Local Heroes–Part of an occasional series on local musicians.
Following in the footsteps of Cheap Trick and Off Broadway, Supermint–a quartet of quintessential power popsters–has been dominating the Illinois scene since 1999, thanks to monstrous hooks, strong melodies and a knack for writing some of the most infectious tunes around. And with a new CD, “Off to Stupidville” (Not Lame Records), due this month, the band has plenty of reasons for optimism.
Granted, this isn’t the first time a Chicago group has concocted such a brew, and pop bands seem to have a tougher go of it. But Supermint has never sought to rewrite pop doctrine; they simply want to master its musical delicacies.
“They’re concerned with crafting catchy, powerful songs that have an edge,” notes David Bash, CEO and founder of the International Pop Overthrow, which has hosted Supermint at showcases in Chicago and Los Angeles. “They’ve got a lot of confidence and that gives off an engaging vibe from stage.”
Supermint has sold more than 5,000 copies of its self-titled independent debut since 1999–and also landed them opening spots on the Gas Giants’ 2001 tour (featuring Gin Blossoms members Robin Wilson and Phillip Rhodes). But Supermint has never shied from leaving the Windy City comfort zone.
“A lot of bands will pick and choose where they play and only seek the top venues in the top markets,” explains drummer Randi Scott. “But we’ve realized that the color of the dollar bill is the same in Stevens Point, Wis., as it is in a major city and earning fans at `Mike’s Chip and Putt’ is just as important as getting people excited at the more impressive dates.”
Supermint’s calendar is often a balance of both types of shows (though their recent highlight has been a regional run with the Gin Blossoms in November). “Getting to team up with those guys again was wonderful and served as a good testing ground for our new material,” Scott says. “We’re continuing to raise the bar for ourselves in the studio and on the stage.”
A listening party for “Off to Stupidville” is slated for 9 p.m. Feb. 8 at Halftimes, 2405 W. Johnsburg Rd., Johnsburg. Call 815-344-0007 or log onto supermintmusic.com.
