The Figgs

2004 marks the Figgs’ 17th Anniversary; not too shabby for a band whose average age is in their early thirties. They've been storming around the country, bringing great music and good times to a loyal legion of fans, and their impressive list of releases have inspired the likes of Billboard magazine to call them one of “America’s best-kept rock and roll secrets.” The Figgs are Pete Donnelly on vocals and bass, Mike Gent on vocals and guitar, and Pete Hayes on drums.

Throughout The Figgs’ career, Capital Records, BMG, and a number of small independent labels tried breaking them, but now The Figgs have chosen to go it on their own. The band’s soon-to-be, self-released PALAIS, their eighth full-length recording, seeks to raise that shroud of secrecy around the band, enabling everyone with ears to hear just what they’ve been missing. This double CD features 25 great songs that run the gamut from fiery rockers to sobering pop to experimental new wave-tinged, synthesizer freak-outs. In other words, something for everyone on this CD, including a host of guest artists, most notably Tommy Stinson (from the Replacements and Guns ‘n’ Roses) who adds his bass guitar to the track, “Kill Me Now.”

Stinson has been a fan of the band since their first nationally released CD, LOW FI AT SOCIETY HIGH on Imago/BMG in 1994. Eventually Stinson grew tired of having to wait until they came to town to see them and asked the band to tour with him, as his opening and his backup band. This was a task that came easy to the group as Stinson’s brand of brash rock and roll was right up the their alley. Stinson and the Figgs toured together successfully throughout summer and fall of 2003, during which they found time to record together at the Palais Royale, bassist Pete Donnelly’s Philadelphia-based studio.

Although they shine in the spotlight, being the ‘backup band’ is not a position The Figgs take lightly. They have worked as new wave legend Graham Parker’s sidemen since 1996. This collaboration with Parker yielded a live
album, THE LAST ROCK 'N' ROLL TOUR (Razor & Tie) and several cross country tours where they shared the stage with the likes of U2 and Frank Black. The Figgs are often called upon to open Parker’s and Stinson’s shows with their own set, and this arrangement often results in the band playing some 40 songs in a night. In addition, the Figgs tour nationally in support of their own CD releases, giving them an active touring schedule.

Having formed in high school, The Figgs have exhibited enormous dedication not only to music, but to the band as an artistic entity. After fifteen years, a run of major label deals, a catalog of 8 full-length LPs, 3 EPs, an out-takes record, reissues and fifteen 7 inch singles, The Figgs have racked up an impressive score card.

The Figgs will again hit the road, this time in support of PALAIS, pleasing long-time fans and making new ones with their no-holds-barred live performances. However, to whichever city they travel and on whichever stage
they call home for the evening, The Figgs will leave a crowd of people wanting more.

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WHAT THE CRITICS HAVE SAID ABOUT THE FIGGS...

NY Press called the band’s previous full length, “Couldn’t Get High” the album of the year.

"Steeped in the verities of 1960's garage rock, folk rock and the Beatles, along with latter day bands like the
Replacements, the Figgs cling to the idea that songs are telegrams from the heart." The New York Times

Revolver: "[the figgs] are loud, fun, everything garage-schooled guitar pop should be!"

New Yorker: "This New York City-based trio is back releasing fine records full of Mike Gent's gritty vocals."

Rolling Stone - Critics' Top Albums of 2002 - #4 The Figgs, Slow Charm (Hearbox): Again galvanizing classic
Costello and Weller on album number five, this trio may never make the big time, but their underground pop
is unmatched. - JOHN D. LUERSSEN

“...one of America’s best kept rock n roll secrets.” Billboard

“...chock-full of driving guitars, & catchy hooks.” The New York Times