Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
phalaphel has “perfected a pleasing combination of smooth and soulful vocals with amazing acoustic guitar work. Their emotional and melodious songs are sure to yield instant fans.” - Indie-Music.com, October 2004
“Phalaphel. King.
If you've had the good sense to drop by the Battle of the Acoustic, held every Wednesday night at 9 pm at Red Light at Trocadero, then you know that the Milwaukee music scene is pulsating with several excellent and under-recognized bands.
Although the contest continues for several more weeks, Brew Cityzen already has a favorite: Phalaphel. Formed in 2004 by Karen Muehlbauer (vocals), Cory Akers (guitar), and Jimmy Findlay (vocals/guitar), the group soon added Ryan Mach (bass) and Mike Hartmann (drums). They've since played extensively around the area, including gigs in Pewaukee (Curly's Waterfront Pub & Grill) and at Milwaukee's Shank Hall.
Phalaphel's sound reflects a number of influences. Karen's powerful vocals evoke thoughts of Sarah McLachlan or Jewel. The music alternatively hints of Phish, Smashing Pumpkins, or even Jack Johnson. You can hear selected tracks here (although none of the offered choices does justice to Muehlbauer's vocals).
Phalaphel next performs February 23 at 10 pm, Live on North, 2028 E. North Ave., Milwaukee. Battle of the Acoustic continues until early April every Wednesday night at 9pm, Red Light at Trocadero, 1758 N. Water St., Milwaukee. (There's a $5 cover.)
1 Comment:
Anonymous said...
I did get to see this talented bunch. Great sounds, lyrics, and looks!!”
- Brew Cityzen, An Independent Blog About Milwaukee, Feb. 2007
Discography
Situations & Hesitations (LP)
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
In a world where understanding requires definition, labeling phalaphel gets a little tricky. Put them in a generic “rock” or “pop” genre, and you lose all the nuances that comprise their sound and set them apart. Taking influences from these two genres—as well as hip-hop, funk, jazz, blues, indie rock, jam, world and punk—the essence of phalaphel’s music goes beyond a simple explanation.
The band’s unique style began to form when Cory Akers and Karen Muehlbauer decided to merge their artistic visions and create original music. Their very first song, "Never Say Goodbye," instantly became a fan favorite. Over a year’s time, the duo explored all-new musical territory with the additions of Jimmy Findlay, Ryan Mach and Mike Hartmann. Together, the band members crafted the distinctive groove rock that is now the phalaphel sound.
After playing reputable venues like Shank Hall in Milwaukee, WI, opening for national acts like Will Hoge, and appearing on Fox TV, phalaphel continues to take the music scene by storm. With their roots in Milwaukee, WI, and their debut album being released this spring, phalaphel’s music is bound for so much more.
Please visit phalaphel.com for photos, songs and more information about the band.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Debut album, Situations & Hesitations, mastered by Grammy-winning Trevor Sadler at Mastermind Productions. (Sadler has worked with Nine Inch Nails, Cracker, Guns 'n Roses.)
Received the highest score in a Battle of the Acoustics judged by members of The Gufs and Citizen King. (April 2007)
Links