Album Notes

On the surface, Chicago-based modern rock band pinch crank out succulent sonic ear candy perfect for mass consumption. But take a closer look - and you'll find - much like your favorite cherry flavored Tootsie Pop - that there is something darker swirling at the band's center. While pinch's alluring melodic rock is steeped in pop hooks, lyrically the band taps into a deeper vein - exploring themes of debauchery, relationships, addiction, and inner conflict. Frank Ferro, pinch's lead singer, explains "pinch is a little taste of everything, and a little bit too much."

Together for just under four years, pinch counts a diverse array of artists as influences including Motley Crue, Nirvana, The Smashing Pumpkins, The Scorpions, Afghan Whigs, Guns N Roses and The Ramones. Although according to Ferro, "you'd be hard pressed to hear any of them in our music!" Those are just influences that drive the band internally. Externally, pinch creates their own mesmerizing brand of edgy, modern rock.

In 2001, pinch released their independently released debut CD "running on fumes." The single "no win" was featured on Chicago's Q101 commercial rock radio station. Fueled by the disc's success, the band landed a coveted slot on the Ernie Ball Stage of the Vans Warped Tour. Later that year, pinch was a finalist in the national "Jam With Pam" North American Music search, sponsored by Pamela Anderson and Beer.com. "I listened to great songs but pinch's sound just really caught my attention", Anderson said. Additionally, pinch was invited to showcase at the prestigious MOBfest (2000, 2001, and 2002) in hometown Chicago.

Now with the release of pinch's highly anticipated sophomore disc "up & down" (SoundArt Management - street date Sept. 3, 2002) the band is ready to unleash their sonic confections nationally. Chicago's Q101-FM has already spun the album's title track in preparation for its release. Those fortunate enough to catch pinch live will witness a band with its priorities in order. pinch's focus: songs, energy, performance and dynamics. With that winning combination - and pinch's surplus of talent - mass adoration is just around the corner. So indulge in pinch - and don't worry about the cavities...

pinch is:

Frank Ferro - vocals, guitar
Bobby Settles - bass
Doug Levin - drums
Skogs - guitar, back vocals
Sawalla - guitar