The Shadow Division

The Shadow Division are an alternative band based out of Cleveland, Ohio. The band is comprised of 4 members stretching as far afield as the UK, Los Angeles and Cleveland. Since forming in early 2015, the band members Michael Ridley (Guitar), Max Espinosa (Vocals/Guitar), Kevin Hannah (Drums) and Joe LaGuardia (Bass) have been meticulously laying the foundations of the collective’s sound and sonic characteristics to work harmoniously with one another to create and deliver a powerful wall of sound. Driven by deep pounding drums and percussion, coupled with low end and tight bass grooves, the rhythm section projects and drives the sound forward, yet still leaving space for sonically rich riffs and lead lines from overdriven guitars to cut through the mix. Vocals consistently intertwine with the musical elements to create atmosphere and tension through emotional melodies, hooks and dynamics ensuring total cohesiveness.

Their mission, is to continuously push the boundaries of musical creativity and develop and deliver new ideas that connect intimately and personally with audiences and listeners around the world.

The band’s influences are drawn from a wide range of genres that is not limited to the obvious, this has been an important component in the bands DNA makeup that has allowed them to forge a unique sound and deliver originality through passion and creativity. Kevin comments “growing up, my musical roots were firmly planted in jazz, gospel and hip-hop, I like to bring certain elements from those genres, to add vibe, flavor and color and a certain dimension to our music.” Max also adds, “My taste in music is wide and varied, I can listen to anything from metal to hip hop to baroque within the same hour. Music has always had the ability to connect people and rock music has always connected the angst of humanity, that’s why I do what I do, to perform and deliver with emotion on my sleeve in hope of making that connection.” When asked what motivates The Shadow Division, the answer is simple, “it’s the passion for creating music and playing music for people, we thrive to experience the reactions of listeners to gauge the level of impact from our efforts, more importantly, we want to see people enjoy what we do.” Joe adds.

The Shadow Division are already making a serious impact on the local music scene and are being recognized and remembered by their trademark sound, “the goal moving forward,” says Michael, “is to continue to experiment with new ideas and concepts, to ensure we remain at the forefront of what we do, and to expand our reach by tapping in to new audiences across many different regions.”

Recently, the guys recorded their new EP, entitled ‘Wake Up’ at Bad Rad Racket Recording Studios, Cleveland, Ohio. In addition, they also produced video to accompany each of the tracks. Michael says, “The objective of the footage, was to shoot the band playing in a live studio environment so that listeners can be visually introduced to the band and its members. We are incredibly pleased with the outcome as we feel it perfectly encapsulates the band’s creativity, capability, energy and personalities all in one take.”

What is the future for The Shadow Division?  To keep pushing the envelope in terms of creativity and deliverability, to test our abilities to the absolute limit and to ensure we continue to connect with audiences around the world with amazing music.

The band continues to write material for their forthcoming shows and debut album.

Stay tuned.