IPO Los Angeles 2014
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Artists From Los Angeles/Orange County
Patricia Bahia – Patricia Bahia (pronounced ba-hé-yah) is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and recording artist and ovarian cancer survivor who creates catchy piano-based pop songs that celebrate life’s struggles and triumphs. Her music resonates with cancer survivors and regular folks alike, who find inspiration, solace, and hope through her infectious melodies, expressive voice and soulful lyrics. Fans of Aimee Mann and Sarah McLaughlin will want to check out her recent Long Road Home EP.
Jason Berk – A critically acclaimed singer-songwriter who comes to Los Angeles by way of New York and San Francisco, Berk has proven himself to be a musical tour-de-force, teaching himself guitar, bass, keyboards, drums, ukulele, mandolin, and banjo, and garnering nationwide radio-play. His debut full-length album, Real Love, will appeal to fans of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Elvis Costello, to name but a few! A second full length is currently in the works, and we can hardly wait!
Nick Bognar – A charming singer/songwriter who never fails to delight audiences with his crop of catchy songs, featuring strong hooks and great melodies filled with tongue in cheek humor. His music has drawn comparisons to Ben Folds, Green Day, Liz Phair…and sometimes also to his brother Bobby Bognar, main man of The Piper Downs (see below). Check out his song “Ninjas Win,” the title track for the movie, Ninjas vs Vampires!
James Bond – Mr. Bond is doing his part to save the world from the mundane by keeping the high standards of a bygone era where quality memorable music was the order of the day. The songs on his debut album, Live and Let Live, blend the melodic pop/rock hooks and intensity of such artists as the Manic Street Preachers and Queen with the cinematic edge of David Bowie and Tom Jones. His brand new album, Thunderballs, has just been released just in time for his IPO showcase, so watch for it!
Rob Bonfiglio – IPO audiences may recognize Bonfiglio as one of the main men of Wanderlust, who played the very first IPO in 1998, and who got back together in 2012 to release their latest great powerpop album, Record Time. Bonfiglio’s latest solo album, MEA CULPA, embraces a confluence of styles and textures, ranging from muscular hard driving rock, incandescent pop, Philly soul and slinky jazz. He’s a veritable one-man band, playing all the instruments, following in the grand D.I.Y. tradition of artists like Paul McCartney, Todd Rundgren and Prince. And like those artists, he’s pulled off a mighty difficult trick, delivering a cohesive and dynamic sound full of wily invention and innovation. Check it out now!
Adrian Bourgeois – Bourgeois has been stylistically compared to such pop music pillars as the Beatles and the Beach Boys, as well as more modern songwriters such as Elliott Smith and Rufus Wainwright. His music is “…[l]ush with strings, angelic harmonies and melodies that swoop and soar like a hook-laden roller coaster” (Sacramento Bee) Check out his latest release, Pop/Art, and you’ll hear why multiple powerpop blogs, independent music reviewers and radio stations, and we here at IPO agree this is a young artist poised to take the pop music world by storm!
Nelson Bragg – A veteran of numerous bands who have graced the IPO stage over the years (The Now People, Cloud 11, The Quarter After, Anny Celsi Band), and percussionist/vocalist with The Brian Wilson Band, Bragg is back at IPO doing his own thing, and we can hardly wait! Known for his spot-on drumming and vocals, as well as his talent as an arranger, his latest CD, We Get What We Want, made the top of many 2012 year end “best of” lists, and is sure to appeal to fans of artists such as Buffalo Springfield, The Grapes of Wrath, and Holsapple/Stamey, to name but a few!
The Cherry Bluestorms – After discovering their mutual love of ‘60s guitar-based melodic rock, guitarist/vocalist Glen Laughlin (formerly of The Dickies) and vocalist Deborah Gee immediately began working on what would become The Cherry Bluestorms. Their debut album, Transit of Venus is a garden of unearthly delights for those who cut their teeth on the vinyl pressed between 1964 and 1970! Their latest release, an ambitious concept album called Bad Penny Opera, turns their classic style and psychedelic haze up a notch, and has been garnering stellar reviews!
The Anny Celsi Band – Continuing in the pop-noir vein she mined on Little Black Dress and Tangle Free World, Anny’s new self-produced album, January, once again combines Brill Building hooks with her “beatnik-cool” feel and a storyteller’s eye for detail. The album features Anny’s son Ivan Pyzow, who contributed horn, string and vocal arrangements that are steeped in Motown, New Orleans jazz, and classic pop vocal harmony style, along with trumpet, piano and that rare blend of voices that can only be found between family members, as well as a list of guest-performers (and likely band members) that reads like a “who’s who” list of the LA music scene – so come check them out!
The Condors – They make absolutely no bones about the fact that they’re classic stylists, influenced by the best that rock ‘n roll, pop, punk, glam, and R&B have to offer. They then take all these influences and package them up in their own brand of in your face gritty powerpop! Their sophomore CD, Wait For It, received extensive airplay and press all over the United States, as well as in Europe and South America, and their latest, 3 Item Combo, is even better! They’re in the studio again, and we can hardly wait to hear what they’ll cook up next!
Amanda Crumley – As the leader of the Chicago-born Mandy & The Bandits, Crumley has become known for her unique brand of breezy shimmering Americana. Bluegrass-inspired, Country-imbued, with flecks of jazz and more than a little bit of rock ‘n roll, her songs burst with originality, raw emotion and poetry. The band’s debut album, When Darkness Grows, was released in 2011 to critical acclaim, and their brand new one, With a Silhouette, is ready to follow in similar vein!
Daisy & The Wild – They’re a garage/punk three-piece out of Santa Monica, fronted by Michigan-raised singer/songwriter Daisy Spanks. Inspired by artists such as Courtney Love, Joan Jett, The Pretenders, Tracy Bonham, and Veruca Salt, Daisy & The Wild are a high octane shot of edgy punk ‘n roll!
Adam Daniel – He first came to public attention in 1999 recording and performing as a rock/pop singer-songwriter, when All Music Guide named his debut album Blue Pop “…among the best guitar-pop albums of the ‘90s…” In 2006 he resurfaced musically, reissuing Blue Pop and also releasing two collections of new recordings: 4-track demos: The Adam Daniel Frequency and 4-track demos: Where You Are EP. His fourth and latest CD, Pop, Baby!, features a mashup of all his favorite things – Elton John piano, glam rock guitars, Beach Boys vocal stacks, and new wave synth candy. Check it out, and it will soon be one of your favorites too!
The Dirty Diamond – Led by singer/songwriter Sam Babayan, The Dirty Diamond blend a sweet mix of classic American and British infused rock, folk, and Eastern/Armenian tinges, taking on a colorful musical journey. Their soulful and melodic writing creates a vast space in the theatre the mind and heart. Fans of tight, professional classic rock and soul will want several helpings of this band!
Marvin Etzioni with the Marvin Country! String Quartet – IPO is proud to host a very special performance by Grammy award winner Marvin Etzioni! Known over the years as one of the founders of Lone Justice, producer (Toad the Wet Sprocket, Counting Crows, Peter Case), sideman (T Bone Burnett, Dixie Chicks, Grey Delisle), and songwriter (Cheap Trick, Victoria Williams), it’s safe to say Etzioni is revered in music circles worldwide. His latest album, Marvin Country, is an ambitious two disc set, and features guest appearances by Lucinda Williams, Steve Earle, and many more!
Evil Maria – After releasing and touring behind three CDs on his Spill Records label, singer/songwriter and guitarist Evren Goknar formed Evil Maria. Their sound evolved into what Goknar describes as maximum garage pop, infusing ‘60s-influenced farfisa and edgy rock elements with pop and early new wave. Their latest release – a limited edition 7” on colored vinyl called The El Dorado Seven Inch – is totally hip!
Filardo – A project conceived by the mind and talents of Los Angeles transplant (by way of Tempe, AZ), Thomas Filardo, with the help of various other contributors. Fans of Frank Zappa, The Finches, The Beach Boys’ Pet Sounds and Smile, and all other things experimental and harmony pop will want to make a point of checking out their latest release, Falling Up!
The Furys – If you remember the LA music happenings of the ‘70s, then you surely remember The Furys, who straddled the line between the local punk and powerpop scenes, like a compromising position between The Weirdos and The Knack. The band released three singles and a 12” EP before splintering, leaving behind the chant-along classic “Say Goodbye to the Black Sheep.” They’re going strong after more than 30 years, and they still rock! Did you know that they were the first band to ever play Madame Wong’s? Now you do!
The Galaxies -The Galaxies-With all the power of Pop and all the edge of Rock, The Galaxies’ music is a unique mix of melody, harmony, beat and full-out fun that really rocks!! Each member brings with him knowledge and love of ‘60s pop, ‘70s rock, and today’s energy and excitement! After just one listen, we dare you to try getting the songs on their latest CD, Here We Go!, out of your head!
Robbie Gennet – An award-winning piano player, writer, and performer who has toured as a sideman and vocalist with acts as diverse as Nick Lachey, Everclear and 7Mary3, in addition to performing solo or with one of his own bands, Rudy and Rabbithead. Expect to hear some ‘70s classic pop melodicism and clear vocals, packaged nicely with powerpop hooks!
Rachel Goodrich – A singer-songwriter from Venice Beach who blends classic influences from the late ‘50s and early ‘60s such as Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, The Beatles, and Lesley Gore with those of more recent purveyors, such as Amy Winehouse or The Dum Dum Girls. The result is ultra-catchy and ultra-fun, and should be on the radio!
Kristy Hanson – Hanson became known in 2012 as the voice of West Hollywood after winning the city’s Summer of Music contest with her theme song, “Welcome Me Home,” and has since then continued to create an industry buzz with no signs of slowing down. Her style combines the classic folk pop of artists such as Joni Mitchell and Joan Baez with the exuberant light-hearted pop of artists such as Debbie Gibson or Tiffany. Check out her latest EP, Piece of Your Heart, and hear what we mean!
honeychain – Two girls and two guys, including Hillary Burton, formerly of IPO vets Nushu, and noted pop music scribe/drummer John Borack, who “long for the loud” and create melodic in-your-face power pop that rocks and sticks like glue traps. Fans of Letters To Cleo, The Muffs, Ingenue, and Belly should definitely check out their debut EP, Futura!
Idalou – When a band consists of members from the Piper Downs, Jeddrah, and The Trainwrecks, you know they’ll be a whole lotta fun, and Idalou certainly are that! Big fans of Uncle Tupelo, Son Volt, Old 97’s, and Wilco, they are doing their part to take the “Alt” out of Alt Country, by getting together to play the kind of country music they have always wanted to hear!
Alex Jules – Jules is the main man of The Greys, whose classic pop hooks are sure to put a smile on your face and reel you in! Their Day Old EP will appeal to fans of Sunshine Pop as well as fans of modern pop artists such as Ben Folds or The 88. We can hardly wait for a full-length! Jules is definitely a forced to be reckoned with, and his future is looking bright!
Linus Of Hollywood – This jack-of-all-trades’ debut album, Your Favorite Record, really took the pop world by storm, with its lush, elegant melodies direct from the playbook of Jellyfish, Wondermints, and late‘60s pop. His second album, Let Yourself Be Happy, was even softer than his first, and his latest release, Triangle has been called “…a self-assured mini masterpiece…” (Chris Twomey). We may very well see his newest release by the time of his IPO show, so don’t miss out!
The Living Dolls – Mix powerpop, rock, psychedelic, garage, mod, punkv arena rock from the ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s and ‘00s, and you’ll get an idea of the sound of The Living Dolls! They’re an alternative blend of old and new; somehow familiar yet strangely unrecognizable. Their self-titled CD is garnering rave reviews from their home in the beautiful San Fernando Valley to Ohio to Sweden, and points in between.
Taylor Locke Band – Locke first came to the attention of both industry and pop fans from coast to coast in 2003 as a member of Rooney, whose self-titled debut drew comparisons to such greats as The Beatles, Jellyfish, and The Cars. His recent Grain & Grape CD, released with his band Taylor Locke and the Roughs, also adds a touch of Rick Springfield and The Kinks! IPO is honored to host a performance by one of the great songwriters of the current generation, along with his rockin’ band!
Maple Mars – A dash of Pink Floyd, a sprinkle of Cheap Trick, some Jellyfish on the side, and a big dollop of the Beatles describe this Los Angeles band. If they never did anything but their debut CD, Welcome To Maple Mars, we could have all been satisfied, but thankfully they keep cranking out their psychedelic pop perfection! The fourth and latest CD, Galaxyland, weaves a dreamy Bacharach meets Rundgren element into the mix, and is definitely their best yet!
Adam Marsland’s Chaos Band – Whether going it solo or playing the maestro as leader of his Chaos Band, Marsland has been cranking out power-packed performances across the US and Europe with songs ranging from beautiful harmony filled gems reminiscent of Brian Wilson to some funky blues inspired ‘70s soul-styled numbers. Quite possibly the hardest working man on the pop scene, his nearly ceaseless touring has earned him thousands of fans all over the world! His latest CD, The Owl And The Full Moon, is his best work yet, and he and the Chaos Band always pull out all the stops (as well as a few surprises), so this is one show you will not want to miss!
Math & Science – Quirky, subversive, and fun are just a few of the adjectives to describe the unique musical stylings of this project led by the inimitable Mr. John Wolf. Math & Science pools everything it remembers from the shining moments of ‘60s and ‘70s rock to produce new rock/pop gems that are extremely evocative, while also retaining a palpable originality. Wolf’s vocals remain as intimate as ever atop a foundation of grooves echoing the Beatles, Velvet Underground, and Tom Petty. Their latest CD, Article 9, will also appeal to fans of Zappa and The Talking Heads, so check it out now!
The Mazarines – The Mazarines walk the line between dream pop and atmospheric folk. The duo’s debut self-titled CD is crafted with a range of new and underground influences, shrouded in an aura of mystery, yet staying true to their simple, classic roots. Fans of The Pretenders, The Pandoras, and Jefferson Airplane should check them out!
Monogroove – They’re the latest combo led by Rin Lennon, whose lead vocals graced the awesome ‘80s band On The Air. Monogroove have been selected by Music Connection Magazine as one of their Hot 100 Unsigned Artists, and have been described as “hard charging rock with truckloads of melodic harmonies” (M.C. Magazine). IPO is honored that they’ve decided to make their IPO showcase the CD release show, and we can hardly wait!
Karen Nash – Born in Texas and raised in Southern California, Karen Nash plays alt-country roots music with the skillfully crafted turn of phrase and topical content of a great folksinger. Known for her impassioned songs of loneliness and broken love, Ms. Nash has captivated audiences all over the US, and was equally well-received in the UK where she played IPO Liverpool in 2008. Her CDs are evocative of Linda Ronstadt, Kenny Rogers, and Emmylou Harris.
New Maximum Donkey – “New Maximum Donkey is poised and ready to make a charge at the world of music with a brand of power-pop that is all their own, fueled by a wry sense of humor and rich melodies that have you singing along by the 2nd time through the disc.” (Jeff Johnson, CDReviews.com) Said disc, Square Root of All Evil, will appeal to fans of artists as diverse as The Ramones, UB40, Frankie Lymon, Jet, and The Banana Splits! One of the most entertaining bands we’ve ever had at IPO!
Fernando Perdomo – Re-located to LA from his former home of Miami Beach where he led Dreaming In Stereo, whose churning style of music was coined by band and press alike as Progressive Pop, an eclectic mix of ‘70s Progressive Rock and ‘90s powerpop! His latest full-length, Warm, is full of symphonic arrangements and out of the box instrumentation, but with an underlying pop catchiness and melodicism that makes the songs truly unforgettable. He’s also a label head (Forward Motion Records) and producer extraordinaire (the latest album by pop legend Andy Pratt, among others!)
The Piper Downs – One of the most entertaining bands on the scene, who’ve been together for over 15 years and show no signs of slowing down! Their CD, Varying Degrees of Failure and Tunelessness, displays both their excellent sense of melody and harmony as well as their tongue in cheek humor. Look out for their upcoming CD, Women, Like Children, Crave Discipline You always get more than a bang for your buck with The Piper Downs!
Chris Price – An engaging artist whose inspiration for his latest CD, Homesick, came from the great albums of the ‘60s, which used limitations to enhance creativity. The album was recorded entirely on an iPhone using just a 4-track app and the mic of the phone. The result is pure ear candy filled with lush strings, clear vocals, and captivating melodies. Check it out now!
Punch Punch Kick – An energetic dose of power-punk-pop ear candy is in store for anyone who picks up a copy of this foursome’s debut self-titled EP, or attends their IPO show! The EP, produced by Linus of Hollywood (see above), will appeal to fans of The Cars, OK Go, and Linus’ own punk pop outfit, Size 14!
The Resonant Heads – Take one listen to the layers of gorgeous vocal harmonies that surf upon intricate melodies and a dynamic rhythmic core, and it becomes obvious that not only is this band revisiting that classic California sound, but they are reinventing it. As the title of their latest CD proclaims, This Is Getting Fun!
Brandon Schott – A singer/songwriter/producer who wields a voice that comforts you like an old friend through warm melodic pop songs that cut to the bone. As the title of his Golden State CD suggests, his music embraces everything that is California sunshine-folk-harmony-pop. His latest release, 13 Satellites, which features his penchant for quirky instrumentation – such as kazoos – against a backdrop of pure pop orchestration complete with strings, horns, and crystal clear harmonies – is his best yet!
Timmy Sean & The Celebrities – After spending the early-to-mid 00’s touring the country fronting the power pop band LUZER, Timmy Sean has spent the last four years growing his beard and recording his first solo CD, Songs From & Inspired by Noisewater. The CD indulges nearly all of his influences, from Brian May on guitar, to Paul McCartney on bass, to Ben Folds on piano….often in the course of just one song, but also has an epic quality reminiscent of Brian Wilson or ELO. Check it out now!
Morty Shallman – Creator of the world’s first Novel with Songs, Last of the Zacharys, this dapper, affable Angelino is known for his cutting-edge mashups of pop songs and pulp fiction. Fusing elements of disco, dance pop, indie pop, alt-rock and EDM, with soaring melodies, intelligent lyrics and classic pop song craft, Shallman serves up a glowing succession of catchy tunes and infectious beats that will brighten the playlists of listeners, dancers, youtubers and radio programmers alike. Check out his latest EP and video project, HALO, and come to his IPO showcase to see and hear for yourself!
The Shamus Twins – Yeah, you’re right, there aren’t any real twins in this band, but their sibling-like harmonies, intelligent lyrics, unique arrangements and infectious songcraft will make you forgive their nom de faux pas. If you like loud guitars, harmonies, jangle, and twang, you’ll want to pick up both of their excellent CDs!
Shplang – They’ve long been mainstays of the L.A. music scene, have lots of excellent CDs, including their most recent release, My Big Three Wheeler, and have a very cool, unique sound as well, with swirling psychedelics meeting solid pop sensibilities. One minute they’re sounding like the Strawberry Alarm Clock, the next: The Stranglers. Intrigued? Check ’em out!
Sitcom Neighbor – They’re a band who wear their late ‘60s and early ‘70s Brit-pop sensibilities proudly on their sleeves. Here’s what CD Baby has to say about their self-titled debut: “Quarter and thinly slice one Apple (green, red or white label, 1968 vintage approx) add one cup Kinks, one teaspoon XTC and a pinch of Nilsson.” Yup, pretty much, and their latest, Charmed, is even better, gracing my Top 10 of 2012!
Sparkle*jets UK – They’re proud to say they combine unabashed playfulness with rockin’ toughness. Leaders Mike Simmons and Susan West have helped take this Orange County band’s performing, arranging and songwriting skills to a new level on their excellent disc, Bamboo Lounge, and we can’t wait for their next one!
Stefano – New Jersey-born singer/songwriter/guitarist Stefano Capobianco now makes his home in LA, and has found his musical home somewhere between rock-and-roll grit and melodic pop. Whether performing solo, or as the leader of past projects to have graced the IPO stage, such as Helicopter and Proper Villians, he creates memorable melodies and harmonies that are as pleasing to the heart as they are to the ear, and entices his audience to share his unabashed joy of the Song!
Superbean – Carrying on the fine tradition of gritty catchy powerpop, Superbean takes cues from the likes of The Jam, The Small Faces, and ZZ Top. Their debut CD, Let’s Hear It For Superbean!, will appeal to fans of those bands, as well as fans of The Condors (see above) and Material Issue! Long live this power trio, which features members of LA stalwarts from back in the day, Velouria and Abe Lincoln Story!
Melissa Thatcher – A singer songwriter sure to make her mark on both the industry and her listeners. Her recent EP, The Streets of Silverlake, is filled with theatrical piano pop with haunting melodies, intelligent lyrics, a touch of classicism, and a flair for the dramatic…and what a voice she has! Definitely one to watch!
Russ Tolman Band – Tolman is one of the main men of True West, one of The Paisley Underground’s most beloved bands, whose “guitar poetry” will never be forgotten, nor will landmark albums like Drifters. We had one of those rare, unforgettable “pinch me” moments at International Pop Overthrow, when the original line-up of True West performed together for the first time in 20 years at IPO Seattle in 2006, and we’re sure IPO LA is in for something really special as Tolman steps out in his current hometown performing under his own name!
The Trainwrecks – The band led by Piper Downs’ guitarist Garner Knutson; they’ve got a powerful, punk-pop sound that fans of The Piper Downs (see above), Green Day, and more traditional power pop will love! Check out their debut full length self-titled CD, which was well worth the wait!
The Ugly Sweaters – With influences as far flung as South African rhythms, classic West Coast Americana, and traditional radio-ready pop rock, The Ugly Sweaters fashion a sound that is soaked in So-Cal sunshine and blissful pop-rock energy creating indulgent harmonies, frenetic performances and chaotic sing alongs. Be ready to put on your dancing shoes when you check out their IPO performance and their LA EP!
Dina Valenz – Valenz is an acoustic/pop singer-songwriter who blends colorful lyrics with catchy melodies to give listeners a sneak peak into her world. Fans of Suzanne Vega, Jewel and Alanis Morissette will dig her Miles and Miles EP!
Walker Brigade – An LA quartet featuring former members of Spooky Pie, brought together by their mutual love for early punk rock. Their music reflects the edgy energy of their influences – think Buzzcocks meet Johnny Thunders crossed with Subway Sect – but gives it their own sardonic twist. Although they are an original band, they are also known for throwing in a cover or two into their set, so come to their IPO showcase, and see and hear what surprises they have in store for us!
Willie Wisely – Wisely’s latest album, True, marks a reunion with his original Willie Wisely Trio, who broke up in 1993 but has maintained its quirky chemistry. They were known in the early ‘90s for their unusual blend of rockabilly, ‘60s pop, cocktail nation, Captain Beefheart and The Beatles. As a solo artist Wisely has continued to build a formidable catalog–– releasing albums, touring the US and Japan and producing records for other artists, including comedian Andy Dick. Wisely’s music is often referred to as ‘evocative pop’ and has been compared to Ron Sexsmith, Elliot Smith, Donovan and Paul McCartney. The consummate performer, Wisely never fails to engage an audience, so make sure you catch his IPO showcase!
The Withers – A Los Angeles foursome who blend classic late ‘50s and early ‘60s rockabilly and rock n’ roll with ‘70s punk and garage, for an effect that is absolutely infectious. Their debut self-titled EP will leave you wanting more!
U.S. Artists From Outside of Los Angeles/Orange County
Phil Ajjarapu – Ajjarapu is an Austin, TX based songwriter who’s played bass and pedal steel for many bands over the years, and was finally prompted to make his solo album after a near fatal accident in March of 2012. Said album, Sing Along Till You Feel Better, is an album made for people who like albums, by a person who adores albums. Fans of The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Big Star, Jellyfish, and The Posies will dig it!
The Bobbleheads – An absolutely engaging trio from San Francisco who’ve created, as they put it, a “niche of niceness” with their “bubblegum flavored indiepop”, in which can be heard musical influences ranging from Flower Power Pop to experimental chamber music! Their Automatic Fun CD still ranks as one of the good feelin’ CDs of The New Millennium, and their latest, Make Yourself Happy, is even better!
Cait Brennan – A Tempe, AZ-based indie piano rock singer/songwriter with dark cabaret, powerpop and ‘70s glam rock influences. She can also belt out vaudevillian ditties, honky-tonk rock, and soul with the best of ‘em! Her recent two-night sold-out concert performance at Arizona’s Tempe Center for the Arts was filmed for public television’s Emmy-nominated “Songwriters Showcase” series, airing on PBS stations, Tempe 11 and on YouTube now! Wow!
The Crush – A Seattle power-trio who weave strains of mod, garage, bubblegum, jangle-pop, paisley pop, and (of course) powerpop into their own intricate crafted brand of rock n’ roll! Fans of The Jam, The Rain Parade, The Pretenders, and The Rolling Stones will all find something to love in their Future Blimps EP! Check it out now!
Dot 22 – A trio of young power-punk-poppers from Cumming, GA whose music follows in the tradition of Green Day, Yellowcard and Blink 182. Their recent EP, Bottle Rocket Romance, was released with enthusiastic reviews and reception, and they come to IPO eager to share it with new audiences who we’re sure will quickly become fans!
Lannie Flowers – Although he and the band hail from the great state of Texas, they’ve done what no other artist in the history of the LA Music Awards has done…namely, taking home four awards from last year’s event in November! His latest CD, New Songs, Old Stories, picks up where his earlier disc, Circles, left off, but rocks even harder! Badfinger-esque in-your-face guitars and vocal harmonies blend with softer shifting harmonies more reminiscent of XTC, but that fans of artists from The Raspberries to The Velvet Underground will be sure to appreciate! We also appreciate that he and his band have played the IPO festival in many cities throughout the world and continue to do so, with no sign of slowing down!
The Jeremy Band – Jeremy Morris is one of the most genuine, nicest people on the pop scene, as well as one of the most prolific pop artists around. His gentle, John Lennon-influenced pop is as spiritual as it is melodic, and you can hear this for yourself on all of his CDs. This Michiganian can stake his rightful place in the IPO Hall Of Fame as he and his band have played more IPO festivals than almost anyone else!
Blake Jones & The Trike Shop – Hailing from the unlikely hamlet of Kingsburg, California, this ensemble uses just about every instrument under the sun to create some bizarre, witty, quirky, yet ultimately melodic sounds, and have become an IPO fan favorite from LA to Liverpool! Their latest CD, Teasers from the Whispermaphone, is a rollicking romp through a Seuss-ian soundscape painted by Frank Zappa! Definitely something a little bit different!
The Tearaways – They’ve been putting out sweet harmony-filled ear candy and crunchy powerpop gems since 1981, and are still going strong! Their music has been featured on NBC, ABC, and ESPN and several independent films, and they’ve recently finished a 39-song recording project with famed producer Earle Mankey, set for release later this year. They’ve also recently performed on the Arsenio Hall Show after their 10th year performing at the Mathew Street Festival in Liverpool. Their new single “We’re All Gonna Drink Tonight” b/w the classic Badfinger song “Baby Blue” was just released on Robo Records/Universal Music and is now available on iTunes. Definitely one of Santa Barbara, California’s finest!
they go pop! – they go pop! brings the music of Irene Peña to a new level (WAY past 11!), and we’re honored that she’s bringing the band down from Seattle to her old LA stomping grounds for a special IPO performance! Said music combines elements of bubblegum, punk, and girl group styles, so this is sure to be a ride you’ll want to jump on NOW! Crunch it up!
Tonio & The Change – An original powerpop/glitter/soul/rock n’ roll band from Pomona, led by Tony Snow, who is also a member of rock legends Dramarama, as well as a former member of Inland Empire rockers, The Glimmerstars. Handclaps and hooks meld with searing guitars in a way that fans not only of Dramarama, but also of MC5 and The Stooges, will surely appreciate. Check out their CD single, “Blindside Reaction,” and their IPO showcase and hear for yourself!
Aaron Williams – His songs carry infusions of classic, indie, and punk rock which he has melded into an original sound that he is proud to share with the world. His band’s new album, The Art of Electricity, (which should be available by the time of their IPO show) was recorded with Grammy-nominated producer Johnny K at Groovemaster Studio in their hometown of Chicago. Hot off release of the single, “Ash” at SXSW and national radio airplay, Williams takes his solo act to LA, and we at IPO are glad to be a part of his journey!
