July 2009 - Rock On Request
http://www.rockonrequest.com/id241.html
Feb. 2009 Music's Rising Stars
http://www.musicsrisingstarsmag.com/december2008/12.html
Feb. 2009 - Armed Forces Entertainment
http://www.armedforcesentertainment.com/AFEmedia_newsReleaseOnTracyLane.htm
Feb. 2009 - Vote New Music written by Duder
http://www.votenewmusic.com/wordpress/?p=285
On Tracy Lane is a pop rock band from St. Louis, MO. They are making a big fuss over at myspace and around the country about this band. The band has just released a new EP “Snowballs in LA.” They have also recently released the above video for their song “Disappear.” The band’s sound is reminiscent of some early 80s pop with a 2000s twist. They are definitely worth a listen, and I believe they are a band to keep an eye on in the future. More and more of today’s music is rediscovering that 80s sound, and it is a trend that is not soon to end. On Tracy Lane is one of the bands leading this revitalization of retro-pop. You can hear more of their music at their website or on their myspace:
http://www.myspace.com/ontracylane
http://www.ontracylane.com/
R&R Magazine (Radio and Records) Feb. 2009
http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/1195/rrarticlefeb2009nb0.jpg
December 2008 - RockIsLife.com interview
Questions with...http://www.rock-is-life.com/2008fivequestions/ontracylane.htm
1. If I knew absolutely nothing about On Tracy Lane, how would you describe the group’s music to me?
-- I would say On Tracy Lane is pop rock with a splash of a 70s/80s retro feel.
2. If I were to buy your new EP Pretend the Thing with Charlie Never Happened (review), what songs should I pay particular attention to and why?
-- Well of course all of them! But my favorites are Smile Like a Child and Disappear. Smile is our little middle finger to the way society sometimes forces us to concentrate on all things money. I think our dreams and things that really can make us happy are pretty cool too. Disappear is about making any negative energy in your life go away. Whether its a relationship struggle or job you hate or whatever. But Snowballs in LA and Ship to Ride are very close seconds! Even 17 gets a lot of votes from fans. =)
3. When and where did the band form, and where did the name come from? -- After my old band broke up in Los Angeles in 2003...I picked up the pieces and formed my solo band. The Darryn Yates Band I thought was kind of a boring name. My brother Damon and I started tossing around names of things close to us in our childhood. We grew up on 25 Tracy Lane in southern IL (Granite City). The house was haunted and my babysitter had her way with me. But that's another interview. =) Anyway, I put the "On" in front of Tracy Lane to make it original and copyrighted the name.
I then started playing shows with an LA lineup in 2004 and OTL was born. Then I moved to St. Louis and formed a new lineup there. Now, I guess the 3rd city is a charm because this new Nashville lineup is THE band I've been working towards all these years. Jerry, our bassist, is the only member still with me from the St. Louis lineup. We are all living in Nashville now. But our goal is to live on a tour bus and/or hotel rooms. =)
4. What was your worst on stage experience? What was your best?
-- My craziest stage experience was in Los Angeles at the Roxy when the band was booked with several thrash metal bands. I think the booker was fired after this incident! haha But the band that played after us started verbally abusing us and I had to stand up for us and all Pop Rock people! I have nothing against heavy bands, but you don't disobey the cardinal sin and talk smack about bands not like you. Ya know? So anyway, I jumped onstage and grabbed his mic and said a few things into it and tackled him into the bass drum. A huge fight ensued and thankfully my website guy at the time bailed me out.
The best experience was opening for Avril Lavigne and Butch Walker in St. Louis in front of about 10,000 people.
5. Do you think that the Internet (whether it be Internet radio, legal downloading, MySpace, streaming audio, etc.) is a good tool for musicians or is it a bad thing because it hinders profits?
-- I think its an amazing tool for indie bands to establish themselves. However, once you arrive and you are a national act you need to make sure you are getting paid for your work. Painters, lawyers, construction workers, etc. don't work for free, so why should musicians and songwriters?
** Bonus question: What's with the super-long album title? And who's Charlie?
We thought it would be cool to come up with a funny silly name for our EP. The full-length title will be less wordy and more "serious". Whatever serious means nowadays. Charlie is my dog and everything is ok...but we only answer what happened with Charlie in person and we take turns answering that question. I think it's our guitarists' turn. Ask Anderson.
December 2008 - RockIsLife.com review
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ON TRACY LANE
Pretend the Thing with Charlie Never Happened EP
Richmond Avenue Music 2008
"Smile Like a Child" explores finding happiness in today's difficult times. "Snowballs in L.A." delivers some killer guitar work and emotional lyrics. The band final cuts loose from mid-tempo limbo on "Ship to Ride." Vocalist Darryn Yates re-lives the good old days on "17." The Nashville rockers have a great sound that is hindered slightly by production issues. Give the boys a little more money and you have yourself a winner. Save the long album title for your full-length."
Official Site
--George Dionne
 out of 5 
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December 2008 - TheMusicCityMuse.com
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On Tracy Lane, the brainchild of lead singer Darryn Yates, has a sound reminiscent of the legendary Jon Bon Jovi. Yates sings with such conviction and raw emotion that you feel like you are really getting to know the man behind the music with each song on the EP. Anderson Layne, Adam Bilsing, Jerry McFarland and David Rogers make up the rest of this dynamic band and each lend their own musical genius to On Tracy Lane.
Pretend the Thing With Charlie Never Happened has all the makings of a hit record. The new single Snowballs in LA truly showcases not only the outstanding vocal ability that Yates possesses, but also the lyrical brilliance that is On Tracy Lane. My personal fave is a little tune called Smile Like a Child that will have you singing at the top of your lungs and playing air guitar in your bedroom. I’ve had this little gem on repeat ever since it came across my desk at The Music City Muse’s headquarters. I have a feeling this is only the beginning for the guys of On Tracy Lane.
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July 1, 2008 - NashvilleRock.net
NashvilleRock.net (August 2008)
ON TRACY LANE
Another addition to this year's Music City Mayhem III, On Tracy Lane features a lush pop rock style that is a great addition to our local rock scene. To check out more photos, song clips, and other cool stuff, click the link below.
www.myspace.com/ontracylane
March 10, 2008 *Music Connection Magazine*
On Tracy Lane
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| Contact: |
Oshiro & Assoc., 808-341-5820; sharlene@sharleneoshiro.com |
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Label Deal |
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Pop-Rock |
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MySpace.com/ontracylane |
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Average
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A project spearheaded by songer/songwriter Darryn Yates, OTL have a slick, sunny 70's/80's pop-influenced attack that provides consistent vitality. Little wonder the band has many film/TV placements with its well-produced material. Yates' voice is a Geddy Lee meets Ric Ocasek tenor that provides the kind of bounce and fizz this music thrives upon.
OCT 12, 2006
Artists You Should Know-On Tracy Lane
By Jennifer Mitchell (music editor, Florida St. Univ)
Skillfully blend together the musical styling of 80’s pop and add a modern twist and the result is the energetic sound of On Tracy Lane. Despite the variety of artists that have inspired them, from Bon Jovi to Aretha Franklin, their sound is different from anything you’ve heard before, making them a band that you should know.
Darryn Yates, singer and acoustic guitarist, formed the band in 2002 in Los Angeles. He started out playing music at 13 and was in a garage band at the age of 16. Many cover bands and numerous member changes later, On Tracy Lane was formed and relocated to St. Louis in 2005. The band consists of Darryn, Shannon Nicole (backing vocals), Rick Tschee (lead and rhythm guitar), Jerry McFarland (bass, keyboard and backing vocals) and new drummer Chad Shaffer.
OTL’s first single “Better Again” captures the energetic vibe that hooks you from the first few notes of the intro then drives you straight into the catchy lyrics and unforgettable chorus. Their EP, simply titled On Tracy Lane, was released in 2005 and is quickly catching the attention of radio stations and listeners everywhere. The EP includes not only “Better Again”, but fan favorites “House of Mimes” and “Walk In Like DeNiro”, which both display the band members’ different influences and have a different feel from “Better Again” while containing the same energy and quality.
Also included on the EP are “Back to Maybe” and “So It Goes”. On the band’s website, www.ontracylane.com, the video for “Back To Maybe”, with guest Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls) is available. “So It Goes” is only available on the band’s EP, but the other four songs are available to listen to at www.myspace.com/ontracylane. The band is in the process of booking a tour in spring 2006 that is set to include the east coast.
In their song “Back to Maybe”, Darryn boasts, “I’ve got the goods/ Do I have the guts to bring it home/ It feels so good/ You might see me on the cover of Rolling Stone!” With their catchy lyrics, original sound and obvious talent, there is absolutely no doubt of seeing the band grace the cover.
AUGUST 8, 2006
*Featured on Associated Content by Anarch, Aug 08, 2006:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/48918/on_tracy_lane_st_louis_band_scores.html
Touting themselves as “The Biggest Unsigned Band on MySpace,” On Tracy Lane has currently sold more than 20,000 copies of their debut EP, have been touring across the United States, opening for acts such as Avril Lavigne, American Hi-Fi, Phantom Planet and Butch Walker. By all appearances, this band is definitely poised for stardom.
Recently announcing that MTV will be using 5 of their songs for the television shows, “The Real World,” and “Road Rules,” one would imagine this incredible new band would be swamped in contracts. So who, exactly, is On Tracy Lane and why are they still unsigned?
On Tracy Lane, or OTL as fans call them, was birthed into existence by singer/songwriter Darryn Yates. Recapturing the spirit and enthusiasm of retro rock and giving it a more modern twist, the sound is definitely one that encourages you to get up and dance or, at the very least, sing along with the catchy lyrics.
This is definitely a sound that works for the band - to date, On Tracy Lane boasts a mailing list that numbers over 75,000 fans from the United States and abroad. Not only have they sold more than 20,000 copies of the OTL EP, but the CD is consistently in the top 10 albums sold at the Vintage Vinyl Record Store in their hometown. Additionally, their single, “Better Again” has begun to get airtime on radio stations across the country.
It comes as no surprise that On Tracy Lane has raised eyebrows and captured the attention of MTV - last year, they shot a video in Los Angeles for their song, “Back to Maybe,” featuring Lacey Chabert of “Mean Girls,” fame. In fact, the band has been quick to catch the eyes and ears of the music industry. Unlike many new bands, however, OTL is not jumping at the first offers that come their way. Despite all the interest, On Tracy Lane continues to search for a management company and a recording label that are right for them.
JULY 22, 2006
*Featured on the Tunes Baby Network by Arlene Murray, July 22, 2006* link: http://www.tunesbaby.com/ontracylane/
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On Tracy Lane, the brainchild of singer/songwriter Darryn Yates, is a modern twist on classic 80s pop rock. Schooled in the vocal stylings of Dave Pirner and Tom Petty, OTL captures the spirit of bands like The Cars while revising their retro sound with driving guitars and lush vocal arrangements. On Tracy Lane has opened for acts such as American Hi-Fi, Local H, Avril Lavigne, Butch Walker and shot a music video in Los Angeles last year for their song “Back To Maybe,” featuring Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls, Party of Five). The OTL live band is Yates on vocals/acoustic guitar, Shannon Nicole - backing vocals, Rick Tschee - lead/rhythm guitar, Jerry McFarland - bass/keyboard, and Chad Shaffer on drums.
On Tracy Lane's fans, 50,000 on their mailing list from the U.S. and abroad, have gobbled up several thousand copies of the OTL EP. The CD is in the top 10 most albums sold at the Vintage Vinyl Record Store in their hometown area. The CD features the single “Better Again,” which can be heard at a rising number of radio stations across the country. Other songs on the EP are fan favorites “House of Mimes” and “Walk In Like DeNiro.”
The OTL EP was produced by Shock City Music, including producers Doug Firley (of Gravity Kills fame) and indie-rock veteran Chris Loesch. On Tracy Lane is quickly catching the eyes and ears of the music industry as they embark on a national tour that will surely have record labels and management companies eager to talk business.
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JULY 12, 2006
*John Elmes is a music journalist in England* link: http://durham21.co.uk/archive.asp?ID=3334
John Elmes is reluctantly won over by the upbeat jaunting of On Tracy Lane...
On Tracy Lane is a band that has stumped me. I want to say that Darryn Yates’ brainchild is an industry filler and have been signed as a money spinner in the pop rock niche. However, I cannot stop myself liking them. Better Again begins with a 80's rock style guitar solo which sets us up well for Yates’ boy-band style voice. This is not a weakness though as he definitely feels the words he is singing rather than simply churning them out. His voice trembles when he sings of sadness and is filled with yearning pain when he sings of things he desires. The guitars complement these lyrics and the solos are genuinely well constructed and woven into the verses nicely. I can envisage chart success with this song as it fits the complicated criteria to produce a song that transcends genres and suits an eclectic musical crowd. 'So it Goes' smacks of the pop rock of the 60s as Yates whines out his song whilst the music jaunts along in an upbeat manner. It is not a song that would necessarily grab you from the outset but even allowing for cheesy lyrics the instrumental aspect will satisfy most open minded listeners.
'Back to Maybe' is a pop song but this is where OTL's strength kicks in. The use of a rock backing is a sure fire way of gaining success, but the song has more to it than that. Again Yates' vocal talents impress me as the boy–band tone and a scratchy yet tuneful voice renders the song a success. 'House of Mimes' is a stab at an alternative style, where Yates controls his singing up until the choruses and the latter part of the song where his and the backing vocals are blended to make a busy period of lyrics which suits the mysterious title of the song. A hard-hitting guitar solo compliments this perfectly. 'Walk in Like DeNiro' begins like an album track from the OC soundtrack but Yates surprises us with a jaunty rock song which reminds me of Our Lady Peace (an excellent band). Overall, the EP might not suit everyone’s tastes, but there is no pretence from Yates and his band and they succeed in what they set out to do.
APRIL 2006
AudioTrip.com - Written by Mike
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On Tracy Lane, the brainchild of singer/songwriter Darryn Yates, is a modern twist on classic 80s pop rock. Schooled in the vocal stylings of Dave Pirner and Tom Petty, OTL captures the spirit of bands like The Cars while revising their retro sound with driving guitars and lush vocal arrangements. On Tracy Lane has opened for acts such as American Hi-Fi, Local H, Avril Lavigne, Butch Walker and shot a music video in Los Angeles last year for their song “Back To Maybe,” featuring Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls, Party of Five).
Darryn Yates on vocals/acoustic guitar: "I was exposed to music at a very young age. My mother was a big Elvis fan and I had my room wallpapered in Kiss posters. I started guitar lessons at age 13 and was singing in my 1st garage band at age 16. We were called Red Destiny and we did cover songs, or we tried to do them as best we could. After graduating high school, I moved to San Diego and was in the hard rock band Silent Dream. My parents like it when I tell everyone that I have my college degree, so there. (Bachelors Degree in Communication from Cal Poly Pomona in Pomona, Calif., where I went after the Silent Dream days). So I got my degree and headed to Los Angeles. I really learned and experienced a lot working in LA at radio stations, record labels, mgmt. companies,etc. I started an acoustic duo in LA with a fellow songwriter and we called ourselves EarCandy. We then added a full band and changed the name to Smackerjack. After some dramatic issues there, I wanted to do my own thing and surround myself with musicians who had the exact same vision as me."
Shannon Nicole - backing vocals: "Music has been a huge part of my life since I can remember. I discovered
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On Tracy Lane has recently licensed 5 songs to MTV for use on their TV shows "The Real World" and "Road Rules"
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the piano at the age of 3 (can't read a lick of it) and was in the studio recording my own songs by the time I was 15. Over the years, I have had the opportunity of training with some of the best vocal coaches in the world that turned out some pretty awesome talent (Jessica Simpson, Destiny's Child, Justin Timberlake). I lived in Austin, TX for a few years (Music capital of the world) and spent time with many talented musicians. I think being so close to music in a city that hosts something as big as SXSW made me realize that there's nothing in this world that would make me happier than performing."
Rick Tschee - lead/rhythm guitar: "My interest in a music career began around age 14 after experiencing a live rock band at a high school talent show. I was actually interested in being a drummer. A friend of mine got a drum set a couple of weeks later, so I had to do the same. After my mom screamed for 2 months, "its too
The band is planning showcases later this year in Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York City
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damn loud" and neighbors kept complaining, I realized I needed to do something other than drums...so I bought an acoustic guitar from a pawn shop for $125. It was ok but I needed to be louder and the sound better. I told myself that I needed an electric guitar. I acquired a Gibson electric guitar and a combo amp. My drummer friend and I found a bassist and started a band called Arch Rival. We had no vocalist so we joined up with a cover band called Tempest who was looking for a guitarist and drummer. We played local gigs around St. Louis for a couple years and then moved on with another bassist and vocalist to form a metal original/cover band called Fair Warning. After a short-lived year of playing local clubs, I moved south of St. Louis and started teaching guitar at a local music store. After some time and a few bands later I met Darryn. The rest is history."
Jerry McFarland - bass/keyboard: "I’m pretty fresh to the music scene, but have been playing guitars since I was 14 and playing live since 17. I started off playing bass guitar to Rage, Chili Peppers and Green Day. After a while, I picked up the electric guitar and dabbled with that for a while. I decided to stick with the bass because I was mediocre with the guitar and better with the bass. I pretty much played by myself for two years, then started playing with my buddy Jake in his basement. We practiced our favorite songs until we found a drummer and started playing basement gigs. Those first gigs gave me an incredible feeling that made we want to play music for a living. After doing covers for a couple years and band members leaving town for college, I decided to take a break with music and focus on school and sports."
Chad Shaffer on drums: "I started playing drums at a young age. My father bought a drum set from a friend so he could play along to his ZZ Top albums. I quickly took over the drum throne and started playing. I played percussion throughout my school years starting in the 5th grade band program, which got me interested in all aspects of percussion. I got my degree from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL in percussion performance. While in college, I obtained a lot of experience in formal percussion playing in a variety of bar bands from Funk and Jazz to Rock and Reggae. I've been playing and teaching percussion in Southern IL for a while now; I decided to look to St. Louis for a new scene. I was lucky enough to find Darryn and OTL, and they needed a new drummer. I auditioned, got the gig, and we're not looking back! I look forward to playing drums and percussion the rest of my life. Music is the universal language which everyone should learn to speak."
On Tracy Lane's fans, 50,000 on their mailing list from the U.S. and abroad, have gobbled up several thousand
The CD features the single “Better Again,” which can be heard at a rising number of radio stations across the country
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copies of the OTL EP. The CD is in the top 10 most albums sold at the Vintage Vinyl Record Store in their hometown area. The CD features the single “Better Again,” which can be heard at a rising number of radio stations across the country. Other songs on the EP are fan favorites “House of Mimes” and “Walk In Like DeNiro.”
The OTL EP was produced by Shock City Music, including producers Doug Firley (of Gravity Kills fame) and indie-rock veteran Chris Loesch. On Tracy Lane is quickly catching the eyes and ears of the music industry as they embark on a national tour that will surely have record labels and management companies eager to talk business. *NOTE: Our new drummer, Chad Shaffer, is in the individual band bio listings here and in early 2006 Chad will be in the new band photos. The main page pic and the band pic here is with our old drummer, Ken Hoffman.
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DEC 31, 2005
*Review by CDBaby.com* link: http://cdbaby.com/cd/ontracylane
2005 Unsigned
http://www.ontracylane.com
http://cdbaby.com/cd/ontracylane (to buy this CD)
Grade: A
On Tracy Lane, is a five-piece pop-rock group who has been carrying on the torch of the 80’s pop-rock sound and have been doing quite well in doing so. OTL, as known by their ever growing legion of fans have been making a name for themselves with songs like “Better Again” and “Walk In Like DeNiro” and have shared the stage with artists such as Butch Walker and Avril Lavigne. If you are interested in getting a copy of their CD I would recommend doing so quickly, because as I understand it they have sold tons of them and I am not sure how many are left, or if there will ever be more once these sell out. If you like groups like Bowling For Soup, American Hi-Fi, or The Killers then you may want to take a trip On Tracy Lane.
DEC 29, 2005
*Review by Annie Zaleski of the Riverfront Times in St. Louis, MO* - link: http://www.riverfronttimes.com/2005-12-28/music/in-with-the-new/
On Tracy Lane
If you're on MySpace or on any St. Louis-centric mailing list, chances are you've seen announcements about shows from On Tracy Lane, a.k.a. Darryn Yates. An LA transplant, Yates has Hollywood pedigree — actress Lacey Chabert appeared in his "Back to Maybe" video — and equally California-sounding songs sun-kissed with power-pop harmonies and slick new-wave chords and synths. His five-song, self-titled EP has its moments (the clever "Walk Like DeNiro") but often sounds and feels like a packet of Equal: overly sweet and totally non-caloric.
DEC. 2005
The Audio Nut - Music on EntertainmentNutz.com
Midwest Music Explosion
St. Louis Volume 1
2005 Bullet 339 Records and Code 5 Records |
13. On Tracy Lane- “Better Again”- I’ve been hearing a lot about this band the past couple months. I can see why when listening to this track. This is one of those songs you’d expect to hear on a sound track for a romantic comedy.
NOV. 2005
On Tracy Lane - Review - 11/25/05 @ The Pageant - Sarah Vitale SNV Media
Myspace is a strange beast, a place where you can meet people you would never run across in real life. Take a look at my "Top 8": Constantine Maroulis? My friend? I would be happy to take out his garbage......back to real life. Then there's six degrees of myspace: Lita Ford, Black Flag, Constantine, etc.
It was through Constantine's page that I found On Tracy Lane, a St. Louis band. I was intrigued by their profile and clicked - St. Louis. Good bands in St. Louis are a rare find; yes 'da Lou's had its moments but Michael McDonald isn't exactly Top 40's these days. The music was eighties inspired power vocals and I liked it immediately.
I requested them as a friend, and almost immediately lead singer Darren Yates sent me a message inviting me to The Midwest Music Explosion at The Pageant in The Loop. I received the tickets in the mail almost immediately - this band is enthusiastic, to say the least. New, good music in St. Louis? I'm there!
My previous experiences with The Pageant have been hit and miss. The Doobie Brothers worked the packed house and the sound system was perfect for their style. A jazz concert was near perfection: the classy, intimate setting The Pageant provides was ideal for couples and the smoky environment one expects with the music wasn't overwhelming. On the other hand, Tesla's arena rock lighting and sound overwhelmed the system and the lighting blinded the listener.
I arrived at just before OTL and was lucky enough to catch Toby Kai and The Strays. Toby Kai strutted on the stage in a school-girl outfit and proceeded to give a performance anything but. Pure hard rock, Kai strutted across the stage, exuding a Bettie Paige meet Joan Jett raw sexuality. The sound was pure Motorhead - grinding riffs, electric vocals - and as if I was psychic she went into Ace of Spades.
The female Filthy Phil....there is a God!
OTL took the stage and even if I hadn't known it, they clearly headlined the show. Yates crisp vocals and the driving guitars were complimented by Shannon Nicole's backup. Their onstage banter reminiscent of Nicks/Buckingham (without the drama), they clearly played off of each other and the crowd. Nicole's vocals were, at times, lost in the mix and the sound system that night wasn't well suited to their style.
OTL clearly has a strong fan base. Teenagers and twentysomethings crowded the floor below the stage and knew the songs. Once the show ended and an informal meet and greet was set up to the side. I waited in line while the band chatted it up with every fan, thanking them and signing CD's, shirts, and pictures. I purchased a CD, which they signed along with a picture.
Pageant staff were nipping at our heels as the band finished signing (close at 11PM, but they were a bit pushy), and they invited my friend and I to their after-party at Club Buca on The Landing. Off-stage OTL was friendly, easy-going, and picture friendly (major brownie points). They let us take quite a few pictures and even though they had to leave early, made sure to invite us to their show December 10th at Cicero's.
After giving OTL's CD a listen at home, away from the hustle and bustle of The Pageant, Nicole's vocals stand out. Her rich voice is invokes Stevie Nicks early Fleetwood Mac and need to be utilized more. Yates brings a much needed shot in the a** with the strong lyrical sensibilities of a young Tom Petty or Rick Ocasek. I look forward to hearing more from this band and will definitely be at Cicero's December 10th!
Property of SNV Media, reproduction or reprint in electronic, print or other media without expressed permission is strictly prohibited.
OCT, 2005
LINK: http://highnote.20m.com/bands/ontracylane.html
STL Turns On Tracy Lane
On Tracy Lane
For Darryn Yates, music doesn’t get much better. Since On Tracy Lane’s
frontman brought the band together in early 2004, they’ve quickly found their place in the pop rock community. In the months after their first CD’s debut, OTL
opened for some of the most established rock groups around, including Local H
and American Hi-Fi. Recently, they began their move to St. Louis with a few
recording sessions at Shock City Music Works, a local production team run by Doug
Firley and Chris Loesch. Their self-titled EP has already sold several thousand copies and has received airplay on over 75 stations around the country. OTL’s enthusiastic and loyal fanbase meets at ontracylane.com everyday, asking the band to bring shows to dozens of cities around the country. On top of all that, Darryn Yates and Owen Wilson could be siblings, based on the picture that the former took for the front of the EP.
Recently, OTL packed up their instruments and settled down in St. Louis. I
asked Yates about the change of scenery. “I grew up in Granite City so I know
the STL area quite well,” he said. “The big difference so far is that in southern CA the bands are competitive in a negative way. Bands, so far anyway, in STL seem to be more friendly and open to creating a buzz/scene with other bands.”
OTL has already rocked the crowds at places like Cicero’s, Vintage Vinyl, and
the Creepy Crawl, but the band landed their first “big break” here in St.
Louis when they opened for Avril Lavigne and Butch Walker at the UMB Bank
Pavillion last summer. “When we did the opening slot it was around 6:30 or so, and I
have never sweated that much onstage before. The experience was amazing...it
was nice to sing to a sea of teenagers.” In the band’s own words, their music is a “modern twist on classic 80s pop rock...[that] captures the spirit of bands like The Cars while revising their retro sound with driving guitars and lush vocal arrangements.” Their honest description says it all. OTL’s tremendous effort on each song radiates through the speakers. They didn’t waste any time with “filler tracks” that could have easily turned their great EP into a great but diluted full length album. Darryn Yates’ vocal lines and the lead guitar make each song a gem. With small doses of essential backing from vocalist Shanon Nicole, Yates takes each
note he sings to a melodic place that any listener can appreciate. Best of all,
his vocals always avoid the nasally sensation that has slowly become a weakness
of most punk rock bands. That only makes them worth listening to. Some of the
progressions might make OTL sound like “any other rock group”, but the
energetic lead guitar always helps their sound rise above something you might have heard before. Combined with the exceptional vocals, these two strengths make OTL’s pop rock paradise all the better. Fan-favorite Back to Maybe is the first and strongest track on the album. In LA, the band worked with Lacey Chabert (Mean Girls, Party of Five) and director Joe Eckardt to make a video for this single. “[Chabert] was in the middleof doing re-shoots for her movie Mean Girls at the time. She flew in from NY and flew back the same day. She was only in LA for 5 hours and that was to be in the On Tracy Lane debut music video. She is a sweetheart and very beautiful.”
On the more critical side, On Tracy Lane’s sound may not appeal to a few
listeners out there. If you’re not a fan of rock with double the pop, then OTL’s
music probably won’t change your mind. They do what they do, they do it well,
but they don’t waste their time entertaining anyone else. Bottom line: every
female in the world is going to turn up On Tracy Lane when they hit it big, and
the cool guys will listen to it in the car with their windows rolled up
tightly so no one else can hear.
In addition to working on a full length album, the band will step in front of
the cameras once again to film fan-favorite Better Again. The new album will
be released in late 2005 or early 2006. OTL’s next show is on Friday, Nov. 25 at the Pageant. Email the band for FREE tix. www.ontracylane.com ..... AND here is a Q&A we did with the lead singer of On Tracy Lane, Darryn Yates:
SEPT, 2005
On Tracy Lane EP review (Sept. 2005)
Chris Parx-e Web Zine
http://www.parx-e.com/
Melbourne, Australia
On Tracy Lane play rock with a power pop edge. This 5 track EP is excellent
start for the band. The productions value of this EP is much better than the
old songs that were on the website which included Back To Maybe and House Of
Mimes. Back To Maybe shows that Darryn Yates can write a catchy but
rocking track that doesn't fail to disappoint. House Of Mimes is a rock song
that if played in a stadium by the band will get everybody up and singing.
Walk Like DeNiro is a solid catchy piece of rock anthem heaven. The songs
are just not your average songs, which offer more as they are written well
with lyrics which are not your typical average clique rock lyrics about
girls and the like. Sure they do write about girls and the like but they are
not written like most other bands write them. I was really impressed by this
EP and have been playing it heaps. This EP should help get the band noticed
if they haven't been already. I am expecting big things from the band. Do
your self a favour check these guys out before they become huge.
AUG, 2005
Home is where the success is (Aug. 2005)
Aspiring musician returns home from LA to build success here
Harry Weiner
Of the Suburban Journals
Granite City Press Record
STLtoday.com
Life has been a whirlwind for Darryn Yates the last few months. And it's
probably not going to slow down for a while.
Yates moved back to Granite City in March after nearly a decade in Los
Angeles trying to make it in the music business. Ironically, his biggest
success seems to be happening since his return to his hometown.
"Most people go to L.A. with the idea of making it big," he said. "Here I am
coming back to Granite City and St. Louis and taking it to another level
here."
For Yates, his "big break" was cutting a music video last year with actress
Lacey Chabert. Although the video has only received limited play around the
country, it opened up a number of opportunities to him and his band, On
Tracy Lane.
Yates formed the six-piece band in 2002 when he was in Los Angeles. It has
gone through a number of changes over the years, but is now set and ready to
go, he said.
"The band is finally set and we're playing a bunch of shows," he said.
Among those shows will be one at the UMB Bank Pavilion Thursday. On Tracy
Lane will perform at 6 p.m. prior to the Avril Lavigne concert.
The band got its name from the Granite City area street where Yates grew up.
He said he came up with the name after his old band, Smackerjack, disbanded.
He and his brother had tossed a few possible names back and forth.
"I knew I wanted to do my own thing," he said, noting that decisions were
difficult in the old band because it was "too democratic," with a split
leadership. So he ended up settling on a name for the band that really meant
something to him.
The video shoot took place in Los Angeles March 27, 2004. Yates remembers
the date well.
"It was a small dream come true," he said. The video featured Yates and
Chabert, an actress who appeared in "Mean Girls" and "Party of Five." Yates
describes the production as "totally professional," with professional
editors, color correction and other high-tech techniques.
Yates got his start in music while attending Granite City High School. After
a serious knee injury curtailed his athletic career (he played baseball,
basketball and football at GCHS), he accepted an offer to sing for a local
garage band, Red Destiny.
That was enough to give him the music bug.
After graduating from high school, he attended college for a year at
Illinois State. But his heart belonged to California, and with his parents'
eventual blessing – and help – he moved west and went to college there. He
graduated from Cal Poly Pomona with a degree in communications/radio and
film production.
But all the while he was chasing his dream – the music business.
Smackerjack had some success – it even played a concert in St. Louis in 2000
– before disbanding.
He then formed On Tracy Lane, which has gone through a number of personnel
changes. The video gave the band an opening that he is intent on taking
advantage of.
"I'm going to do this or die trying," he said.
The band plays a hard-rock music style. Its CD, "The OTL EP," features five
songs Yates wrote, including "Back to Maybe," which was featured in the
music video. The song is currently being played on The River 101.1 in St.
Louis.
The band has several local appearances scheduled after this week's
appearance at UMB. CD-release shows are scheduled July 30 at the Hi-Pointe
in St. Louis, Aug. 11 at Cicero's in University City and Aug. 25 at the
Creepy Crawl in St. Louis.
The band will also make a Granite City stop on Aug. 7 when it will perform
at Vintage Vinyl.
"The full band is doing an in-store acoustic performance at 2 p.m.," he
said. "Our EP will be available to purchase there for $8 and we will be
available to sign the CD and take photos after the performance."
The next OTL show is Fri., Nov. 25 at the Pageant.
SEPT, 2004 - MUSIC CONNECTION Review section, "On Tracy Lane: Quality college-rock crowd pleasers with good hooks."
JUNE, 2004
Parx-e Web Zine
An Entertainment Website
On Tracy Lane
Pictures Copyright Respected Holders
Interview With Darryn By Chris
If you like rock music then you will fall in love with On Tracy Lane.
Great songs that are catchy which make you just want to rock.
We chat to Darryn from On Tracy Lane to find out more.
On Tracy Lane Website.
1.How did you get into music?
My grandfather, uncle, and cousin all played guitar or wrote songs when I was growing up. My mom loved Elvis! so I was exposed to music at a very young age. My brother and I became KISS fans when I was about 9 or 10 and he was 7 or 8. I grew up in the 80s in the midwest and we had our room wallpapered in KISS posters. haha I started taking guitar lessons (my mom made me) at age 13 and then started singing in my 1st band at age 16....10th grade in high school. It was called Red Destiny and we sucked. it was all cover songs, but we had a blast! haha
2.What were your major influnces?
I am influenced by lots of different artists. In the early days it was KISS, Elvis, Skid Row, Poison. Then as I got older I got into U2, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, The Who, etc. I am going to be the 1st rock singer to admit that Bon Jovi was a big influence! I also like Tupac and the Holmes Brothers, an awesome blues band.
3.What do you think of the idol format?
Call me old school or whatever, but I really like the old-fashioned way of working hard, paying your dues, and doing it for the love and passion....not a quick short cut to money and fame. =)
4. Has there been much response about your music over the web?
Yes On Tracy Lane has been fortunate to have a great internet presence and now that Lacey Chabert was in my debut music video, it is even more exciting. And having great support from cool companies like you doesn't hurt either. =) Our site is (http://www.ontracylane.com)
5. Where do you think you will be in 10 years?
I will be playing music for sure. Whether or not it will be in front of 100, 1000 or 1000000 people remains to be seen. I definitely consider myself a rock warrior and when people come see an OTL show, they will get 110%. They will hear and see the passion hopefully in my voice and songs.
6. How did you get Lacey Chabert to be part of your video clip?
Joe Eckardt, the producer and director of the video knew Lacey's agent. I owe Joe my 1st born child. His company is called the Film Emporium.
7. What do you think of file sharing and the mp3 format?
Once a band is national and established I can understand them wanting to get paid for their music. Indie bands and local bands trying to get national exposure....I think it is a great way for them to get their music out. At this point for OTL, it is all about the music and the name. I am not worried about cash right now.
8. Would you come down to australia to play?
YES! YES! YES! When? Where? You name it. I cannot wait to visit your beautiful country.
9. Who would most like to record a song with?
Jon Bon Jovi. Can you hook me up?
10. What would we find on your stereo at the moment?
Right now I have the blues of the Holmes Brothers, the rap of Tupac, and Bon Jovi's 2nd solo CD called Destination Anywhere.
Thanks for your time Darryn any last words
Thanks so much for your support! Can't wait to play for and meet all of your listeners/fans! Follow your Dreams..... I hope you join me at On Tracy Lane
mail me at darryn@ontracylane.com_
=) Thanks again!
Special thanks to Darryn of On Tracy Lane for doing it!
JUNE, 2004 - http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=67293
(Mi2N, Music Industry News Network)
MEAN GIRLS’ CO-STAR LACEY CHABERT
STARS IN OTL'S MUSIC VIDEO
Email: sahirah@sumanagement.com
Url: http://www.ontracylane.com/
Sound: http://www.ontracylane.com/mp3/backtomaybe.mp3
Los Angeles, CA June 4th, 2004 -- Actress Lacey Chabert from Paramount Picture’s #1 movie Mean Girls stars in the OTL (On Tracy Lane www.ontracylane.com ) music video “Back to Maybe”. She plays OTL lead vocalist Darryn Yates’ love interest. This is her first music video appearance, since the blockbuster movie was released on April 30th. “Back to Maybe” was shot and directed by The Film Emporium’s Joe Eckardt at Fairfield Elementary School in Van Nuys earlier this month.
Darryn Yates, OTL lead vocalist comments on his LA rock group having an actress from a #1 movie in their video, "I am honored to have Lacey in the OTL video; not only is she beautiful, but she is such an amazing talent. Her eyes and expressions tell the whole story in this video. We had so much fun and I am thrilled that her movie is doing so well! We are looking forward to the video being broadcast in major national markets and on different college & cable networks across the country.”
The song “Back to Maybe” is the advanced single of a full length album to be released independently in August. Over the past couple of weeks, OTL has seen quick increase of over 50 college radio stations across the country playing their music. Stations include KANM (Texas), KYMC (St. Louis, MO), WMUR ( Milwaukee, WI), WGDR( Plainfield, VT), UNDIE101 (Las Vegas, NV),and KGRG (Auburn, WA) with adds growing daily. The video will be released to various music stations this week.
Chabert grew up playing Claudia the youngest daughter of the Salinger Klan, in the 1990’s TV Drama Party of Five. Now 21, she plays Gretchen Weiners part of the spoiled rich teen super-snobby group called the Plastics in the Paramount Picture movie release Mean Girls.
OTL band members are Darryn Yates (lead vocals, acoustic, and electric guitar), Carrie Sebree (backing vocals), Andy (bassist), Ammo (lead guitarist), Peter Lobo (drummer), and Joe Lorigo (rhythm guitarist). OTL is scheduling a college tour for the summer. The group is performing in LA on Friday March 28th, 2004 at The Gig at 7302 Melrose Ave in Hollywood, CA and opening for Local H on Friday June 11th, 2004 at the Galaxy Theatre at 3503 South Harbor Blvd. in Santa Ana, CA. Advanced copies of the video for review or news stories can be requested at info@sumanagement.com or 310-990-1543.
The move from CA to STL is a big change of scenery. Anything you like / dislike about the music scene here compared to out west? Anything in general about the city that you find good or bad?
I grew up in Granite City so I know the STL area quite well. The big difference so far is that in southern CA the bands are competitive in a negative way. Bands, so far anyway, in STL seem to be more friendly and open to creating a buzz/scene with other bands. There are a few bands here and there that are always going to have attitude but generally speaking this is what I have found.
Give a few words about your start in the music industry. Did mom make you take a tuba lesson and it all took off, or did you sit in the subway and decide that a guitar might help you bring in some pocket change? At what point did it become a real career that you wanted to live?
My mom did force my brother and I to take up an instrument when I was about 12 or 13. If we didn't like it after 6 months we could quit. My brother started crying and hated the piano; I loved the guitar and kept going.
Lacey Chabert....SAUCY. Any offstage chats, flirting, or candlelight dinners that the cameras didn't pick up?
I sure tried. haha kidding. We actually got along great off-camera. she was in the middle of doing re-shoots for her movie Mean Girls at the time. she flew in from NY and flew back the same day. she was only in LA for 5 hours and that was to be in the On Tracy Lane debut music video. She is a sweetheart and very beautiful.
Do you ever look at the cover of your EP and think "Hey, that guy looks like Owen Wilson."? There's a bit of a similarity, I think.
Hey now! Is my nose that crooked? lol
What's in your ipod, CD player, Tape Deck, or 8-track at the moment?
I have Tupac, U2, the Kinks, and Coldplay in my cd player right now.
Opening for Avril must have been incredible. Any comments on how it feels to sing at UMB?
well when we did the opening slot it was around 630 or so and I have never sweated that much onstage before ever. But it was all for rock n roll and the experience was amazing! it was nice to sing to a sea of teenagers. great venue, sound, people, etc.
A strange question, but one I should ask for clarification: Since your name and face is all over the website and CD, is OTL basically "The Darren Yates Band" with a bunch of great random musicians behind you, or is it a bit more collaborative? Do you guys sit around and jam out new songs together or do you write them yourself?
OTL is pretty much my baby. I am all over the website only because when I was recording the CD, I was the only guy in the band! haha at this point, after doing 12 shows or so already in the St. Louis area with the full band, we will be doing a new photo shoot and you'll see very soon OTL being marketed as more of a band vibe. It's not the Darryn Yates band but then again no one else grew up On Tracy Lane. just me.
On Tracy Lane is for people who like....(insert band names right here...)
passionate bands with edgy guitars and hooks/melodies to sing.
As far as I can tell, you only have the EP out...no CDs. Why did you choose to go with the smaller release?
I could make up something, but the truth is CASH. haha we are looking and talking now to Indie labels about finishing the record. maybe your magazine can help. =)
Any upcoming CDs or videos in the mix?
OH YES. we expect to finish the debut OTL record later this year or early next year and we want to do a music video for Better Again.
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