Illinois, by Way of Southampton

In the rock-driven scene there are a few gems of difference that shine through.

Illinois is that type of band; the kind of band that keeps the first timers talking about them for days after. Others have taken notice, too, as songs by the band have been featured both on the soundtrack for an episode of Showtime's "Weeds," as well as in the video game "NBA 2K10" by 2k sports.

The band's music falls into what I would consider to be a folk rock genre. They utilize banjo and telephones to add to their sound and entertain the crowd. I was able to pull bassist Martin Hoeger, a Southampton native, aside and have him fill me in on some details about the band.

Illinois is:
Chris 'Arch' Archibald - guitar, keys, banjo, lead vocals
Martin Hoeger - bass, vocals
Dan Pawlovich - guitar, keys, vocals
John Paul Kuyper - drums

TB: How did Illinois get started?
MH: Arch and I grew up together playing baseball. We were roommates and just started writing music.

TB: Where do you feel you guys fit into the music scene?
MH: I'm not really sure. We love all the music coming out of Philly and Bucks County right now. It’s refreshing to see everyone as communal as they are. It wasn't always like that.

TB: What are you trying to get out of your music?
MH: Music has always been in me and I think if I stopped playing I may go crazy- it's therapeutic.

TB: Who are your main influences?
MH: Right now, Elvis Costello and Bonzo Dog, but ask me next week and that could change.

TB: What are you trying to have the audience feel at one of your shows?
MH: Damn, that was fun!

TB: What was your most memorable show?
MH: We played a 9-11 benefit with The Hold Steady and the dude from Old 97's. It was at ground zero.  I just kept looking stage right into the huge whole that was there. It was surreal.

TB: What was your most memorable moment?
MH: Hanging backstage at a playboy party that Janes Addiction played at South by Southwest (SXSW). I was 15 again.

TB: What were you trying to convey with your album Kid Dynamite?
MH: I guess we were just trying to get as many songs out as possible. We were sitting on a lot of music at the time.

TB: What is your favorite of the songs you have recorded? 

MH: 'I hate love'

TB: What is your favorite song to play?

MH: It’s got to be a new one: 'Queen flea'

TB: Where are you trying to take the band?
MH: Just trying to make music with my best friends for the rest of my life. If anyone else notices that's great, too.

TB: What is your favorite thing about playing out on stage?
MH: Knowing what your band mates are thinking without using words.

TB: What can fans of Illinois expect in the future?
MH: We are currently recording a new EP, as well as playing some shows regionally. Be on the lookout.

Fans can keep up to date on all of Illinois' antics at the band's website.

To hear more from Illinois check out their latest album, The Adventures of Kid Catastrophe.