Speakeasy, Tiger: a name as fierce as they come. Take a classically trained pianist and a metal-inclined guitarist, add a chick who can rock the 5-string bass, combine that with a technically masterful drummer and top it with a vocalist who's not afraid express her soul, you get the electro-rock that is Speakeasy, Tiger. With a sound reminiscent of Muse, The Killers, and Shiny Toy Guns, this Denver quintet is hitting the scene is a serious way.
Formerly of the moniker A Girl Named Kyle, Speakeasy, Tiger traces its earliest roots back to vocalist and frontwoman Kyle Simmons, who began her musical career solo as a folk singer/songwriter. Starting off with only an acoustic guitar and emotively passionate lyricism, Simmons aspired for something more, something bigger.
She soon connected with Pete Schmidt, a classically trained pianist whose talents range from his upright piano (which he's named Arlene), to his mastery of the synthesizer and elusive key-tar. Bassist Lauren Gale quickly joined, bringing with her the smooth, rhythmical sounds the band had been longing for.
A Girl Named Kyle pushed itself even further, soon adding both a second, lead guitarist and a drummer to boot. But even with all of the talent overflowing already, the band still strived for something more.
Shortly after the departure of both its drum section and lead guitarist, A Girl Name Kyle's remaining members quickly hunted for fresh talent while hoping to simultaneously discover a fresh, new sound.
Willing to take on the challenge, Tavis Alley quickly filled the lead-guitarist opening spot for the newly named Speakeasy, Tiger.
Finding influence in extreme music, Alley's metal/hardcore guitar talent might seem a tad askew for Speakeasy, Tiger-but it's not surprising, considering the eclectic taste of the band: Alley has managed "fit right in." The band's newest member, drummer Luke Gordon, formerly of The Murder Formula, showcases his past beat-making experience by contributing the creative rhythmic scores that give the band its faster and much harder-pounding pace.
As Simmons explains, "The piano and guitar folk scene was limited and wasn't exactly what we were looking for. However, changing the name to Speakeasy, Tiger was really important to us because it let our audiences know that there's five of us writing our songs, and not just me. Also, with the new members, we wanted to experiment with a new sound."
And that's exactly what's all the rage with the young and fresh quintet. Despite being together less than a year, the band still manages to packout every venue it descends upon. With an already-loyal fan base from its A Girl Named Kyle days, Speakeasy, Tiger continues to make new friends and fans all digging on its new vibe. Sonically sprawling, the eclectic collaboration of different elements and sounds is unavoidably enticing, leaving audiences everywhere to swoon.
"We get to experiment with different tones and effects," says Tavis Alley. "I think we've all had a lot of room to push our own boundaries, and each member is completely willing to sacrifice whatever it takes to fulfill every single goal we've laid out. The music comes direct from our hearts, and our passion is unmatchable."
As Piano whiz Pete Schmidt says, "We enjoy playing it, and that's the best part. We can't get enough of it! Sometimes I forget about everyone around me in the band, because we are just rocking out. At first we were really nervous because we all come from such different backgrounds, but somehow it all clicked, and we come together great."
The band's newest additions, Tavis Alley and Luke Gordon, are both impressed with the band's dedication and future plans. "This is the best band I've ever been in, hands down," says Gordon. "They are so in-tune with what is going on, and all of are on the same page, aiming for the same goals. It's motivating to play in a band where everyone cares just as much as I do."
No question about it, Denver is rapidly becoming a more and more competitive scene for up-and-coming musicians. But despite the overwhelming amount of competition, Speakeasy, Tiger is confident and motivated, ready to be mixed up with all that Denver has to offer. "The Denver scene is really exciting; so many bands have come and rocked it," says Lauren Gale. "I feel like more and more people notice Denver everyday, and Denver feels like a destination city for people to come and start pursuing their careers here, especially in music."
Simmons agrees. "We don't think of ourselves by looking at our competition; we look at the level we want to be on and what it takes to get there. Everyone is so talented, and we are definitely making that jump for commitment."
Speakeasy, Tiger's latest EP, The Sore Throat, contains three tracks showcasing its new sound, and a full-length album is already in the works, expected to be released this summer. After a necessary stint of local Colorado promoting, Speakeasy, Tiger has high-hopes to be touring the states soon and spreading its eclectic sound to all who will listen.
Be sure to catch Speakeasy, Tiger on March 7 at the Meadowlark-with the new sound and unique style the band is mastering for all to enjoy, the affair is one that should not be missed.
No, it will not be a genre-specific or style-restricted event, but rather a mismatched flurry of tones, rhythms, and melodies that will not only keep you intrigued, but will also constantly provoke the irresistible desire to dance. Which should be expected, considering the wealth of ingredients in Speakeasy, Tiger's stylistic mix. The possibilities are limitless.
"I'm genuinely satisfied and happy about what we are becoming. I think what's exciting is we have jumped over the line we didn't think we could cross," Simmons says. "Everyone is here for their ability and commitment. You just have to wake up and love it."
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