Friends, family, music lovers, we meet again. I have found a minute to sit down and take a break from all of the amazing shows that have been happening as of late. Tons of national acts have been hitting our area, including one of my favorite bands, Bad Religion. I had the chance to catch Lost In Society (Local Radar alumni) open for them as well. Of course, I cannot forget some other acts I have seen, including Modest Mouse, Manchester Orchestra, Against Me!, and so many more. Now I am just impatiently waiting for some of my other top bands like The Gaslight Anthem, The Front Bottoms, and more to announce some shows in our area. Hey, a girl can get demanding at times, especially when it’s for a good cause! Anyway, I digress. Who will my spotlight act of the week be? Well, this time around it was actually fairly easy to decide whom I was going to write about, as they have been on my radar for the past few weeks. I actually recently saw them play at The Saint in Asbury Park, and I was simply blown away. They go by the name of American Lions. Heard of them? Great, and if you haven’t, we will get you as familiar as possible right now.
American Lions are a four-piece band hailing from New Brunswick, New Jersey, with members Justin, Joshua, James, and Pat. They started in about 2013, though I am late to the party. However, they have a proven track record of a solid fan base, a great live set, and some even better recordings. So, how did I stumble upon this band, you ask? Simply by accident is the truth here. I saw that they were being featured on my alumni radio show, Jersey Rock, on 95.9 The Rat, and that they were playing in town the same weekend. In my ever-so-spinning brain, I figured they must have some sort of “hot” factor if everyone in this area was buzzing about them. Sure enough, everyone was right. This band rocks live, and they had me glued to their set the entire time.
My favorite track they have released is called “Bed Bugs.” This track amongst others can be found on their EP, Peru, which can be found on their website. It’s a heavy hitter on all fronts. I absolutely love the drumming on this song, and the vocals are on point. I could hear this track being featured on alternative radio, for it’s mainstream enough to gain some traction without being a bad song (no offense mainstream, but American Lions are doing it right). If you are just turning onto this band, this is the tune I recommend you check out first; it will leave you with a great first impression, even though the title is one of my biggest fears.
Another one of my personal favorites is “Drifter,” as I am really feeling the lyrics on this one. I have a tendency to analyze songs, and this one is great for many reasons other than the instruments. Take a listen, and you will see what I mean. This could be an anthem for many, for I search for in-depth content, and although I may be creating my own definition of this song, allow me to enjoy it! All of their songs are insanely catchy, and there is something for music lovers of all genres to enjoy here. When a band’s recordings and live set are equally on par, then you know you have some true, raw talent on your hands. They recently posted a bunch of show dates on their Facebook page, and if you get the chance to check them out live, you will not regret it.
To learn more about American Lions, access their music, videos, fan photos, tour dates and more, like them on Facebook at facebook.com/AmericanLionsBand. They also have an official website at AmericanLionsBand.com. I have a good feeling about these guys, and I am trusting my gut that they have a bright future ahead of them. Lions are some of the most dominant animals on earth, so the name here is appropriate when describing their talent and style. I look forward to hopefully sitting down and interviewing these guys in the near future, and finding out more about their upcoming projects and future goals. In the meantime, be sure to show them some love and get out to one of their shows.
I will be back next week with another local act of your liking. See you then, cheers!
