Chalk Farm singer Michael Duff originally moved to Los Angeles to be warm. Nearly a decade later, his band is warming up the charts.
The quartet's sophisticated pop-rock sound began to attract attention two years ago when its self-recorded demo tape fell into the hands of producer Matt Hyde."He called us the next day and said he wanted to meet us," said Chalk Farm guitarist Trace Ritter. "He wanted to help us get on tape that edge he saw when we played live."
"Lie on Lie," a song from the band's debut, "Notwithstanding" (Columbia), is among the top tracks at many adult rock stations across the country.
The group - Michael Duff (vocals-guitar), Orlando Sims (bass), Toby Scarbrough (drums) and Ritter - boasts a diverse set of influences. The band's name comes from a North London suburb they have not yet visited.
They agree Los Angeles is a tough place for aspiring musicians.
- Fred Shuster