Lauded as pioneers of “Chi-Pop” (Indie R&B/Pop), Attack the Sound (ATS) has solidified itself as a cornerstone of Chicago’s vibrant music scene. Founded by Army veteran and current Chicago Firefighter Davo Sounds, ATS masterfully fuses jazz, hip-hop, blues, gospel, and rock, crafting a sound that’s as electrifying as it is smooth. With comparisons to Leon Bridges, Black Pumas, and John Legend, the band delivers dynamic live performances that have earned them collaborations with heavy hitters like Isaiah Sharkey, Bianca Shaw, Taylor Bennett, and JC Brooks.

Their undeniable talent has taken them to national television, with appearances on ABC’s Windy City Live and WGN’s People to People. Their single Love is War—secured through a sync deal with Winding Way Records—swept the Midwest Film Festival, winning Best AT Show, Judges’ Choice, and Best Cinematography.

Beyond the screen, ATS has cemented its reputation on the stage. As a Chicago City Year of Music grant recipient and three-time Chicago Made Competition finalist, they’ve captivated audiences from Navy Pier’s Beer Garden to the legendary Taste of Chicago, SpringBoard Music Fest, and the International Festival of Life. Their reach extends beyond city limits, having performed internationally at North by Northeast (NXNE) in Toronto. ATS also made waves in the sports world, landing a coveted sync deal with the NBA’s Chicago Bulls for the 2019-2020 season.

With an ever-growing catalog of music and a reputation for show-stopping performances, Attack the Sound continues to redefine the Chicago sound—one soul-stirring track at a time.

Emerging from the heart of Grand Rapids, Michigan, The American Hotel System is a rock band that transcends the ordinary and expected, blending energetic alt-rock with thoughtful storytelling, exploring themes of mental health, personal growth, and the search for meaning. Their journey has taken them from local venues to sharing stages with icons like Bon Jovi, but the mission remains the same: to create meaningful connections through honest, emotive rock.

Founded in 2017 by Jacob Betts (Lead Vocals and Guitar), Hailey Petty (Drums), Jake LaMotte (Bass), and later joined by C.T. McCallister (Guitar), the band embarked on a journey that transformed them into a significant musical presence through genre exploration. Their journey saw early successes with EPs like “A Search for Sunken Truth, Vol. 1” and “Vol. 2.” The pandemic birthed reflective projects like the folk-laden “Postcards EP.” In the midst of chaos, their sophomore album, “Interrobang”, emerged – a tapestry of rhetoric woven with mid-century Americana and pulp influences, showcasing their resilience like a phoenix rising to move forward to a new beat.

With over 1 million streams, a top 3 album on WYCE 88.1FM in 2023, and the coveted title of Grand Champions of Music Prize 2022, The American Hotel System’s impact is resonating with contemporaries and listeners alike, as they’ve quickly become a force to be reckoned with. With critics comparing them to luminaries like Switchfoot and The Fray, their sound is versatile yet distinct with keystones of catchy melodies and relatable messages. Their transformative power and meaningful lyrics resonate deeply, earning them accolades and recognition. The latest chapter in their diverse discography, “Can You Hear It? (The Deluxe Edition)”, which eared them the title of WYCE Critic’s Choice Artist of the Year, is a sonic canvas painting emotions and experiences with the precision of a master.

Born and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Bianca Shaw is a Hip-Hop and R&B artist who wrote her first rap at 11-years-old. Inspired by Missy Elliot’s authenticity and ability to sell music without exposing herself, Shaw strives to tell a story through her raps so vivid that listeners not only hear her lyrics, but envision them as well. Recently discovered by Taylor Bennett’s father, Ken Bennett, Shaw is now signed with Tay Bennett Entertainment and looks forward to collaborating with Bennett on future projects in addition to working on her next solo album.