Formed in the winter of 2005 as Machine Gun Kelly and recently rebranded as Valius, a band was born under a new moon in Chicago – forged from the common threads that bind two brothers who were trying to find their place in music. Make it original, make it energetic, and make it your own. The direction was disseminated. Soon, two became four and the original lineup of Matt Walus, Mark Walus, John Shaffer and Kunal Ganti began creating.
----NEW ENERGY----
Describe the sound? Sonically speaking it’s a melodic groove that says more than just a catchy pop hook. It is a rock song that won’t let you turn away. It is upbeat, harmonious, and in your face all at the same time. A fusion of powerful Vocals, innovative Harmony, virtuoso Guitar riffs, transcendent Bass guitar rhythm, and raw Percussion that brings it all together. Valius brings unmatched energy to songwriting, breaking down barriers with each new melody they write. When you hear it you will know.
----HEAR NO EVIL----
By way of New Hampshire, Illinois and Arizona, Machine Gun Kelly came together in the music-friendly haven of Chicago. Brothers Matt and Mark Walus laid out a vision for a genre-twisting Rock sound that would catch the scene off-guard. Guitarist Kunal Ganti saw an opportunity to flex his creative muscles with the band and joined in June of 2005. Luke Cho, one of Chicago’s most versatile bassists, joined the band in September of 2006, after the bass throne was vacated by John Shaffer. Unfortunately, he was forced to move on due to other commitments early in 2007. June of 2007 marked the anticipated arrival of Chris Deiter, a multi-talented low-ender with excellent vocal ability and a perfect fit in the chemistry of MGK. Chris' writing style and impressive vocal range have added a whole new dimension to the band's sound. In anticipation of the first full-length CD, MGK changed its name to Valius in the Spring of 2009.
----SYNERGY----
Since its inception, the band has consistently put on entertaining shows at venues such as Wise Fools Pub, Kinetic Playground, Otto’s of Dekalb, Silvie’s Lounge, Stage 83 and the Elbo Room among many others. Valius gives its fans a well-deserved break from mediocrity. Too long have they been poisoned by the normal and marred by the mundane. Come experience a new direction in music. Satisfaction guaranteed.
