for release in 2015) engineered by Eyal Levi at Audiohammer Studios in Florida.
We‘ve played countless amounts of shows in that time, toured the country Nationally, and we just can’t seem to be killed by the hardships of being in an underground band.
If you like progressive metal and rock, you’ll like us! If you like death metal and technical music, you’ll like us! If you just like new music that is hard to pin to a genre, you’ll love us!
Modern sophistication, futuristic class, and unapologetic originality are all elements that complete the composition that is Singer/Songwriter/Instrumentalist Angéle Anise. The migrating mademoiselle, never without pen and pad and ever filled with song, is a self-proclaimed Yankee-Fried Southern Belle who combines her lifelong gift of vocals, a 10 year obsession with Piano, and the abstract exploration of guitar to share her most melodic emotions. Ethereal yet electric, Angéle Anise musically ventures to indelibly impress upon listeners new realms of chordal expression that buoys universal, yet poetic themes of Love, Loss, and PostModern Life as it unfolds today.
Born in the enchanting heart of Cajun Country- Lafayette, Louisiana, Angéle Anise’s predisposed nature of gripping items as microphones foretold of her life’s long musical journey. Always a reticent, yet willing performer, she entertained early in dance, acting, and choral work. Yet, it wasn’t until the daring of her parents that she auditioned and was accepted to Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts (Alums: Erykah Badu & Norah Jones), and her entire world was changed.
It was here that she was educated in the value of protecting and flourishing in one’s Art as she both learned and produced her own works. High SAT scores and practicality lead to her choosing a collegiate route (Columbia College, ’09 Advertising), but not without an anticipated exit that ended in music. Not one for regret though, Angéle Anise’s “Real World” experience as an 80’s Baby in limbo with the American Dream, is what propelled her to move from the beauty of Hyde Park, Chicago, to the grind of Brooklyn to pursue her passion in Sonic Fusion.
Aretha, Alanis, Brandy, Bjork, Electro, Soul, & Arena Rock are the essences that appear in Angéle Anise’s work, though never masking her uniquely engaging voice or dynamic compositions. With nearly a decade worth of original material to pull from, the Soul Siren is currently recording her first EP “in EasternStandardTime.” As no stranger to brave endeavors, Angéle Anise is boldly poised to illuminate the scene and establish herself as the forerunner in the (r)evolution of the Future of Soul.
Ruf Records Presents, Ruf’s Blues Caravan 2016: BLUE SISTERS – Introducing Tasha Taylor, Layla Zoe and Ina Forsman.
Now in its 12th triumphant year, the Blues Caravan is a touring showcase for the hottest young acts on the Ruf label. With past treks helping launch stars including Joanne Shaw Taylor, Laurence Jones and Samantha Fish, it’s a springboard for the blues scene’s next-big-things, and a magnet for fans who want to catch them before lift-off. In 2016, we’ve got a Blues Caravan lineup sure to raise the roof each night as it rolls across the USA and Europe. The Blue Sisters are doing it for themselves…
Layla Zoe is ready to explode. Like her early influences – from Bob Dylan to Muddy Waters – the Canadian bandleader is a fearless writer, earning victory in 2006’s auspicious Blues Compo songwriting competition, and critical acclaim for albums including 2013’s The Lily. For the Blues Caravan 2016, Layla will be drawing on the best of her catalogue, previewing this year’s new release, and leaving it all on the stage. “With live performances,” she explains, “I believe that the more raw and uncensored I am, the more I can connect with my listeners.”
When Ina Forsman steps up the mic, you’ll believe every word. The Finnish vocalist hit the radar aged 17 with a show-stopping rendition of Etta James’s “All I Could Do Was Cry” on a TV talent show. Since then, she’s achieved international recognition, guesting with blues heavyweights Helge Tallqvist and Guy Verlinde on the road, touring mainland Europe and proving her own songwriting chops with her self-penned and fiercely personal material. When Ina hits the stage, all bets are off. “I rarely plan anything,” she says, “so what happens on the stage, just happens.”
Tasha Taylor has the blues in her blood. The youngest daughter of R&B trailblazer and Stax icon Johnnie Taylor, she inherited his musical talent, but walked her own path, studying drama at Boston University before lighting up hit TV shows including Ugly Betty and House. The pull of music proved too strong, however, and having composed soundtracks for shows like Men In Trees and Lipstick Jungle, Tasha broke through with Taylormade: the album whose self-penned, sharply observed material pinballed from early soul single “Queen” to the redemptive gospel of “I Got Love”. She’ll start the Blues Caravan as a hot tip – and end it as a world-class contender.
Safety Squad is a large jazz fusion ensemble from Columbus, Ohio. Inspired by the sounds of Snarky Puppy, Safety Squad recorded their first self titled album in March of 2016.
Bumpin’ Uglies was formed by lead singer/guitarist/song-writer Brandon Hardesty in 2008, when he set out to create a sound and an approach that was unique and immediately identifiable. It’s the same thing every artist says that they want when they form their band, but Bumpin’ Uglies are the rare act that does stand out in every way, making them utterly memorable to everyone the come across. They incorporate many styles into their music, with a major emphasis on ska, reggae and punk. But they don’t really care what bucket you want to put them in, either you love ‘em or you don’t—it’s your choice to join the party or sit outside instead; and It’s always more fun in the party.
With two full-length LP’s, a live show LP and two EP’s under their belt, Bumpin’ Uglies prolific studio work is the product of continuous song writing and a desire to keep putting out fresh material for their ever-growing fan base. They achieved national recognition with the release of their 2011 LP “Free Candy”, and they have continued to gain momentum with each subsequent release, including “Load in-Load Out” (live show LP), Ninjah Reggae Assassins (LP released in 2013 which reached #1 on iTunes Reggae chart), and EP’s “Freak Out Hell Bus” and “Sublime with No One”, both released in 2015.
Bumpin’ Uglies match their output in the studio with a road-warrior approach to touring that makes it seem as though they rarely come off the road. To date, they have completed 8 national tours, and dozens of regional tours. They have toured as direct support for Ballyhoo! and co-headlined a tour with Bastard Suns, moving effortlessly between punk and reggae crowds who flock to Bumpin’ Uglies in equal measures. Their touring dossier is topped off with some major festival experience, including California Roots in 2014, the Rombello Cruise in 2013 and Warped Tour in 2012.
Bumpin’ Uglies have proven every existing maxim about hard work paying off in the last several years. Their DIY ethic coupled with their grassroots approach for building a major national fan base makes them the epitome of punk rock, but that description sorely sells their music short. Bold, a bit brash perhaps at times, but Bumpin’ Uglies name, their songs and their work ethic get a definite point across: they make music their way, enjoying a freedom that is easy to aspire to, but most difficult to achieve together with success. In this day and age of political correctness and people growing more uptight and offended by the minute, it doesn’t take long to realize that Brandon and Bumpin’ Uglies “Eff you/can do” attitude makes them stand separate and apart as a band. And their fans love them for it.
Earthside is a New England-based creative collective that plays an absorbing style of modern progressive music they call “cinematic rock.” Across their widely acclaimed debut work, ‘A Dream In Static’, the seasoned group displays a wild stylistic diversity and creative hunger that jams the mental machinery of comparison. Through organic layers of living, breathing orchestra (courtesy of the Moscow Studio Symphony Orchestra), and an eclectic arsenal of world music-influenced instrumentation, Earthside fashions an ever-changing sound that is equally engrossing alongside a work of cinematic art as it is resonating throughout a densely packed concert venue.
‘A Dream In Static’, the group’s conceptual mission statement, is a story of purposeful sacrifice and existential yearning told across sweeping instrumental movements interwoven with adventurous vocal compositions featuring guest performances from premier voices across the rock and metal worlds (Lajon Witherspoon of Sevendust, Björn Strid of Soilwork, Daniel Tompkins of Tesseract, and Eric Zirlinger of Face The King, Ex-Seer). The inherently collaborative cross-continental project was recorded in Stockholm, Sweden under the watch of renowned producer and mix engineer David Castillo (Opeth, Katatonia, Bloodbath) and additional mix and mastering engineer Jens Bogren (Opeth, Soilwork, The Ocean, Leprous).
In Fall of 2015 Earthside joined Soilwork and Soulfly on the “We Sold Our Souls to Metal Tour” and will be touring throughout 2016 in both the United States and Europe in promotion of A Dream In Static. Earthside and recently supported Leprous and Voyager in Europe this Spring on the “Congregation Part 2 Tour.” See the Tour Dates tab on Earthside’s Facebook for other live dates and additional details.
“Once you witness the major dosage of authentic Afrobeat the band drops into their body of danceable wonderment, there is no turning back.” – CMB
ATOMGA is building an empire for fevered, afrobeat influenced dance parties. However, staging sweaty dance parties is not ATOMGA’s only intention. Consciousness is something this 10 piece afrofunk collective takes very seriously. Since their inception in 2011, they have meticulously studied the hypnotic grooves and lyrical prowess of afrobeat’s forefathers in order to maintain musical integrity and positively contribute to afrobeat in a modern setting. ATOMGA’s music encourages their listeners to wake up and grasp life with awareness as they humbly tackle socially conscious topics such as human rights; corporate greed; environmental advocacy; government oppression and last, but not least, the need for more love in this world.
ATOMGA released their debut EP in January 2014 after nearly 3 years of captivating audiences from all walks of life. The diverse body of musicians and group compositional atmosphere shines in this 5-song collection. The first single, “Still Today” examines the struggle for social and economic peace that is still as relevant today as it was at the advent of afrobeat music. The musical goals ATOMGA strives to achieve are being recognized as Tom Murphy of Denver Westword exclaims that ATOMGA’s EP is “Filled with politically charged but never heavy-handed songs, the EP reveals a band that’s making tuneful, fluid and surprisingly visceral music.” With an unyielding drive stronger than ever, ATOMGA plans to release a follow-up album later in the year and continue taking the region by storm as this project always pursues to connect your mind, body and soul.
“The songs that Atomga performed were intricate and detailed and the band’s stage presence was loose and flowing. You cannot help but have fun when you see these 11 musicians energetically rock the stage.” -Brian Turk, Listen Up Denver
“Atomga specializes in positive vibes, authentic Nigerian Afrobeat and funk/soul sounds ideal for dancing your ass off.” -Ru Johnson, Westword
“The sound, anything but pedestrian, was an inspiring find. Definitely a band to watch for the fusion/Afrobeat crowd.” -Billy Thieme, Reverb
“Watch out Denver, cause your newest party band is just getting warmed up. These guys are poised to take this town by storm!” -Timothy Dwenger, Listen Up Denver
ATOMGA is…
Kendra Kreie – Vocals
Casey Hrdlicka – Guitar
Peter Mouser – Fender Rhodes and Hammond B3
Alice Hansen – Trumpet
Frank Roddy – Tenor Saxophone
Leah Concialdi – Baritone and Soprano Saxophone, Flute, EWI
DEMONS WITHIN was formed as a brutal/groove death metal band in January of 2008, consisting of unique individuals; lead vocalist J.C.B., lead/rhythm guitarist & Backing vocals T.C., and Desolation, and Tormentor Aul on bass guitar. Since their formation, Demons Within has released a six song EP (Tearing at the Eyes of God) and a full length CD (Desecration of Angels) a four song EP (Shroud of Deception) another four song EP (Godslayer) and has shared the stage with Straight Line Stitch, Soulfly, Devildriver, Joey Belladonna(Anthrax), All That Remains, Deicide, Dying Fetus, Blackguard and Six Feet Under.
They have been noted for their intense, high energy, in your face live performance. Looking to conquer the stage, whether it is at a local, regional or national level, this is the entity known as DEMONS WITHIN.
Omnivore’s bonus-laden reissue of the Kingbees debut album is now matched by a reissue of the band’s lesser-known follow-up. Originally released in 1981, the album stalled amid label problems and the band’s breakup. Lead bee Jamie James recorded four more tracks with a new rhythm section, and they’re included here as bonuses along with fresh liner notes, photos and a period press release. As on their debut, the band remained grounded in rockabilly, but never allowed themselves to become enslaved by retro fashion. Their goal was to make “short, snappy and punchy rock ‘n’ roll songs,” and though James, bassist Michael Rummans and drummer Rex Roberts took inspiration from the stand-up style of rockabilly, they weren’t limited by it.
Burlington, Vermont based Gang of Thieves have been touring non stop up and down the east coast, playing an exciting new breed of funky rock and roll for audiences of all ages.
High energy and a good time is the hallmark of these Green Mountain rockers. “Funk-injected rock….a band whose sound brings to mind artists like Rage Against the Machine and Led Zeppelin.” (Donna Walker, Greenville online) The key to the Gangs universal appeal is the infectious sense of fun and showmanship, delivered with a hint of spiritual and political awareness that inspires and encourages positivity.
The band just recently finished recording a brand new album in Wall, NJ with Steve Jankowski (Blood Sweat and Tears, Chicago), and will be performing the new material exclusively at live shows and festivals over the summer in preparation for its release this fall. Find out when and where the Gang will be near you to be a part of the excitement!
“Infectious grooves…These hard working, Burlington-based musicians entranced the audience with their high-energy onslaught of funk/rock tunes…an amazing show” – Cider Mag
“Rush meets Blood Sweat & Tears…..Gang of Thieves put on quite a show” – AXS
Veteran Punk Rapper Paulie Think has been rocking crowds since 1989. Has releases out on DIY Bandits, Fake Four Inc., Vynil Communications and a new full length coming out on No Trend Records. He has shared the stage with De La Soul, Chumbawamba, Grayskul, Ceschi, Pharcyde, Jawbreaker, MDC, Brother Ali, UK Subs, GWAR, Myka 9, Astranautalis, Fastplants and many more. He has etched out his own current style as “Chinatown Hip Hop Punk Folk”. His two alternate ego’s “Mo Memphi$” and “Mo Dunks Khed” will have you laughing your ass off.
Curse of Cassandra is an electronic duo from Ohio. Dark, whispery vocals mix with glittering dance beats to conjure worlds of ‘witch-dance’ and ‘grave wave’
