Menlo

An indie rock quartet that pumps out melodic hard rock with a definite stylish approach, Menlo formed in the spring of 2001 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Consisting of vocalist/guitarist Gregory Borden, bassist Derrick Wrobleski, guitarist Tom Geibel, and drummer Joe Kirschling, the band derived their name from the street that Borden lived on when they formed. Starting with an EP only one month into their existence, the group moved ahead much quicker than most of their contemporaries. The EP spread their name around Milwaukee and made them one of the more respected artists coming out of the scene. Experimenting more with electronic flourishes and upping their promotional skills, the band caught the attention of Chicago producer Keith Cleversley. Known for his work with bands like Mercury Rev and the Flaming Lips, Cleversley applied his lush sonics to a seven day recording session with the band. More eclectic and experimental than anything thought possible from the Wisconsin foursome, The Stars Are Held By Strings arrived in the summer of 2002 to widespread critical praise and newfound attention from the mainstream press.