First Listen: Pink Fuzz - Ain't No Friend

Pink Fuzz is a brother/sister led three-piece out of Denver made up of singer/guitarist John Demitro, singer/bassist LuLu Demitro, and drummer Forrest Raup. Growing up and playing music together since grade school, Pink Fuzz came to fruition at the end of 2017. Quickly picking up steam and wanting to expand out of Denver, Pink Fuzz started touring extensively. Creating a DIY circuit throughout the country, they’ve built a grassroots fanbase that has anxiously been awaiting new releases. Finally, 4 years after their newest release, the band is putting us on track for new singles leading up to what will be their strongest body of work they’ve produced yet. The first single drops on January 5th followed by their headlining show on January13th at The Bluebird.

We got our hands on the single “Ain’t No Friend” and it is nothing short of pure unfiltered rock and roll. The song starts fast with intense drumming and screeching guitars reminiscent of early 80’ metal rock anthems. Not surprising for the band as they have been dishing out hard rocking singles for a few years now. This one seems more polished and a little harder than anything we have heard from them. A guitar maestro (and probably best guitar shredder in Denver, fight us) John Dimitro lets loose on this one with no holds barred, emitting fuzzed driven articulated chords, which brings the song to life. Joining in on the shennanigans on bass is the talented LuLu Demitro that brings a solid bridge and pleasant aestetic and clarity to the song. The backbone of the song is brought by the drumming sound of Forrest Raup who lays down the foundation for the song, he brings a rapid based blast beat often compared to early sounds of punk bands in the past. The song maintains consistency throughout and stands out above the rest. Self produced/Self recorded. Mixed by Mike Fahey of Starbird Sound Studios. Mastered by Chad Cuttill of Aura Mastering Agency. Artwork by Elias Armao of Rare Form 

The song is available on all streaming platforms on Friday. January 5th and will playing a headlining show on January 13th at The Bluebird.

The band kickoffs a mini-tour starting Friday:

Upcoming Shows:

1/5 - Sherbino - Ridgway, CO.

1/6 - The Alibi - Telluride, CO.

1/13 - Bluebird Theater headline - Denver, CO. 

1/18 - Goldenlight Cantina - Amarillo, TX.

1/19 - Which House - Denton, TX.

1/20 - Farout Lounge - Austin, TX.

1/25 - Kirby’s - Wichita, KS.

1/26 - The Bottleneck - Lawrence, KS.

1/27 - Auntie Mae’s - Manhattan, KS. 

3/20 -3/24 - Treefort fest - Boise, ID.

Photo Credit: Hannie Rie

Pink Fuzz Deliver On Their Newest EP Vitals : Exclusive Premiere

Pink Fuzz (Photo Credit: Sierra Voss)

Denver noise rockers Pink Fuzz have graced us with their newest EP Vitals and it delivers on all levels. The five song EP is full of hard and heavy grunginess led by the duo siblings of John and Lulu Demitro exchanging lyrical barbs while drummer Forrest Raup delivers on the skins. Pink Fuzz is no stranger to putting out amazing music as their debut album Speed Demon was on repeat for us for the latter part of 2018. On Vitals the band maintains the same integrity with a more polished sound that emits a sense of maturity and well structured songs that carry on throughout the EP.

The album opens up with “Missing Piece” right out of the gate giving us a glimpse of the early days Queens of The Stone Age, with shredding speed and well structured lyrics the song hits hard and emits an impressive pulsating beat throughout the song.

On Vitals, John Demitro saves his best with careful wordplay and intense shredding of the guitar at various moments of the song adding an old school rock dynamic to a new school sound. The song plays out like an ode to the early days of the Foo Fighters and the similarities between Grohl and company.

On “Close To Me” the song opens with a heavy dose of distortion causing favorable panic that leads us to our favorite song on the EP. Tight structures and consistent transitions play out like a true rock anthem that favors heavily as a standout track.

The intro to “Needles” starts with a repeating guitar riff that is accompanied by a favorable drum beat that transcends into an all out party as Lulu Demitro lends her sultry vocals into the fray. The song reminds of us of the early days of Joan Jett and Blondie playing out to dirty dingy clubs with a cold beer in one hand and cigarette in the other, the epitome of a classic rock anthem.

On “Get A Grip” Raup truly shines as the drumming lays the foundation to one of the best songs on the album. The middle of the song intensifies to an almost buzz like feel the listener can sense. The band doesn’t hold back as it intensifies as the song closes out to an almost raucous ending leaving us exhausted and wanting more.

All in all the band truly shines as the EP hits us with a heavy dose that we indulge and accept each facet of the the brilliant five song whirlwind of chaos that played to our ears.

-Castro

First Listen: Pink Fuzz "Think You Got Me"

Brother-Sister duo Pink Fuzz (Photo Credit: George Blosser)

If you didn't get enough Pink Fuzz from us last night, we have their second single off their upcoming album rightfully titled Speed Demon. John Demitro shines lyrically on this track (with a perfect subtle hint of backup vocals by LuLu Demitro) anchored by well played out riffs and strong drumming. A track you would find on any Quentin Tarantino film, the song is a hit.

Pink Fuzz Set To Unleash New Album! We Have The First Single "Someone" For Exclusive First Listen

One of our favorite local acts Pink Fuzz is about to unleash their latest album"Speed Demon" as well as embark on a new tour. We are debuting two of their newest songs exclusively right here on Ultra5280. Scroll down to listen to the first single "Someone" tomorrow we will be debuting "Think You Got Me".  Sit back buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Having released two tracks in 2017, the band is excited to unleash a full album’s worth of their awe inspiring heavy rock into the world this fall. Pink Fuzz is comprised of brother/siste John and LuLu Demitro, and rounded out by childhood friend Forrest Raup. Together, Johnand LuLu share lead vocals , while LuLu’s signature fuzzed out Rickenbacker bass, and John’s signature guitar tone form a force to be reckoned with. Combine that with Forrest’s monstrous yet precise drumming style, and Pink Fuzz forms a wall of sound that is sure to melt the faces and blow the minds of every listener or concert goer that crosses their path. Recorded over the span of late 2017-early 2018 at Silo Sound in Denver, Colorado, the songs on “Speed Demon” are unique, forceful, and subtle all at the same time. The trio took their time writing and recording this album to make sure it was everything they wanted it to be. Having toured rigorously over the last 4 years, the band has been able to hone in their sound and focus it into something that is truly unlike any other band.

Pink Fuzz (Photo Credit: George Blosser)

The music on “Speed Demon” is a showcase of how far this band has come with their song writing. Sludgy riffs, ripping guitar solos (think your favorite track off Smashing Pumpkins “Mellon Collie” meets QOTSA’s “Era Vulgaris”) and driving rhythms are still a large part of this band’s sound. But what stands out on this album are those song’s counter parts. Pink Fuzz can still throw down with the heaviest rock n' roll, but what is setting them apart is their ability to balance that with beautiful melodies and a wide array of dynamics. LuLu and John’s vocal harmonies in these melodic driven moments are a highlight of the LP, as their voices blend together in a way that is instantly recognizable. With John’s vocals taking on the style we’d expect from a love child of The Stooges era Iggy Pop and Marc Bolan. While LuLu’s silky smooth vocals channel more of a Josh Homme written melody with a Beth Gibbons (Portishead) style delivery. Their individual vocals drive the intensity and fluidity of other songs, the entire band’s talent and experience shines through seamlessly to create an incredible performance through out the entire album. There is no doubt that this band can shred, but it is clear that everything was played with intention; not a note or beat is wasted or over played.

Inspired by countless hours in the van listening to podcasts, and late night talks about how fragile the human mind can be, the band was transfixed on the development of serial killers. Pink Fuzz first touched on this subject in their debut music video for their song “Enough”, featuring “Fast Finger Frank” (the original “speed demon”) hunting down his victims in an 18 wheeler semi across barren desert roads. The video was written, produced, filmed, and acted out by Pink Fuzz themselves. The themes from this music video, along with other personal turning points, fueled the writing process for the new release. Pink Fuzz will be touringthroughout September 2018 and the later part of fall to support the album, and will be releasing two more music videos to support the singles from “Speed Demon”.

The album release show will take place in the band’s home town of Denver at Lost Lake Lounge, Sept 1st, 2018. Supported by locals Love Gang and BootGun.

“Speed Demon” September Tour 2018

9/1 Lost Lake Lounge, Denver, CO

9/6 Golden Light Cantina, Amarillo, TX

9/7 Backyard On Bell, Denton,TX

9/8 The Electric Church, Austin,TX

9/14 Auntie Maes, Manhatten, KY

9/15 PDM, Columbia, MO

9/16 The Boobie Trap, Topeka, KS

9/21 The Replay Lounge, Lawrence, KS

9/22 Rock the Prairie Fest, Dwight, KS

9/23 The Phoenix Lounge, Sioux Falls, SD

9/24 Hi Watt House. Minneapolis, MN

9/26 Liars Club, Chicago, IL

9/28 Castle Ellerbe, Louisville, KY

9/29 TBA, Columbus, OH

9/30 Foam, St. Louis, MO

8 Bands You Must Absolutely See at The Underground Music Showcase

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It's UMS week and we hope you have nailed your schedules down at this point, if you haven't it's ok as one of the best ways to experience the festival is by randomly hopping from venue to venue during the weekend and discovering for yourself something new. As we do every year we have scoured the list of 300+ bands to pick the 8 bands you must absolutely see (Trust us we want to see every band). These are bands that have been on our radar since the announcement and bands we feel are worth catching live. (In no particular order)

Walker Lukens (Sunday 3:20-4:00 PM Sesh Stage)

Walker Lukens has been called ‘one of the best songwriters in Texas’. The Austin-based, Houston-bred singer, multi-instrumentalist has been called ‘wonderfully inventive’, a ‘non-sexually intimidating version of Prince’, and a ‘veteran balladeer with sudden indie rock ambitions’. Walker thinks it’s important that you realize his name is not Walter. 

In 2013, he released his first full length record, Devoted. It received praise from outlets like NPR’s All Songs Considered, American Songwriter, Austin American Statesman, Austin Chronicle, and Billboard and took Lukens and his backing band, The Side Arms, all over the US. 

After meeting Spoon drummer Jim Eno in a bar, Walker & The Side Arms started recording new music at with him at his studio, Public Hi-Fi. Their first collaboration, ‘Every Night,’ has been streamed almost a million times now. Their second collaboration, ‘Lifted’ from Never Understood EP spent 8 weeks on the specialty commercial radio charts. Another EP, Ain't Got A Reason, soon followed in April of 2017 and garnered Walker spots at festivals across the country like Bonnaroo, Firefly, Austin City Limits Festival, Free Press Summerfest, Middle of the Map, Underground Music Showcase. His second full length, Tell It To The Judge, will be released on September 22, 2017 on Modern Outsider.

Tyto Alba (Friday 12:00-1:00 AM Irish Rover)

Tyto Alba, based out of Denver, CO, formed in the fall of 2014 and features the talents of singer/songwriter Melanie Steinway, guitarist Matt Rossi, bassist/synth player Daniel DiMarchi and drummer Andrew Bair. The songs are dreamy, spacious and lush. Tyto Alba is the scientific name for barn owls.

Described as four friends making music together. Tyto Alba is fronted by singer/songwriter Melanie Steinway, a tattooist and illustrator by day. Her folk background melds with indie, shoegaze and post-punk influences of her three bandmates for a distinctly lush and dreamy sound. Tyto Alba has self-released two EPs and a handful of singles.

If you recall we premiered their last single "Somnambulist" here on Ultra5280 a few months ago and have been swooning ever since. Their live sound will capture you and make you a fan upon first listen. A must see on Friday night to get your festival in high gear!

Pink Fuzz (Sunday 1:00-2:00 AM Gary Lee's Motor Club)

Pink Fuzz (formerly BANDITS) are a red-hot bowling ball, shot out of a homemade cannon into the side panel of mid 80’s Ford Bronco. 

Led by the unmatched chemistry of brother/sister John and LuLu Demitro, Pink Fuzz have “managed to enter a higher society of artistry by discharging a brand unlike any others in the provincial industry.”

Straddling the line between psychedelic and downright explosive, Pink Fuzz find themselves drawing in dazed listeners to a focal point of sound, just before pushing back with enough power and energy to knock the asbestos out of the ceiling of your towns grimy rock club.

Nasty Nachos (Saturday 12:00-1:00 AM Irish Rover)

From the ashes of many musical endeavors, Nasty Nachos comes as a culmination of influences, instruments, and experiences of it's creator, Alex Anderson. 

Anderson spends his days at modular synthesizer company called WMD, developing and demoing new pieces of modular gear. His nights are consumed with composing, testing, and putting this gear through it's paces. Nasty Nachos is the result of these tests.

Joined live by fellow modular synthesist and drummer Matt Tanner, Nasty Nachos' live set is always changing and evolving. The energy and vibes are high. The sound is reminiscent of Todd Terje, Daft punk, with a little bit of 70's funk in there.

Nasty Nachos is focused on the moment. Playing new songs and grooves at each show. An album may come from all of this but for now, the live show is where it's at.

Nightlove (Sunday 10:00-11:00 PM Hi-Dive)

Although brand new(ish) on the music scene, artist Nightlove instantly sparked our interest when we first laid ears on him. Taylor MacNicholas is the hairy, tattooed genius behind the emerging 80's synth pop project. With just a sprinkle of emo flare in his vocal belting and breaks, Taylor takes the popular techniques of the sequined jumpsuits, colossal glam hair, and parachute pants era and transforms it into current, mainstream pop. In our recent interview Taylor discusses the conception, inspiration and development behind Nightlove. We feel this is going to been of the most hyped performances of the festival, we hope you have enough energy left Sunday night!

Los Mocochetes (Saturday 1:20-2:00 PM Sesh Stage)

Los Mocochetes are a 7-piece Chicano Funk band from Denver, CO. This colorful cast of characters fuses thoughtfully brazen, socio/politically charged song lyrics, groovilicious melodies and high-energy stage antics to create an immersive experience unlike anything you've ever seen before. Much like a machete, which can be used either as a tool to build or a weapon to kill, they have chosen to use their music to inspire and encourage positive social change, and they have a ton of fun along the way. Every show is different, but it’s always a dance party!

Los Mocochetes were the recipients of Westword Music Showcase award to Best Latin Band of 2017. They also were featured in the Denver Post Underground Music Showcase and have played numerous iconic Denver venues such as the Bluebird Theater, Oriental Theater, Su Teatro Cultural and Performing Arts Center, Larimer Lounge, Syntax Physic Opera, Aztlan Theatre, Lost Lake, Hi Dive, 3 Kings Tavern, Herman’s Hideaway, Lion’s Lair, and recently sold out Ophelia’s Electric Soap Box. The band has a strong connection to New Mexico, and often tours the state, having played as far south as Acapulco, MX.

The current lineup features artists with a wide variety of influences. They are poets, singers, painters, rappers, actors, musicians, dancers, producers, composers, dreamers, doers, thinkers. They are gente who make music together and enjoy all forms of creativity. The Mocochetes are here to ignite a fire in every audience member to enjoy the moment and then go out and make a difference! 

Reyna (Saturday 2:20-3:00 PM Imagination Stage)

Milwaukee-by-way-of-Texas sisters Victoriah and Hannah Gabriela take the sweet indy pop they perfected as Vic and Gab and hone it to a razor edge. Immediately engaging and shimmering with infectious melodic sheen, sparking declaration that REYNA has arrived.
 
Back in 2011 when Victoriah and Hannah recorded a song called “So Long So Tried” on a whim in their basement using Garageband. The song found its way to the music supervisors at MTV and wound up being used in the program Skins. The sisters released their debut EP Bridges and Guns under the name Vic and Gab in 2011 to adulation by both the mainstream press and blogs. Their 2013 follow up LP Love of Mine (which Spin lauded for its “bubblegum janglers with pliable melodies and soft-edged vocals”) They went on the road in support of Love of Mine, opening for the likes of BLEACHERS and Death Cab for Cutie, among others. After showcasing at SXSW they caught the attention of Saiko Management (known for developing Lorde and Parson James), who signed them to a deal.  
 
Ready to write new songs in what felt like a new era, the sisters traveled to L.A. and NYC to collaborate with producers for the first time in their career. This in turn changed their approach to songwriting and gave them a new set of creative tools with which to work. After recording a number of songs the sisters decided to give their new sound a new moniker, REYNA.  - Ever Kipp

Mothers (Saturday 5:20-6:00 PM Main Stage)

Mothers began in 2013 as self-taught songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Kristine Leschper’s solo project as she studied printmaking in Athens, Georgia. Leschper's earliest musical influences span a great swath of early aughts rock and folk including Interpol, Sufjan Stevens, Joanna Newsom, The Microphones, and Athens legends Neutral Milk Hotel; she later developed a love for experimental music, math rock, and noise artists as well. Over time, Leschper began collaborating with fellow Athenian Matthew Anderegg and a fully flushed out band soon fell into place. In 2016, Mothers released their debut album “When You Walk A Long Distance You Are Tired” to great critical acclaim. Named a Stereogum ‘Band To Watch’, Pitchfork’s review of the album compared Leschper to Angel Olsen and Sharon Van Etten while Noisey exclaimed that the record “is singer-songwriter prog rock for grown up emo kids.” Now based in Philadelphia, Mothers will spend 2018 working on their sophomore follow-up.