Based in Pennsylvania, the members of Illinois may come off as geographically confused, not to mention unconcerned with the fact that fans might have a hard time finding its name in Internet searches. Musically, however, it's difficult to find a band as adept at indie-rock hooks. Pairing power chords with timeless vocal harmonies and experimentalism, Illinois' songs sound all-over-the-map and concise at the same time. The band performed a concert from WXPN and World Cafe Live in Philadelphia on Apr. 13.
After the release of Illinois' first EP, Revenge of Some Kid, the band was picked up by indie label Ace Fu Records to release What the Hell Do I Know? last month. Featuring seven songs whittled down from a group of more than 100, the EP blends pianos, banjos and Moog synths into guitar, drums and bass to create a unique, laidback sound.
Copyright 2007 XPN