Won’t Let Go – Fight the Quiet Won’t Let Go – Fight the Quiet

Sway – Fight the Quiet Sway – Fight the Quiet

Flagstaff, Arizona, population just over 60,000, is usually only known for Snowbowl, a great alpine ski resort, and Northern Arizona University, the smallest of the three state universities (and the one with the most redneck mascot: the Lumberjacks). The indie pop rock foursome called Fight the Quiet, however, was born and raised in Flagstaff, and just released a dynamic new album called Let Me In a few weeks ago.  Currently touring the Southwest and Pacific Northwest, Fight the Quiet will make its way back to their home state on April 9^th for a CD release party at Martini Ranch in Scottsdale, one of the best venues in the valley to catch the latest music, dance and drink the night away. They will go on to perform the next night at 9 at O’Malleys on Fourth in Tucson.

With eyes and a voice like Nathan James (real last name Dohse), it’s no wonder this group is attracting fans all over the country. James sings alongside his older brother, bassist Timothy Dohse, and word has it he changed names to have his own identity in the band and avoid the bro-drama they had dealt with for years.  Drummer Brock Lefferts and lead guitarist Christopher Wargo pair up for a combination of intricate, cymbal-heavy percussion sequences and Stevie Ray Vaughan-style guitar riffs.

Won’t Let Go starts off slow with the solemn lyrics of James, but Lefferts quickly picks it up with a little snare and the help of some power chords. It has a more modern sound to it with high-pitched vocals and a retro synth. On the other hand, Sway begins of with a punk beat and some in-your-face lyrics and guitar solos. These guys definitely have some classic rock roots, and they’re not afraid to produce a song that would remind any rock fan of the wonderful days of Aerosmith and George Thorogood.

The most important element in music is songwriting, and Fight the Quiet certainly has it down. With a youthful, fresh sound, I’m not surprised to hear the group has already had songs featured on MTV and performed at SXSW multiple times. Let Me In is one of the best pop rock albums I’ve heard in awhile, so f you’re in the Phoenix area, check out their upcoming show at Martini Ranch to see just how versatile and talented they are.