Six years into its existence, HoZac Records has become a Chicago rock institution. They have helped fill the massive void left by the mostly departed Touch & Go Records, all the while giving shots to new bands like Dum Dum Girls and Smith Westerns. Both bands have, of course, gone on to quickly become indie rock media darlings. It’s clear that these guys have a real collective ear for talent. Chicago’s Nones continue the legacy of HoZac’s good judgment. The band’s brand of punk rock is aggressive in the irreverent vein of Raw Power, complete with saxophone and bizarre time signatures. The A-sides are especially excellent. “Shaking Your Brain” features singer Brandon Bayles’s erratic wail. Bayles breaks the sax out on “Defecating Grey” while the female members of the band pound your psyche. One of the very best 7” singles this year, Nones’ debut LP should be impatiently awaited. I warn that this is a subscription-only single but paying any exorbitant amount of money on eBay is totally worth it.
You can check out some of their music and videos on their Facebook page.