In order for any relationship to survive, it must evolve.
The truth is, after the typical blissful "honeymoon period" ends, you're left holding a bag of each other's reality.
That walking-on-air, life is incredible, turn-that-frown-upside-down sensation morphs into something familiar, comfortable. Heart-filled smiles, hand holding and experimental sex give way to daily routines and discussions about what's for dinner and which programs to Tivo. And while complacency has it's place, it also has way of white-washing everything. Successful relationships are the ones that manage to unearth those early bits of brightness and hope, adding luster and color to the everyday. They use the best of the past to improve and ensure the future.
Bands are not-so-different. Except you can drop members, switch drummers twice and still have experimental sex.
With the release of The Locals'(R) 2008 "Big Picture", it's clear that this evolution produced great things.
"Big Picture" is the Locals'(R) fourth studio effort and their first full length CD in almost 6 years. Their style has covered the range from singer/songwriter to borderline jam band. But while this CD contains subtle winks at the past, this trio has emerged confident and head-strong from a three year recording hiatus to produce guitar heavy, sumptuous, alt-pop. Produced, recorded and mixed by Steven Gillis (Filter), "Big Picture" is a collection of smart, engaging songs. And although most of the tracks are instantly accessible, Doll's lyrics give the erudite something to chew on.
The Locals take their ingredient list from an array of influences. PJ Harvey, the Pretenders, The Breeders, the Police and Sonic Youth. But they are their own distinct flavor - as comfortable paring with a dark microbrew or a spicy Gewurtz.
Fronted by singer and songwriter Yvonne Doll, the Locals(R) have been a part of the Chicago music scene for the last decade. They have played extensively in the Midwest and have earned themselves a dedicated fan base. Once a four piece, The Locals(R) have downsized and reorged to form their current lineup of Doll, bassist Christy Nunes and drummer Kirk Snedeker. Snedeker joined in late 2006, replacing EJ Dawson, who can be heard on the CD as well.
The three met in 2006 through a "seeking drummer" ad Doll and Nunes placed on Craigslist. Snedeker was the first to respond, and after a brief meeting and one audition, got the gig. They quickly became best friends as well - sharing an acute and odd sense of humor.
Doll grew up in Cincinnati, OH but made her way to Chicago to attend the Art Institute of Chicago. Her photographs of people sleeping has garnered international recognition. Sleepyurbanite.com was featured on the Today Show, Irish national radio, and the German magazine "I Enjoy Seeing and Reading About Your Misfortunes." She is also an accomplished painter and necromancer.
Nunes began playing professionally at the age of 14. She hails from San Diego, from where people still hail. She has played in a diverse assortment of bands over the years and brings an element of each to The Locals(R) - funk, rock, punk, acoustic and classical/jazz. Nunes is also a photographer and knife wielding maniac. She once shoved a kid during a job as the Chuck E. Cheese mascot.
Snedeker started playing drums at the age of 8. He was in an Elvis cover band at age 14 and, in addition to many local bands, put himself through college by playing music. Snedeker enjoys cooking, has a Fear of Public Vomiting (FPV) and has mostly outgrown a childhood fear of pinecones. His voice can be heard on a Space Shuttle flashlight toy circa 1992.