Jonny Rumble - Almost Dead - July 29, 2008 “There is a man named Neil Young. He said that rock would never die. He was wrong. It’s almost there…” Propelled by the brash yet playful words out of the mouth of Brian Webb, the members of Jonny Rumble lament the slow death of the high hopes and dreams of a generation. This Chicago band is acutely aware of the fact that the authentic musical sounds they love - the raw energy of punk and the intoxicating sensibility of early rock and roll - have been hanging by a thread for years. In a blasting, eloquent and full-throttled critique of our misguided “Modern Way,” Jonny Rumble’s album Almost Dead is not trying to reinvent the sound of punk rock, but it serves up the bitter rebellion and social conscience of early punk culture with a wickedly melodic edge that makes the album, Almost Dead, an anthem of our times. This four-piece band from Chicago, IL is witnessing some of the worst social injustices and political fiascos unfold right in front of them. A primal reaction from the minds and hearts of four everyday people against smothering, hopeless apathy, Almost Dead is a sharp, gritty manifesto that beckons for attention and action. “I think people NEED to hear our music. There’s a lot going on in the world today, but the average person seems to be complacent or even isolated,” says guitarist, Patrick O’Connor. “I hope that when people listen to our music, it will stir up emotions inside them that will help them search for music, people, and a life of quality experiences and substance.” There is no ploy for glimmering fame in their songwriting: their vital energy manifests itself in the form of magnetizing rock, freeing them to what is supposed to be done. They tell it like it is. Patrick O’Connor (guitar), along with Jeremy Pryor (bass), Brian Webb (vocals/guitar), and Seth Thomas (drums) take their fuming frustrations and musical talents and piece it together into their third full-length release, Almost Dead. “The record’s concept starts by grieving the death of rock and roll,” says Pryor. “This album is really a metaphor for the passing of all things good that our country is supposed to represent.” “It’s a finger pointing, blame laying manifesto,” adds Webb. “We’re blaming ourselves as well as others for the modern state of things, socially and politically. Hopefully the next record will offer some solutions, and I’m working on that...” Although their outlooks may seem angry and dark, the members of Jonny Rumble are softhearted individuals. “I’m not nearly as mean or angry as I sound!” proclaims Webb. “We as a band have many other songs that relay a much less harsh message.” Softhearted they may be, but the current state of affairs doesn’t lend itself to be treated lightly by Jonny Rumble. They have their gloves on, the bell has rung, and there are many rounds left ahead. “We’ve all given up our lives for music,” says Thomas. “No matter what happens, we will not stop playing music.”