2009 marked the debut of new Evans Blue frontman Dan Chandler, the St. Louis singer who was selected after an extensive nationwide search, as well as the independent release of the band’s third album evans|blue. According to guitarist Parker Lauzon, “The transition was virtually flawless; Chandler is an easy guy to get along with, and he keeps a very open mind when it comes to songwriting, which is refreshing.” Chandler adds, “I think you just click with some people, and in this case it really feels like there’s a mutual respect between everyone in the group. It feels like I have known these guys longer than I have.”
Like the band’s first two albums, evans|blue was produced by Trevor Kustiak, but there is something noticeably different – aside from the new voice – as if an evolution has taken place within the sound. The new album stays true to Evans Blue’s core fans with signature dark and heavy riffs, but it is simultaneously uplifting. Chandler cites “confusing kindness for weakness,” “love and losing it,” and “finding comfort in difficult times” as some of the recurring themes on the album, but he is quick to note that “the beauty of music is that we all interpret songs or relate to them in our own personal way.”
Always true to their loyal followers, Evans Blue has chosen “Bulletproof,” the fan favorite, as the first single from the new album. “Bulletproof” has already been added early to SiriusXM Octane, The Point/St Louis and Z93/Saginaw, and it will be delivered to radio in early February. When asked what fans can expect from the live show when Evans Blue hits the road again this Spring, Chandler replied, “Definitely expect to see ENERGY! I’ve always been a fan of seeing bands connect and have fun on stage.” Evans Blue has matured, and they are ready to show the world that the third one really is the charm.
History: Evans Blue hit #1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart in 2006 with The Melody and the Energetic Nature of Volume, which spawned the Top 5 Active Rock single “Cold (But I’m Still Here).” They were nominated for a 2006 Juno Award for Best New Group. Their second album, THE PURSUIT BEGINS WHEN THIS portrayal OF LIFE ENDS, was released in July 2007 and debuted at #44* on the Billboard Top 200. Their albums and singles have collectively sold over 700,000 units worldwide. |
