The formation of Nice on Ice can be paralleled to the mixing of a good whiskey on the rocks: the angst-driven sound of co-founder Kenrick Phan’s past musical projects infused with the delicate and stimulating subtleties of co-founder KJ Relth’s percussion, giving you a warm and cozy sound that still retains a punch of fresh air. Phan had been playing in bands since high-school and upon arriving at UCSB in 2002, he had no intention of quitting. After unsuccessful attempts at harnessing the neo-dance-punk genre with Isla Vista bands Jacknife Juggernaut and The Young Turks, Phan decided to step out behind the drum kit and rhythm guitar to pursue a more personal vision. This is when Nice on Ice was born. High school friend, KJ Relth, stepped into the spotlight when Phan asked her to squeeze into his tiny Isla Vista storage space to jam out some love songs. It was that night when they were duetically infused and realized they had something special to offer for hungry ears.
Recording out of a desk microphone in Phan’s bedroom apartment (you can actually hear the lawnmowers in the background), a seven-song demo was put together and given away at local gigs. If it wasn’t for Relth’s affinity for good wine, NOI’s humble beginnings might not have gone further than small fireside “shows” and backyard gigs. Relth introduced her vineyard co-worker (who was Corporate Nightmare Records founder Mike Echternacht) to Phan and a good friendship was formed. When Echternacht booked NOI to open for CNR artist Kinothek, sparks flew and NOI was invited to join the CNR family.
The Rescue was recorded in a one month period at producer and labelmate Zach Madden’s underground studio (where Kinothek’s The Long, All Along was recorded). There they cranked out the ten-song LP working late nights and early mornings. The Rescue sustains an overall adolescent charm with big and curious ideas. Phan’s apocalyptic obsessions translate into most of his songs dealing with themes of love and death, yet his gloomy ideas are transformed into upbeat and happy tunes giving the album an earnest sense of hope. Madden describes the album as a “headphone record” and believes it will plow the way for a “bedroom rock” genre. Phan and Relth currently reside in Los Angeles where they anxiously await the release of The Rescue (which will be in the very near future) followed by a caravan of shows to charm your soul so stay tuned.
I love your music and your energy onstage. You're having the best time in the room and everybody knows it. Way to play. You all are terrific. Keep me posted on coming gigs and let me know when your cd is ready. All the best, Jane
You guys rocked the house last night at The Mint. I love your songs and you all are a great team. All the best, and keep me posted on coming gigs. Jane
