Depriving The Masses

Depriving The Masses: All band members have an eclectic array of influences and wide variety of musical tastes that complement one another. Jon has a strong distinct voice that’s both melodic and hard. While Jeff & Jeramie bring the band's youthful energy, Don & Dave each bring 15+ years of arranging and producing metal, punk, and rock here in the south suburbs of Chicago. This is one hard promotion set to motion band that is quickly making a name for themselves. You can catch them live at local venues like Another Hole in the Wall in Steger, IL or The Congress Theatre in Chicago.

Jonathan “Jon” Chalabis: Singer/Songwriter Jonathan Stephan Chalabis was born and raised in Northwest Indiana. He lived in that area most of his childhood however spent short periods of time in New York, Missouri and various Chicagoland neighborhoods. At the age of 14 he joined the school choir and realized he was blessed with a unique sound and gifted range in his voice. In addition to vocals Jon can also play the guitar and piano. Driven by his way with words and keen memory Jon started putting his songwriting techniques to work. Through his teen years he was intrigued by M. Shadows, Chris Cornell and Eddie Vedder. He used those influences to help mold the powerhouse he is today. Over the years Jon tried his hand with several different local bands. In July of 2011 after seeing Depriving the Masses on bandmix.com he auditioned along with others as vocalist. Ten seconds into the audition the other members of the band knew they found the one.

Don Krezman: Drummer Don Krezman grew up in the South Suburbs of Chicago before going off to Military school in Southern Wisconsin for 2 years. Don knew music ran through his veins at a young age banging pots and pans with wooden spoons in his Mother’s kitchen. Throughout his childhood he was heavily influenced by watching his Uncle Ray play the bass. Don did take a few guitar lessons but while in Military School his friend gave him his very first drum kit. After that he found his niche, he was destined to play the drums. Don enjoyed being a part of bands such as Joy Parlor, Cobra Commanda and The Sons of the Magic Whores to name a few ranging from rock, rap/hip hop, metal to punk. He drew alot of his inspiration from drummers such as Neil Peart, Keith Moon, Mike Portnoy and Lars Ulrich. In the early fall of 2010 Don and Jeff Cunningham were introduced through a mutual friend. By November 2010 Depriving the Masses was created in the basement of Don’s Portage, Indiana home in what is referred to as the mancave/studio.

David “Dave” Podbielski: Lead Guitarist Dave Podbielski hails from the South and Western Suburbs of Chicago, IL. Dave’s passion for the guitar runs back as far as he can remember. The 1980’s thrash metal culture has been a huge influence in Dave’s musical career. This self -taught guitarist has spent time with various bands most notable “Euthanasia” from 1991 – 1996. His decision to play the guitar was heavily influenced by legends such as Eddie Van Halen, Alexander Skolnick, Steve Vai and most profoundly by Kirk Hammett. Dave and band member Don Krezman both attended the same high school and have been friends for years. When Depriving the Masses was underway Don immediately thought of Dave and got in contact with him.

Jeff Cunningham: Guitarist/Songwriter Jeff Cunningham a native of the Portage, Indiana area taught himself to play the guitar after the significant influence of his Uncle Tim. By the age of 16 Jeff found that playing the guitar for hours paired with writings of different experiences and feelings in his personal life came together in musical harmony. Jeff ran the gamut with several bands over the years. When his cousin introduced him to Don Krezman they were a perfect fit together and launched Depriving the Masses.

Jeramie Hughes: Bass player Jeramie Hughes is also a native of Portage, Indiana. Watching his father and big brother play the guitar from a very young age