STAMPY
Elephants are a dynamic animal, both intelligent and gentle, but when riled up can be thunderous and powerful. The same has been said of Stampy and their unique sound. The Chicago-based quintet fuses together soulful grooves, dense vocal harmonies, and high energy guitar solos that roar through venues. Five long-time friends have come together to create a sound ‘where Steely Dan meets The Allman Brothers meets Wilco…. with a dab of Pet Sounds.’
Each time Stampy comes to the stage, it is “eclectic. Stampy’s original music appears to derive influences from across the musical spectrum.” Five seasoned singers and songwriters, all hailing from different musical backgrounds, have forged a sound that is truly unique and appealing to all fans of music. From the start, Stampy attracted fans in droves from all areas and genres of Chicago’s live music community. In just two months, the cost of their first album was funded entirely thanks to the contributions from their loyal fanbase.
Like a stampede, the band came running full speed out of the gate. Within months of inception the group was in the studio cutting their debut album and playing at some of Chicago’s most prestigious and historic venues. After self-producing their first album, the band brought in legendary sound guru, Fred Breitberg (Aretha Franklin, Neil Young, Curtis Mayfield), to mix and master it. Fred’s expertise put the finishing touches on a record that is making a statement.
Stampy finished out 2017 with a show alongside guitar virtuoso Fareed Haque. Martyrs in Chicago, IL. The quintet has also begun work on their second album, Expectations (2018). You will be able to hear each member being featured as a lead singer and primary songwriter on at least one song, showcasing the band’s immense creativity and vast musical perspective. Because of this, they have dug deeper on their new album. Songs are crafted in a thematic way. Subjects such as friendship, love, greed, inspiration, and faith will be represented. Keep posted for news surrounding the future release of Stampy’s second album.
Come witness the thunderous and powerful sound for yourself. The band’s live show was translated brilliantly to their debut record and will surely be continued on their second release. But to fully experience the dynamic range, the roaring guitar solos, intricate songwriting, and beautiful vocal harmonies, you must see Stampy perform live. They just might become your new favorite artist.
PINE TRAVELERS
Pine Travelers create original music that combines the gritty Americana of outlaw country, folk, and bluegrass with old school funk rave-ups and roots rock & roll.
Based in Madison, WI, Pine Travelers have played close to 300 shows in 6 states since their inception in 2013, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Colorado, Texas, Minnesota, and Iowa. In addition to playing notable Madison venues like High Noon Saloon and The Crystal Corner, the band has also held a monthly residency at Alchemy, a favorite venue on Madison’s east side, for a year.
The group’s songs allow for a dance-able, energetic live show paired with honest, meaningful lyrics reflecting their northern midwest roots. Pine Travelers hope their music reflects their modest, hard-working values: rural values meshed with urban sensibility; engaging sets ranging from rustic roots music to funk grooves with a modern twist.
They’ve also performed fresh and exciting sets at quality festivals including: Midwest Music Festival (MN), People Fest, Steel Bridge Songfest, Moondance Bluegrass Fest, Ifdakamp Festival, and Toodeloo Shakedown Fest, sharing the stage with acts like Particle, Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, Pert Near Sandstone, The Mustache, and many more. The group is currently recording a new album, to be released in Spring 2016. Audio, tour dates, video, and more can be found at the links below!