“Mutts’ music embraces the inner turmoil, the things that are striven for, the ways that we fall short, the ways we’re let down, as well as the few things that spark us back onto the right track, even if those are the rare moments, the briefest of comebacks.” —Sean Moeller, Daytrotter
If you’re a Chicagoan and you haven’t heard of Mutts by now you might as well be saying you haven’t heard of Barack Obama. OK, that might be an exaggeration, but they have cemented themselves as a must-see band in the local music scene over their 4 years of releasing music together.
With a knack for honest, personal, and truly intimate songwriting, frontman Mike Maimone’s songs will tear at your heart-strings but mend them in due time. Their live show ranges from raucous keyboards and pounding drums to delicate piano ballads. Think Tom Waits, if he still had the energy to jump up on his piano mid-song.
Over the course of releasing three full length LPs and a whole bunch of EPs, the band has grown into a unified and versatile act that truly defies all genres.
On Friday August 16th, Mutts will play their first three EPs in their entirety, recording the set for a live LP taping and triple EP re-release, all in one, at Tonic Room.
Here’s a taste of what you’re in for, the track “Stolen Bricks” from their 2009 EP Pretty Pictures,—it reveals Mutts doing what they do best, rock and roll.
Supporting Mutts for this live recording are Milwaukee folk pop favorites, Myles Coyne & The Rusty Nickel Band as well as Illinois electro-folk act Kellen & Me.
Myles Coyne has put out a handful of self released cassette tapes, playing with a rotating cast of musicians over the past few years. August 3rd marked the release of his band’s first full length album, Take Things As They Come, and boy does it deliver.
These 10 tracks find Myles and the band at their finest. Ranging from gentle contemplative songs to driving folk tunes that build and build, every track is an instant hit. With help from vocalist Caley Conway, tracks like “About” are a stunning example of what this band is capable of, while the unapologetic and crass lyrics of “Don’t Tell Me” show they have a sense of humor when it comes to their music.
This is a fun record—by a bunch of fun people—who pair well with the no bullshit songwriting of Mutts. Check out the title track from this amazing LP below.
This event is not to be missed. For a mere $5 ($8 at the door) you’re getting more than enough bang for your buck this Friday at Tonic Room. Highly Recommended.
Mutts Official | Facebook | Twitter
Kellen & Me Official | Facebook | Twitter
Myles Coyne Bandcamp | Facebook | Twitter
LIVE PHOTO: DAN JARVIS
