American Anthems vol. 1
Produced by Wayne Dorell and the Milwaukees (2007)
Moonshaker
Breakup Song
Highway to the Sun
Crown Royal
Bullet Train
Oak Ridge
American Girl
Save Me
Rich & Famous
Marigold
About American Anthems vol. 1
Produced by the Milwaukees with Wayne Dorell, American Anthems vol. 1 displays the maturity of a band comfortably immersed in a thrilling new level of confidence. The Milwaukees are no longer are encumbered by the trendy tendencies of youthful inexperience. This CD may be a stylistic departure, but it’s the logical step in the band’s ongoing quest to make urgent music that’s melodic and memorable.
The songs on AMERICAN ANTHEMS, vol. 1 are snapshots of American life, experienced by a band that has criss-crossed the U.S. enough times to kill four vans. Along the way they have been propositioned to “make out” with Mormons in Utah, witnessed a rabid fan streaking naked past a police officer at an after-party at Western Illinois University, been banned for life from Canada, and gained some perspective on two tours headlining clubs in Europe.
“We were born and raised in the country that gave birth to rock and roll and we are celebrating that tradition and chasing the dream,” says frontman and resident ringleader Dylan St. Clark (Guitar/Vox). On AAv1, St. Clark is joined again by long-time bandmate, Jeff Nordstedt (guitar), who says, “The album is both proud and critical. Our goal was not get on a soapbox and preach. We’ll paint the pictures and tell the stories and let the listeners decide.” This time around they are joined by Patrick Fusco (drums) and Donovan Cain (bass) who make their Milwaukees debut.
What the Critics Say About American Anthems vol. 1
“A phenomenal rock set that’s inspired by the classics, but not beholden to them. Moving from down-tempo quiet numbers to rousing thumpers, across Stones-y blues and Springsteenesque fists in the air anthems, this album’s got it all, a rock masterpiece for a new generation.” —All Music Guide
“An album that’s as imposing as its title suggests. Borne from the band’s enduring road-warrior reputation, it retains the brash swagger of their three previous efforts. However, it also finds a hint of wistful nostalgia, culled from musical snapshots of people and places they’ve encountered in their journeys.” —Performing Songwriter
“Crunchy guitars, great hooks, and an obvious level of confidence make this a fine record.” —Vintage Guitar
“No-frills, open-road guitar rock about dreams chased and innocence lost, performed with gutsy emotion and abundant hooks.” —Milwaukee Shepherd-Express
“I was completely blown away. The Milwaukees are a rarity in the modern music scene, a genuine rock and roll band. American Anthems is the band’s latest, and easily one of the best records of the year…. The must-have CD of 2007.” —Blogcritics.com
“A band that blends the artistic vision of early-Nineties Seattle with the raunchy abandon of the Sunset Strip, and then throws in a hand full of Mississippi mud and a big chunk of Jersey pride…. American Anthems, Vol. 1 stands tall as one of the most ambitious, well-written, and sharply produced products of the American indie underground that you’re likely to hear this—or any—year.” —Jersey Beat
“The guitars blaze, and frontman Dylan St. Clark provides some of the best vocal performances of the year. Hit the road, open your car windows, and turn it up loud.” —Aquarian Weekly