Milwaukee-based visual production company Video Villains has been creating various innovative party experiences for premiere events throughout Milwaukee for two full years. To mark this milestone, there will be a celebration at The Miramar Theatre on Saturday, April 19th. Sponsored by Brew City Bass and Ian’s Pizza Milwaukee, the two-year anniversary bash will feature performances by headliner Gigamesh, experimental rapper WebsterX, indie-rock band Kane Place Record Club and more.
Kane Place Record Club (KPRC) has gained an extensive following within the local Milwaukee music scene since releasing their self-titled album. The group is composed of six charismatic members including violinist/saxophonist Chad Alsteen, bassist Eris Campbell, percussionist Maurice Liddell, lead vocalist/keyboardist Jon Scott, as well as guitarists Francis Sullivan III and Nick Tovarek. Each individual contributes a different background, integrating their own element within the outfit. I had a chance to talk with KPRC about them and their music.
“Making music together developed from our own personal interest in music and the idea of experimenting with orchestrated arrangements.” The band initially started as a weekly congregation of former and current UWM students with a common passion for music.
“Our band is kind of like a stir-fry. Individually we have our own unique flavor, but once mixed together, we form something greater, more delicious.”
KPRC juxtaposes heartfelt R&B alongside contagious soul to provide a free spirited fervor. A perfect example is a song off their self-titled debut album, “Smoke Rings.” The song begins by immersing listeners into a state of empathy and empowerment. It depicts a setting epitomized by the tragedy of heartbreak, while illustrating our capability as individuals to refrain from self-loathing and to reclaim our confidence. Moreover, “Smoke Rings” embodies the vulnerable feel of being held captive by a love spell. The album as a whole incorporates a gospel and indie pop undertone.
KPRC has gained impressive momentum as seen in their performance at the South by Southwest (SXSW) music festival as well as receiving 88Nine RadioMilwaukee’s Best Live Show Music Award. The band also recently celebrated the release of their music video for “Sunshine,” a piece that hints at the extent of their creativity.
I asked the soulful indie-rock group if they had plans to release a second album. KPRC stated, “We are in the beginning stages of recording right now. So hopefully this summer you will be able to drive around town in a convertible, under the stars listening to our new jams or maybe during a picnic stir-fry.”
Whether you like to bebop or drop it like its hot, KPRC will provide the audience with a funky and unpredictable opening performance this Saturday at Video Villains’ two-year anniversary party. The party starts at 8:30 p.m. and will feature free PBR for the first hour and free Ians Pizza, costing a $10 cover at the door.