The Broken Remotes is built around singer/songwriter Jon Leahy and based in Los Angeles. The band's debut album, Throw Me The Keys, was recorded with producer Ronan Chris Murphy in 2003/2004 and released independently. The record found Leahy partnering with drummer Carlos Hamma, who laid down his drumsticks long enough to play the fuzz bass on VU cover Pale Blue Eyes, one of the most memorable moments on the LP. Throw Me the Keys documents the familiar "moving to the big city" experience with a unique voice, as Leahy's lyrics are by turns honest and elusive. The songs range from quiet alt-country (Lie In Wait) to up-tempo punk (My North Wall) but share common themes explored with empathy and wit.
After playing a handful of dates throughout 2005 Leahy began writing material for the next LP. The first two tracks, Lose the Swagger and Arms Held Aloft were issued as a single in November 2005 and immediately began to garner the band radio play. The sophomore full-length, Tonight's Last Stand, was recorded with collaborators Amy Wood (drums), Dave Yaden (keys) and Josh Schwartz (guitar). The band is releasing the LP through their own label, Room 206 records, in December.
