Written by Mel Says
Photo by Nick Fracassa
If you were to ask any of the guys in the Warren, Michigan post-hardcore outfit Mayor Mayor just how they decided to reform after their disbandment in August 2012, you better have some time on your hands as the story is quite complicated, long-winded and full of interruptions. As with any band that has played what seems like an endless number of local shows without getting that fairy tale big break, tensions begin to rise and a rift between members is inevitable. But regardless of overwhelming stress, pressures around “making it big” and a revolving door of members, the current lineup can agree on one thing: “We realized that we have more fun when we play for ourselves and don’t take our music so seriously.”
BackRoads with Phyllis hung with the guys at Ocean Recording Studio in Roseville and it was apparent to us that Mayor Mayor are having a blast writing and recording their next record that is set to feature seven original songs that, according to vocalist Michael Heckman, “will be reminiscent of the strong local Metro-Detroit music scene that he remembers growing up with.”
The record’s due date has yet to be set since the word “deadline” may as well be forbidden within the bright yellow walls of the studio and practice space. This is yet another testament to the refreshingly laid back attitude the guys have adopted toward their passion and how they choose to continue their careers. Each member, consisting of Heckman, Brian Killebrew and Jon Trandell on guitars, James Baird on bass and Justin Rogers as a “temporary/permanent” drummer, have laid everything out on the table when it comes to their expectations for the future of Mayor Mayor, leaving nothing but opportunity for musical direction.
As for their live comeback, Mayor Mayor has chosen return to the stage at Detroit’s Corktown Tavern on January 19th in support of one of Capeside Records’ up and comers Lost Years’ EP release show presented by Roshambo Promo and yours truly, BackRoads with Phyllis. We’re honored to have Mayor Mayor on the bill and to allow us to help unleash them back into the scene they have so much love and respect for.
Join us this Saturday at Corktown Tavern to see these guys share the stage with Lost Years as well as some of our own local favorites; The Scenery, Cities and Years and Last Action Hero. Celebrate the comeback of Mayor Mayor as well as BackRoads with Phyllis’ first show as a presenter!
January 19, 2013 at Corktown Tavern (1716 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI) Doors @ 8pm, 21+, $6 at the door
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