Billboard

Since its inception in late 2004, Los Angeles based quartet FOLIO has had a big vision: to create a pogo-inducing hybrid of modern alt-rock energy and classic new wave sounds. Initially inspired by the crisp output of current indie and post-punk influenced bands such as The Killers, The Bravery, Interpol, and Franz Ferdinand, FOLIO's recipe throws out any hint of punk influence and substitutes a marriage of prominent, vintage synths with driving guitars; carried by a host of sweat-soaked dance grooves, bum-shaking bass lines and indelible vocal hooks. Often channeling classic sonic textures from Duran Duran, Talk Talk, New Order, and Depeche Mode, FOLIO has created a sound uniquely their own.

FOLIO recently released a self-produced 6 track EP and plans to actively seek label support. The early response from demos has generated 22000+ fans and hundreds of hits a day on their Myspace site. The band played their first shows in February, with several engagements in prominent venues already pending. Radio airplay in Europe and domestically on internet stations has just begun. An international street team is in place to focus attention on hot markets. M83 (Mute Records) and Americlone helmed remixes are in the works as well.

Core members Brent Meyer and Chris Willshire, who were in rival bands while attending the Univ. of North Texas College of Music, joined forces and played in various bands/recording projects together. They began writing in the Fall of 2004 with the goal of creating seductive dance music. Four months later, they began tracking the album even before putting a band together. Brent had recently produced a project with producer/mixer Tim Palmer (U2, Tears For Fears, Ozzy, Robert Plant, HIM) and was eager to apply what he had learned. Meyer called in all of his favors from producing other projects and enlisted the aid of some brilliant session/touring musicians to get recording underway. To begin, they had Joey Waronker (Paul McCartney, REM, Beck, Smashing Pumpkins) record drums, then brought on guitarist and composer Lyle Workman (Sting, Beck, Frank Black, Sheryl Crow) to add guitar mojo. Lastly, Roger Manning Jr. (Morrissey, Jellyfish, Beck, Air) stepped in to give the project an air of early 80's analog synth authenticity. To round out the all-star team, they've enlisted Bryan Carrigan (Seal, No Doubt, Alanis Morissette) to mix the FOLIO EP. With a direction firmly established, the duo sought out liked-minded band members to further the cause.

Michael King, a recent graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, won over Chris and Brent with his atmospheric guitar soundscapes. Inspired by such groups as Death Cab for Cutie, Radiohead, Interpol and The Smashing Pumpkins, Michael added more depth and substance to their evolving sound. OC native Danny Johnston, fresh from a stint recording drums on a Mike Ness (of Social Distortion) solo project, sought out a group with his pop sensibilities and unrelenting work ethic. Since joining FOLIO, the precision and energy he brings has galvanized their live show.

FOLIO's sound straddles the fence between visceral alt-rock energy and sensuous, synthetic electro. With one foot in each world, the band hopes to win over converts from all camps. Judging from the worldwide response to their website, they are certainly on their way.

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Great Divide EP Review-First Coast News, Jacksonville, FL Jul 12

Hey there from FOLIO land!

We'd like to share with everybody a glowing review we just received from First Coast News in Jacksonville, Florida. It's always nice to feel appreciated :) If any of you would like to order the new CD, just go to our Myspace page and you'll see a link to order the CD and a link to iTunes if you prefer mp3s.

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Band Members - see all 4

• Brent Meyer - Vocals, guitar, keys, programming

• Chris Willshire - Bass, Chapman Stick, keys, programming

• Danny Johnston - Drums, vocals

• Michael King - Bass, Chapman Stick, keys, programming

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  Great Divide