"[On] the band’s new self-titled and self-released album, you can hear equally the phantoms of loose-strung Americana, dewy trip-hop and an eccentric coffeehouse hybrid of the two... their novel approach to trusty singer/songwriter-isms may just see them breaking into new circles." Doug Wallen, Philadelphia Weekly (April 23, 2008)
"...Known for their unapologetically hook-laden songs and intricate arrangements that juxtapose electronica with rootsy acoustics... One of the most salient quality of the Sobriquets is the band's musical resourcefulness. These guys will do anything with anything."
Greg Hanlon - Brooklyn Courier Life (Apr 3, 2008)
"3.5 Stars out of 4: The Sobriquets album features a whole lot to enjoy, and very little to dislike... [they] are an act to look out for..." -Bill McThrill- The Compendium (9/3/2008)
"Most alternative acts take at least five or six members to knock you off your feet. However, two guys, Dan Drago and James Hearne, are all it takes to get you going. They uniquely use electronica to support their acoustics. They are highly praised for their intelligent, emotional lyrics which some bands dream to possess. Emerging from Philadelphia is a fresh sound that has the potential to elevate independent rock. Recently enlisted upright bassist Josh Neale further demonstrates why this group is so rare in the sea of alternative players." -Amber Stewart, Vox Pop
Philadelphia's latest contribution to the world at large, the Sobriquets are multi-instrumentalists Dan Drago and James Hearne, upright bassist Joshua Neale, and drummer Nick Hughes.
The product of a twelve year collaboration, upstate New York natives Hearne and Drago combine hook-laden songwriting with lush, tight harmonies and waves of sonic intricacies. The subtle bedroom production belies smart arrangements, incorporating synthesizers and acoustic instruments alike. An electronic undercurrent drives heartfelt lyrics and rootsy guitars, bringing Hearne and Drago's loves of rock, pop, r&b, hip-hop, and country into sharp focus.
Always fearless, the Sobriquets have launched a "Download of the Month" from their website, releasing a new demo, alternate arrangement, or live recording every month.
Live, the Sobriquets perform a fiery, high energy tightrope act, blending their signature vocal harmonies over a bed of acoustic guitars, on-the-fly percussive loops, synthesizers, and whatever else happens to find its way into their hands. Neale and Hughes provide a sinuous and flexible foundation for Hearne's whisper-to-howl vocals and Drago's textural, hypnotic lead guitar. Sharp dynamics, hummable hooks, and occasional bursts of pure noise lace through a captivating, intense experience that is not easily forgotten.
The Sobriquets are promoting the release of their self-titled debut album, available now at iTunes, Amazon, CDBaby, and from the band directly. They have rocked audiences in Philadelphia, Baltimore, New York, and all points in between, including appearances at the Black Potatoe [sic] Festival and the Sidewalk Cafe's Fortified Summer Antifolk Festival, and are in the process of booking shows up and down the East Coast for Fall and Winter of 2008.
The Sobriquets: Fall 2008 Mini-Tour
"Coming Down" Live at Cape May Singer Songwriter Festival
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The Legendary North Star Bar : Philadelphia, PA
'We are the music makers, And we are the dreamers of dreams."
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