Workin' On Fire
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Workin' On Fire

Boise, Idaho, United States | INDIE

Boise, Idaho, United States | INDIE
Band Alternative Rock

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"Metaphoriacally Speaking"

Today we had the pleasure of sitting down with Boise band Workin' On Fire to discuss their new studio album "Metaphoria," which has recently been released digitally (iTunes, CD Baby, SoundCloud) and will be available on hardcopy at The Record Exchange January 31, 2012. A lot of the buzz about this rock trio comes from the fact that they are just seniors in high school (Boise High and Timberline), but after meeting with frontman Austin Williamson and bassist Peter Maguire, it is clear that they possess the maturity as well as the talent to be heard and respected by anyone. It was great hearing that these guys have a strong respect for the music of the past, drawing much of their inspiration from artists like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jim Morrison, and Slash from G n' R to name a few. A little bit of Axle Rose can be heard in Williamson's vocals as well as a bit of the sound of the artists mentioned earlier, but the band has developed a style of their own on Metophoria, which is the band's third release. Another admirable quality of WOF is their appreciation for the full "album," which is refreshing in a day when buying only one or two mp3s from an artist has become commonplace. Metaphoria even has a secret song at the end to go along with a nice balance of electric and acoustic sounds. Workin' On Fire is a talented young band that deserves your attention and support. You can listen to the album, "Metaphoria," right here on The C.O.T via Sound Cloud. - C.O.T


"Workin' On Fire's Future"

Trio of Boise teens heads into senior year, new challenges

In the 1990s, bluesman John "Fat John" Nemeth couldn't belly up for a beer after a gig in downtown Boise--he wasn't even old enough to vote. But he not only sounded like an adult, he had to act like one. He had to be a professional.

Boise pop-punk trio Workin' On Fire has also found that professionalism can be as important a virtue for success as musicality.

Zach Bonaminio, Peter Maguire and Austin Williamson---all 17 years old­--have been together since 2009 and seen the fruits of a seven-days-a-week rehearsal schedule. WOF has received a slew of media attention and so far this summer, has played 24 shows. But the teens have also learned from mistakes that even seasoned musicians still make.

"[Our fan base] is made up of mostly teen girls," said Williamson, WOF's vocalist, guitarist and songwriter, at whom drummer Bonaminio and bassist Maguire chuckled before Maguire said that early on, they went about cultivating that base the wrong way.

"In our first couple months, we called and called [our friends] and told them, 'Hey, we have a show. Do you want to come?' We were basically asking for money because they had to pay for tickets. Eventually people stopped answering their phones."

"People don't like over-promotion," Williamson said somberly.

That kind of insight spilled over into how the band approached its music--WOF played acoustic shows whenever possible, which allowed the teens to refine their sound. And before they even stepped into Tonic Room Studios to record their first "real" full-length (it is technically WOF's third release), Williamson began taking a more writerly approach to songwriting. WOF's 12-track release Metaphoria (due out mid-September) will include six acoustic songs and showcase the band's development.

"Having a lot of acoustic gigs has matured our sound," Williamson said. "We couldn't have done this two years ago."

Jason Ringelstetter, co-owner of Tonic Room, said that the trio was full of energy--and Red Bull--but they came in to the studio well-prepared. And they revealed another adult trait: They listened.

"I could tell they had been rehearsing," said Ringelstetter. "And when I offered critiques, they responded to my advice really well."

Before his 21st birthday, Nemeth, too, had grown, and he is now an award-winning musician. As Bonaminio, Maguire and Williamson head into their last year of high school, they still want to play music but have other future plans, too. Williamson wants to be a writer, Maguire is interested in psychology and Bonaminio is keeping his options open. And they have some sage advice for other young people thinking of starting a band.

"Be a gigging band, get out and play and start a band with your friends." - Boise Weekly


"Fruitland Family Fun Day offers range of family-friendly activities (FRONT PAGE)"

Workin’ On Fire, a band comprised of four 16-year-old young men, has been gaining a following in the Boise area and is currently working on an album titled “Mike Smith,” which, in the vein of Lynyrd Skynyrd, is named after a detractor of the band who has made multiple noise complaints about the band to authorities.

Aaron Williamson, who is the band’s manager, said the group may be young, but the members have made their name on technical ability and melodic song writing.

“They’re an alternative rock band who plays mostly original music. They hang their hat on their instrumental ability,” Williamson said. - Ontario Argus Observer


"City of keys: Workin’ On Fire sets stages in the Treasure Valley on fire (FRONT PAGE)"

How rock ’n’ roll gets its start: talented, energetic teens with guitars:

The three members of Workin’ on Fire have just released their second CD on iTunes. They have played dozens of sets at some of the best and biggest local venues, and they still haven’t graduated from high school.
It all began in the summer of 2009 when Austin Williamson, now 17, took first place in a blues guitar contest. Soon after, he and his best friend, drummer Zach Bonaminio, 16, decided to form a band.
The two Timberline High School students, now juniors, found bassist Peter Maguire, a 17-year-old Boise High student.
“In July (2009) we started to look for a show,” said Williamson, who often wears his hair in a faux-hawk style, with a variety of colors. The band scored its first gig at The Venue that summer.
“That first show got us pumped up,” remembers Williamson.
It gave them the confidence to look for other opportunities.
Since then, they have played all around the area, including the Knitting Factory — a heady place for a trio of teens.
Being on the same stage as legends like James Brown and Jakob Dylan was quite an experience.
“We were freakin’ out backstage and saying, ‘Dude, famous people have sat on these couches,’ ” said Bonaminio, who often doesn’t wear shoes and credits punk bands like the Sex Pistols and Rancid as his inspiration.
Between playing shows, the band also found time to record its first record, inappropriately titled “Exit.” The music features a blend of styles from the likes of Green Day, Velvet Revolver and ’70s classic rock. It was recorded in just two days.
The six-song EP began selling in several different online stores, including Apple’s popular iTunes — not a huge deal, the band insists, but something of a milestone. “It’s pretty cool to have a record on iTunes,” said Bonaminio. “People are really surprised when we tell them this.”
The band uses social networking to create buzz about what the group is doing, where it’s playing.
They regularly update sites such as Facebook, Myspace, reverbnation, Twitter and CD Baby, all in an effort to keep their name and, most importantly, their music in front of a growing fan base.
THE LEAD ROADIE
The boys in Workin’ on Fire are growing up fast and are determined to get better.
“We practice every day,” said Williamson, his faux-hawk blue for a recent interview. “That’s why we’ve accelerated so fast.”
Their early success is due in part to the guidance of a very good manager — who just happens to be the lead singer’s father.
“I’m the lead roadie and head sales guy,” said Aaron Williamson, who works at Key Private Bankduring the day and helps get the band to gigs on evenings and weekends. He also hits the phones several hours a week, talking with venue managers and others.
“It’s really similar to being a sports coach,” said Aaron Williamson, who admits he wanted to be a basketball coach, but his son had other ideas.
THE FUTURE AND A NEW RECORD
This fall, Workin’ On Fire put out its first full-length record, called simply “Mike Smith.”
The band spent most this past summer laying down tracks for the record that debuted locally and on iTunes in September.
The band continues to play gigs around the Treasure Valley, such as the Boise Music Fest, Boise RecFest and Boise’s Got Talent, which they won.
Less than two years from graduation, the three teens are already thinking about their next record — and more summer gigs.
“I’ve been spending a lot of time writing,” said Williamson recently. He understands it takes more than luck to make it.
“It’s like anything: If you spend more time it will be better.”
Chris Butler: (208) 377-6434 - Idaho Statesman


"Local CD Review - 'MIKE SMITH'"

To clarify: The band is called Workin’ On Fire; “Mike Smith” is the album title. Not the other way around. So why call your debut full-length CD some guy’s name? Because Workin’ On Fire is a trio of high-school students. You have to expect occasional lapses in judgment.

There aren’t many musically. Workin’ On Fire sounds like three well-rehearsed, hard-working teens having a blast making a self-released album. Frontman Austin Williamson’s guitar attack is polished yet gritty — sometimes punkish. The kid can play; there’s no resisting the epic, classic-rock exit of “End It with a Dream.” Better yet, Williamson’s vocals often evoke Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong on these appealing, modern-rock originals.

Raw energy fuels “Pillow,” “The End Again” and “Out.” But the band slows things down smoothly on the jangly “Please Begin,” which — like several songs — uses vocal harmonies to enrich the arrangement.

Reality check: These songs sound better, not to mention more promising, than many adult bands’ do.

Michael Deeds - Idaho Statesman - Michael Deeds


"Workin' On Fire. Who knew teenagers could be so successful?"

As Timberline’s own Workin’ On Fire took the stage for their CD release party at the Knitting Factory last month, the crowd had the same first reactions as most everyone who has ever seen Workin’ On Fire for the first time. Teenagers in a band, oh no!

But as soon as the band got down to their jams, the mood in the factory quickly changed from one of loathing and ignorance to one of acceptance and musical love. The fans that came for the Led Zeppelin tribute band (who Workin’ On Fire opened for) quickly left their seats and began to sway in the striking melodies.

The band is comprised of juniors Austin Williamson and Zach Bonaminio and Boise High student Peter Maguire. Williamson handles lead vocals and guitar. He is also the man behind the songs, the writer. Bonaminio plays drums and percussion, and Maguire sings backup vocals and plays the bass.

Workin’ On Fire’s new CD is titled “Mike Smith”, after a man who would consistently call the police on the band when they would play on the streets of downtown. “Mike Smith” is a CD full of good music from a good band.

This second CD from the band includes nine-tracks. Its sounds are of sweet electric guitar riffs and bass sounds similar to that of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. There are even two acoustic tracks on the CD and more surprisingly, one with a piano. Not your normal teen fare.

Because the band is still trying to get their name out and grow a fan base, any high school student can talk to a band member or send an email to workinonfire@gmail.com and the band will send them three tracks off the new album in their choice of hard copy (CD) or a digital format that students can download to their computers.

Mike Smith is being sold for six dollars from the band and it may be some of the best music anyone can find for six bucks.

I wasn’t a believer in the “Workin’ On Fire” world of music but after this newest CD and the show at the Knitting Factory, I’ve been converted. If you haven’t heard Workin’ on Fire or if you’re not a believer, you too will be converted after listening to “Mike Smith”.

The band will be performing songs from “Mike Smith” on December 9 at Quest Arena during the intermission of the night’s Mixe Martial Arts fights. - Timberline High School


"Guitars and more guitars: Paul Grove and Workin' On Fire (but not together)"

Workin' on Fire is workin' on being successful. Speaking of students, the local rock trio Workin' On Fire are starting to get a little heat. Austin Williamson, Zach Bonaminio and Peter Maguire are mere babes in the woods--all three still in high school--but they have a press kit, high-res promo shots and a surprisingly rockin' debut full-length CD, Mike Smith, which they saved up busking tips to pay for.

In the year or so they've been around, the baby band has received some accolades: They recently won the latest round of Donnie Mac's "Boise's Got Talent" and netted $500 for the win. And on Thursday, Dec. 9, they'll perform as part of the XFS 55 MMA "Night of Champions" throwdown at Qwest Arena. The show starts at 7 p.m., tickets are $10-$40. For more information on the show, visit qwestarenaidaho.com. For more on the band, visit myspace.com/workinonfire.

- Boise Weekly


"Battle of the Bands: Workin' On Fire"

Boise, ID - "Battle of the Bands" is happening on FOX 12 News @ Nine this November, and the tenth graders making up Workin' On Fire are one of 24 bands/musicians taking part.

"We started the band maybe like two months ago or so," said Zach Bonaminio, with Workin' On Fire.

The band is made up of Zach Bonaminio on drums, Peter Maguire plays bass, Alex Manser on guitar, and Austin Williamson is lead singer, and also plays the guitar. They're 15 and 16-year-olds.

"We're so young and people don't expect us to play like we are so it shocks them and they like us from then on," said Maguire.

"It's fun to listen to we don't have one single style of music," said Manser. "We have some softer songs, some heavier, faster, and a couple you can just dance to."

Workin' On Fire describes their music as alternative rock. They're influenced by mostly blues and rock.

"Just like the adrenaline rush, playing for fans, have a good time," said Bonaminio.

The Timberline and Boise High School students are having a blast jamming together, and plan on making music for a long time to come.

For more information on Workin' On fire and Soul Serene go to www.myspace.com/workinonfire.

Don't forget to tune in all month long for our Battle of the Bands competition! 24 local bands and artists competing to take part in a Knitting Factory concert showcase, featuring the top five vote-getters. Even better... the concert will be free for all of you!


Friday night we wrap up the week's bands and voting will begin on our website.

- Fox12News Idaho


"Workin' On Fire Wins ' Boise's Got Talent"

Punk rock band, Workin' on Fire won Donnie Mac's 'Boise's Got Talent' overall grand finale Sunday night, taking the $500 grand prize at the Boise Center on the Grove - St. Alphonsus Festival of Trees. The group will be the featured music entertainment Dec. 9 at Qwest Arena (XFS 55 - Mixed Martial Arts, Night of Champions, 6 p.m.).
- KBOI2


"Smokin Local Band Names"

1. Zombie at Heart
2. Workin' on Fire
3. Stop Drop and Party
4. BOATS!
5. Innocence Betrays
6. Dressed to Thrill
7. The Fear Between You


- Boise Weekly


"Boise's Got Talent Finalists"

Following are the finalists, in no particular order: Workin' On Fire - Boise Weekly


"Musical Youth: The Young and Growing in Boise's Music Scene"

One of the newest bands to enter the scene is a group of Timberline and Boise High sophomores called Workin' On Fire. The brainchild of guitarist/singer Austin Williamson, his band has performed an impressive 18 gigs in three-and-a-half months--the math works out to a show a week, a tall order for a band also busy with sports and school. Increasingly popular, they attribute some success to their appeal beyond the high-school crowd.

- Boise Weekly


"Boise's Curb Cup announces Sunday's winners"

Drake Cooper’s “Sippy Cup Award”: Workin’ on Fire, alt rock band - Idaho Statesman


"Are you ready for Boise Curb Cup?"

Last year's Curb Cup was only the second gig for Workin' on Fire, Austin Williamson (guitar), Zach Bonaminio (drums) and Peter Maguire (bass). Now a year older - they're all 16 - and with more experience, they're ready to shred on a mix of covers and originals.
- Idaho Statesman


"Workin On Fire"

Featured Photo - Workin' On Fire - Emmett Messenger-Index


"Does Boise Got Talent? We'll see tomorrow night."

Boise's Got Talent semi-finals, with 94.9 The River's Tim Johnstone (Workin' On Fire - Featured Photo). - Boise Weekly


"Deeds: Curb Cup: A ton of fun and here to stay"

When teenage rock band Workin' on Fire uncorked a cover of the Violent Femmes' "Blister in the Sun," one of the members of improv group Insert Foot Theatre - being drowned out by the music - waltzed over and did a hilarious dance in front of the stage.

Soon enough, the two groups had basically combined forces.

"It was really cool," says Workin' on Fire keyboardist Shane Rosse, 16. "At the end, (Insert Foot Theatre) took their entire box of tokens and dumped their tokens into our box for us. They ended up with no tokens, and they still won an award. It was awesome."



- Idaho Statesman


Discography

1) EP (Exit)
2) LP (Mike Smith)
3) New album (Metaphoria).

Photos

Bio

BOISE BAND MOVES TO SEATTLE: This teen (college freshmen) alternative rock, power trio, played their first gig August 1, 2009 at The Boise Venue. Since then they’ve recorded three CDs (EP: Exit; LP/Album: Mike Smith; LP/Album: Metaphoria). With over 150 gigs together (including in Portland, OR, and Seattle, WA; Treefort Music Fest/Boise) this 2011 Boise’s Got Talent Grand Champion has headlined at the CenturyLink Arena (formerly Qwest) and is a regular at the Knitting Factory Concert House. In the media they’ve been featured on TV: on Channel 7 (KTVB) and FOX 12 News; and in print in: the Idaho Statesman (front page; favorable M. Deeds CD review), the Ontario, Oregon Argus Observer (front page), the Emmett Messenger-Index (front page), and the Boise Weekly. Additionally, The Boise X and The River radio stations have covered them. They have performed for one of their now raving fans, Chef Duff Goldman (Food Network: Ace of Cakes and Sugar High), played with All Time Low, and opened for Middle Class Rut.

AUSTIN WILLIAMSON/SEATTLE PACIFIC UNIVERSITY: Band co-founder and the lead: guitarist, vocalist, and writer, Austin is a singer-songwriter whose passion, since picking up the guitar (classically trained), at age six is music. One of the top all-around high school guitarists in the Pacific Northwest, Austin began being noticed at age 13, first for his guitar play when pulled on stage by Tommy Castro and Kenny Neal (BB King R&B Champ) and also that same year for recording a Dunlop Crybaby guitar foot pedal video demo in his bedroom and receiving hundreds of thousands of ‘hits’ on YouTube for its creativity. In 9th grade he won first prize in the ArtsWest Guitar-off (with a perfect score) and recorded his first original scratch-track that same year. A committed poet and lyricist, Austin is currently enrolled at the Berklee College of Music (Boston, MA), simultaneous to his high school studies.

ZACH BONAMINIO/SHORELINE COMMUNITY COLLEGE ENGINEERING: Zach is a self-taught drummer and co-founder of Workin’ On Fire . A grade school friend of Austin’s, Zach is an avid biker, photographer and snowboarder (Bonaminio Sausage family). He is currently a music theory student, and many of the band’s photos are his handiwork. Zach is known to play gigs with a broken arm (broken from snowboarding, of course).

PETER MAGUIRE/WESTERN WASHINGTON U. (ON TRACK SCHOLARSHIP): Peter is a thoroughbred slap bassist who also contributes backing vocals for Workin’ On Fire. Known to tinker on the drums and keyboard, Peter is also the 2011 5A state track and field 110 hurdles State Champion (also a varsity letterman in soccer). Interestingly, Peter’s grandfather (Walt Maguire) was the E.V.P. for London Records, with his famed production including ‘Monster Mash’ and the signing of ZZ-Top.