Archives:
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- Against Me! at Riot Fest by Katie Hovland
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- Against Me! at Riot Fest by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Photo by Katie Hovland
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- Gwar by Katie Hovland
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- Jesse Hughes of Eagles of Death Metal
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- Psalm One by Katie Hovland
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- White Mystery by Katie Hovland
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- Pears by Katie Hovland
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- Skinny Lister by Katie Hovland
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- Eagles Of Death Metal by Katie Hovland
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- Elway by Katie Hovland
Still Alive
Last month, Still Alive released a new EP, called Assemble. We caught up with singer/guitarist Dan Alfonsi and discussed the band’s decision to put out the record themselves, as well as how recording went and the meaning behind some of the songs. We also talked about the EP’s cover art, the origins of its title and what else Still Alive has planned for this year. Assemble finds the band, (also consisting of guitarist/singer Dom Burdi, bassist Bryan Schroth and drummer Mikey Cervenka) experimenting with the boundaries of their sound and embracing a heavier tone. In addition, there’s still a wide range of influences present, but also increasingly intricate songwriting and a greater sense of overall cohesion. Be sure to check out the EP in its entirety here. Continue Reading…
PEARS – Green Star
Fat Wreck Chords – Release Date: 4/01/16
In July of last year, PEARS re-released their debut LP via Fat Wreck Chords and quite honestly took the punk and hardcore communities by storm. Admittedly, the album was recorded in a hurried manner, but still conveyed the band’s unrelenting energy and unique approach to songwriting. In contrast, Green Star was meticulously written and recorded, and the added effort clearly shows. The record certainly spotlights PEARS’ evolution, but that’s not to imply they’ve abandon their signature style of frantic hardcore punk that’s both old school and progressive. Green Star charges out of the gates with “Hinged by Spine,” which channels Today’s Empires… era Propagandhi and highlights the impressive vocal range of singer Zach Quinn. “The Flu” evokes the spirit of punk pioneers Circle Jerks and Black Flag, and seems like it would be a definite crowd favorite in a live setting. The title track changes tempos on a dime, yet transitions fluidly between the varying rhythms. It also features a hyper-melodic chorus that’s supported by a horde of harmonious backing vocals. There’s even a re-recorded version of “Snowflake” from their Letters to Memaw seven-inch and it sounds more concise and confident than the original. Containing 16 tracks in all, including two piano interludes, this album is by all accounts a complete work that observes PEARS really elevating their game. Take a listen to the song “Green Star” below and for those who say there aren’t any new bands out there that are innovative or worthwhile, tell them to check out this record.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/07-Green-Star.mp3|titles= “Green Star”]Riot Fest, 2015
For its inaugural year in Douglas Park, Riot Fest continued to grow and expand, while still retaining its formula of legacy acts mixed with eclectic and emerging artists. Despite the change of location, Riot Fest felt right at home in its new digs, taking advantage of an open layout that made for easy navigation from one stage to another. There was a little rain and a fair amount of mud, but those that weren’t deterred by the elements were treated to a surplus of memorable sets from a genuinely diverse collection of bands. We recapped some of our favorite moments and observations from what was an eventful, action-packed weekend. Written by Jamie Ludwig, (JL) and Bill Denker, (BD). Photos by Katie Hovland.
PEARS
Photo by Katie Hovland
After forming in early 2014, New Orleans’ PEARS wasted little time writing and recording their debut LP, Go to Prison. Soon after, they caught the attention of Off With Their Heads singer/guitarist Ryan Young, who subsequently released the album on vinyl via his label, Anxious and Angry. Extensive touring followed and in July of this year, Fat Wreck Chords re-released Go to Prison. We caught up with guitarist/singer Brian Pretus after the band’s recent performance at Riot Fest Chicago at talked about how PEARS got its start. We also discussed their unique sound, which combines aggressive hardcore/punk, chaotic yet detailed songwriting and a hint of melody. Our conversation also touched on the band’s forthcoming second album, which is due out early next year, and more. Continue Reading…
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