The Rocket Summer
www.therocketsummer.com // @therocketsummer
It has been nothing short of an honor to watch Bryce Avary, also known as The Rocket Summer, grow musically since I first saw him at Warped Tour in 2007. The multi-instrumental singer-songwriter records, writes, and produces every song on his albums. During his live shows he switches between instruments, including keyboard, guitar, bass, and drums. He even throws in live looping and beatboxing. His show at Sub-t in Chicago on April 2, 2013 follows the trend I’ve been watching. Every show I watch tops the last; every album shows growth and a new level of skill. He started off the set with “So Much Love”, the first single off his 2007 release Do You Feel. The crowd packed into the venue, pushing to get closer to the stage. The fans of The Rocket Summer vary in age, background, religion- but they’re brought together through his positive message, pure songs, and infectious beats. The energy in the room was palpable. Avary’s animation brought the audience to give back as much as he gave. With each song and comment in between the venue filled with cheers and clapping. His constant interaction with the concertgoers kept the atmosphere alive, potent, and dynamic. You could watch people hugging, kissing, jumping, screaming, and singing in what became a collective catharsis. They grew even more aflame when he moved in the crowd, greeting fans along the way. There he played “Roses” from Of Men & Angels, his fourth studio album released in 2010. There he said that the night was about “escape and discovery”, a message I think each fan left feeling. He performed songs off his various albums and EPs, including: Do You Feel, 200,000, Hills and Valleys, and Cross My Heart. If you don’t have a chance to catch him on his current tour, it may be a while before you chance. He is taking time off touring to create, what he calls, “the album of his career”. In the mean time, you can check out his EPs and full-length albums at therocketsummer.com
It has been nothing short of an honor to watch Bryce Avary, also known as The Rocket Summer, grow musically since I first saw him at Warped Tour in 2007. The multi-instrumental singer-songwriter records, writes, and produces every song on his albums. During his live shows he switches between instruments, including keyboard, guitar, bass, and drums. He even throws in live looping and beatboxing. His show at Sub-t in Chicago on April 2, 2013 follows the trend I’ve been watching. Every show I watch tops the last; every album shows growth and a new level of skill. He started off the set with “So Much Love”, the first single off his 2007 release Do You Feel. The crowd packed into the venue, pushing to get closer to the stage. The fans of The Rocket Summer vary in age, background, religion- but they’re brought together through his positive message, pure songs, and infectious beats. The energy in the room was palpable. Avary’s animation brought the audience to give back as much as he gave. With each song and comment in between the venue filled with cheers and clapping. His constant interaction with the concertgoers kept the atmosphere alive, potent, and dynamic. You could watch people hugging, kissing, jumping, screaming, and singing in what became a collective catharsis. They grew even more aflame when he moved in the crowd, greeting fans along the way. There he played “Roses” from Of Men & Angels, his fourth studio album released in 2010. There he said that the night was about “escape and discovery”, a message I think each fan left feeling. He performed songs off his various albums and EPs, including: Do You Feel, 200,000, Hills and Valleys, and Cross My Heart. If you don’t have a chance to catch him on his current tour, it may be a while before you chance. He is taking time off touring to create, what he calls, “the album of his career”. In the mean time, you can check out his EPs and full-length albums at therocketsummer.com
Blood Red Boots
BloodRedBoots.com
Blood Red Boots has been taking over the Chicago scene, in a short time. They’ve already been headliners at Chicago staple venues like The Metro and Sub-T. They also opened for Kill Hannah at their latest annual Chicago classic, New Heart For Christmas. Not to mention the examiner called them “THE Chicago band to watch in 2012”, and WGNTV crowned them breakthrough band of the year. What began as an idea in L.A., became a reality when singer- Keith Patrick- came back to Chicago. Leaving a pop band, he had goals of creating a rock band with an original sound. A native of the city, he came back to start music where the rock scene is the greatest, and where he felt at home. After the move he got Eric Hays on keyboard, and the band became rounded off with the additions of Cyrus Johnson (Bass) and William Heschl (guitar). Blood Red Boots is also the name of their first EP, which holds pop rock sounds and catchy melodies. It brings a new sound, not quite like any other band out there. A blending of different genres put the band into a new- but good- category. The band bound onto Subterranean’s teeny tiny stage, and brought infectious enthusiasm and appealing sound. It’s hard to believe they’ve only been playing shows since January of 2012, as the band is animated, up beat, but tight and well rehearsed. They call their music “loud, sexy, and ridiculously catchy:, and they’re not wrong. The crowd proved to share the energy, and sang back the songs from the bands first EP. The band seems too big for the venue as the fan’s voices bury Keith’s powerhouse vocals.2013 has already been treating Blood Red Boots well. With a steady following, rising recognition, and new music in the works I can only see good things to come from this band. The band will be releasing a new music video soon. The next EP is expected to start recording in March, hopefully to be released in April/May. Until then you can get their EP through their website.
Blood Red Boots has been taking over the Chicago scene, in a short time. They’ve already been headliners at Chicago staple venues like The Metro and Sub-T. They also opened for Kill Hannah at their latest annual Chicago classic, New Heart For Christmas. Not to mention the examiner called them “THE Chicago band to watch in 2012”, and WGNTV crowned them breakthrough band of the year. What began as an idea in L.A., became a reality when singer- Keith Patrick- came back to Chicago. Leaving a pop band, he had goals of creating a rock band with an original sound. A native of the city, he came back to start music where the rock scene is the greatest, and where he felt at home. After the move he got Eric Hays on keyboard, and the band became rounded off with the additions of Cyrus Johnson (Bass) and William Heschl (guitar). Blood Red Boots is also the name of their first EP, which holds pop rock sounds and catchy melodies. It brings a new sound, not quite like any other band out there. A blending of different genres put the band into a new- but good- category. The band bound onto Subterranean’s teeny tiny stage, and brought infectious enthusiasm and appealing sound. It’s hard to believe they’ve only been playing shows since January of 2012, as the band is animated, up beat, but tight and well rehearsed. They call their music “loud, sexy, and ridiculously catchy:, and they’re not wrong. The crowd proved to share the energy, and sang back the songs from the bands first EP. The band seems too big for the venue as the fan’s voices bury Keith’s powerhouse vocals.2013 has already been treating Blood Red Boots well. With a steady following, rising recognition, and new music in the works I can only see good things to come from this band. The band will be releasing a new music video soon. The next EP is expected to start recording in March, hopefully to be released in April/May. Until then you can get their EP through their website.
Imagine Dragons
www.imaginedragonsmusic.com // @imaginedragons
Watching Las Vegas based Imagine Dragons perform a short two song set at Chicago's JBTV Music Television Studio was enough to make me sure I never miss this band live again. I was humbled to watch them sound check. Even without a crowd while warming up, it was clear that there are true musicians in Imagine Dragons. In fact, new drummer, Daniel Platzman, is a Berklee College of Music alumni. Guitarist, Wayne Sermon, is incredible to watch play. Dan Reynolds vocals soar more clearly in person than they do on the album. Later that night the band went to play it's first of two completely sold out nights at Chicago's House of Blues. Their new album, Night Visions, re-visits a few songs from their old EP- such as the hits "Radioactive" and "It's Time." Only this time each song on the album sounds bigger. The album has layers of creativity and master musicianship that make you hear something new with every listen. The band is headlining a sold out tour right now, and this seems to be just the start of their success.
Watching Las Vegas based Imagine Dragons perform a short two song set at Chicago's JBTV Music Television Studio was enough to make me sure I never miss this band live again. I was humbled to watch them sound check. Even without a crowd while warming up, it was clear that there are true musicians in Imagine Dragons. In fact, new drummer, Daniel Platzman, is a Berklee College of Music alumni. Guitarist, Wayne Sermon, is incredible to watch play. Dan Reynolds vocals soar more clearly in person than they do on the album. Later that night the band went to play it's first of two completely sold out nights at Chicago's House of Blues. Their new album, Night Visions, re-visits a few songs from their old EP- such as the hits "Radioactive" and "It's Time." Only this time each song on the album sounds bigger. The album has layers of creativity and master musicianship that make you hear something new with every listen. The band is headlining a sold out tour right now, and this seems to be just the start of their success.
Mark Rose
MarkRoseMusic.com // MrMarkDRose
Mark Rose first came onto the Chicago scene in a band called Spatialfield, but now he's making music solo. he just finished the Best Friends Forever Tour with Jon Walker and Lucas Carpenter. Mark's voice is soulful, and pulls you in when you listen to it. You don't just hear his music, you experience it. In a time when so many singers sound alike and autotune has taken over, Mark's voice is something distinct, and makes you want to hear more. His debut full length album, Wonderful Trouble has layers that will keep you listening over and over again. The singer manages to blend R&B and pop to make something new, and it's good. But Mark doesn't just sound good on his album, he's even better live. There is a unique quality to his voice that makes seeing him perform a rewarding experience for the audience. It makes you remember how incredible a live show can be. Matt has also released 2 EPs, Separate and The Greatest Lakes. I believe that the album and the EPs just give us a taste of what this artist has to offer.
Mark Rose first came onto the Chicago scene in a band called Spatialfield, but now he's making music solo. he just finished the Best Friends Forever Tour with Jon Walker and Lucas Carpenter. Mark's voice is soulful, and pulls you in when you listen to it. You don't just hear his music, you experience it. In a time when so many singers sound alike and autotune has taken over, Mark's voice is something distinct, and makes you want to hear more. His debut full length album, Wonderful Trouble has layers that will keep you listening over and over again. The singer manages to blend R&B and pop to make something new, and it's good. But Mark doesn't just sound good on his album, he's even better live. There is a unique quality to his voice that makes seeing him perform a rewarding experience for the audience. It makes you remember how incredible a live show can be. Matt has also released 2 EPs, Separate and The Greatest Lakes. I believe that the album and the EPs just give us a taste of what this artist has to offer.
William Beckett
williambeckett.merchnow.com // @williambeckett
William Beckett very recently released his solo EP "Walk The Talk", and it is some of the most solid music I have had the pleasure to listen to in a long time. Formerly of The Academy Is..., William shows that he has plenty to offer on his own with this EP. While I was, and still remain, a big fan of his work with The Academy Is... I can't help but be thankful that their break up lead to this release. Any fans whose wounds from their break up may have prevented them from picking up this solo venture should think twice, thrice, or however many times it takes to make them broaden their minds. William certainly has a lot to offer, and I believe it's only highlighted in the 4 song EP. "Compromising Me", "Girl, You Should Have Been A Drummer", "Oh, Love", and "You Never Give Up" are only a taste of what he has to offer. Mixed with songs that are upbeat, down to the more serious tone of "You Never Give Up" will leave you craving a full length album. The lyrics I was fortunate to see him perform a recording for Chicago's JBTV, and his ability to captivate a room with nothing but an acoustic guitar and his voice deserves recognition. You can see him on tour soon, with the dates available at thewilliambeckettblog.com
William Beckett very recently released his solo EP "Walk The Talk", and it is some of the most solid music I have had the pleasure to listen to in a long time. Formerly of The Academy Is..., William shows that he has plenty to offer on his own with this EP. While I was, and still remain, a big fan of his work with The Academy Is... I can't help but be thankful that their break up lead to this release. Any fans whose wounds from their break up may have prevented them from picking up this solo venture should think twice, thrice, or however many times it takes to make them broaden their minds. William certainly has a lot to offer, and I believe it's only highlighted in the 4 song EP. "Compromising Me", "Girl, You Should Have Been A Drummer", "Oh, Love", and "You Never Give Up" are only a taste of what he has to offer. Mixed with songs that are upbeat, down to the more serious tone of "You Never Give Up" will leave you craving a full length album. The lyrics I was fortunate to see him perform a recording for Chicago's JBTV, and his ability to captivate a room with nothing but an acoustic guitar and his voice deserves recognition. You can see him on tour soon, with the dates available at thewilliambeckettblog.com
State & Madison
StateAndMadison.net
It's easy for me to say State and Madison is one of the hardest working bands in Chicago. Even during the brutal winter months the members could always be found at shows around the city spreading the word about their band. State and Madison is also one of the nicest bands you can find, and their genuine love for their fans shows in every performance. They even put their album 'Tar & Feather' together by hand, and numbered each individual album. The album is one that has been anticipated for ages, and State and Madison didn't disappoint. The 10 track album is incredible. Every song from 'Goodnight Sun' to 'The Burning' has something different to keep you interested, and make the album one you can play on repeat. Nickolas Blazina (vocals/guitar), Mark Tatara (guitar), Alan Shinkunas (drums), and Travis Fleckenstein (bass) are not just talented musically. Every song released and show booked has been done by the band. Don't let that fool you though, these guys have created a dedicated following without the aid of a record label. The band released their first EP in 2006, and now have their first full length album out- 'Tar and Feather'. I think this album is just the start of what's to come from State and Madison. You can hear in the music that they love what they do, and they're a band that deserves your attention.
(See the Photos section of the site for pictures of their record release show at Beat Kitchen on 4/6)
It's easy for me to say State and Madison is one of the hardest working bands in Chicago. Even during the brutal winter months the members could always be found at shows around the city spreading the word about their band. State and Madison is also one of the nicest bands you can find, and their genuine love for their fans shows in every performance. They even put their album 'Tar & Feather' together by hand, and numbered each individual album. The album is one that has been anticipated for ages, and State and Madison didn't disappoint. The 10 track album is incredible. Every song from 'Goodnight Sun' to 'The Burning' has something different to keep you interested, and make the album one you can play on repeat. Nickolas Blazina (vocals/guitar), Mark Tatara (guitar), Alan Shinkunas (drums), and Travis Fleckenstein (bass) are not just talented musically. Every song released and show booked has been done by the band. Don't let that fool you though, these guys have created a dedicated following without the aid of a record label. The band released their first EP in 2006, and now have their first full length album out- 'Tar and Feather'. I think this album is just the start of what's to come from State and Madison. You can hear in the music that they love what they do, and they're a band that deserves your attention.
(See the Photos section of the site for pictures of their record release show at Beat Kitchen on 4/6)
The Exoskeleton
Chicago has done it again. They've produced another great band, unique from any other. They list their influences as: My Chemical Romance, Alkaline Trio, Sum 41, Blink 182, The Misfits, Rise Against, and AFI, but unlike many artists, they didn't steal anyone's sound; they created something new. Something that reminds me of something you would find produced by the genius Danny Elfman. I've spent a lot of time since their show at Local Music Revolution trying to compare them to another band, but I'm stumped. They list their genre as Melodic Punk/Alternative Rock, but I think they break away from any label, creating an interesting sound you can listen to over and over again, trying to digest each layer.I can't tell you for sure what Vinny (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Reece (Lead Guitar/Vocals), Max (Bass), and Jason (Drums) were doing before they formed The ExoSkeleton in October of 2010. My best guess is when they weren't making music, they spent their free time watching horror movies, hanging out in cemeteries, and watching some of Tim Burtons darker works. The album shows a fascination with the macabre that fills the hole that is left in my heart all year after Halloween is purged from most peoples thoughts. They've done us all a favor and created something new, something worth listening to, and something worth talking about. If you're sick of hearing indistinguishable bands on the radio, I recommend you pick up their 4 song CD, Bury The Name. It's a taste of what they have to offer. While I can't wait for them to release more tracks, I can't stop listening to what they've already released. One of my favorite things about this band is how their melodies and lyrics sear into your memory after just one listen, making you pick up your iPod over and over to reconnect and hear the addicting music again. After seeing them live just once I recognized each song they played on the CD. The song H.A.T.E (Hoping All This Ends) has one of the catchiest introes I have heard in ages. War Between Good and Evil show their lyricist's talent, and has a chorus that will be stuck in your head for days. 112 Ocean Avenue showcases their guitarist's talents with a great solo about 3 minutes into the song; it also shows their bassist isn't just there to fill a spot. His instrument can be heard clearly in every song, and isn't just there to back up the drums, but to add to the sound. You Little Devil You is an acoustic song that shows Vinny's vocal strength and shows the bands diversity. It strikes me as the song that every listener will be able to relate to.
A Day To Remember
adtr.com //@WhereIsADTR
A Day To Remember just released a music video for their song '2nd Sucks' off their album What Separates Me From You (available now). The video is based off old school video game designs, and is one of the most creative and best done music videos I've seen. If you haven't heard of A Day To Remember you're missing out. The quintet from Ocala, FL has already released four studio albums. Each album is undoubtedly A Day To Remember's sound, but the band continues to grow and progress. No doubt 2012 will only bring more good things for this band.
I worked my way backstage through a mob of screaming fans to get backstage to see A Day to Remember. The Devil Wears Prada had just stopped playing and ADTR was setting up. I’ve seen them before, but I always get stoked for their shows.Before the show started I went into the Press Pit to get ready to take pictures. I stood up on the gate to take a picture of A Day to Remember’s massive crowd and they went wild showing their support for the band. It’s the biggest crowd I saw at Warped Tour all day, and Security was sweating just thinking of the trouble that was about to be made. As always, it was a killer show.
I’ve been lucky enough to have followed ADTR for several years now. They are a rare kind of band that puts out albums without one song to skip past, every time. They made their way onto the scene in 2003 from Ocala, Florida. Their current lineup includes Jeremy McKinnon (vocals), Neil Westfall (guitar), Joshua Woodard (bass), Kevin Skaff (guitar), and Alex Shelnutt (drums). So far they have released four albums: “And Their Name Was Treason”, “For Those Who Have Heart”, “Homesick” and “What Separates Me From You”. From the beginning they have shown that they can put out quality songs of any genre. Singles like “The Danger in Starting a Fire” and “Downfall of us All” shows the bands harder edge with memorable lyrics and breakdowns. But soft songs like “Price We Pay” and “If It Means A Lot To You” show the lyricists incredible song writing abilities and that the band has depth and more than one side to them.
A Day To Remember just released a music video for their song '2nd Sucks' off their album What Separates Me From You (available now). The video is based off old school video game designs, and is one of the most creative and best done music videos I've seen. If you haven't heard of A Day To Remember you're missing out. The quintet from Ocala, FL has already released four studio albums. Each album is undoubtedly A Day To Remember's sound, but the band continues to grow and progress. No doubt 2012 will only bring more good things for this band.
I worked my way backstage through a mob of screaming fans to get backstage to see A Day to Remember. The Devil Wears Prada had just stopped playing and ADTR was setting up. I’ve seen them before, but I always get stoked for their shows.Before the show started I went into the Press Pit to get ready to take pictures. I stood up on the gate to take a picture of A Day to Remember’s massive crowd and they went wild showing their support for the band. It’s the biggest crowd I saw at Warped Tour all day, and Security was sweating just thinking of the trouble that was about to be made. As always, it was a killer show.
I’ve been lucky enough to have followed ADTR for several years now. They are a rare kind of band that puts out albums without one song to skip past, every time. They made their way onto the scene in 2003 from Ocala, Florida. Their current lineup includes Jeremy McKinnon (vocals), Neil Westfall (guitar), Joshua Woodard (bass), Kevin Skaff (guitar), and Alex Shelnutt (drums). So far they have released four albums: “And Their Name Was Treason”, “For Those Who Have Heart”, “Homesick” and “What Separates Me From You”. From the beginning they have shown that they can put out quality songs of any genre. Singles like “The Danger in Starting a Fire” and “Downfall of us All” shows the bands harder edge with memorable lyrics and breakdowns. But soft songs like “Price We Pay” and “If It Means A Lot To You” show the lyricists incredible song writing abilities and that the band has depth and more than one side to them.
Madina Lake
FaceBook.com/MadinaLake // @MadinaLake
Madina Lake is a band from Chicago, Illinois. They came onto the scene in 2005 in the genre of alternative rock and post-hardcore. In 2007 they won best international newcomer at the Kerrang! Awards, an award that always goes to a band that has huge things coming from them. Twins Matthew (bass) and Nathan Leone(vocals) met drummer Dan and guitarist Mateo while working on other acts. The twins were in a band called The Blank Theory, while Mateo and Dan were in a band called Reforma. Neither bands were working out, so the four decided to create a new group-Madina Lake. The released their first EP in 2006, which was called “The Disappearance of Adalia” with money that Matt and Nathan had won on the show “Twin Fear Factor”. Then they released “From Them, Through Us, To You” in 2007. Two years later they released yet another studio album called “Attics to Eden”. An EP followed in 2010 called “the Dresden Codex”.
Their singles like “Here I Stand” and “One Last Kiss” are some of the catchiest material you'll find. If you listen to it just once you'll be humming the melodies and dreaming the lyrics for days. Each album and EP is expertly put together flowing flawlessly and changing just enough to have something for everyone. Many bands feel like they need to reinvent themselves with new albums, so much so that it doesn't sound anything like before. However, Madina Lake progresses and gets better without losing their core sound.
One thing that makes the band so incredible and rare is that they're a concept band. The concept spans over 3 albums, a book, and a website all from the imagination of Matthew Leone. Adalia is a famous socialite who goes missing in the 1950s, who appears on album artwork. The rest of the world, outside of the town of Madina Lake, is obsessed with her disappearance. The songs that the band releases are outlets for their views on culture, politics, and the media's obsession with celebrities. Fans can solve the case of her disappearance with clues from the album, the book, and websites. Clues are placed in the lyrics, album art, and videos from the band.
The band has steadily produced material, and gained fans all over the world. They're veterans of the grueling Vans Warped Tour, having played there several years, including 2011. They are warriors of the rock world who have continually impressed fans with their relentless releases of albums and crazy tour schedules that include supporting bands like Anberlin, Less Than Jake, Alesana, Linkin Park, and Aiden.
Madina Lake is a band from Chicago, Illinois. They came onto the scene in 2005 in the genre of alternative rock and post-hardcore. In 2007 they won best international newcomer at the Kerrang! Awards, an award that always goes to a band that has huge things coming from them. Twins Matthew (bass) and Nathan Leone(vocals) met drummer Dan and guitarist Mateo while working on other acts. The twins were in a band called The Blank Theory, while Mateo and Dan were in a band called Reforma. Neither bands were working out, so the four decided to create a new group-Madina Lake. The released their first EP in 2006, which was called “The Disappearance of Adalia” with money that Matt and Nathan had won on the show “Twin Fear Factor”. Then they released “From Them, Through Us, To You” in 2007. Two years later they released yet another studio album called “Attics to Eden”. An EP followed in 2010 called “the Dresden Codex”.
Their singles like “Here I Stand” and “One Last Kiss” are some of the catchiest material you'll find. If you listen to it just once you'll be humming the melodies and dreaming the lyrics for days. Each album and EP is expertly put together flowing flawlessly and changing just enough to have something for everyone. Many bands feel like they need to reinvent themselves with new albums, so much so that it doesn't sound anything like before. However, Madina Lake progresses and gets better without losing their core sound.
One thing that makes the band so incredible and rare is that they're a concept band. The concept spans over 3 albums, a book, and a website all from the imagination of Matthew Leone. Adalia is a famous socialite who goes missing in the 1950s, who appears on album artwork. The rest of the world, outside of the town of Madina Lake, is obsessed with her disappearance. The songs that the band releases are outlets for their views on culture, politics, and the media's obsession with celebrities. Fans can solve the case of her disappearance with clues from the album, the book, and websites. Clues are placed in the lyrics, album art, and videos from the band.
The band has steadily produced material, and gained fans all over the world. They're veterans of the grueling Vans Warped Tour, having played there several years, including 2011. They are warriors of the rock world who have continually impressed fans with their relentless releases of albums and crazy tour schedules that include supporting bands like Anberlin, Less Than Jake, Alesana, Linkin Park, and Aiden.
Portugal. The Man
http://www.portugaltheman.com/
@portugaltheman
Active since 2004, Portugal. The Man has been touring to promote their 6 studio albums, released every year from 2006-2011. This band puts on a live show you can't help but sink into. They've played several huge music festivals: Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, SXSW. The band has survived a label change, linq up changes, and even having all their gear stolen at Lollapalooza. Despite it all the band continues to turn out one killer album after another. Trust me when I say that if you've been missing out on this band, now is the time to listen.
@portugaltheman
Active since 2004, Portugal. The Man has been touring to promote their 6 studio albums, released every year from 2006-2011. This band puts on a live show you can't help but sink into. They've played several huge music festivals: Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo, SXSW. The band has survived a label change, linq up changes, and even having all their gear stolen at Lollapalooza. Despite it all the band continues to turn out one killer album after another. Trust me when I say that if you've been missing out on this band, now is the time to listen.
AM Taxi
amtaximusic.com // @AMTAXI
It’s no secret that many of the world’s best bands come out of Chicago. For decades the city and its surroundings have produces some of the biggest names in Music. Everyone from Kanye West to Alkaline Trio, and the Smashing Pumpkins to Cheap Trick got their foothold there. The band this article is about, AM Taxi is no different. What started out as “American Taxi”, later shortened to “AM Taxi” began when Adam Krier (vocals and guitar) and Jason Schultejann (bass) broke off from their former band-Lucky Boys Confusion- in 2007. To date they have released 2 Eps (Runaway Songs and The good, the bad, and the fed up), and their recently released full length album “We don’t stand a chance”. They have what is undoubtedly a Chicago Rock sound. Drawing from influences like The Ramones, The Clash, The Replacements, Nirvana, and The Police, the band has a powerful sound paired with engaging lyrics. It was recorded in an old school style, with the band all in one room playing together, pairing the classic with the young band. Frontman, Adam Krier says that they chose to record this way because “to capture how they sounded live”. Anyone who has seen them live could understand why. They put on a raw, energetic, intense show that leaves you tired, broken, and voiceless- but ultimately satisfied. With re-vamped songs from the EPs, such as “the Mistake” and “dead street” paired with brand new songs like “Reckless Ways” and “Woodpecker” this album is sure to be on everybody’s summer playlist and stay there for years to come. After being signed to Virgin Records and releasing their latest album, they have been touring all summer long on warped tour, where you can see them until the end of the tour. They will also be playing a benefit show for Madina Lake member Matthew Leone August 21st in Chicago.
It’s no secret that many of the world’s best bands come out of Chicago. For decades the city and its surroundings have produces some of the biggest names in Music. Everyone from Kanye West to Alkaline Trio, and the Smashing Pumpkins to Cheap Trick got their foothold there. The band this article is about, AM Taxi is no different. What started out as “American Taxi”, later shortened to “AM Taxi” began when Adam Krier (vocals and guitar) and Jason Schultejann (bass) broke off from their former band-Lucky Boys Confusion- in 2007. To date they have released 2 Eps (Runaway Songs and The good, the bad, and the fed up), and their recently released full length album “We don’t stand a chance”. They have what is undoubtedly a Chicago Rock sound. Drawing from influences like The Ramones, The Clash, The Replacements, Nirvana, and The Police, the band has a powerful sound paired with engaging lyrics. It was recorded in an old school style, with the band all in one room playing together, pairing the classic with the young band. Frontman, Adam Krier says that they chose to record this way because “to capture how they sounded live”. Anyone who has seen them live could understand why. They put on a raw, energetic, intense show that leaves you tired, broken, and voiceless- but ultimately satisfied. With re-vamped songs from the EPs, such as “the Mistake” and “dead street” paired with brand new songs like “Reckless Ways” and “Woodpecker” this album is sure to be on everybody’s summer playlist and stay there for years to come. After being signed to Virgin Records and releasing their latest album, they have been touring all summer long on warped tour, where you can see them until the end of the tour. They will also be playing a benefit show for Madina Lake member Matthew Leone August 21st in Chicago.
Automatic Loveletter
www.facebook.com/AutomaticLoveletter
Automatic Loveletter is a refreshing breath of air for the post-RIOT! scene we have been living in. Fronted by overly talented vocal powerhouse 24-year-old Juliet Simms, the band just released their first full-length album “Truth or Dare” back in June of this year. The very first single, “Let it Ride” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Charts, followed by “Heart Song” at #11. The album also features a new version of “Hush” from their previous EP- Recovery- that erases any doubt anyone may have that Simms is THE talent to watch. You may recognize her voice from All Time Low’s “Remembering Sunday”, Every Avenue’s “Take me home Tonight”, 3OH!3’s Careless Whisper, and twice she lent her vocals to Secondhand Serenade . Even before Automatic Loveletter had released their album, it was obvious that Simms had cemented her place in the Alternative scene. Lyrically, this writer has not been this impressed in recent memory. Every song on the album has lines that beg to be scrawled on notebooks, trend on twitter, and become tattooed on fans. You may remember the alternative rock band from Bamboozle, Warped Tour, and as a supporting act on other tours. The years of relentless writing and touring are evident, each song is masterfully crafted. One might even go as far as to suggest you’ll need the next few days to sit and digest every layer of the album. “Story of my Life”-a song about Simms’ battle to find success in the music scene- alone shows the pure craving the band has for success, and how much they deserve it.You can catch them on tour with the Graduate now. Raw and energized, they don’t disappoint. Simms vocals give you goose bumps, the bass becomes your heartbeat, and the guitar riffs wrap themselves around you closer than the other kids in the crowd clamoring to get an inch closer. This is one band to watch, there can only be more to come from the young band from Florida.
Automatic Loveletter is a refreshing breath of air for the post-RIOT! scene we have been living in. Fronted by overly talented vocal powerhouse 24-year-old Juliet Simms, the band just released their first full-length album “Truth or Dare” back in June of this year. The very first single, “Let it Ride” peaked at #2 on the U.S. Charts, followed by “Heart Song” at #11. The album also features a new version of “Hush” from their previous EP- Recovery- that erases any doubt anyone may have that Simms is THE talent to watch. You may recognize her voice from All Time Low’s “Remembering Sunday”, Every Avenue’s “Take me home Tonight”, 3OH!3’s Careless Whisper, and twice she lent her vocals to Secondhand Serenade . Even before Automatic Loveletter had released their album, it was obvious that Simms had cemented her place in the Alternative scene. Lyrically, this writer has not been this impressed in recent memory. Every song on the album has lines that beg to be scrawled on notebooks, trend on twitter, and become tattooed on fans. You may remember the alternative rock band from Bamboozle, Warped Tour, and as a supporting act on other tours. The years of relentless writing and touring are evident, each song is masterfully crafted. One might even go as far as to suggest you’ll need the next few days to sit and digest every layer of the album. “Story of my Life”-a song about Simms’ battle to find success in the music scene- alone shows the pure craving the band has for success, and how much they deserve it.You can catch them on tour with the Graduate now. Raw and energized, they don’t disappoint. Simms vocals give you goose bumps, the bass becomes your heartbeat, and the guitar riffs wrap themselves around you closer than the other kids in the crowd clamoring to get an inch closer. This is one band to watch, there can only be more to come from the young band from Florida.
Dot Dot Dot
dotdotdotonline.com // @dotdotdotonline
Dot Dot Dot has played over 500 shows since their inception in 2007. Formed from members of two elite Chicago bands (The Fabulous Janes and Catfight), Dot Dot Dot took the city by storm playing a mix of originals and covers. They have sold 30,000+ units without any label support and relentlessly play in any and every venue they can. I have seen few other bands that leave so much of their heart and soul on stage and actively support and interact with their fans. Front man Adam Blair brings an intense energy to the stage, getting the entire crowd into the show. Guam native Rose Laguana –sometimes referred to as “their secret weapon” shreds on lead guitar, while Little Lisa backs her up on bass. Leader of the duck brigade Michael Bonowicz kills in the keys, and occasionally the keytar. Rounding off the quintet is Marty Kane, who recently replaced Stephan Kohnke, on drums. They are the big thing in Chicago, and have been touring more and more, reaching out to Florida, California and Tennessee. Currently, they are in the process of releasing 3 EP’s, named I, II, and III. I and II have been released, and songs like “Stay” and “Around the world and Back” have been hitting the airwaves. They are also the sounds behind the Party City commercials, a national campaign that has been gaining them recognition. Upbeat and danceable, Dot Dot Dot will have you shaking your butt till you can’t shake no more!
Dot Dot Dot has played over 500 shows since their inception in 2007. Formed from members of two elite Chicago bands (The Fabulous Janes and Catfight), Dot Dot Dot took the city by storm playing a mix of originals and covers. They have sold 30,000+ units without any label support and relentlessly play in any and every venue they can. I have seen few other bands that leave so much of their heart and soul on stage and actively support and interact with their fans. Front man Adam Blair brings an intense energy to the stage, getting the entire crowd into the show. Guam native Rose Laguana –sometimes referred to as “their secret weapon” shreds on lead guitar, while Little Lisa backs her up on bass. Leader of the duck brigade Michael Bonowicz kills in the keys, and occasionally the keytar. Rounding off the quintet is Marty Kane, who recently replaced Stephan Kohnke, on drums. They are the big thing in Chicago, and have been touring more and more, reaching out to Florida, California and Tennessee. Currently, they are in the process of releasing 3 EP’s, named I, II, and III. I and II have been released, and songs like “Stay” and “Around the world and Back” have been hitting the airwaves. They are also the sounds behind the Party City commercials, a national campaign that has been gaining them recognition. Upbeat and danceable, Dot Dot Dot will have you shaking your butt till you can’t shake no more!
