For over 14 years, 2 IN THE CHEST has been a legendary
presence in Arizona's rock and metal scene, weaving together the threads of
history with the ferocity of hard rock. This band isn’t just about music; it's
about storytelling, history, and the resurrection of the Old West through a
modern lens. With their fourth album, "Whispers of the Fallen," on
the horizon, let's delve into the saga of a band that has become synonymous
with Arizona's music culture.
Reverend Black Jack McBride - Lead vocals, guitar (the
grizzled storyteller)
Velvet De Blonko - Drums (the heartbeat of the narrative)
Mary Ella O'Sullivan - Bass, vocals (the voice of the next
generation)
Kimby the Mason McDaniels - Rhythm guitar, backing vocals
(the weaver of melodies)
Jameson Jack Coburn - Lead guitar (the painter of sonic
landscapes)
Over their 14-year tenure, 2 IN THE CHEST has released:
"Iron Smoke & Spit" (2016) - Their debut,
setting the stage for their unique storytelling through hard rock.
"Lead Jacket in a Pine Box" (2019) - Delving
deeper into the Old West's darker tales.
"Heroes' Blood" (2022) - Exploring the legends and
the human side of heroism.
Each album has been a chapter in an ongoing saga, reflecting their dedication to narrative-driven music.
2 IN THE CHEST has graced virtually every rock and metal venue in Arizona, creating unforgettable experiences:
Joe's Grotto in Phoenix, where they've had numerous
memorable shows, including one marking the venue's closure.
The Nile Theater in Mesa, known for its historic charm and
fitting backdrop for their tales.
Pub Rock Live in Scottsdale, where their storytelling
resonates with a crowd eager for rock's heritage.
Their performances are theatrical spectacles, with each member in costume, embodying their characters from the band's lore, turning concerts into immersive historical reenactments.
In 2017, 2 IN THE CHEST embarked on their first significant
US tour, bringing their unique blend of history and heavy music to audiences
beyond Arizona. This tour was pivotal, showcasing their storytelling prowess to
a broader audience and solidifying their reputation in the national scene.
The New Album: "Whispers of the Fallen"
Their upcoming album shifts focus to the American Civil War,
telling stories of heroism, sacrifice, and the untold tales of those who lived
through it. "Whispers of the Fallen" promises to:
Honor Civil War Heroes: From battlefield leaders to unsung
heroes like nurses or spies.
Narrate War’s Stories: Each song potentially telling a
different story, from the horrors of battle to moments of human connection.
The Single: "Delivered"
"Delivered," the lead single, has been streaming
for months without advertisement, gaining traction through the band's organic
fanbase. It hints at themes of messages sent under dire circumstances,
reflecting the communication challenges of the Civil War era.
Arizona's Music Scene: Over 14 years, they've not only
influenced but also defined a segment of Arizona's music culture, showing how
music can be both an art and a historical narrative.
Educational Outreach: Their focus on history might lead to collaborations with educational institutions or historians, using music as a medium for learning.
Their fans are more than listeners; they're part of the
band's extended family, engaging with the lore, discussing character arcs, and
collecting merchandise that reflects the band's unique aesthetic:
Bandanas, custom posters, and apparel that fit the Old West
theme.
With "Whispers of the Fallen," 2 IN THE CHEST continues to push the boundaries of what rock music can convey. Their dedication to storytelling, combined with their musical prowess, promises that this album will not only entertain but also educate and inspire.
Over 14 years, 2 IN THE CHEST has proven that rock and metal
can be profound storytelling mediums. As they prepare to unveil "Whispers
of the Fallen," they invite listeners not just to enjoy their music but to
step into the past, feel the weight of history, and perhaps, learn from it.
