Jamestown Story

Jamestown Story is a one-man band that finds its roots in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Dane Schmidt is the man behind the music as he acts as front man, singer, songwriter, guitar player and instrumentalist for all of the instruments that appear on recordings for Jamestown Story. Jamestown Story formally was known as the band "And then I Turned Seven" but Schmidt changed the name in January of 2007. 

On November 18th 2008 Jamestown Story released the album "Love vs. Life." The album was reviewed by Eastscene.com and the review stated that, "Jamestown Story delivers a heartfelt album, supported by Schmidts earnest lyrics and soft guitar and piano accompaniment." Jamestown Story's nine-song album is a refreshing mix of acoustic tunes that sends the listener through the ups and downs of love and life. 

Overall Eastscene.com gave Jamestown Story positive reviews and even said, "It goes to show that overproducing isn't always necessary for an album to sound good, the tracks are a sincere portrayal of what Jamestown Story was gunning for: honest feelings of love and guilt built within sweet songs." Dane Schmidts balance of acoustic and pop/rock gives the listeners ear a treat as it is a way to break from the norm as he finds creative ways to bring in other instruments and then interlaces it all with emotional and honest lyrics. 

For those that are fans of bands such as Dashboard Confessional or Secondhand Serenade than Jamestown Story would be music that is right up your alley. 

Jamestown Story is currently on tour and plans to be on tour for the rest of 2009 as Dane works to promote his new album. Be sure to check out Jamestown Story's MySpace to find tour dates and listen to the new album love vs. life. 

Check out the music video below of Jamestown Story, the song is called "Far Away."

This World Fair

This World Fair is a rock band based out of Minneapolis Minnesota. The brainchild of This World Fair is Chris Kalgren who is the lead vocalist, pianist and rhythm guitar player. He is supported by a touring band consisting of drummer Alexander Young, guitarist Matt Lennander and guitarist Zack Carroll. 

According to the bands MySpace Chris Kalgren began writing music and formulating the idea of This World Fair while he was still a student studying engineering at the University of Wisconsin as Kalgren said, "I played guitar all the time in college, it was a great release for me because engineering is pretty dry and super intense." This release of creative energy helped Kalgren create the well crafted lyrics and guitar driven sound that makes This World Fair successful. 

The band is self-described as the 'pop-side of rock and the rock side of pop.' The mix of Kalgrens soft but surprisingly edgy voice against the deep rock tones of the instruments creates a simple bliss for the listeners ears that is balanced and controlled. 

Grammy-award winning producer Stephen Short of Ping-Pong Music first noticed This World Fair through their MySpace. Since this first exposure the band had the opportunity to work with producer Al Clay (who has worked with bands such as The Pixies, Pink and Blur) to create an album. 

During the recoding process with Al Clay the band received the opportunity of a lifetime as their song "Don't Make Me Wait" was offered a spot in DreamWorks 2007 summer blockbuster, "Distrubia." The band only had 12 hours to pull the song together due to their previous recording commitments. Kalgren reflects on that moment on the bands MySpace as he wrote, "we pulled an all-nighter and wrote the song. Sometimes the muse shows up and sometimes it doesn't." Thankfully for them the muse showed up and they were able to finish the task and ended up getting the song into the movie. 

This World Fair has been busy as they have completed three national tours between 2006 and 2008 and have performed with bands such as Guster, Phantom Planet, Giants and Barcelona. The band will continue to promote their music as they prepare for a tour later in 2009. 

To listen to music by This World Fair click here. 

The Fast Track

The Fast Track is a rock/pop/punk band from Minneapolis, the epicenter of the Minnesota music scene. The band is made up of vocalist Jordan Lyga, drummer Frankie Blydenburgh, guitarist Phillip Petersen, andother guitarist Victor Wright and bassist Josh McGuire. Together these five guys bring a fresh sound that is unique just to them. 

Band members Phil Petersen and Jordan Lyga were involved in a band during high school while living in Wisconsin, however, when college came around the band broke up and Petersen and Lyga came to Minneapolis. Their new home in Minnesota provided the opportunities they needed to continue their musical careers. 

According to the bands MySpace Petersen and Lyga teamed up with producer Tommy Rehbein, (who has worked with bands such as "Small Towns Burn A Little Slower" and "Rise" on Triple Crown Records) and producer Steve Henningsgard to create a demo CD. The bands demo CD attracted other local musicians and Petersen and Lyga were soon joined by Wright, McGuire and Blydenburgh to form "The Fast Track." 

Once the band formed they spent time playing local shows and refining their sound, what resulted was the upbeat in your face pop/punk sound that is The Fast Track. The band worked diligently to create their first EP titled "The Life & DEath Of The Party" which was released October 17th 2008. 

Kyle Schnitizer from The Daily Chorus reviewed the bands EP "The Life & Death Of The Party." Schnitizer reported that "unlike many other pop-punk bands, The Fast Track seems to know what the listener wants to listen to." Schnitizer also commented on the bands old school style as he said "they remind me of the early 2000s pop/punk." In a time when a new pop/punk band comes out every month it is refreshing to hear a band that has an appreciation for the old and at the same time knows how to keep it new and exciting for the listener. 

As the band continues to set-up shows and widen their fan base they are definitely a band that pop/punk fans in Minneapolis should keep an eye on. 

To listen to music off of the bands MySpace click here. 

Bensonwells

Bensonwells is Ryan, Ike, Troy and Will and together these four guys create a forceful and driving combination of pop/rock music that is supported by strong vocals and catchy melodies. 

Bensonwells was started by singer/songwriter and band front man Ryan Paul as a solo project in high school. According to the bands MySpace Ryan "quickly realized the potential of the musicians around him and within a few years he had formed the group of guys that is now Bensonwells." The band independently released a full-length self-titled album that gained them a solid fan base within the Twin Cities local music scene. Since then the band has recently released a new six song EP titled "You Could Be Free" and according to the band this new EP "showcases more mature songwriting and production abilities." 

One thing that binds the members of Bensonwells together is their common belief in God. While the band does not label themselves as "Christian" their music deals with the struggles of everyday life and what it means to be a Christ Follower in this fallen world. With songs such as "There's No Letting Go" and "Never Alone" the band encourages the listener to look for God through the pain of life. 

Bensonwells has a sound that is diverse and it reflects in the places that the band plays shows as they play a wide spectrum of venues ranging from church youth groups to clubs and bars in the Minneapolis area. The band has been busy as they recently participated in Minneapolis's Club 3 Degrees music tournament and ended up winning their musical category. 

Bensonwells plans to release another CD within the next year and they are constantly looking for ways to positively impact lives through their music. 

To listen to music from Bensonwells click here.  

Lights Out Dancing

Lights Out Dancing is a power pop/rock band from the suburbs of Minneapolis that formed in May of 2007. Lights Out Dancing is guitarist Mike Hasse, drummer Ryan Arndt, bassist and background vocalist Kyle Arndt, guitarist and background vocalist Scott Baker and lead vocalist Danny Luebke. 

The band was created after Hasse, Baker and brothers Ryan and Kyle Arndt found themselves being ex-members of a local rock band, that was until they met up with vocalist Danny Luebke. Scott Baker talks about how the band formed on Lights Out Dancing's MySpace as he says, "He [Danny] just fits right in, both his musical talent and his personality were exactly what we were looking for." 

Since the band formed in 2007 they have teamed up with producer Jordan Schmidt and sterling sound to release their first EP titled "Oh, the places you'll go." In an interview with Chris Hall from the dailychorus.com Lights Out Dancing commented on working with producer Jordan Schmidt as the band said, "He really helped develop our songs to create the best product we could." The hard work with Schmidt paid off as Lights Out Dancing has seen success with their first EP as they have sold over 11,000 copies in the one-year it has been available. 

Lights Out Dancing has become known for their high energy and entertaining live shows as they have been making a name for themselves within the local and national scene. Besides touring consistently the band is also currently being featured on "The Next American Star,"  a contest for popular unsigned bands. 

As guitarist Mike Haase puts it on the bands MySpace "we are five best friends who love what we do and always do our best at it." 

To check out music by Lights Out Dancing click here. 

Trace The Skyline

Trace The Skyline is an indie/pop band that formed in the late fall of 2007 and hails from the Minneapolis area. The core group of the band consists of pianist and vocalist Matt Hill, guitarist Avery Stassen and drummer Joel Alexander. Trace The Skyline is joined by a bass player and another guitar player when they play live local shows. 

Trace The Skyline's self-titled debut EP was released on September 20th 2008. Tammy Resse of riftmagazine.com reviewed the bands EP as she said, "Trace The Skyline's EP offers five delectable songs anchored with strong and catchy harmonies, which are beautifully arranged and mesh well with the vocals and the overall style of the group." This is an exceedingly positive review for a band that has had a little over a years worth of time playing together. 

One of the songs on the bands EP called "Perfection" is highlighted by Resse in her review as she says, "With lyrics such as 'when you listen to your favorite song you wish that you could be the guiding light behind the one who wrote the melody, just carry inhibition found in passing moments gone 'cause I need you to hold on, we've gotta take what is coming to us, we've gotta make something happen from this, we've gotta give it a chance we're going for a ride,' this song encourages the listener to be an active participant in life rather than to be a passive observer who lets life pass them by." 

Trace The Skyline seems to see how the simple things in life are truly what make life beautiful as they encourage their listeners to stop, think and smell the roses from time to time. 

As Trace The Skyline continues to promote their EP and widen their fan base they are sure to gain a reputation as one of Minnesota's top new up-and-coming indie bands. 

To listen to Trace The Skyline click here. 

All The Right Moves

From the heart of the Minnesota music scene comes Minneapolis natives "All The Right Moves." The band is composed of vocalist, keyboardist and guitarist Brandon, bass player Marc, drummer Dustin, violinist Roman and vocalist, guitarist Braden. 

All The Right Moves was formally known as "The Evermore Escape." Before the band decided to change their name the band formerly known as The Evermore Escape won a Minnesota statewide battle of the bands contest that was put on through a local television station, Fox 9. With the change of a band name came a change in appearance and a slight change in musical style. 

The change also brought about a new EP for the band. All The Right Moves collaborated with producer Jordan Schmidt, (who has worked with Sing It Loud and the Morning Light) for their first EP. Matt Nistler of The Daily Chorus reviewed the bands EP as he said "It [the album] is upbeat enough not to bore the listener and is catchy enough to have the album replaying in your head all day." The creative use of the violin, synthesizer, guitars and dual-vocalists adds depth and variety to the sound of All The Right Moves that keeps it fresh and intriguing. 

the production of the bands EP is nearly flawless as the band is balanced, the sounds are bright and present while the vocals are crisp and clear. Another success for producer Jordan Schmidt and is a true testament to the production process proving that local rock bands don't have to have EP recordings that sound like they are from a garage. 

Since the bands EP release in November of 2008 the band has been touring locally as they have been playing shows with bands such as Jamestown Story and My Lady 4. 

As All The Right Moves continues to promote their music they are sure to score fans of music such as Yellowcard, Sing It Loud and Boys Like Girls. 

To listen to All The Right Moves on their MySpace click here. 

Sing It Loud

Minneapolis natives Sing It Loud are a popular pop/punk/rock band that is made up of: lead vocalist and guitarist Pat Brown, guitarist and background vocalist Kieren Smith, bassist Nate Flynn, keyboardist Ben Peterson and drummer Chris Lee. Together these five guys create the dynamic sound that has made Sing It Loud one of the most popular bands in the Minneapolis area. 

Sing It Loud has a rather unique beginning. According to the bands MySpace they formed in April of 2007 when Pat Brown and Kieren Smith were in two local Minneapolis rival bands, (The Semester and Jamestown Story), but learned that they had a unique connection to one another: Kieren Smith's step-aunt was dating Brown's dad and neither of them were aware of this. Once the two guys found this out they decided to join forces and mixed their passions for pop punk and arena rock and thus Sing It Loud was born. 

Sing It Loud came from relatively humble beginnings as guitarist Smith explains on the bands MySpace that their first shows were disappointing as Smith said, "I honestly don't know why [Epitaph label head] Brett Gurewtiz signed us; we were so bad." Sing It Loud was obviously doing something right as they only played seven shows as an independent band before they were signed. 

In September of 2008 Sing It Loud released their first album titled "Come Around" on Epitaph records. The album was produced by Motion City Soundtracks guitarist Josh Cain and engineered by Mark Trombino who notably has worked with bands such as Jimmy Eat World and Blink-182. Sing It Loud's website states "Come Around is a collection of songs with fist-pumping melodies and head-bopping choruses." This mixture of catchy melodies and rocking beats keeps Sing It Loud's fans filling up venues and selling out shows. 

Sing It Loud doesn't see an end in sight and hopes that they can keep the ride going as long as possible, "we want to be able to play shows and support ourselves by doing this for the next 10 to 20 years, hopefully. We love doing this and there's nothing else we want to do." As Sing It Loud keeps writing and playing music they are sure to leave their mark in pop/punk/rock history. 

To listen to music from Sing It Loud click here. 

The Jeremy Sanoski Band

The Jeremy Sanoski Band is a Christian/Pop/Rock band based out of St. Paul, Minnesota and is composed of lead vocalist and guitarist Jeremy Sanoski, bass player Phil Hicks and drummer Steve Goold. 

According to the bands website from 2002-2004 Jeremy toured with Absolute Records' Big Fat Jam as the lead guitarist, which included both national and international touring. 

In 2004 The Jeremy Sanoski Band released their first CD titled "Somewhere in the middle." Then in 2007 the band released a 3 song EP called "Midway." Since then Jeremy have been busy leading worship at a local church in Minnesota and playing over 150 shows with The Jeremy Sanoski Band. 

The Jeremy Sanoski Band has built a reputation for themselves by performing high-energy, entertaining shows all the while spreading the good news of the gospel through their music. Jeremy Sanoski is quoted on the bands myspace as saying "with every show, whether in a church or club, we want people to leave feeling better about themselves." This is a pretty high calling for a group of 3 guys to do, but they are committed to bring hope to all people through their music. On the bands website Jeremy states "I feel like God has made me for this, and as long as He opens the doors, I'm running through them!"

With rich, deep and thick guitar tones, solid beats and warm vocals the straight forward driving sound of The Jeremy Sanoski Band is sure to impress all who listen. 

To check out music by The Jeremy Sanoski Band click here.  

Take Cover

Hailing from Minneapolis "Take Cover" takes the genre of pop/punk and elevates it to the next level adding their own unique twists that help distinguish themselves form other local bands. Take Cover is: bass player Chad, lead vocalist Ryan, guitarist and background vocalist Odin, drummer Nick and guitarist Brady. Together these guys bring the dynamic and powerful sound that is Take Cover. 

Take Cover had their first EP, released in September 2008, reviewed by David Taintor of The Daily Chorus, a band review website. The review is posted on Take Cover's blog as Taintor reported in the review that "Take Cover's tones are bright and the mix is balanced...it actually sounds like a band is playing these songs." A high compliment being that many bands playing pop/punk today rely heavily on computerized vocals, riffs, guitars and drums. 

Take Cover's EP was recorded by producer Jordan Schmidt who has also worked with other local bands such as Sing It Loud and Jamestown Story. Schmidt allowed Take Cover to explore there own creativity while at the same time adding a level of expertise and experience that helped Take Cover to craft a powerful and catchy EP. 

For anyone that enjoys the sounds of bands such as Fall Out Boy, Sing It Loud or Motion City Soundtrack then Take Cover is a band the should definitely be added to your playlist.  

To listen to Take Cover's music check out their myspace. 

Motion City Soundtrack

Motion City Soundtrack hails from Minneapolis Minnesota and combines a mix of pop/punk and rock to create a sound that is unique to only them. Motion City Soundtrack is: lead vocalist, guitarist and keyboardist Justin Pierre, Keyboardist and background vocalist Jesse Johnson, guitarist and background vocalist Joshua Cain, bass guitarist Matt Taylor and drummer Tony Thaxton. 

Motion City Soundtrack has released three full-length albums starting with their debut "I am the movie." The bands second release "Commit this to memory" was their mainstream break through album. Recently the band has released their third album "Even if it kills me." The bands most recent album was recorded in New York City in two separate sessions over the winter months and included an all-star line up of producers, such as the "Cars" Ricj Ocasek and Adam Schlesinger of "Fountains of wayne." 

Motion City Soundtrack found success with their second album "Commit this to memory" with songs such as "Everything is alright" which became a hit among pop/rock fans. The popularity of songs such as "Everything is alright" eventually caught the attention of indie label Epitaph Records, to whom the band is currently signed. 

Frontman Justin Pierre comments on Motion City Soundtracks website about their most recent album as he says "A lot of these songs seem to be about loneliness and failed relationships and that surprises me because I've never been happier." Despite what the bands motivation was behind this most recent album the most important thing is that they are having fun and writing solid music that keeps their fans listening. 

To check out the bands myspace click here.

Below is a video of Motion City Soundtrack performing a live version of "Everything is alright."

Mark Alan

A dynamic singer, songwriter and producer Mark Alan does it all. Mark has put out 4 CD's and is highlighted on 2 other compilation CD's. He also owns his own recording studio called hidden room productions and he leads worship at Woodridge Church in Plymouth, Minnesota. 

Mark states on his website that "songwriting continues to be a major passion for me." Mark write in a dynamic way that mixes the struggles of who we are as people and the call that God has laid on the life of the Christian. In songs such as "Nothing At All" where Mark writes "you pull up to the stop light and see the man with his sign asking you to give to his need, you try not to catch his eye 'cause you can't spare the time, just hoping that the light will turn green." Through Marks lyrics he challenges us to be less selfish and more selfless. 

Mark is a diverse musician with his hands involved in many areas of music. One of those areas is with his studio, hidden room productions. Mark spends a significant amount of time with other local artists and works as their sound engineer, studio musician, vocal coach and overall producer. To check out hidden room productions click here. 

Mark Alan has a great sound is a talented guitar player and a solid vocalist. He is a local artist that is sure to be gaining attention in the near future. 

To listen to Mark Alan's music click here. 

Hyland

Hyland is a Christian rock/pop band based out of the great city of Minneapolis. Hyland is: vocalist and guitarist Jon Lewis, bassist Lee Carter, keyboardist/guitarist and background vocalist Ben Early and drummer Steve Weigel. 

Hyland has been a busy band over the course of 2008 as they played over 100 live shows. All of their hard work is starting to pay off as the band is getting the opportunity to open for big name Christian bands such as Thousand Foot Krutch and Children 18:3. 

Unsigned.com talks about Hyland and the website states that "the genuine honesty in the songwriting is not something you'd entirely expect from a rock and roll group, but the warm sounds coming from your speakers are entirely open, full and inviting." Frontman Jon Lewis comments on unsigned.com about writing for the band.He states that "the best points of writing music is when the song finishes itself, it's like it's all there, just waiting for you to discover it." Hyland has been discovering the right formula for their music as they have worked hard to create driving guitar riffs combined with a certain level of pop to it that works to captivate listeners.                                                                                                

Hyland has been making a name for themselves with their honest lyrics and energetic live show that keeps their fans engaged and wanting more. As Hyland continues to tour and widen their fan base they will be a name to remember within the Twin Cities. 

To check out Hyland's music click here. 

Now And Forever

Now and Forever is a local rock band that started in the suburbs of Minneapolis. Now and Forever just recently released a five song EP titled "wounds and blessings" and was produced by Weaver At The Loom's Zach Parnell and Izzac Burkhart. 

According to Now and Forever's myspace their music is inspired by the "harsh Minnesota winters." Their music resembles that of a

 Minnesota winter in that the first couple of songs on their EP start out dark and heavy but eventually the snow melts away and the sun shines through the clouds and more joyful times are brought to mind with songs like "through glass on windows." 

The band has been touring heavily and plans to continue their rigorous schedule in order to start to build a larger fan base in Minnesota and the surrounding area. 

Now and Forever has a rich unique sound that establishes them from other melodic rock groups in the Twin Cities. A review from absolutepunk.net says "Although the music's character shifts from one scene to another, often in strict opposition, the album melts together into a well-excuted harmonic expedition. Minnesota has once again turned out a talented group of up-and-comers writing some of the best melodic rock on the market." To read the whole review click here. 

As the band continues to mature in their style and writing abilities they will be a force to be reckoned with. 

Weaver At The Loom

From the moment you start the first track of Weaver At The Loom's EP "I was searching and I found" you are immediately taken to a different world filled with clouds of rich ambient tones, intricate and eccentric rhythms and a level of honest thought provoking lyrics that is unlike anything you have experienced before. Weaver At The Loom is based out of the Minneapolis area and is composed of keyboardist and co-lead vocalist Dan, co-lead vocalist and guitar player Izaac, drummer Matt and lead guitarist Mike. Together they form one of the most dynamic groups to come out of Minneapolis in the past several years. 

According to the bands myspace co-lead vocalist and keyboardist 

Dan explains that the focus of their lyrics are on "exploring the temporary nature of life and attempting to cope with it at the same time." The band goes on to explain that they put an "emphasis on the production and lyrical content of their songs in an effort to help listeners understand and appreciate the contemplative nature behind these mini-epics." Weaver At The Loom attempts to accomplish this goal through their instrumental and coal arrangements as well as through the names of their songs. When all five of the names of their songs on their EP are read together is creates a sentence stating "Buck up, they're coming, you can't escape them, you can't evade them, but you can enjoy life before and

 after, without fear of their return." 

Weaver At The Loom has received multiple positive reviews for their EP "I was searching and I found" and a highlight comes from a review from absolutepunk.net in which it states "In poignant mimicry of the thematic metaphor, each rivulet of song flows into the next, blurring the lines between track breaks into a melodic current of elegant instrumentation and gorgeous atmospheres." While the band members in Weaver At The Loom average a young age of only 21 the guys have accomplished a lot and express a musical wisdom beyond their age. 

Red Fox/Grey Fox

Red Fox/Grey Fox is self-described as an indie/rock/pop band that formed in the Twin Cities during the summer of 2006. The band consits of guiarist, keyboardist and lead vocalist Pete Miller, guitar player and keyboardist Jeremiah Satterthwaite, bass player Ben Pien and drummer Stephen Lindquist. Red Fox/Grey Fox released a full-length album on Say Rah Records on August 4th 2007 and has recieved positive reviews as the band continues to increase its fan base. 

Indieuprising.com reviewed Red Gox/Grey Fox's first full length album "From the land of bears, ice and rock" and is quoted as saying "most importantly, Red Fox/Grey Fox crafted an album that demands attention with so many bands overcrowding myspace, radio, podcasts and car commericals, it's rare that a band comes a long head-and-shoulders above the current trends." To read the whole review click here. Red Fox/Grey Fox has  a distinctly unique sound that is unlike what most bands in the local indie rock scene produce. 

The band itself comments on their myspace that the unique sound is due in part to Pete Millers lead vocals as the website states "Miller's voice screeches beautify through flowing verses and chorus lines; it contains a unique haunting-like quality that attracts listeners from the start and keeps them interested throughout, acting as the song's main source of melody." Red Fox/Grey Fox has found a formula that attracts attention and interest. 

The band played their last live show for six months back on January 4th 2009 in order to focus on recording their new EP titled "A snake. A scoundrel. This man is cursed." The new EP is set to release in early June 2009.  

Below is a music video of the song "The day you accept Jesus back into your heart is the day I'll quit." 

Quietdrive

Quietdrive is a Minneapolis based punk/pop/rock band. Quietdrive is made up of Kevin Truckenmiller supplying the vocals and frontman presence of the band, Matt Kirby plays guitar and sings backup vocals, Justin Bonhiver is another guitarist, Droo Hastings plays bass and the band is kept in sync by drummer Brandon Lanier. Quietdrive has been a busy band as they have performed over 900 shows since 2005. Kevin Truckenmiller comments on Quietdrive's website (to visit the official website click here) that "We never had more than 3 consecutive days off while touring on our last record, and there were days where we did 4 performances, starting at the radio station at 7 AM and ending at 11 PM at a club show." Quietdrive's determination and work ethic has led to over 60,000 record sales on their debut album "When All That's Left Is You." 

Quietdrives first album "When All That's Left Is You" is a good example of the bands punk/pop/rock style. A review from emotionalpunk.com states that "Quietdrive is able to slightly distinguish themselves above the rest with music that sticks to your ribs." This rib sticking goodness is what has led to success for the band. Quietdrive also helps to distinguish themselves in the often cliche and repetitive genre of punk music by being diverse in their artistry with softer ballads such as "Rush Together" and "I Lie Awake." This diversity in song writing and musical ability has helped keep Quietdrive's fans coming back for more. 

In the fall of 2008 Quietdrive released it's second album called "Deliverance." The band states on their website that they plan to dedicate another year to touring and they embarked on their 9th national tour this past fall and are currently over seas on an international tour. As Quietdrive continues to promote their music both nationally and internationally they are sure to have a crowd of fans in Minneapolis ready and waiting to give them a warm welcome home. 

Below is a music video from Quietdrive, the song is called "Rise From The Ashes" and is found on Quietdrives first album "When All That's Left Is You." To visit Quietdrives myspace click here.

Mainstay

The Minneapolis based rock band "Mainstay" started from humble beginnings as the four piece group composed of front man Justin Anderson, drummer Ryan DeYounge, guitarist Scott Campbell and bassist Dan Ostebo started as a suburban garage band. However, the band matured into a respectable local band while they were all in college and released their first album "Well Meaning Fiction." After some initial success with their first album "Mainstay" went back into the studio to record and release their sophomore album "Become Who You Are" in the fall of 2007. 

John DiBiase of jesusfreakhideout.com reviewed "Mainstay"'s most recent album "Become Who You Are." A highlight from the review comes near the end as DiBiase states that "Become Who You Are" is undeniably more daytime pop radio friendly, with a little rock thrown in for good measure, but the honesty and sincerity the guys brought with their debut is what will make this particular pop album stand out from the rest. Fans may or may not accept the band's new direction, but for what they've set out to accomplish with "Become Who You Are," Mainstay is holding true, not just to who they feel most comfortably being, but also to who they feel God is calling them to become." To read the whole review click here. 

"Mainstay" focuses on writing about the struggles of life and the hope that they have in Christ. As they take their music to the masses they are constantly aware that they are nothing without Christ. Frontman Justin Anderson comments on the bands myspace that "If we're going to do this, it has to be about God, about the deeply intimate relationship we're experiencing. Otherwise, it's not worth it." It is refreshing as a Christian to hear words and thoughts like these from a rock band because those types of ideas are rare amongst the often self-gratifying and individualized culture of rock and roll bands. 

Below is a music video from "Mainstay" off of their first album, the song is called "This Could Be." 

Backstories

According to Websters dictionary the phrase 'back story' means "a story that tells what led up to the main story or plot." If the name "Backstories" doesn't say it all then I don't know what else would. Backstories is a Twin Cities Americana/Folk/Gospel band made up of four passionate and creative guys that love to, well, tell stories of course. 

Backstories is headed by acoustic guitar player and singer David C. Johnson and is backed primarily by electric guitar player and background v

ocal signer Chris Frost. When playing larger live shows Backstories is joined by drummer Matt Decker and bass player Chris Erickson. 

                                              

Playing venues from Starbucks Coffee shops to opening for national touring acts at the Fine Line Music Cafe and to winning the Bethel University Battle of the Bands at club three degrees and even playing the Varsity Theatre Backstories has proven their versatility and ability to stay true to their roots. 

David C. Johnson puts it best as he explains on Backstories myspace that "we really like to tell stories. There is something timeless and endearing about a simple narrative that takes someone from where they were...to where they are. We're in the business of sharing those stories." As you listen to the lyrics of Backstories songs you can feel the emotion, the highs, the lows, the pains, the joys, and in each song you are able to find something that connects with you in your own life and in some sort of magical way seems to bring of all us and all of our stories together, as one. 

To get a glimpse into what Backstories is all about watch the music video below, it was recorded by David C. Johnson and Chris Frost. The song is called "All That History Has Done."

 

Owl City

Owl City is a project by Adam Young of Owatonna Minnesota. Young released his first EP with Owl City in June of 2007 called "Of June." In 2008 Young released a full-length album titled "Maybe I'm Dreaming." Young has other projects such as Port Blue and Swimming With Dolphins. 

Young's most recent album "Maybe I'm Dreaming" received positive reviews from absolutepunk.net. The review states "It is distinctly obvious that Young has potential surpassed by few in his genre, and Maybe I'm Dreaming is an effective portrayal of how Young has progressed. The emotion is almost touchable, and the way 

Owl City picks you up, takes you on a journey of the sky and other surreal and abstract worlds, and then gently

sets you down again, is amazing." To read the whole review click here. 

Owl City is a mix of moving electronica pop beats, catchy loops, metaphorical lyrics and singable melodies that are sugarcoated just enough to keep you coming back for more. 

When Owl City plays live the band consist of Adam Young playing his

keyboard/synth/computer/other various electronica gadgets and the lead vocals. He is joined by Austin Tofte playing keyboard/synth/acoustic guitar/

computer and background vocals. Owl City is

anchored by live drummer Matt Decker. 

I have to admit that ever since I saw Owl City perform live at the Varsity Theater to a sold out crowd on February 13th I haven't been able to stop myself from soaring over to the Owl City Myspace to get my fill.

When it gets down to it Owl City is definitely worth more than just a hoot. 

In Harbour

The local rock, ambient band In Harbour started writing and playing music in the fall of 2007. Their first single "Storms Cloud Break" was made available on their myspace on Christmas day of 2007. The band is made up of four solid and creative musicians headed by front man Brian Seidel (guitars and vocals) and supported by Andrew Schiblla (guitar), Tommy Knautz (Drums) and Andy Frost (Bass). 

In the fall of 2008 the band put out their firs

t EP titled "The hardest part is learning to swim." the EP received a strong review from absolutepunk.net. According to absolutepunk.net "It's no surprise that In Harbour is seeing glimpses of bigger things. With barley a year under their belts, this group of youngsters shows a boatload of promise." Click on the absolutepunk.net link above to read the whole review. 

In Harbour has shared the stage with other local Twin Cities bands such as Red Fox Grey Fox, Backstories, Swimming With Dolphins and Weaver At The Loom. The band also recently reached number one on 97.7 WVOE's "Top 20" for the month of January. 

With a promising future ahead for In Harbour all of us in the Twin Cities should keep our eyes on the horizion for the powerful, passionate and dynamic group that is In Harbour. 

Welcome to the Twin Cities Local Music Blog

The Twin Cities are home to some great music and some huge talent. I hope to express some of my local Twin Cities favorites as well as highlight some of the new up and coming acts. The Twin Cities are home to a great variety of venues and what seems to be an unending amount of talent. The Twin Cities music scene is sure to impress and entertain all.