Sexy Ester

Female-fronted rock band Sexy Ester will represent Madison in its first BandSwap, a collaboration with Fort Collins, Colo. musicians.

BandSwap will be held in Madison on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the High Noon Saloon. Fort Collins bands are playing double bills all over the country with local bands in each participating city, including Denver, Nashville, Chico, Calif. and Portland, Ore., in addition to Madison.

Then all the bands will return to Fort Collins in October for a four-day music festival. Madison has found sponsors to help defray the costs of travel for the band.

The city chose Sexy Ester because of the "high energy new wave" rock band's "musicianship, creativity, showmanship, professional dedication, career aptitude, social marketing savvy, collaborative spirit, availability and fit."

Sexy Ester won best Alternative Performer at this year's Madison Area Music Awards and has been a longtime favorite for female vocalist as well.

Sexy Ester is fronted by Lyndsay Evans with Adam Edar on guitar, Jenna Joanis on drums, Brad Schubert on bass and Roscoe Evans on keyboards. The four-year-old band says it has "already paid a lot of dues slugging it out in the smaller clubs and dives all over the Midwest," according to the website.

The indie band Common Anomaly is set to represent Fort Collins at the Madison show.



Read more: http://host.madison.com/news/local/city-life/sexy-ester-chosen-for-madison-s-first-bandswap-with-fort/article_0f824a39-b26d-5973-8f6d-669e15482719.html#ixzz2jxv6wonl - The Cap Times

Female-fronted rock band Sexy Ester will represent Madison in its first BandSwap, a collaboration with Fort Collins, Colo. musicians.

BandSwap will be held in Madison on Sunday, Sept. 22, at the High Noon Saloon. Fort Collins bands are playing double bills all over the country with local bands in each participating city, including Denver, Nashville, Chico, Calif. and Portland, Ore., in addition to Madison.

Then all the bands will return to Fort Collins in October for a four-day music festival. Madison has found sponsors to help defray the costs of travel for the band.

The city chose Sexy Ester because of the "high energy new wave" rock band's "musicianship, creativity, showmanship, professional dedication, career aptitude, social marketing savvy, collaborative spirit, availability and fit."

Sexy Ester won best Alternative Performer at this year's Madison Area Music Awards and has been a longtime favorite for female vocalist as well.

Sexy Ester is fronted by Lyndsay Evans with Adam Edar on guitar, Jenna Joanis on drums, Brad Schubert on bass and Roscoe Evans on keyboards. The four-year-old band says it has "already paid a lot of dues slugging it out in the smaller clubs and dives all over the Midwest," according to the website.

The indie band Common Anomaly is set to represent Fort Collins at the Madison show.



Read more: http://host.madison.com/news/local/city-life/sexy-ester-chosen-for-madison-s-first-bandswap-with-fort/article_0f824a39-b26d-5973-8f6d-669e15482719.html#ixzz2jxv6wonl - The Cap Times

The Madison Arts Commission is pleased to announce that "Sexy Ester" has been chosen to represent Madison for the 2013 SpokesBUZZ Bandswap.

Sexy Ester was nominated and chosen based on qualities such as musicianship, creativity, showmanship, professional dedication, career aptitude, social marketing savvy, collaborative spirit, availability, and fit. "Sexy Ester," now in its fourth year of existence, is a high energy new wave rock band. Fronted by honey-voiced Lyndsay Evans, and backed by Adam Edar on guitar, Jenna Joanis on drums, Brad Schubert on bass, and Roscoe Evans on keyboards, "Sexy Ester" is a Madison favorite. They have won several Madison Area Music Awards (MAMA) over the last couple of years including Artist of the Year in 2012 and Female vocalist of the Year in 2011, 2012, and 2013. "Sexy Ester" wowed the crowd performing at this year's Wisconsin Area Music Industry Awards where they were nominated for Pop/Rock Artist of the Year.

When asked if they could accept the nomination, singer Lyndsay Evans wrote, "'Sexy Ester' loves Madison and all our Sexy fans and we would be honored to represent Madison in Bandswap."

SpokesBUZZ, the Fort Collins nonprofit organizer of Bandswap, selected "Common Anomaly" to travel to Madison to appear with "Sexy Ester" at the High Noon Saloon on Sunday, September 22, 2013.

Two weeks later, "Sexy Ester" will travel to Fort Collins to perform with bands representing all eight cities in an incredible weekend of music.

The Madison Arts Commission would like to congratulate "Sexy Ester" and thank sponsors New Belgium Brewing, Majestic Live, Wisconsin Distributors, and the High Noon Saloon for making Madison's participation in 2013 SpokesBUZZ Bandswap.

For any questions, please contact Karin Wolf, the Arts Program Administrator, at kwolf@cityofmadison.com. Questions for Sexy Ester? Email them at sexy.ester@hotmail.com - City of Madison

The Madison Arts Commission is pleased to announce that "Sexy Ester" has been chosen to represent Madison for the 2013 SpokesBUZZ Bandswap.

Sexy Ester was nominated and chosen based on qualities such as musicianship, creativity, showmanship, professional dedication, career aptitude, social marketing savvy, collaborative spirit, availability, and fit. "Sexy Ester," now in its fourth year of existence, is a high energy new wave rock band. Fronted by honey-voiced Lyndsay Evans, and backed by Adam Edar on guitar, Jenna Joanis on drums, Brad Schubert on bass, and Roscoe Evans on keyboards, "Sexy Ester" is a Madison favorite. They have won several Madison Area Music Awards (MAMA) over the last couple of years including Artist of the Year in 2012 and Female vocalist of the Year in 2011, 2012, and 2013. "Sexy Ester" wowed the crowd performing at this year's Wisconsin Area Music Industry Awards where they were nominated for Pop/Rock Artist of the Year.

When asked if they could accept the nomination, singer Lyndsay Evans wrote, "'Sexy Ester' loves Madison and all our Sexy fans and we would be honored to represent Madison in Bandswap."

SpokesBUZZ, the Fort Collins nonprofit organizer of Bandswap, selected "Common Anomaly" to travel to Madison to appear with "Sexy Ester" at the High Noon Saloon on Sunday, September 22, 2013.

Two weeks later, "Sexy Ester" will travel to Fort Collins to perform with bands representing all eight cities in an incredible weekend of music.

The Madison Arts Commission would like to congratulate "Sexy Ester" and thank sponsors New Belgium Brewing, Majestic Live, Wisconsin Distributors, and the High Noon Saloon for making Madison's participation in 2013 SpokesBUZZ Bandswap.

For any questions, please contact Karin Wolf, the Arts Program Administrator, at kwolf@cityofmadison.com. Questions for Sexy Ester? Email them at sexy.ester@hotmail.com - City of Madison

The Madison band takes inspiration from the decade of their youth

BY KATIE VAUGHN

When Sexy Ester formed in early 2009, the five-member band incorporated influences from their childhood.

“It took on this new-wave edge,” says frontwoman Lyndsay Evans. “We grew up listening to ’80s pop.”

Yet Sexy Ester has a sound all its own, and Madison loves it—if the four Madison Area Music Awards the group garnered last year are any indication. Since then, the dynamic band’s been performing and released a new album.

This month, catch them at Wurst Times, a May 27 festival at the High Noon Saloon, Brass Ring and Brink Lounge that benefits the Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin.

sexyester.com - Madison Magazine

The Madison band takes inspiration from the decade of their youth

BY KATIE VAUGHN

When Sexy Ester formed in early 2009, the five-member band incorporated influences from their childhood.

“It took on this new-wave edge,” says frontwoman Lyndsay Evans. “We grew up listening to ’80s pop.”

Yet Sexy Ester has a sound all its own, and Madison loves it—if the four Madison Area Music Awards the group garnered last year are any indication. Since then, the dynamic band’s been performing and released a new album.

This month, catch them at Wurst Times, a May 27 festival at the High Noon Saloon, Brass Ring and Brink Lounge that benefits the Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin.

sexyester.com - Madison Magazine

Welcome to a new, exclusive look into the lives of local musicians working hard to rock our world. This behind-the-scenes series of stories, Q & A’s and more– will get you up close and personal with some of the best Madison-area bands. Many are also winners of a Madison Area Music Association Award (also known as The MAMAs) which is ramping up for a June 23, 2013 celebration of its tenth year as an organization.

So sit back, relax, and read on.. as Teri Barr brings you “The Artist Behind the Award,” starting with Sexy Ester, who’s also revealing a big change in 2013.

SexyEster Mamas 2012It takes alot of mojo to use the word “sexy” as part of your band’s name. But the simple on-line definition– exciting and attractive– works well for Sexy Ester. This band’s music is exciting, with its quirky brand of original dance, rock, new wave, or what singer Lyndsay Evans says has been described as “disco punk.” And the show is attractive, as Lyndsay’s high energy and cool dress is matched by her band-mates: Adam Eder on guitar, bass player Brad Schubert, Roscoe Evans on keyboard, and drummer Paul Kennedy. Together, the members of Sexy Ester dominated the 2012 Madison Area Music Association Awards Show, winning the Pop/R&B Song, Interpretive Song, Alternative Song, and Video of the Year categories; along with best female vocalist, specialist instrument player, drummer, and the coveted Artist of the Year Award.

But Ester’s sexy may get turned up an extra notch in the New Year. Paul is leaving the band following a final January show, and Jenna Joanis is newly named as his replacement. She’ll immediately jump behind the drumset, so this busy group doesn’t miss a beat. Talk about living up to the Sexy Ester name!

SexyEster new 2013Now, here’s ten more tidbits about Sexy Ester:

1) Lyndsay and Adam started writing songs together 15 years ago.

2) The band’s ultimate goal is to perform full-time.

3) Each member has a “day job” to pay the bills.

4) They feel people who support local music are amazing, but also in the minority.

5) Each of the band’s members has different musical interests and influences– and enjoy writing together, because of it.

6) Sexy Ester loves to play live and believes their show is an experience for your ears, eyes, mind, and body.

7) Lyndsay’s favorite show to play was The MAMA’s Award Show at the Overture– large stage and even bigger crowd.

8) The band didn’t believe it would ever be named “Artist of the Year.”

9) They consider their work unique and don’t think there’s another band like them in Madison.

10) Sexy Ester’s 4th album, “Monomania” comes out in March! - Local Sounds Magazine

Welcome to a new, exclusive look into the lives of local musicians working hard to rock our world. This behind-the-scenes series of stories, Q & A’s and more– will get you up close and personal with some of the best Madison-area bands. Many are also winners of a Madison Area Music Association Award (also known as The MAMAs) which is ramping up for a June 23, 2013 celebration of its tenth year as an organization.

So sit back, relax, and read on.. as Teri Barr brings you “The Artist Behind the Award,” starting with Sexy Ester, who’s also revealing a big change in 2013.

SexyEster Mamas 2012It takes alot of mojo to use the word “sexy” as part of your band’s name. But the simple on-line definition– exciting and attractive– works well for Sexy Ester. This band’s music is exciting, with its quirky brand of original dance, rock, new wave, or what singer Lyndsay Evans says has been described as “disco punk.” And the show is attractive, as Lyndsay’s high energy and cool dress is matched by her band-mates: Adam Eder on guitar, bass player Brad Schubert, Roscoe Evans on keyboard, and drummer Paul Kennedy. Together, the members of Sexy Ester dominated the 2012 Madison Area Music Association Awards Show, winning the Pop/R&B Song, Interpretive Song, Alternative Song, and Video of the Year categories; along with best female vocalist, specialist instrument player, drummer, and the coveted Artist of the Year Award.

But Ester’s sexy may get turned up an extra notch in the New Year. Paul is leaving the band following a final January show, and Jenna Joanis is newly named as his replacement. She’ll immediately jump behind the drumset, so this busy group doesn’t miss a beat. Talk about living up to the Sexy Ester name!

SexyEster new 2013Now, here’s ten more tidbits about Sexy Ester:

1) Lyndsay and Adam started writing songs together 15 years ago.

2) The band’s ultimate goal is to perform full-time.

3) Each member has a “day job” to pay the bills.

4) They feel people who support local music are amazing, but also in the minority.

5) Each of the band’s members has different musical interests and influences– and enjoy writing together, because of it.

6) Sexy Ester loves to play live and believes their show is an experience for your ears, eyes, mind, and body.

7) Lyndsay’s favorite show to play was The MAMA’s Award Show at the Overture– large stage and even bigger crowd.

8) The band didn’t believe it would ever be named “Artist of the Year.”

9) They consider their work unique and don’t think there’s another band like them in Madison.

10) Sexy Ester’s 4th album, “Monomania” comes out in March! - Local Sounds Magazine

Right from the opener, the music from Hubba Bubba literally takes you back to the new wave, synthpop of the 80’s. It’s like your standing smack-dab in the middle of a John Hughes movie, only this time Molly Ringwald doesn’t stand a chance with the bad boy, because Lyndsay Evans is in town.

Evans definitely wears the pants in this band, even if her pants are super-sexy skirts. Her voice and approach borrow from some of the all-time great leading ladies from the new-wave, radio-rock era like Pat Benatar, Martha Davis from the Motels, Terri Nunn of Berlin and Deborah Harry. But she’s not really imitating — her personality is too original for that. No, she’s paying tribute, and in some cases, overshadowing those greats.

The entire album is well produced and the songs are ultra catchy, each with their own potential to be singles. There’s really not a bad song here – you just wish there were more of them. How can the music be best described? Let’s see — it’s sexy, hot, rock-poppy, sometimes naughty, sassy, riffy and sometimes bitchy. Roscoe Evans’ keys pull everything together nicely, the vocals are authoritative, the songs are easy to relate to, it’s fun, alluring, lusty — the list goes on.

The album kicks off with the super-sassy, school-girl naughty “Love Bubble.” She tries to sound innocent at first, but don’t be fooled, Evans’ longing vocals are a nice mix of anger, sadness and tease. Pop!

The new wave sound continues right into the synth-heavy, rocker “Hot Fire.” The reverb only adds to the 80’s appeal. This song gives guitarist Adam Eder his best chance to shine, and he does just enough. The keys and guitar play nice together. In a straight-up rock sense, this is the best tune on the disc.

On “Who Needs Loves Anyway” the poppy groove gets a little groovier. There’s a little reverse psychology going on here. Brad Schubert and his bass drive this tune. Maybe this is the best song? I can’t decide!

And then there’s “La La La.” This could be a number one hit today, or 30 years ago. Roscoe Evans and his synthesizer make this song what it is — pop glory! Maybe it reminds you of a Men Without Hats song? Or maybe the extremely upbeat melody and lyrics make you think of the Go Go’s? Whatever you think of, wherever this song takes you — enjoy every contagious second of it and let yourself sing along. Don’t worry, you’ll replay over and over and have the entire song memorized in no time.

“Get it Together” is another full-out rocker. It takes names but doesn’t take any shit. Lindsay is telling me what to do, and there’s no way I’m not listening. Drummer Dusty Hay keeps things tight and on track.

Hubba Bubba closes on a high note with “Tell Me You Do.” Yet another masterfully crafted pop song with attitude. Best song on the disk. Did I say that already?

So many similarities to so many great 80’s sounds, and that’s ok. The band doesn’t seem to mind being compared, in fact they seem to beg for it here. This is simply put, a great album, or EP, or whatever the hell you want to call it. Just play it. And then try, just try, not to play it over and over again. It’s pop gold, a shout out to simpler times when there were more synthesizers and less pretense. A time when the hot chick lead singers actually knew how to sing.

Do yourself a favor and buy this album. Then, go out and see Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters live. You’ll have an absolute blast. And, it’ll give you the chance to pull out the parachute pants and poof up the big hair. Long live pop! - Local Sounds Magazine

Right from the opener, the music from Hubba Bubba literally takes you back to the new wave, synthpop of the 80’s. It’s like your standing smack-dab in the middle of a John Hughes movie, only this time Molly Ringwald doesn’t stand a chance with the bad boy, because Lyndsay Evans is in town.

Evans definitely wears the pants in this band, even if her pants are super-sexy skirts. Her voice and approach borrow from some of the all-time great leading ladies from the new-wave, radio-rock era like Pat Benatar, Martha Davis from the Motels, Terri Nunn of Berlin and Deborah Harry. But she’s not really imitating — her personality is too original for that. No, she’s paying tribute, and in some cases, overshadowing those greats.

The entire album is well produced and the songs are ultra catchy, each with their own potential to be singles. There’s really not a bad song here – you just wish there were more of them. How can the music be best described? Let’s see — it’s sexy, hot, rock-poppy, sometimes naughty, sassy, riffy and sometimes bitchy. Roscoe Evans’ keys pull everything together nicely, the vocals are authoritative, the songs are easy to relate to, it’s fun, alluring, lusty — the list goes on.

The album kicks off with the super-sassy, school-girl naughty “Love Bubble.” She tries to sound innocent at first, but don’t be fooled, Evans’ longing vocals are a nice mix of anger, sadness and tease. Pop!

The new wave sound continues right into the synth-heavy, rocker “Hot Fire.” The reverb only adds to the 80’s appeal. This song gives guitarist Adam Eder his best chance to shine, and he does just enough. The keys and guitar play nice together. In a straight-up rock sense, this is the best tune on the disc.

On “Who Needs Loves Anyway” the poppy groove gets a little groovier. There’s a little reverse psychology going on here. Brad Schubert and his bass drive this tune. Maybe this is the best song? I can’t decide!

And then there’s “La La La.” This could be a number one hit today, or 30 years ago. Roscoe Evans and his synthesizer make this song what it is — pop glory! Maybe it reminds you of a Men Without Hats song? Or maybe the extremely upbeat melody and lyrics make you think of the Go Go’s? Whatever you think of, wherever this song takes you — enjoy every contagious second of it and let yourself sing along. Don’t worry, you’ll replay over and over and have the entire song memorized in no time.

“Get it Together” is another full-out rocker. It takes names but doesn’t take any shit. Lindsay is telling me what to do, and there’s no way I’m not listening. Drummer Dusty Hay keeps things tight and on track.

Hubba Bubba closes on a high note with “Tell Me You Do.” Yet another masterfully crafted pop song with attitude. Best song on the disk. Did I say that already?

So many similarities to so many great 80’s sounds, and that’s ok. The band doesn’t seem to mind being compared, in fact they seem to beg for it here. This is simply put, a great album, or EP, or whatever the hell you want to call it. Just play it. And then try, just try, not to play it over and over again. It’s pop gold, a shout out to simpler times when there were more synthesizers and less pretense. A time when the hot chick lead singers actually knew how to sing.

Do yourself a favor and buy this album. Then, go out and see Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters live. You’ll have an absolute blast. And, it’ll give you the chance to pull out the parachute pants and poof up the big hair. Long live pop! - Local Sounds Magazine

Bandswap is coming to town this Sunday, Sept. 22 and the festivities will begin with a networking event at the Great Dane downtown. Dubbed “Illegal Pete’s Starving Artist Networking Party” the event will feature a Spokesbuzz representative from Ft. Collins who will talk about the program. This a an opportunity to show your support for your local music scene.

If you wish to attend you’ll need to RSVP and you can do that here.

Bandswap is a program of Spokesbuzz, a nonprofit based in Ft. Collins that works to reinforce and promote the local musicians of Ft. Collins. Bandswap reaches out to several like-minded cities and creates an opportunity for Ft. Collins bands to appear in the host cities. Each host city chooses a band to represent its local music scene based on criteria that includes availability, compatability with the Ft. Collins band, activity in the local music scene, etc. Those host city bands then travel to Ft. Collins to take part in the Bandswap event there which takes place at several venues across the city. Each band member receives $600 to make the journey. The bands split the available take at each of the live performances.

Spokesbuzz seeks to encourage other cities in the country to adopt a similar model and promote local musicians. They strongly encourage investment from those cities as well as the procurement of other sponsors. The charge was led by Madison Art Commission’s Karin Wolf who put together enough sponsorships to cover the $5,000 participation fee when the city failed to lend support. New Belgium Brewing, Majestic Live, Wisconsin Distributors and the High Noon Saloon all stepped up to plate. The Madison Area Music Association and Local Sounds Magazine are lending promotional support. This is the type of effort our city needs to get behind and you need to be there to show your support and to encourage the city of Madison to make budgetary considerations to support local music.

To learn more about Spokesbuzz read the article here or visit their website or view this video. - Local Sounds Magazine

Bandswap is coming to town this Sunday, Sept. 22 and the festivities will begin with a networking event at the Great Dane downtown. Dubbed “Illegal Pete’s Starving Artist Networking Party” the event will feature a Spokesbuzz representative from Ft. Collins who will talk about the program. This a an opportunity to show your support for your local music scene.

If you wish to attend you’ll need to RSVP and you can do that here.

Bandswap is a program of Spokesbuzz, a nonprofit based in Ft. Collins that works to reinforce and promote the local musicians of Ft. Collins. Bandswap reaches out to several like-minded cities and creates an opportunity for Ft. Collins bands to appear in the host cities. Each host city chooses a band to represent its local music scene based on criteria that includes availability, compatability with the Ft. Collins band, activity in the local music scene, etc. Those host city bands then travel to Ft. Collins to take part in the Bandswap event there which takes place at several venues across the city. Each band member receives $600 to make the journey. The bands split the available take at each of the live performances.

Spokesbuzz seeks to encourage other cities in the country to adopt a similar model and promote local musicians. They strongly encourage investment from those cities as well as the procurement of other sponsors. The charge was led by Madison Art Commission’s Karin Wolf who put together enough sponsorships to cover the $5,000 participation fee when the city failed to lend support. New Belgium Brewing, Majestic Live, Wisconsin Distributors and the High Noon Saloon all stepped up to plate. The Madison Area Music Association and Local Sounds Magazine are lending promotional support. This is the type of effort our city needs to get behind and you need to be there to show your support and to encourage the city of Madison to make budgetary considerations to support local music.

To learn more about Spokesbuzz read the article here or visit their website or view this video. - Local Sounds Magazine

The Tuesday night meeting of the Madison Common Council got a lot more hip when they invited Sexy Ester in to accept a proclamation thanking them for representing the City of Madison at the recent BandSwap event.

BandSwap is a project of SpokesBuzz out of Fort Collins, Colorado. Eight cities were chosen to participate and bands from Fort Collins travelled to each city. Common Anomaly performed here at the High Noon Saloon and Sexy Ester returned the favor by performing at the BandSwap festival in Fort Collins earlier this month.

Sexy Ester were obviously jazzed to be a part of BandSwap. “It’s a great thing that SpokesBuzz is doing with BandSwap and we are so excited that Madison has gotten involved and grateful for the opportunity,” says Sexy Ester vocalist Lyndsay Evans. “It was awesome to get a taste of the road and gain new Sexy fans outside of the Midwest. We were able to network and make new connections with other bands and music industry people around the country. And the press behind BandSwap is great for our Electronic Press Kit!”

Read more about BandSwap and SpokesBuzz here and here.

It’s great to see the Mayor and the City make efforts to get more involved in Madison Music. I promise you, there are some big announcements forthcoming. Change is coming to Madison (can I use that?).



The Common Council resolution concludes:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and the City of Madison recognize the importance of promoting and sharing Madison’s local music scene, encouraging professional development opportunities for our emerging talent, acknowledging Madison’s music industry for the role it plays in making Madison a cultural destination and for helping to grow our economy; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Mayor and the City of Madison thank the members of the music and entertainment industry who brought BandSwap to Madison and thank “Sexy Ester” for representing Madison’s vibrant music scene in BandSwap 2013.

To read the full text of the resolution click here. - Local Sounds Magazine

The Tuesday night meeting of the Madison Common Council got a lot more hip when they invited Sexy Ester in to accept a proclamation thanking them for representing the City of Madison at the recent BandSwap event.

BandSwap is a project of SpokesBuzz out of Fort Collins, Colorado. Eight cities were chosen to participate and bands from Fort Collins travelled to each city. Common Anomaly performed here at the High Noon Saloon and Sexy Ester returned the favor by performing at the BandSwap festival in Fort Collins earlier this month.

Sexy Ester were obviously jazzed to be a part of BandSwap. “It’s a great thing that SpokesBuzz is doing with BandSwap and we are so excited that Madison has gotten involved and grateful for the opportunity,” says Sexy Ester vocalist Lyndsay Evans. “It was awesome to get a taste of the road and gain new Sexy fans outside of the Midwest. We were able to network and make new connections with other bands and music industry people around the country. And the press behind BandSwap is great for our Electronic Press Kit!”

Read more about BandSwap and SpokesBuzz here and here.

It’s great to see the Mayor and the City make efforts to get more involved in Madison Music. I promise you, there are some big announcements forthcoming. Change is coming to Madison (can I use that?).



The Common Council resolution concludes:

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and the City of Madison recognize the importance of promoting and sharing Madison’s local music scene, encouraging professional development opportunities for our emerging talent, acknowledging Madison’s music industry for the role it plays in making Madison a cultural destination and for helping to grow our economy; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that the Mayor and the City of Madison thank the members of the music and entertainment industry who brought BandSwap to Madison and thank “Sexy Ester” for representing Madison’s vibrant music scene in BandSwap 2013.

To read the full text of the resolution click here. - Local Sounds Magazine

Rock bands aren't known for being quiet or humble. Oddly enough, singer Lyndsay Evans and guitarist Adam Eder are both of these things. Offstage, anyway.

The couple helm Madison band Sexy Ester, which earned a WAMI nomination this year and picked up four MAMAs in 2011, including Alternative Artist of the Year. Since solidifying their lineup in 2009, they've built a regional following around their upbeat, danceable sound and Evans' powerhouse vocals, which channel Heart's Ann Wilson and Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks. They'll release their fourth studio album, Monomania, on March 30, at a prom-themed party at the Inferno.

When we meet to discuss the new album, Evans' mohawk is tucked into a chic beret, and both she and Eder nonchalantly sip cups of green tea. This subdued scene is a far cry from their sexy, powerful live act, but they exude a quiet confidence that stems from their musical relationship and their 10 years as a married couple.

"I think it's our best album yet," says Evans, who is surprisingly soft-spoken. "It's about finding yourself and embracing who you are."

Monomania picks up where Sexy Ester's 2011 album, Sequins, Sin, and Appetite, left off, flirting with new wave and classic rock while deftly avoiding outright imitation. It reveals a group that has developed a sonic profile of their own. Songs like "The Hotness" and "Silver Shoes" could be described as 21st-century reimaginings of Joan Jett or Sleater-Kinney, but their intensity is balanced by a playful campiness. "Rock Candy" and "Red Shoes" evoke sounds and themes like those of the B-52s, Devo and even the off-Broadway musical Hedwig & the Angry Inch.

Evans says her brother, Roscoe, who's also the band's keyboard player, took their sound in a new-wave direction. But the whole group contributes to the songwriting process. In fact, they began working in the studio before playing any live shows.

"Adam and I went in and recorded the first album with our first drummer, Dusty. We didn't have a bass player or anything, so Adam wrote and recorded all the bass lines in the studio," Evans says.

"We really did do it backwards," Eder interjects.

Now a lot of the songs spring from free jams.

"I'll be jamming with the [others], get a little melody going, then record those songs onto my phone, take them home, and work on lyrics," Evans says.

Practically finishing each other's sentences, Evans and Eder make it all sound smooth. But their journey has had its share of bumps. Like many bands, Sexy Ester have gone through drummers like matchsticks. Luckily, current drummer Jenna Joanis offered to be on-call the night before her predecessor, Paul Kennedy, resigned.

"She jumped right in, and she fits super well with us," Eder says.

But great live shows don't always lead to great albums. While Sexy Ester make good recordings, they're still figuring out how to cram all of their charisma into an audio file.

"People [often] say that they like us live better. It's so hard to capture that live sound on an album," Evans says.

That's why Sexy Ester decided to play Monomania's songs together in the studio rather than recording one part at a time. Eder says this approach helped Monomania get closer to the band's live sound.

"It helps, having that feeling of everybody in groove with each other," he says.

But, in a way, the audience is also part of the band. They help generate the electricity that drives the live shows.

"It's hard to get the feeling you get in the vocal [at a show], with the energy feeding from a crowd, when you're just standing there in a dark room with a microphone," Evans says.

In other words, Sexy Ester are a band you should hear, but you really ought to see them as well. - The Daily Page

Rock bands aren't known for being quiet or humble. Oddly enough, singer Lyndsay Evans and guitarist Adam Eder are both of these things. Offstage, anyway.

The couple helm Madison band Sexy Ester, which earned a WAMI nomination this year and picked up four MAMAs in 2011, including Alternative Artist of the Year. Since solidifying their lineup in 2009, they've built a regional following around their upbeat, danceable sound and Evans' powerhouse vocals, which channel Heart's Ann Wilson and Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks. They'll release their fourth studio album, Monomania, on March 30, at a prom-themed party at the Inferno.

When we meet to discuss the new album, Evans' mohawk is tucked into a chic beret, and both she and Eder nonchalantly sip cups of green tea. This subdued scene is a far cry from their sexy, powerful live act, but they exude a quiet confidence that stems from their musical relationship and their 10 years as a married couple.

"I think it's our best album yet," says Evans, who is surprisingly soft-spoken. "It's about finding yourself and embracing who you are."

Monomania picks up where Sexy Ester's 2011 album, Sequins, Sin, and Appetite, left off, flirting with new wave and classic rock while deftly avoiding outright imitation. It reveals a group that has developed a sonic profile of their own. Songs like "The Hotness" and "Silver Shoes" could be described as 21st-century reimaginings of Joan Jett or Sleater-Kinney, but their intensity is balanced by a playful campiness. "Rock Candy" and "Red Shoes" evoke sounds and themes like those of the B-52s, Devo and even the off-Broadway musical Hedwig & the Angry Inch.

Evans says her brother, Roscoe, who's also the band's keyboard player, took their sound in a new-wave direction. But the whole group contributes to the songwriting process. In fact, they began working in the studio before playing any live shows.

"Adam and I went in and recorded the first album with our first drummer, Dusty. We didn't have a bass player or anything, so Adam wrote and recorded all the bass lines in the studio," Evans says.

"We really did do it backwards," Eder interjects.

Now a lot of the songs spring from free jams.

"I'll be jamming with the [others], get a little melody going, then record those songs onto my phone, take them home, and work on lyrics," Evans says.

Practically finishing each other's sentences, Evans and Eder make it all sound smooth. But their journey has had its share of bumps. Like many bands, Sexy Ester have gone through drummers like matchsticks. Luckily, current drummer Jenna Joanis offered to be on-call the night before her predecessor, Paul Kennedy, resigned.

"She jumped right in, and she fits super well with us," Eder says.

But great live shows don't always lead to great albums. While Sexy Ester make good recordings, they're still figuring out how to cram all of their charisma into an audio file.

"People [often] say that they like us live better. It's so hard to capture that live sound on an album," Evans says.

That's why Sexy Ester decided to play Monomania's songs together in the studio rather than recording one part at a time. Eder says this approach helped Monomania get closer to the band's live sound.

"It helps, having that feeling of everybody in groove with each other," he says.

But, in a way, the audience is also part of the band. They help generate the electricity that drives the live shows.

"It's hard to get the feeling you get in the vocal [at a show], with the energy feeding from a crowd, when you're just standing there in a dark room with a microphone," Evans says.

In other words, Sexy Ester are a band you should hear, but you really ought to see them as well. - The Daily Page

The digital revolution has made it easier than ever to record songs at home and share them on the web. But if you're looking to build a music career, it still helps to have the backing of the music industry, whether it's through a well-known label or a national booking agency. Unfortunately, making connections with the industry's key players is tough when your band isn't situated in a big city. That's why several groups have organized events for Madison musicians to rub elbows with industry professionals.

Last week, MAMA-winning rockers Sexy Ester headed to Fort Collins, Colo., as part of BandSwap, a collaboration among eight cities that promotes each of their music scenes. More than a dozen local bands applied to represent Madison in other markets, and the Madison Arts Commission chose Sexy Ester.

BandSwap is run by SpokesBuzz, a music-promotion nonprofit based in Fort Collins, a college town with about 100,000 fewer residents than Madison. This year, BandSwap events included a Sept. 22 meet-up called Illegal Pete's Starving Artist Networking Party, which brought Madison musicians to the downtown Great Dane Pub to fill their address books with new contacts. Sexy Ester and Common Anomaly, the band Fort Collins sent to Madison, wrapped up the day with a concert at the High Noon Saloon.

"We see BandSwap as a huge opportunity," says Lyndsay Evans, Sexy Ester's lead singer. "We've never toured out of the Midwest, and BandSwap is allowing us to do this for the first time."

Networking events are becoming more vital for local musicians since the web is saturated with artists trying to build a fan base.

Karin Wolf, the city's arts administrator, says these events can accelerate the learning process for artists unfamiliar with the industry's expectations.

"You can meet a lot of people and learn a lot in a short period of time.... You begin to establish a support network that will help you get through the mire," she says.

The casual nature of these events is also a boon.

"It's a social situation more than a formal one. People tend to be more accessible," she says.

The Illegal Pete's party isn't the only event of its kind, of course. On Saturday, Oct. 12, local hip-hop artists will network at Level Up!, a free music industry conference at Madison Media Institute. Presented by the Urban Community Arts Network, the event will feature workshops on social media marketing, music licensing and other music-biz topics.

Karen Reece, president of the Urban Community Arts Network, says the conference was created to teach independent artists how they can take their craft to the next level.

"Everyone is limited by time, money and effort. Meeting other like-minded individuals allows artists to pool resources and do more with what they have," she says.

Reece argues that events like Level Up! are particularly important for Madison's hip-hop artists since several local venues won't book acts from this musical genre.

"It is nearly impossible for local [hip-hop] artists to perform at bars and clubs around town, largely due to city politics," she notes. "Because of that, there is almost no common gathering place for artists across the genre."

Level Up! organizer DJ Pain 1 says the event's networking element is especially important for Wisconsin. He says the state lacks professional development opportunities for urban performers, who "need each other's support more than ever to create opportunity and sustainability."

Pain 1 says hip-hop artists also need support since the genre is so difficult to break into.

"Hip-hop music is saturated with artists. That impedes commercial viability of the music as a product and creates heavy competition," he says.

Reece says Madison's lack of performance opportunities keeps local hip-hop artists from breaking through on a regional or national level.

"This not only prevents the artist from earning any money but also limits their visibility," she says. "Industry professionals often look to an artist's local fan base...as a measure of the quality and popularity of their music." - The Daily Page

The digital revolution has made it easier than ever to record songs at home and share them on the web. But if you're looking to build a music career, it still helps to have the backing of the music industry, whether it's through a well-known label or a national booking agency. Unfortunately, making connections with the industry's key players is tough when your band isn't situated in a big city. That's why several groups have organized events for Madison musicians to rub elbows with industry professionals.

Last week, MAMA-winning rockers Sexy Ester headed to Fort Collins, Colo., as part of BandSwap, a collaboration among eight cities that promotes each of their music scenes. More than a dozen local bands applied to represent Madison in other markets, and the Madison Arts Commission chose Sexy Ester.

BandSwap is run by SpokesBuzz, a music-promotion nonprofit based in Fort Collins, a college town with about 100,000 fewer residents than Madison. This year, BandSwap events included a Sept. 22 meet-up called Illegal Pete's Starving Artist Networking Party, which brought Madison musicians to the downtown Great Dane Pub to fill their address books with new contacts. Sexy Ester and Common Anomaly, the band Fort Collins sent to Madison, wrapped up the day with a concert at the High Noon Saloon.

"We see BandSwap as a huge opportunity," says Lyndsay Evans, Sexy Ester's lead singer. "We've never toured out of the Midwest, and BandSwap is allowing us to do this for the first time."

Networking events are becoming more vital for local musicians since the web is saturated with artists trying to build a fan base.

Karin Wolf, the city's arts administrator, says these events can accelerate the learning process for artists unfamiliar with the industry's expectations.

"You can meet a lot of people and learn a lot in a short period of time.... You begin to establish a support network that will help you get through the mire," she says.

The casual nature of these events is also a boon.

"It's a social situation more than a formal one. People tend to be more accessible," she says.

The Illegal Pete's party isn't the only event of its kind, of course. On Saturday, Oct. 12, local hip-hop artists will network at Level Up!, a free music industry conference at Madison Media Institute. Presented by the Urban Community Arts Network, the event will feature workshops on social media marketing, music licensing and other music-biz topics.

Karen Reece, president of the Urban Community Arts Network, says the conference was created to teach independent artists how they can take their craft to the next level.

"Everyone is limited by time, money and effort. Meeting other like-minded individuals allows artists to pool resources and do more with what they have," she says.

Reece argues that events like Level Up! are particularly important for Madison's hip-hop artists since several local venues won't book acts from this musical genre.

"It is nearly impossible for local [hip-hop] artists to perform at bars and clubs around town, largely due to city politics," she notes. "Because of that, there is almost no common gathering place for artists across the genre."

Level Up! organizer DJ Pain 1 says the event's networking element is especially important for Wisconsin. He says the state lacks professional development opportunities for urban performers, who "need each other's support more than ever to create opportunity and sustainability."

Pain 1 says hip-hop artists also need support since the genre is so difficult to break into.

"Hip-hop music is saturated with artists. That impedes commercial viability of the music as a product and creates heavy competition," he says.

Reece says Madison's lack of performance opportunities keeps local hip-hop artists from breaking through on a regional or national level.

"This not only prevents the artist from earning any money but also limits their visibility," she says. "Industry professionals often look to an artist's local fan base...as a measure of the quality and popularity of their music." - The Daily Page

Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters – Hubba Bubba

(2010 Slothtrop Music)

Buy the CD here

Right from the opener, the music from Hubba Bubba literally takes you back to the new wave, synthpop of the 80’s. It’s like your standing smack-dab in the middle of a John Hughes movie, only this time Molly Ringwald doesn’t stand a chance with the bad boy, because Lyndsay Evans is in town.

Evans definitely wears the pants in this band, even if her pants are super-sexy skirts. Her voice and approach borrow from some of the all-time great leading ladies from the new-wave, radio-rock era like Pat Benatar, Martha Davis from the Motels, Terri Nunn of Berlin and Deborah Harry. But she’s not really imitating — her personality is too original for that. No, she’s paying tribute, and in some cases, overshadowing those greats.

The entire album is well produced and the songs are ultra catchy, each with their own potential to be singles. There’s really not a bad song here – you just wish there were more of them. How can the music be best described? Let’s see — it’s sexy, hot, rock-poppy, sometimes naughty, sassy, riffy and sometimes bitchy. Roscoe Evans’ keys pull everything together nicely, the vocals are authoritative, the songs are easy to relate to, it’s fun, alluring, lusty — the list goes on.

The album kicks off with the super-sassy, school-girl naughty “Love Bubble.” She tries to sound innocent at first, but don’t be fooled, Evans’ longing vocals are a nice mix of anger, sadness and tease. Pop!

The new wave sound continues right into the synth-heavy, rocker “Hot Fire.” The reverb only adds to the 80’s appeal. This song gives guitarist Adam Eder his best chance to shine, and he does just enough. The keys and guitar play nice together. In a straight-up rock sense, this is the best tune on the disc.

On “Who Needs Loves Anyway” the poppy groove gets a little groovier. There’s a little reverse psychology going on here. Brad Schubert and his bass drive this tune. Maybe this is the best song? I can’t decide!

And then there’s “La La La.” This could be a number one hit today, or 30 years ago. Roscoe Evans and his synthesizer make this song what it is — pop glory! Maybe it reminds you of a Men Without Hats song? Or maybe the extremely upbeat melody and lyrics make you think of the Go Go’s? Whatever you think of, wherever this song takes you — enjoy every contagious second of it and let yourself sing along. Don’t worry, you’ll replay over and over and have the entire song memorized in no time.

“Get it Together” is another full-out rocker. It takes names but doesn’t take any shit. Lindsay is telling me what to do, and there’s no way I’m not listening. Drummer Dusty Hay keeps things tight and on track.

Hubba Bubba closes on a high note with “Tell Me You Do.” Yet another masterfully crafted pop song with attitude. Best song on the disk. Did I say that already?

So many similarities to so many great 80’s sounds, and that’s ok. The band doesn’t seem to mind being compared, in fact they seem to beg for it here. This is simply put, a great album, or EP, or whatever the hell you want to call it. Just play it. And then try, just try, not to play it over and over again. It’s pop gold, a shout out to simpler times when there were more synthesizers and less pretense. A time when the hot chick lead singers actually knew how to sing.

Do yourself a favor and buy this album. Then, go out and see Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters live. You’ll have an absolute blast. And, it’ll give you the chance to pull out the parachute pants and poof up the big hair. Long live pop! - Local Sounds Magazine

Welcome to a new, exclusive look into the lives of local musicians working hard to rock our world. This behind-the-scenes series of stories, Q & A’s and more– will get you up close and personal with some of the best Madison-area bands. Many are also winners of a Madison Area Music Association Award (also known as The MAMAs) which is ramping up for a June 23, 2013 celebration of its tenth year as an organization.

So sit back, relax, and read on.. as Teri Barr brings you “The Artist Behind the Award,” starting with Sexy Ester, who’s also revealing a big change in 2013.

It takes alot of mojo to use the word “sexy” as part of your band’s name. But the simple on-line definition– exciting and attractive– works well for Sexy Ester. This band’s music is exciting, with its quirky brand of original dance, rock, new wave, or what singer Lyndsay Evans says has been described as “disco punk.” And the show is attractive, as Lyndsay’s high energy and cool dress is matched by her band-mates: Adam Eder on guitar, bass player Brad Schubert, Roscoe Evans on keyboard, and drummer Paul Kennedy. Together, the members of Sexy Ester dominated the 2012 Madison Area Music Association Awards Show, winning the Pop/R&B Song, Interpretive Song, Alternative Song, and Video of the Year categories; along with best female vocalist, specialist instrument player, drummer, and the coveted Artist of the Year Award.

But Ester’s sexy may get turned up an extra notch in the New Year. Paul is leaving the band following a final January show, and Jenna Joanis is newly named as his replacement. She’ll immediately jump behind the drumset, so this busy group doesn’t miss a beat. Talk about living up to the Sexy Ester name!

Now, here’s ten more tidbits about Sexy Ester:

1) Lyndsay and Adam started writing songs together 15 years ago.

2) The band’s ultimate goal is to perform full-time.

3) Each member has a “day job” to pay the bills.

4) They feel people who support local music are amazing, but also in the minority.

5) Each of the band’s members has different musical interests and influences– and enjoy writing together, because of it.

6) Sexy Ester loves to play live and believes their show is an experience for your ears, eyes, mind, and body.

7) Lyndsay’s favorite show to play was The MAMA’s Award Show at the Overture– large stage and even bigger crowd.

8) The band didn’t believe it would ever be named “Artist of the Year.”

9) They consider their work unique and don’t think there’s another band like them in Madison.

10) Sexy Ester’s 4th album, “Monomania” comes out in March! - Local Sounds Magazine

Welcome to a new, exclusive look into the lives of local musicians working hard to rock our world. This behind-the-scenes series of stories, Q & A’s and more– will get you up close and personal with some of the best Madison-area bands. Many are also winners of a Madison Area Music Association Award (also known as The MAMAs) which is ramping up for a June 23, 2013 celebration of its tenth year as an organization.

So sit back, relax, and read on.. as Teri Barr brings you “The Artist Behind the Award,” starting with Sexy Ester, who’s also revealing a big change in 2013.

It takes alot of mojo to use the word “sexy” as part of your band’s name. But the simple on-line definition– exciting and attractive– works well for Sexy Ester. This band’s music is exciting, with its quirky brand of original dance, rock, new wave, or what singer Lyndsay Evans says has been described as “disco punk.” And the show is attractive, as Lyndsay’s high energy and cool dress is matched by her band-mates: Adam Eder on guitar, bass player Brad Schubert, Roscoe Evans on keyboard, and drummer Paul Kennedy. Together, the members of Sexy Ester dominated the 2012 Madison Area Music Association Awards Show, winning the Pop/R&B Song, Interpretive Song, Alternative Song, and Video of the Year categories; along with best female vocalist, specialist instrument player, drummer, and the coveted Artist of the Year Award.

But Ester’s sexy may get turned up an extra notch in the New Year. Paul is leaving the band following a final January show, and Jenna Joanis is newly named as his replacement. She’ll immediately jump behind the drumset, so this busy group doesn’t miss a beat. Talk about living up to the Sexy Ester name!

Now, here’s ten more tidbits about Sexy Ester:

1) Lyndsay and Adam started writing songs together 15 years ago.

2) The band’s ultimate goal is to perform full-time.

3) Each member has a “day job” to pay the bills.

4) They feel people who support local music are amazing, but also in the minority.

5) Each of the band’s members has different musical interests and influences– and enjoy writing together, because of it.

6) Sexy Ester loves to play live and believes their show is an experience for your ears, eyes, mind, and body.

7) Lyndsay’s favorite show to play was The MAMA’s Award Show at the Overture– large stage and even bigger crowd.

8) The band didn’t believe it would ever be named “Artist of the Year.”

9) They consider their work unique and don’t think there’s another band like them in Madison.

10) Sexy Ester’s 4th album, “Monomania” comes out in March! - Local Sounds Magazine

If you want to know anything about what is happening in Madison music, here is a name you need to know: Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters.

This rock quintet has won numerous Madison Area Music Awards, including the coveted Artist of the Year award in 2012. The band consists of guitarist Adam Eder, keyboardist Roscoe Evans, bassist Brad Schulbert and drummer Jenna Joanis. Fronting the group is the vivacious vocalist Lyndsay Evans, wife to Eder and sister to Roscoe Evans. (Their former drummer was a cousin.) They are an unabashed throwback to '80s rock ‘n’ roll, and when you witness Evans lean back, raise one arm and deliver one of her muscular shrieks your jaw will hit the floor. To say she is the best female vocalist in the city, and likely the state, does not lend enough credibility to the term “best.” Here is a link to a recent profile written by Teri Barr. CD reviews can be found here and here.


Sexy Ester's Lyndsay Evans
Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters are about to release a new CD, Monomania, which can be purchased here. They will celebrate the event at the Inferno nightclub on March 30. Locals Baristacide and Tiger Clutch will also appear, and local comedian Alan Talaga will play host.

The point of all this is not simply to promote one of Madison’s finest outfits but to tell another story.

On March 2, we held a fundraiser for the Madison Area Music Association at the High Noon Saloon (another name you need to know if you want to know Madison music). The event was entitled Teens for Tunes and featured performances by young artists and bands. The MAMAs love to spotlight these young people in order to highlight our charitable mission, yes, but also because they are just so damn good.

Sexy Ester was on hand to close the show, which saw performances from three outstanding youth bands: ADO, Modern Mod and the Daze (who will perform at the Madison Area Music Awards on June 23 at the Capitol Theater). Additionally, thirteen-year-old Ruby Henley and her even younger sister Ella performed a pair of songs with breathtaking poise. Sarah Corbin, who is fifteen, also braved the stage to perform two songs. All of these teens danced their hearts out to each other’s music and were clearly having the time of their lives.

When Sexy Ester hit the stage the excitement was at its peak. While watching Evans and band belt it out, I was struck not only by the fact that they are ready for wider attention, but the realization that Evans is a mentor. In fact, the whole event was organized around a comment Evans made about this particular lineup being a dream lineup for her. Evans already knows many of these band members because of her involvement in another local organization that is doing great work: Girls Rock Camp. The bands that performed at this event were equally divided between male and female with many of the females involved in Girls Rock Camp.

Here is video of Ruby Rain and Ella June Henley covering First Aid Kit's "Ghost Town" at High Noon Saloon.






Photo by Trisha Alt

Not only did these kids get a lesson in commanding a stage and putting 100% heart and blood into every note, they saw someone who cares about them. Evans got in their face as they crowded the stage. She pointed them out and gave them all praise between songs. It was clear from the band’s performance that the kids weren’t the only ones having a great time. Afterward, she took pictures with lots of the kids and fans.

These teens also got a more subconscious message, one of confidence and self-esteem. They know how much work it takes to create and perform music. This lesson in poise will motivate them not only to do better things musically, but to be better people. They will always remember this day and it’s likely that in the future they will be the mentors inspiring the next generation.

Studies show that music may stimulate other areas of learning, particularly language, math and science. While that may be true, there are other important effects as well. Music gives young people a sense of purpose that carries over into other parts of their lives. They will stay in school if they are involved in music; their lives will have more purpose and meaning; they will understand the feeling of accomplishment as they create and realize their musical ideas and ideals; if their parents are supportive they will honor family ties with greater enthusiasm.

These are the reasons why we do the MAMAs, and this is why people like Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters are so willing to give their time and energy back to the community. Musicians know what music has meant to them, and they know that music can change the world if we all want it to. - Madison Magazine

Rock bands aren't known for being quiet or humble. Oddly enough, singer Lyndsay Evans and guitarist Adam Eder are both of these things. Offstage, anyway.

The couple helm Madison band Sexy Ester, which earned a WAMI nomination this year and picked up four MAMAs in 2011, including Alternative Artist of the Year. Since solidifying their lineup in 2009, they've built a regional following around their upbeat, danceable sound and Evans' powerhouse vocals, which channel Heart's Ann Wilson and Fleetwood Mac's Stevie Nicks. They'll release their fourth studio album, Monomania, on March 30, at a prom-themed party at the Inferno.

When we meet to discuss the new album, Evans' mohawk is tucked into a chic beret, and both she and Eder nonchalantly sip cups of green tea. This subdued scene is a far cry from their sexy, powerful live act, but they exude a quiet confidence that stems from their musical relationship and their 10 years as a married couple.

"I think it's our best album yet," says Evans, who is surprisingly soft-spoken. "It's about finding yourself and embracing who you are."

Monomania picks up where Sexy Ester's 2011 album, Sequins, Sin, and Appetite, left off, flirting with new wave and classic rock while deftly avoiding outright imitation. It reveals a group that has developed a sonic profile of their own. Songs like "The Hotness" and "Silver Shoes" could be described as 21st-century reimaginings of Joan Jett or Sleater-Kinney, but their intensity is balanced by a playful campiness. "Rock Candy" and "Red Shoes" evoke sounds and themes like those of the B-52s, Devo and even the off-Broadway musical Hedwig & the Angry Inch.

Evans says her brother, Roscoe, who's also the band's keyboard player, took their sound in a new-wave direction. But the whole group contributes to the songwriting process. In fact, they began working in the studio before playing any live shows.

"Adam and I went in and recorded the first album with our first drummer, Dusty. We didn't have a bass player or anything, so Adam wrote and recorded all the bass lines in the studio," Evans says.

"We really did do it backwards," Eder interjects.

Now a lot of the songs spring from free jams.

"I'll be jamming with the [others], get a little melody going, then record those songs onto my phone, take them home, and work on lyrics," Evans says.

Practically finishing each other's sentences, Evans and Eder make it all sound smooth. But their journey has had its share of bumps. Like many bands, Sexy Ester have gone through drummers like matchsticks. Luckily, current drummer Jenna Joanis offered to be on-call the night before her predecessor, Paul Kennedy, resigned.

"She jumped right in, and she fits super well with us," Eder says.

But great live shows don't always lead to great albums. While Sexy Ester make good recordings, they're still figuring out how to cram all of their charisma into an audio file.

"People [often] say that they like us live better. It's so hard to capture that live sound on an album," Evans says.

That's why Sexy Ester decided to play Monomania's songs together in the studio rather than recording one part at a time. Eder says this approach helped Monomania get closer to the band's live sound.

"It helps, having that feeling of everybody in groove with each other," he says.

But, in a way, the audience is also part of the band. They help generate the electricity that drives the live shows.

"It's hard to get the feeling you get in the vocal [at a show], with the energy feeding from a crowd, when you're just standing there in a dark room with a microphone," Evans says.

In other words, Sexy Ester are a band you should hear, but you really ought to see them as well. - The Isthmus

The scene salutes its winners at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
Amanda Rigell on Sunday 06/05/2011 10:05 am


Star Persons were named New Artist of the Year at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards.
Credit:Amanda Rigell
Related Articles:

The MAMAs keep growing in scope and ambition for 2011
Winners of the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
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Print This Article
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Share | The 2011 Madison Area Music Awards, held at Overture Center's Capitol Theater Saturday night, reflected the eclectic nature of Madison's music scene. The ceremony included performances and pageantry from across genres. True to form in its eighth year, the show focused on live performances by nominated artists, video montages and speeches with heartfelt reminders of the MAMAs' driving purpose, fundraising for music education.

Performers included jazz siren Gerri DiMaggio, faith-based singer Anthony Lamarr, the Rowdy Prairie Dogs, hip-hop phenoms Star Persons, Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Kati May, the Boys and Girls Club Black Star Drum Line, campy metalheads Lords of the Trident and the MAMAs All-Star Guitar Band featuring John Masino, Aaron Williams and Joel Pingitore.

Outstanding moments of the show included a beautiful piano concerto performed by Ariela Bohrod, the Student of the Year award winner, an a cappella rendition of Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" by all-female youth vocal ensemble Midnight Voices, and a stunning Mozart performance by the storied Pro Arte Quartet, who received the MAMAs' Michael St. John Lifetime Achievement Award. Two moving tributes in memory of Madison musician Mark Fredrick and avant cellist Steve Pingry brought a somber, nostalgic note to the ceremony.

MAMAs staple Beth Kille was named 2011 Artist of the Year, in addition to her awards for Rock Album and Rock Song of the Year. New Artist of the Year, Star Persons, also walked away with Album, Song, and Performer of the Year awards in the Hip Hop category. Other big winners were Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, who took home awards for Alternative Album, Song, and Performer of the Year, as well as lead singer Lyndsay Evans' award for best female vocalist. The Lucas Cates Band also fared well, with the band or its individual members winning a total of six awards. Isthmus received a People's Choice Award MAMA for Music Publication/Blog.

- Isthmus - The Daily Page

The scene salutes its winners at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
Amanda Rigell on Sunday 06/05/2011 10:05 am


Star Persons were named New Artist of the Year at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards.
Credit:Amanda Rigell
Related Articles:

The MAMAs keep growing in scope and ambition for 2011
Winners of the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
Article Tools:
Read more Music items
Email this article
Print This Article
Email the author
Share | The 2011 Madison Area Music Awards, held at Overture Center's Capitol Theater Saturday night, reflected the eclectic nature of Madison's music scene. The ceremony included performances and pageantry from across genres. True to form in its eighth year, the show focused on live performances by nominated artists, video montages and speeches with heartfelt reminders of the MAMAs' driving purpose, fundraising for music education.

Performers included jazz siren Gerri DiMaggio, faith-based singer Anthony Lamarr, the Rowdy Prairie Dogs, hip-hop phenoms Star Persons, Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Kati May, the Boys and Girls Club Black Star Drum Line, campy metalheads Lords of the Trident and the MAMAs All-Star Guitar Band featuring John Masino, Aaron Williams and Joel Pingitore.

Outstanding moments of the show included a beautiful piano concerto performed by Ariela Bohrod, the Student of the Year award winner, an a cappella rendition of Adele's "Rolling in the Deep" by all-female youth vocal ensemble Midnight Voices, and a stunning Mozart performance by the storied Pro Arte Quartet, who received the MAMAs' Michael St. John Lifetime Achievement Award. Two moving tributes in memory of Madison musician Mark Fredrick and avant cellist Steve Pingry brought a somber, nostalgic note to the ceremony.

MAMAs staple Beth Kille was named 2011 Artist of the Year, in addition to her awards for Rock Album and Rock Song of the Year. New Artist of the Year, Star Persons, also walked away with Album, Song, and Performer of the Year awards in the Hip Hop category. Other big winners were Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, who took home awards for Alternative Album, Song, and Performer of the Year, as well as lead singer Lyndsay Evans' award for best female vocalist. The Lucas Cates Band also fared well, with the band or its individual members winning a total of six awards. Isthmus received a People's Choice Award MAMA for Music Publication/Blog.

- Isthmus - The Daily Page

Winners of the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
on Sunday 06/05/2011 10:05 am


The Lucas Cates Band won six MAMAs, including Pop/R&B Performer of the Year.
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Share | Pop-rockers the Lucas Cates Band led the medal count, with six nods, at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards. Other multiple-award winners included Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Star Persons and Artist of the Year Beth Kille.

Artist of the Year
Beth Kille

New Artist of the Year
Star Persons

Album of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Hubba Bubba
Blues - Clovis Mann, Metamorphic
Classical - Toby Klusmeyer, Love’s Secret
Compilation Album - Man Mantis, The Best of Man Mantis, Vol. 1
Country/Bluegrass - Mighty Short Bus, The Forever Endeavor
Electronic - The Projection People, The Projection People
Folk / Americana - Jim Schwall, Short Stories
Hard Rock / Punk - Orphan Bloom, Orphan Bloom
Hip-Hop - Star Persons, Supernova EP
Jazz - Harmonious Wail, The Vegan Zombie’s Lament
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band, The Lucas Cates Band
Rock - Beth Kille, Ready
Unique - Anna Vogelzang, Paper Boats
Wish You Were Here - Michael George Band, The Miracle
World - Natty Nation, Suffice Single EP

Song of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters – "Love Bubble"
Blues - Clovis Mann – "Blowin’ Up the Shack"
Classical - Toby Klusmeyer – "For All to See"
Cover Song of the Year - Anna Vogelzang – "Bad Romance"
Country / Bluegrass - The Eugene Smiles Project – "Tennessee Whiskey"
Electronic - The Projection People – "Headlights"
Faith-based - Anthony Lamarr – "My Tomorrow"
Folk / Americana - Mighty Short Bus – "Minnesota"
Hard Rock / Punk - Clovis Mann – "Drowning Man"
Hip-Hop - Star Persons – "Supernova"
Jazz - Lucas Cates Band – "Crucial Tactics"
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band – "Not the Right Catch"
Rock - Beth Kille – "Big Bright Beautiful World"
Unique - Natty Nation – "She Cries Dub (Suffice Dub)"
Wish You Were Here - Heather Jean Maywood – "Forevermore"
World - Natty Nation – "Suffice"

Performer of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters
Blues - Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo
Country / Bluegrass - The Eugene Smiles Project
Electronic - The Projection People
Folk / Americana - Jim Schwall
Hard Rock/Punk - Lords of the Trident
Hip-Hop - Star Persons
Jazz - Harmonious Wail
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band
Rock - Mighty Short Bus
Unique - Art Paul Schlosser
Wish You Were Here - Michael George Band
World - Natty Nation


Vocalist of the Year
Ensemble - Harmonious Wail
Female - Lyndsay Evans (Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters)
Male - Mark Croft

Instrumentalist of the Year
Bassist - Jah Boogie (Natty Nation)
Drummer/Percussionist - Jesse Warmka (Lucas Cates Band)
Guitarist - Lucas Cates
Keyboardist - Aaron Konkol (Natty Nation)
Specialty Instrument - Sims Delaney-Pothoff -Mandolin (Harmonious Wail)
Strings - Julia McConahay

Video of the Year
Zooniversity Music, "Teach Me How to Bucky"

People's Choice Awards
Cover Band - The Gomers
DJ - Nick Nice
Live Music Venue - High Noon Saloon
Live Sound Engineer - Mark Weber
Local Radio Personality - Gabby Parsons
Local Radio Station - 89.9 WORT
Local Recorded Music Store - B-Side Records
Local Music Fan - Sarah “Hotdog” Warmke
Music Publication / Blog - Isthmus
Recording Studio - Paradyme Productions
Studio Sound Engineer - Mike Zirkel

Michael St. John Lifetime Achievement Award
Pro Arte Quartet

Teacher of the Year Award
Michael Korth, Monticello Schools

Student of the Year Award
Ariela Bohrod, Interlochen Arts Academy

Meritorious Achievement Awards
Mark Fredrick
Steve Pingry
Katie Cavanaugh

- Isthmus - The Daily Page

Winners of the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
on Sunday 06/05/2011 10:05 am


The Lucas Cates Band won six MAMAs, including Pop/R&B Performer of the Year.
Related Articles:

The scene salutes its winners at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards
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Share | Pop-rockers the Lucas Cates Band led the medal count, with six nods, at the 2011 Madison Area Music Awards. Other multiple-award winners included Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Star Persons and Artist of the Year Beth Kille.

Artist of the Year
Beth Kille

New Artist of the Year
Star Persons

Album of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, Hubba Bubba
Blues - Clovis Mann, Metamorphic
Classical - Toby Klusmeyer, Love’s Secret
Compilation Album - Man Mantis, The Best of Man Mantis, Vol. 1
Country/Bluegrass - Mighty Short Bus, The Forever Endeavor
Electronic - The Projection People, The Projection People
Folk / Americana - Jim Schwall, Short Stories
Hard Rock / Punk - Orphan Bloom, Orphan Bloom
Hip-Hop - Star Persons, Supernova EP
Jazz - Harmonious Wail, The Vegan Zombie’s Lament
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band, The Lucas Cates Band
Rock - Beth Kille, Ready
Unique - Anna Vogelzang, Paper Boats
Wish You Were Here - Michael George Band, The Miracle
World - Natty Nation, Suffice Single EP

Song of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters – "Love Bubble"
Blues - Clovis Mann – "Blowin’ Up the Shack"
Classical - Toby Klusmeyer – "For All to See"
Cover Song of the Year - Anna Vogelzang – "Bad Romance"
Country / Bluegrass - The Eugene Smiles Project – "Tennessee Whiskey"
Electronic - The Projection People – "Headlights"
Faith-based - Anthony Lamarr – "My Tomorrow"
Folk / Americana - Mighty Short Bus – "Minnesota"
Hard Rock / Punk - Clovis Mann – "Drowning Man"
Hip-Hop - Star Persons – "Supernova"
Jazz - Lucas Cates Band – "Crucial Tactics"
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band – "Not the Right Catch"
Rock - Beth Kille – "Big Bright Beautiful World"
Unique - Natty Nation – "She Cries Dub (Suffice Dub)"
Wish You Were Here - Heather Jean Maywood – "Forevermore"
World - Natty Nation – "Suffice"

Performer of the Year
Alternative - Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters
Blues - Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo
Country / Bluegrass - The Eugene Smiles Project
Electronic - The Projection People
Folk / Americana - Jim Schwall
Hard Rock/Punk - Lords of the Trident
Hip-Hop - Star Persons
Jazz - Harmonious Wail
Pop / R&B - Lucas Cates Band
Rock - Mighty Short Bus
Unique - Art Paul Schlosser
Wish You Were Here - Michael George Band
World - Natty Nation


Vocalist of the Year
Ensemble - Harmonious Wail
Female - Lyndsay Evans (Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters)
Male - Mark Croft

Instrumentalist of the Year
Bassist - Jah Boogie (Natty Nation)
Drummer/Percussionist - Jesse Warmka (Lucas Cates Band)
Guitarist - Lucas Cates
Keyboardist - Aaron Konkol (Natty Nation)
Specialty Instrument - Sims Delaney-Pothoff -Mandolin (Harmonious Wail)
Strings - Julia McConahay

Video of the Year
Zooniversity Music, "Teach Me How to Bucky"

People's Choice Awards
Cover Band - The Gomers
DJ - Nick Nice
Live Music Venue - High Noon Saloon
Live Sound Engineer - Mark Weber
Local Radio Personality - Gabby Parsons
Local Radio Station - 89.9 WORT
Local Recorded Music Store - B-Side Records
Local Music Fan - Sarah “Hotdog” Warmke
Music Publication / Blog - Isthmus
Recording Studio - Paradyme Productions
Studio Sound Engineer - Mike Zirkel

Michael St. John Lifetime Achievement Award
Pro Arte Quartet

Teacher of the Year Award
Michael Korth, Monticello Schools

Student of the Year Award
Ariela Bohrod, Interlochen Arts Academy

Meritorious Achievement Awards
Mark Fredrick
Steve Pingry
Katie Cavanaugh

- Isthmus - The Daily Page

2011 NOMINEES ANNOUNCED
Posted on March 27, 2011 by Rick Tvedt

The 2011 Nominees for the 8th Annual Madison Area Music Awards were announced last night at the Brink Lounge.

Below is the list of nominees:

2011 MAMA NOMINEES (VIDEO FORMAT)


2011 MAMA NOMINEES

Artist of the Year
Mighty Short Bus
Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo
Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters
Lucas Cates Band
Beth Kille

New Artist of the Year
Chaos Revolution Theory
Anthony Lamarr
Star Persons
The Projection People

ALBUM OF THE YEAR

Alternative
Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters – Hubba Bubba
Little Red Wolf – If Only We Were Just Like We Are
The Choons – The Choons EP
Kicksville – The Singles – Season 3

Blues
Beau Geste Productions – Live in Madison
Clovis Mann – Metamorphic

Classical
Toby Klusmeyer – Love’s Secret

Compilation Album
Man Mantis – The Best of Man Mantis, Vol. 1

Country/Bluegrass
Mighty Short Bus – The Forever Endeavor
The Dirty Shirts – Two Dollar Turpentine
SpareTime Bluegrass – Someone to Love
Jessi Lynn – Live at Eddie’s Attic with Sarah Peacock

Electronic
Null Device – Suspending Belief
The Projection People – The Projection People
Chants – Onlooker
Man Mantis – Cities Without Houses

Folk / Americana
Jessi Lynn – A Little Bit of You
Jim Schwall – Short Stories
John Statz – Ghost Towns
Tracy Jane Comer – You Have 29 Messages

Hard Rock / Punk
Orphan Bloom – Orphan Bloom
Chaos Revolution Theory – Counter Culture Redux
The Nod – Easy, Maverick
The Viscous Circle – Escape Wormwood

Hip-Hop
MC Starr – Cornerstone
Star Persons – Supernova EP
Billie James Project – Bille James is Not Your Lover
Nova – The Departure

Jazz
Harmonious Wail – The Vegan Zombie’s Lament
Tracy Jane Comer – In a Sentimental Mood

Pop / R&B
Mark Croft – Evening Flood
Lucas Cates Band – The Lucas Cates Band
Kati May – Behind Blue Eyes
Ida Jo – Providence

Rock
Beth Kille – Ready
20 Reasons Taken – Through This Fight
A Minute Jack Forum – Traction Blip
4 Aspirin Morning – Above the Bike Shop

Unique
Anna Vogelzang – Paper Boats
Art Paul Schlosser – Now Playing Monster
Julia McConahay – Look Up
Wall of Funk – Vital Hiatus

Wish You Were Here
Orlando – Lover’s Journey
Michael George Band – The Miracle
Stukenberg – The Silo Project

World
Natty Nation – Suffice Single EP
Nama Rupa – Planting a Seed”

SONG OF THE YEAR

Alternative
Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters – “Love Bubble”
Little Red Wolf – “Bella in the Elm”
Lorenzo’s Music – “Roulette”
Wall of Funk – “Wandering Out”

Blues
Jim Schwall – “Blues Song”
Clovis Mann – “Blowin’ Up the Shack”
Briana Lynn Hardyman – “Battlegound”
Little Red Wolf – “Sunshine”

Classical
Toby Klusmeyer – “For All to See”

Cover Song of the Year
Anna Vogelzang – “Bad Romance”
Mark Croft – “Washing of the Water”
Kristy Larson – “Jambalaya”
SpareTime Bluegrass – “If I Needed Someone”

Country / Bluegrass
Mighty Short Bus – “Don’t Mess With Texas”
Jessi Lynn – “California”
The Eugene Smiles Project – “Tennessee Whiskey”
Jim Schwall – “Sunday Go-to-Cheatin’”
Mark Croft – “One Mississippi”

Electronic
Man Mantis – “Come Into My Parlor”
Null Device – “Blow My Mind”
The Projection People – “Headlights”
The Cemetery Improvement Society – “Pretty”

Folk / Americana
Mighty Short Bus – “Minnesota”
Jim Schwall – “Again”
Orphan Bloom – “Brindle”
Jessi Lynn – “Damn”
Mark Croft – “Amen and Hallelujah”

Hard Rock / Punk
Orphan Bloom – “Burning in the Rain”
Clovis Mann – “Drowning Man”
Kitty Rhombus – “Gas Station”
4 Aspirin Morning – “Welcome to the Neighborhood”
The Nod – “Lie in All Honesty”

Hip-Hop
Anthony Lamarr – “Achieve”
Star Persons – “Supernova”
L.U.V. – “My Block”
MC Starr – “Beautiful Monsters”

Jazz
Harmonious Wail – “Lagavulin Bay”
Tracy Jane Comer – “(Life’s Too Short to Be) Just One Person”
Jim Schwall – “Somehow I’ve Got Your Love”
Lucas Cates Band – “Crucial Tactics”

Pop / R&B
Mark Croft – “Good Enough”
Julia McConahay – “Chosen”
Lucas Cates Band – “Not the Right Catch”
Art Paul Schlosser – “No Women No Fries”

Rock
Mighty Short Bus – “Go On, Go On”
Beth Kille – “Big Bright Beautiful World”
Lucas Cates Band – “Cougarville”
Clovis Mann – “Big Sky”

Unique
Orphan Bloom – “Frail Hand”
Mark Croft – “The Crow and the Raven”
Julia McConahay – “Strings Change”
Natty Nation – “She Cries Dub (Suffice Dub)”

Wish You Were Here
Heather Jean Maywood – “Forevermore”
Stukenberg – “Concussions in Heaven”
Michael George Band – “Here’s to Love”
Dave Downs – “Green Bag It”

World
Natty Nation – “Suffice”
Lucas Cates Band – “Enemy Lines”
Roots Collective – “Turn Around”
Nama Rupa – “War Crimes”

PERFORMER OF THE YEAR

Alternative
Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters
The Nod
The Woods Music

Blues
Aaron Williams and the Hoodoo
Clovis Mann
Mouse
Kyle Henderson

Country / Bluegrass
Jessi Lynn
The Dirty Shirts
M - Madison Area Music Association

List of 2011 MAMA Performers Announced
Posted on April 1, 2011 by Rick Tvedt

Below is the list of performers as of today.



The Rowdy Prairie Dogs (Americana)

Star Persons (Hip-Hop)

Gerri DiMaggio (Jazz/World)

Sexy Ester & the Pretty Mama Sisters (Rock)

Lords of the Trident (Hard Rock/Punk)

Anthony Lamarr (Faith-Based)

Pro Arte Quartet (Classical / Lifetime Achievement Award
Recipient)

MAMAs All-Star Guitar Showcase (special performance featuring John Masino, Aaron Williams and Joel Pingatore)
Youth Performers:

Kati May (Pop/Youth)

Midnight Voices (A Capella Youth Group)

Ariela Bohrod (pianist – Final Forte winner)

- Madison Area Music Association

You’d never guess it from their sound, but Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters got their start as a goth band. Well, sort of.

Adam Eder, one founding member of the local pop-rock group, met Lyndsay Evans, the other founding member, back in 1998 when he was the bass player for the grunge-turned-goth band Vampyres Sleep in the Shade.

The two began writing songs together and, after Vampyres officially disbanded in 2001, started playing acoustic sets around town. Instead of recreating the gloom and doom of Vampyres, the duo found itself drawing from the darkness and heartache of blues-inspired classic rockers such as Jefferson Airplane, The Animals and The Rolling Stones.

Then, last January, the band’s roots emerged again when Dusty Hay, Vampyres’ drummer, joined the project. However, they didn’t return to goth at this juncture either. Instead, the band took a bit of an arena-rock turn, plugging in their instruments and recording an album of good, old-fashioned rock ’n’ roll songs composed over the past eight years.

“Each song on the new album, Get Your Love On, sort of represents a different point in our lives over the last decade,” says Evans.

Eder and Evans -- who are now married -- admit that one track, “The Tambourine Song,” has a particularly special place in their hearts both personally and musically.

“It was one of the first songs Adam and I wrote together,” says Evans, “and it has this really unique time signature, which makes it interesting from a musical standpoint. Plus, the lyrics came out of a bit of writer’s block.”

In other words, it’s an example of the band’s enduring strengths and some of their more difficult challenges, a taste of both where they’re going and where they’ve been -- and not in a sappy, tear-jerking kind of way. Featuring a warbling harmonica melody by Michael “Mouse” Adams Jr., tambourine by Paul Schluter of Megatone Studios, a down-and-dirty electric-guitar jam by Eder, and Evans’ signature vocals -- a Freddie Mercury-meets-Janis Joplin sort of sound that’s both powerful and beautiful -- it’s arguably one of the most rocking songs on the album.

An MP3 of “The Tambourine Song” is available in the related download sections at right. More songs by the band can be found on its MySpace page. Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters will debut Get Your Love On, as well as its new lineup, which includes Brad Schubert on bass guitar and Roscoe Evans on keys, harmonica and guitar, in a release party at The Frequency on Saturday, January 31.
- Madtracks The daily page.com

Ready for Take-Off: Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters
Posted by Rick Tvedt on 9/29/09 • Categorized as Features

Ready for Take-Off: Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters

Photos by Mary Sweeney

There are no sisters in Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters and no one is named Ester either, but the band is like one big, happy family. Actually the entire band is related, save one member, Brad Schubert (bassist and self-proclaimed IT guy). Guitarist Adam Eder and vocalist Lyndsay Evans are married. Keyboardist Roscoe Evans is Lyndsay’s brother and drummer Dusty Hay is the Evans’ cousin. All these folks hail from small towns in northern Illinois, just across the border, or from Grashot, Wisconsin.

Eder and Hay had been playing together in Nimbus, a band they had during their high school years. Lindsay Evans met Eder in 1998 and the two casually began writing songs. They married in 2003, decided to move to a bigger city and chose Madison. This began an extended period of casual songwriting that would later bear fruit.

The couple used to sit around and say things to each other like, “You’re sexy.” “No, you’re sexier.” “No you’re sexiest.” “No, you’re sexyiester.” “Hey, that would be a great name for a band,” Lyndsay said after one of these eyelash-batting exchanges.

Later, Eder was listening to the White Stripes’ debut album and misheard a line from “Stop Breaking Down”, thinking it went “All you pretty mama sisters breaking down.” Hey, that would be a great name for a band,” he thought.

When it came time to decide on a real band name, Lyndsay hated the Pretty Mama Sisters and Eder decided he didn’t like Sexy Ester so, in true lovebird fashion, they compromised and Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters was born.

The band held their first rehearsal in January of 2008 and by March they had worked up enough of Lyndsay’s and Eder’s songs to begin recording. They enlisted the services of Paul Schluter (Muzzy Luctin/Magic 7/Last Crack) and began work at Schluter’s Megatone Studios. The match turned out to be a productive one from both a musical and business standpoint. Schluter suggested the band join up with Next Level Productions, a management and promotions company that works with other area bands including Muzzy Luctin, Cudasigh, Gladstone, Sand and Faces for Radio. “Having Greg [Greg Martin of Next Level Productions] working for us made a big difference,” says Eder. “It especially helped us to get bookings, get CDs pressed, and especially with developing our appearance and stage presence.” The band also credits their photographer, Mary Sweeney, with developing a look.

Since then the band has ceased to work with Next Level Productions, although they are open to taking on new management, perhaps at a different level. “Our goal is to be making a living playing music,” says Hay. “Not be rich or anything, but just to be able to give up the 9-5 job and to be touring nationally.” The band does seem ready to make that commitment to their music. Right now they are concentrating on building up a following in the Chicago-Milwaukee-Madison area and they are making inroads in each of these markets. They also enjoy doing some “going home” shows in their home towns. This gives them a chance to stretch out as these places want four hours of music from a single band. In these cases they get a chance to play cover material that they love doing.

Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters’ debut album, Get Your Love On [read the review here], was finished in late 2008 and has received a very positive response. The band has been gigging regularly and has built up a solid foundation of fans and peers. The album is a breezy and joyous listen and was the surprise feel-good record of the summer. The opening cut, “Madison Sonny and Cher” is a nod to Madison and life on East Gorham Street. [It gets my vote for Madison theme song.] That track sets the tone for what is a sound that harkens back to the late-sixties, when music was about discovery and acoustic guitars still mingled with electric guitars. As the band pointed out, this is where many of their influences come from; the Beatles, the Mamas & the Papas, Neil Young, etc.

“All of us have different influences,” says Lyndsay. “Especially with the addition of the new members; All those influences are brought together to make something new.”

Lyndsay’s vocals are what make the band stand out. She’s got a powerful voice and a healthy range. Though she only has high-school choir training, she displays impressive control and is able to embellish the catchy melodies with effective trills and slides. Their acoustic-guitar based material was soon augmented with drums and by the time they began recording, they had a serious edge that was creeping into the songs. Eder doubled on bass for the recording sessions and it wasn’t until after the album was done that they recruited Schubert and Roscoe.

“Our sound is definitely moving into a heavier, more rock - Local Sounds Magazine

"With all the post-this, post-that being bandied about, it's nice to hear a good, straight-ahead classic rock outfit every now and then. Sexy Ester starts with influences such as the Who and Neil Young, then adds a big swig of the blues." - The Isthmus

SEXY ESTER AND THE PRETTY MAMA SISTERS – Get Your Love On
Posted by Rick Tvedt on 9/29/09 • Categorized as CD Reviews

SEXY ESTER AND THE PRETTY MAMA SISTERS – Get Your Love On

(2008 Self-Release)

You’ve got to love a band that sings about their cats, driving down East Johnson Street, just playing guitars in the yard and being in love. These are some of elements that make Get Your Love On quintessentially Madison. See the band live and you will agree that they are one of the more interesting – and promising – bands to come along in some while. How can they go wrong with a dynamo like Lyndsay Evans fronting them (there is no one in the band named Ester; to find out how they got their name, read the feature story here)? This woman’s got some powerhouse pipes and that only gets suggested on Get Your Love On. Since this recording the band has made a drastic change in style, approach and material, adding more edge and power along with some new, additional members.

That makes Get Your Love On even more of a whimsical timepiece for them and for us. Everything about the album says retro – but in a good way – and all the way back to early rock, when it was heavily blues-infected and acoustic instruments were still a necessary ingredient. In fact, just about every track reminded me of something, though damn if I could put my finger on it most of the time and damn if I cared. I can say that “Soldier Song” reminds me of a Harry Chapin melody (Cat’s in the Cradle”) and “The Tambourine Song” reminded me a bit of “When the Levee Breaks.”. There are also references to “I Got You, Babe” (naturally) in “Madison Sonny and Cher” one of my favorite tracks and one that gets my vote as Madison Theme Song. It also has a distinct “Mr. Bojangles” vibe.

Evans can handle ballads like “Get Happy” and folk/pop like “The Simple Life” well enough, but one waits in anticipation for her to let loose as she hints at on “The Tambourine Song,” “Well Fed” and the choruses to “Madison Sonny and Cher.”

The album was recorded by Paul Schluter at his Megatone Studios and this was a wise move on Sexy Ester’s part. Too often new bands neglect their initial recording, treating it as a novelty, or rushing to put out material that they will just re-work much of on their follow-up “real” recording. Get Your Love On succeeds in informing its listeners that Sexy Ester is serious from the get go, and it’s superior sound quality is testimony to the band’s intent without being over-produced. The album has a natural flow and feel; this is this album, by this band, at this point in time and one senses immediately that they are on a continuum.

I’ve found myself listening to Get Your Love On repeatedly. There is something immediately endearing about it and this is an awful valuable trait for a band to have. There is every indication that this album is the band’s proverbial “wetting of its feet” and that they on the verge of finding the right combination of instrumental muster that will propel Evans, and the rest of them, on to greater things. Here’s hoping that happens.
- Local Sounds Magazine

Wow.

There is a new force in the city and her name is Lyndsay Evans. After hearing the debut album by Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama Sisters, I wasn’t sure what to expect from them in live performance. Could Lyndsay really wail like she indicated on Get Your Love On? How different would the band sound with two added members and keyboards? Well if I expected folk-infected pop with a bit of soulful vocals, what I saw was more Plasmatics; an eighties-era persona updated for the twenty-first century. Shy and unassumming in conversation, Evans transforms into a spiky, costumed rock starlet in the making.

I needn’t have worried that Evans could deliver on the vocal requirements. This is the most solid, powerhouse voice I have heard come out of this city. Stage presence, charisma, talent, this singer has what it takes. When the intensity got cranked up, Evans doubled over in contorted joy and belted like nobody’s business.

Her supporting band knows it, this is obvious. Drummer Dusty Hay and guitarist Adam Eder performed well, at times looking like they were holding the reins for dear life; looking optimistically into a bright future, which they should. That said, the band has a few challenges in front of them. Along with bassist Brad Schubert and keyboardist Roscoe Evans (Lindsay’s brother), they have a fairly cohesive look onstage but right now the crowd interaction is lacking. If they think Evans can carry this thing on her own, they’re wrong. It’s not that they probably think that – they are a work in progress, already totally morphing in identity since the release of their first album in late 2008. But every Jagger needs his (or her) Richards. The material will need to be a little more daring as well. I liked a lot of their songs but at times they did sound like a new band, embarking on a journey to craft their songs, their style and their identity, which is exactly what they are and what they’re doing.

Young, hungry, ambitious – I have little doubt that given the right set of circumstances, and the requisite amount of luck, Sexy Ester and the Pretty Mama sisters will attain their dreams.
-Rick Tvedt - Local Sounds Magazine

Madison music rag Rick's Café folded in 2007, but founder Rick Tvedt resumed his efforts to review Madison-made CDs en masse and report on local music news last year through the localsounds.org webzine. Just like the site's coverage, this showcase bill embraces some different local sounds without much regard to genre snobbery or audience borders. Headliners Sexy Ester And The Pretty Mama Sisters send frontwoman Lyndsay Evans' vocals pole-vaulting over an exuberant mix of Deep Purple and Go-Go's, a pop sound that nicely balances the hip with the refreshingly un-hip on 2008's Get Your Love On. Mild local popster Mike Droho plays here with his latest band, The Compass Rose, which at least puts a new finish on his upbeat, seeker-next-door songwriting with beatboxing and violin on the album And The World Makes Sense Again. - The Onion

The winners in the Arts & Entertainment category are a mix of old favorites and newbies, some of them in ripped fishnet stockings. Madison clearly likes to rock, but it also has a penchant for William Shakespeare, art movies and Latin jazz. Yes, we have a particular kind of taste in this town — and Lou & Peter Berryman have probably already written a quirky folk song about it.

Madison's Favorite New Band
1. Little Red Wolf
2. Shaneshane
3. Sexy Ester & the Pretty Mama Sisters
The female rockers of Little Red Wolf caught your attention with soaring harmonies and unusual colors provided by such instruments as accordion and viola.
- Isthmus Annual Manual - The Guide to Madison 2009-2010

The winners in the Arts & Entertainment category are a mix of old favorites and newbies, some of them in ripped fishnet stockings. Madison clearly likes to rock, but it also has a penchant for William Shakespeare, art movies and Latin jazz. Yes, we have a particular kind of taste in this town — and Lou & Peter Berryman have probably already written a quirky folk song about it.

Madison's Favorite New Band
1. Little Red Wolf
2. Shaneshane
3. Sexy Ester & the Pretty Mama Sisters
The female rockers of Little Red Wolf caught your attention with soaring harmonies and unusual colors provided by such instruments as accordion and viola.
- Isthmus Annual Manual - The Guide to Madison 2009-2010