Robert Skoro:
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Skoro got his start as an essential bandmate in the Minneapolis music scene, before stepping out in front with his self-released debut, Proof. Only a month after that release and with barely two gigs behind him, the Minneapolis City Pages had already named him their Artist of the Year calling his music “sweet enough to overcome the sourest of grapes.” His new songs were recorded at Chicago’s Engine studio with Brian Deck (Iron and Wine, Red Red Meat, Modest Mouse and more) and bear the unique quality of being personal yet anthemic. Making small moments loom large, these deeply personal songs sparkle with an ingenuous, natural sense of melody and pace. Skoro is, simply, a wonderful songwriter who approaches his craft with eyes wide open and senses working overtime.
Gramma’s Boyfriend:
When you first read the name Gramma’s Boyfriend, it brings an uncomfortable, funny feeling. But when you first hear Gramma’s Boyfriend, the feeling becomes something new, slightly terrifying, and fun. The five members include front woman Haley Bonar, Jeremy Ylvisaker (Cloak Ox, Andrew Bird), Mark Erickson (Cloak Ox), Luke Anderson (Rogue Valley), and Jacob Hanson (Actual Wolf, Haley Bonar, All Tomorrow’s Petty), who join forces to create the psychadelic dance punk that is guaranteed to make you move. Think Blondie, Devo, and Suburban Lawns meet Dead Kennedys. But don’t think too much. Gramma’s Boyfriend certainly doesn’t. And that is the whole point.