Davenport Ed

It started in 2005. Johnny Perona had just finished recording his first solo record, using a 4-track mostly in his parents' basement. The project was a 5 song EP called "Downsized and Paralyzed". Although Johnny recorded the record alone, the live performance required a full band presence. The band that formed in this void was comprised of Tom Perona (Algernon) on bass and backing vocals, Dave Miller (Algernon (Cuneiform Records), Blink, Ted Sirota's Rebel Souls) on lead guitar and keyboards, Tim Rimbos on drums, and R.M. Racky (Village) on pedal steel. Their first show was a rousing success, as new life was breathed into the songs with a full band supporting them. More shows ensued and the realization that this group needed to record an LP together soon became apparent. The band needed to find a studio that would properly produce the music. James Scott at Populist Recording (formerly of Matthew (Rykodisc), currently of The Visitor) became the easy choice for this project. In the first few months of recording, it became clear that James' insight into the music would translate perfectly to their live show as well, and he eventually became a full-fledged member of the band. Davenport Ed (operating under the moniker Johnny Perona & the Faque Brothers at the time), completed their first record in December of 2008, entitled "Family Portrait." They have played many of Chicago's favorite venues, including Martyrs', Bottom Lounge, Bird's Nest, Goose Island, and the Elbo Room, as well as other venues throughout the greater chicago metro area. They enjoyed a strong 2010 with a show at Durty Nellie's opening up for Cornmeal. The band has since seen the departure of lead guitarist Dave Miller, who moved to New York to continue his music career. Jim Perona, graduate of Northern Illinois University and New England Conservatory, has stepped in and brought a new energy to the band. Their second record, "Time Well Spent," was released in June of 2011. Featured here are 3 of the tracks off said record.