Old Coke - Sorted CS
Chicago trio Old Coke started in 2019 as a bedroom project, inspired by wall of sound guitars, noise rock, and energy-driven punk and metal.
Throughout 2021 the band gained traction from a set of impressively tight and energetic live shows. Now at the top of 2022, Old Coke have leveled up their sonic aesthetic further and is ready to flex their dexterity on their fast-approaching, independently released debut EP, "Sorted". Working with Cloud Nothings Dylan Baldi, front man and songwriter, Christopher Ruiz was able to approach his songs from a new angle due to lessons and advice from Baldi on the material that would then become part of the debut EP.
On percussion, drummer Ethan Toenjes beats away the nuanced fills and stylistic precision at a feverish pace. Bassist Eddy Garcia tackles rhythms and melodies alongside guitarist and vocalist Christopher Ruiz who's loud style of songwriting riffs on future nostalgia and human connection. As a trio, Ruiz's melancholic vocals balance Garcia's bass tone and colourful guitar chords with the aggression and thrashiness often found in heavier genres.
Christopher Ruiz started Old Coke with the idea of being involved in the Chicago DIY scene and playing shows that cater to most of the audiences in the various music scenes in Chicago. Lyrically and vocally, he took inspiration from artists like Chino Moreno, and UK bred songwriter, producer, and musician Archy Marshall. Ruiz self-released and recorded two solo singles as a concept for what the band was to sound like, "Bottle" and "Slope." After meeting through a mutual taste of music and ideas, Ethan Toenjes joined Old Coke. From the start, Toenjes fully embraced the idea of a hard-hitting, fast, and melodic group that could transcend through multiple genres.
Despite being on a steady rise as a duo, it soon became apparent during writing and practice sessions that another member was needed, and Eddy Garcia was enlisted as the bassist to complete the trio.
On the debut EP, "Sorted", Old Coke's songwriting and multi-hyphenated talents as a trio run at full throttle. They worked with Producer/Bassist Joe Gac, from the Chicago band Meat Wave, to record their debut. Joe masterfully captured and produced Old Coke's sound with his crisp engineering skills and own expertise of the Chicago DIY music scene.
The EP includes re-recordings of the first two releases alongside three new songs that showcase the diversity of genres and frequencies the band can put out. Ranging from shoegaze, dream pop, hardcore punk, and noise rock, you can expect Old Coke's variety to grow more as the group evolves and crafts its sound.
~Tracy Kawalik
Summer Darling Tapes