Pump5
Pump5 is a Southern California-based rock band known for its raw, high-energy sound that captures the spirit of classic rock while infusing it with a modern, edgy vibe. Founded in the mid-2000s by lead vocalist and guitarist Steven Barnett, the band quickly gained attention for its gritty, melodic rock style. Pump5’s music combines influences from the punk and grunge scenes, with shades of classic rock that give their sound a timeless feel. With Barnett at the helm, the band created a strong identity rooted in its dedication to authentic, no-frills rock music.
The band’s journey started in the sun-drenched suburbs of Southern California, where they played in small venues and bars, developing a loyal local fanbase. This early period was crucial to their sound, allowing them to hone their craft and establish their stage presence. Pump5 released several independent albums and singles that received regional radio play, slowly building their reputation in the rock community. As they refined their sound, they also expanded their lineup, welcoming bassist Andre Bonter and drummer Nate Wolcott, whose contributions solidified the band’s tight, powerful rhythm section.
Pump5’s breakthrough came with the release of their album Full Service in 2018, which garnered positive reviews and opened up new opportunities for touring. The album’s success was fueled by standout tracks like "When the Lights Go Down" and "Fight On," songs that encapsulated the band’s relentless energy and passion for rock and roll. Full Service marked a turning point, allowing the band to share the stage with established rock acts and reach a wider audience across the U.S. Their reputation as a hard-hitting, high-energy live band earned them more devoted fans with each performance.
Today, Pump5 continues to build on its legacy, blending the classic with the contemporary to keep rock’s rebellious spirit alive. Their latest releases reflect a maturing sound without sacrificing the intensity that initially set them apart. Pump5’s commitment to authentic, heartfelt rock music remains unwavering, and their evolving discography continues to attract listeners who appreciate music with grit, soul, and passion. As they tour and work on new material, Pump5 is a band that refuses to rest, embodying the resilience and dedication that defines true rock and roll.
The Deadly Romantics
The Deadly Romantics is a hard rock and sleaze metal band that was formed in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, in 2005. The brainchild of frontman Thunderfuck (real name unknown), the band quickly gained notoriety for its provocative style, blending raunchy lyrics with gritty, high-energy performances. Over the years, they have cultivated a dedicated following, thanks in part to their larger-than-life stage presence and unapologetic approach to rock and roll.
Critics lauded their music for embracing the grimy, rebellious spirit of rock and roll, with some describing their sound as "dirtier than a Welsh railway track" and "sleazier than a back-alley preacher." This distinctive style and their raucous live performances have continued to draw comparisons to bands like Zodiac Mindwarp, Guns N’ Roses, and GG Allin.
Live performances are central to the band's identity. Thunderfuck and The Deadly Romantics are known for their unfiltered, high-octane shows, with Thunderfuck himself often engaging in provocative antics that amplify the chaotic energy of their music. They have toured extensively, both in the UK and Canada, performing at venues that cater to their gritty rock and roll vibe. Their UK tour, originally scheduled for 2020, was postponed due to the pandemic but later rescheduled for 2022, and returning to the UK in 2024.
The band’s music is a celebration of the wild, rebellious spirit of rock and roll, with lyrics that often deal with themes of lust, excess, and chaos. Their unapologetic approach has garnered them a devoted fanbase but also stirred controversy due to the explicit nature of their songs. Nevertheless, they are a band that wears their vulgarity as a badge of honor, creating a sense of rawness and danger that many modern rock acts lack.
As of now, Thunderfuck and The Deadly Romantics continue to tour and perform, maintaining their presence as a band that defies mainstream trends in favor of a rough, untamed sound. Their legacy is one of rebellion, sleaze, and a fierce commitment to keeping the spirit of rock and roll alive..
Steve Creep and The Wildcards
During the Covid lockdown in 2020-21, Steve Creep connected with old-time friend Tom Shemer of Montreal’s rising talent The Damn Truth. It was Tom who encouraged Steve to record his first solo record with Tom serving as producer and engineer. The result is a four-song EP with Steve performing all instruments and vocals. Always the team player, Steve Creep opted for releasing the record on the premise that it feels more like a band vibe. Much like his childhood hero Prince who played an early role in encouraging Steve’s influence of musical diversity, he wanted a band name. Tom and Steve came to an agreement that attaching a band name to the solo name would be the best compromise, thus giving it the classic idea of acts like Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Prince and the Revolution and Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.
Steve recruited some of his favourite musicians to work with which would now be known as The Wildcards. The music needed to be served by the right guys for the job so he selected long-time music partner Scott Mitchell as the secret weapon playing a unique grinding bass sound while adding large melodic vocal harmonies. Rounded out by well-seasoned drummer Will Laurin whose extensive touring and live experience bring a diverse playing style and a no-bullshit mentality. Finally but not least is rising up-and-comer Phil Di Sessa who brings youth and a Bluesy guitar style that compliments everything the songs deserve.
The music is a culmination of 70’s classic rock with classic punk undertones. The music is mixed in with 90’s power pop hooks that melt the aggressive yet harmonizing guitar leads from Cheap Trick and Thin Lizzy with the arena rock hooks of Kiss to the occasional punk vibes of The Clash and Green Day. The songs are catchy, to the point and packed with a punch. Tom Shemer’s vintage recording style along with The Damn Truth’s Dave Traina mastering, is a match made in heaven.
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