Asheville's own Dark City Kings have unleashed their sophomore album, 'Love Is Punk', a raucous blend of heartfelt ballads, rowdy anthems, and seductive melodies. Produced by industry veteran Kevin Moloney (Sinead O'Connor, U2), the album is a testament to the band's unique sound, fusing traditional instrumentation with influences from iconic acts like The Cure and B-52s.
Formed from the ashes of previous bands, Dark City Kings' story is one of perseverance and serendipity. The core members - Colleen Rose (vocals), Craig Rumney (drums), Bayla Ostrach (bass), and JP Kennedy (guitar/vocals) - found their musical counterparts in Kyrie Antoinette (violin) and Merlin Armstrong (lead guitar), who seamlessly integrated into the band's dynamic.
'Love Is Punk' was born out of a spontaneous recording session with Moloney at the historic Studio B at Citizen Vinyl, where the first country music was recorded. The band's unbridled energy and Moloney's expert guidance fueled a weekend of non-stop music-making, resulting in a full-length album that captures the essence of their raw, unfiltered sound.
The album's standout tracks include 'Anxiety 7', a love song disguised as an ode to artistic creation; 'True Believer', a high-energy garage rocker with Celtic undertones; and the title track, 'Love Is Punk', an anthem about heartbreak, resilience, and the transformative power of music.
"As musicians, we've shed our armor and laid our souls bare," says JP Kennedy. "This is our truth, our vision of beauty. Love Is Punk."
With appearances at the Asheville music showcase at The Orange Peel, AVL Fest, and Bele Shred Fest, as well as airplay on numerous radio stations worldwide, Dark City Kings are poised to leave their mark on the music scene.
'Love Is Punk' is a defiant declaration of love, a celebration of the human spirit, and a testament to the enduring power of punk rock.
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