Grayshot

"An EP that sounds like another radio-bound Coldplay/Fray-copping U.K. pop-rock act. And I mean that in a good way."

--Chris Riemennschneider, The Star Tribune / Vita.mn

Two brothers from Minneapolis form the band Grayshot. The brothers, Aaron(27) and Christian(24), are the only permanent members of the band. When they play live shows they often times have a friend fill in for them (Kevin Holvig or Steve Goold). With the recent release of their second EP, Waiting Days, they are receiving radio play on stations like cities97 and have guest played on a number of shows, such as the Minnesota show Showcase Minnesota. The brothers generate a sound much like that of popular Brit rock bands Keane, Coldplay, and the Colorado band, the Fray. You can sneak a listen of some of their tunes from their myspace page. If you like what you hear, their EP can be bought right from their myspace page, along with some of their merch, or their music can be found on iTunes. They have found favor in a lot of eyes, including a wide variety of critics and the Save By the Bell actor, Mario Lopez. Be sure to check out their performance on the Showcase Minnesota below, courtesy of YouTube.

Camera Can't Lie

Another great rock band that claims Minneapolis as its home is Camera Can't Lie. This band, consisting of Eric, Josh, Kyle, Tim, and Travis has made a significant impact on the music scene not just in Minnesota, but around the United States. In fact, they were named number 22 of the top unsigned bands in America by Tim Towner of thedailychorus.com. Not only that, but the band's song 'Losing You' will be featured in a 2008 film entitled The Other Side of the Tracks. Also, thanks to their sponsor Always Clothing, Camera Can't Lie will be going on tour this winter across the United States and will be joined by Windsor Drive. The band updates both a myspace page as well as a purevolume page regularly, so be sure to check them out for tour dates, pictures, and other information about the band. If you hear something you like their lastest CD 'Love the Noise' and their EP are available on iTunes, as well as at their online store.

The Drive Back

Another great independent rock band is the four piece group, The Drive Back. Originating from Rosemount, Minnesota, Craig, Grady, and Troy began playing together at the early age of 12. When Jon was brought into the equation the band couldn't help but equal success. Since 2003 the band has put out two EP's, including their most recent AutumnMotive. Not only that, but they were featured in the September edition of Alternative Press in 2006. Currently they are in the studio working on some more hits to put across the airwaves. When I spoke with the Grady, the drummer of the band, about the new music, he expressed nothing but excitement.

The Drive Back has a sound much like that of Jimmy Eat World or Copeland. To hear a bit of what The Drive Back has to offer check out their myspace or their purevolume page. Also, check out their stylin' merch at their online store and swing by the iTunes music store and pick up their lastest EP featuring hits like 'Ambulance' and 'Be the Same'. Be sure to stay updated with this bands progress, they are sure to hit the mainstream airwaves soon, as they are already regularly heard on Bethel University's radio station WBCS.

Weaver At The Loom

Weaver at the Loom is a five piece band (Dan, Izaac, Blake, Josh, and Matthew) having its roots in Lakeville, Minnesota. The band first came together in 2005 and has been making outstanding progress ever since. Their music can be describe as a alternative-indie rock with some serious vibe to it. With the recent EP release in 2007, 'I was searching and I found' the band has made serious steps towards success, being asked to play for events such as the Macy's Rag n' Rock Fashion Show in November of '07 and receiving plenty of play time on radio stations like the twin cities, 89.7 the current. This EP is sold on iTunes and at all their shows. Liz Jones, from emotionalpunk.com, reviewed the album and said, "Inevitably, a band with songs of this stature won't be staying a secret for long..." To listen catch a glimpse of this music that is so highly talked about and for tour dates in your area, check out their website.