This week we have an exclusive audio interview with Chicago band, The Lifeline. Shawn Kellner caught up with them after their recent show at the Metro to discuss how things have been going, and their future plans. The following bio can be found on their MySpace page, along with current music. Myspace Link
0What Exactly is “Class meets Sass?” To the Lifeline it’s their code of conduct within the music business and their motto for creating the music they play. Hailing from Chicago, this five-piece rock outfit led by Ryan T. Hope (vocals/guitar) and Rebecca Faber (violin) has brought a new style of alternative rock to the windy city. It’s through unconventional instrumentation and a strong classical perspective that the Lifeline has created a different listening experience for their fans.
Besides powerfully captivating vocals and expert musicianship, perhaps the most captivating thing about the Lifeline is their incorporation of the violin into their music. Their unique approach to using the instrument differs quite a bit from their peers and lends a haunting melodic complexity to the music. Many classical artists have influenced both Hope and Faber to whom all of the song writing credits are attributed. “We like to take moods that we feel in our everyday lives and translate them into a musical form.” says Hope, “Our aim is to recreate the emotion and beauty that we hear in classical music and pair it with the tension and angst that comes from rock and roll.”
A strong live show has always been a foundation of what the Lifeline does. With headlining shows at most of Chicago’s premiere venues such as the Metro, Double Door and House of Blues along with opening slots at Vans Warped Tour and the Chicago stop of last years Taste of Chaos tour; the band has taken their audiences where many bands are afraid to. An unprecedented stoicism keeps audiences engaged and has brought the band many unique opportunities in the short time they have been in Chicago.
In addition to stellar live shows, the Lifeline has a diverse back catalog of recorded material. An E.P. entitled Where there is Life, there is Hope, and a full-length album called For all Who Triumph have had many tracks such as “Not for Nothing” spun on a frequent basis on Chicago radio stations such as WLUW and Q101. “Not for Nothing” even held the title as most requested song ever on Ryan Manno’s Crash Test Radio on Q101.1. Their latest recording, a single called “Crashing Waves” has already made an impact in short time it has been out. With backing from Q101 personalities and fans alike, this song is a perfect example of the direction the band is taking the music.