“Picturing a band that has weathered each other’s company for a time span that approaches eight years, one might draw on the image of grizzled rock ‘n’ roll veterans. The members of the Van Ermans, which consists of brothers/rhythm section Ian and Ben Graham as well as guitarist Ben Keeler, defy that image as no band member is currently over twenty years old and the band is just beginning to scrape its palpable potential with the release of its latest album, “Under the Gun.”
Originally forming for an elementary school talent show, the Van Ermans’ sound has since developed into a crystallized juggernaut of punk energy and density combined with a shameless love for a good hook, thoughtful everyman lyrics, and a sense for melody rarely achieved by bands that cite similar influences. These boys are no strangers to taking their melodic tri-vocal attack on the road either. They have already sent three vans to an early grave and laid tracks on most major touring circuits through the United States and Canada.
The band’s relentless touring efforts and the undeniable strength of the songs on “Under the Gun” have combined convinced Detroit-based Broken Spoke Records to produce and distribute the record. The Van Ermans’ first foray into National distribution along with continued touring will, without a dispute, turn a number of new ears onto the developments of this still young, veteran band. With a breakthrough record on the horizon and no sign of calling it quits any time in the next decade, the Van Ermans have undoubtedly carved out their niche as petulant performers who are too damn catchy to be ignored.”
*Credit goes to Cale Sauter |
