Album Notes

Once upon a time, rock and roll music was alive, happy, healthy, optimistic, fun and made you feel glad to be alive. The rebellion was in full swing and rock and roll was going to take over the world. The songs were sing-able and the players could play.

UltraSuede, influenced heavily by the British-invasion bands of the '60's, makes music that reflects these attitudes.

The sound (nowadays referred to as power-pop) created by these three lads from Sacramento, is as cool as a red glitter backdrop and rocks like an open-mouthed kiss. The Neil Finn-like melodies beg for you to sing along as the band sparkles with confidence and swagger. The chord changes are sometimes unpredictable, but in that Beatle-esque style seem to fit together perfectly. It's a refreshing alternative to the angst served up on radio today.

UltraSuede is the brainchild of two Sacramento musicians; Kenny Manlapig (vocals, guitar) and Kane Furey (drums, percussion, backing vocals). Their harmonies, songwriting, and musical sense have been fashioned over a twenty-year history of playing music together. Gordon Hanley rounds out the band with his world-class bass playing.

Over the last three years UltraSuede have been involved in some somewhat unusual projects. In 1999 UltraSuede began a relationship with the NBA's Sacramento Kings, providing the music used to introduce the team at the Arco Arena. This was accompanied by a video featuring UltraSuede and the Kings players that was played at the arena. This relationship extended through to the 2000-2001 season. This season the band is providing the music used for the TV and radio broadcasts.

The end of the year 2000, Kenny Manlapig provided two songs that were featured in a locally produced short film entitled "Monday Morning Coffee" that can be seen at www.ifilm.com.

Last year (2001), coinciding with their appearance at the International Pop Overthrow festival in Los Angeles, UltraSuede released their debut CD entitled "The Other Ellie," a sparkling gem amongst the rubble of today's popular music. Listen to the audio clips. Pick up a copy. You'll be glad you did. If possible, check them out live. Whether it's a loud, electric rock and roll show, or an intimate, acoustic coffeehouse gig, UltraSuede will make you lean back and say, "oh yeah."

"Jangly, heady British influenced pop that you'll really dig." David Bash - International Pop Overthrow