Album Notes

Hailing from Minneapolis, Rocket Club's debut CD has traces of some of their home state’s storied artists, with lush melodies and harmonies reminiscent of the Jayhawks, lyrics that have an approachable intelligence similar to those of Dan Wilson, and the occasional rock outburst that harkens back to Soul Asylum.

Band members Chris Hawkey (Vocals, Guitars), Matt Kirkwold (Vocals, Guitars), Brian Kroening (Guitars) and Don Smithmier (Vocals, Keyboards) constitute an eclectic mix. Chris Hawkey has built a strong regional following in with his two solo CD’s, “Minutes to Memories” and “The Pursuit.” Matt Kirkwold has been one of the region’s top music producers in rock in recent years (QuietDrive, Throw the Fight, American Taxi), while Kroening and Smithmier share a long history of writing and performing together, most notably with their heralded 90’s alt-rock band, Seventeen Rhinos.

The four came together to form Rocket Club in pursuit of their shared love for great hooks, rich harmonies, and crafted storytelling--all with an Americana twist and rock edge.