"What distinguishes Greenlight from the rest of the bands currently out is the fact that each member of the band has an equal say in the track creation. Bass, guitar, drums, and vocals are all heard in equal proportion; this is accomplished through masterful layering and a cohesion that many bands simply do not have....Three years have given Greenlight enough experience to really shine; heres to hoping they can continue their high quality of output." - James McQuiston - www.neufutur.com
Greenlight is a melodic art punk band forged in the West Loop of Chicago. Their diverse musical background and influence brings out an eccentric sound based on rhythm-driven, hook-centric rock. Although the musicians are capable, the consensus is that less is more, and that every song is built around a singular idea. All expression is broken down to its simplest parts -- rhythm and melody.
Greenlight emerged onto the Chicago music scene in the fall of 2003. What began as a garage punk style has developed into a more mature sound with an art punk, new wave influence. John Hauppa’s vocals are often compared to Ian Curtis of Joy Division; however, the subtle female backing vocals and occasional leads by Shannon Hauppa create a softer, indie pop sound.
With the addition of Jon Mosier (Banking Hours) taking over on bass guitar in December of 2006, the band began again to refine their sound even further. Carefully layered guitars and vocals mixed with Thomas O’Shea’s intense drumming enhance the band’s simplicity in songwriting, allowing the rhythm and melody to remain the centerpiece of each song.
The current lineup consists of John Hauppa on guitar and vocals, Shannon Hauppa on guitar and vocals, Jon Mosier on bass, and Thomas O'Shea on drums and backing vocals. They are currently playing shows in Chicago while working on new material for a follow-up release to their debut E.P. Is This What I Am Here For?, which was released in April 2005.
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