Flatfoot 56

Formed:: We're not sure when - tell us? (it's easy)
Snapshot:: A Group with 5 releases. No members known.

Hailing from one of punk rock's most traditionally rooted cities, Chicago's FLATFOOT 56 proudly presents their latest full-length Black Thorn on the eve of the band's 10th year anniversary. Produced by the Street Dogs' Johnny Rioux, these 13 tracks showcase Flatfoot 56's working class ethic, anthemic street punk sensibilities and traditional celtic instrumentation . These guys live on the road and own every stage they play.

Led by spirited front man Tobin Bawinkel (Vocals/Guitar), along with brothers Justin (Drums), and Kyle (Bass), and multi-instrumentalist Eric McMahon (Bagpipes/Mandolin), FLATFOOT 56 is fueled by a sense of camaraderie that directly translates to their die-hard fans and highly energetic live shows.

The forthcoming new album, Black Thorn, tightly packs the quartet's eclectic and driving musical charge into thirteen tracks that celebrate the pride of the working class and their Chicago roots. A collection of songs that delves into weighty thematic content, Tobin explains that the cohesive theme of Black Thorn is a fundamentally universal one. “Everyone goes through hardships, but you aren't alone. Punk rock is about community and brotherhood. This record is our contribution to that.” As cathartic as it is ambitious, Black Thorn is an emphatic assault that remains vintage Flatfoot in its effortless combination of Celtic instrumentation and street corner punk rock. Bagpipes and mandolins remain just as vital as drums and guitars in defining Flatfoot's sound.

Already building momentum for 2010, Flatfoot 56 has been confirmed for a supporting run on this summer's Vans Warped Tour. Starting July 11th and ending August 2nd, the run will include a hometown performance in Chicago that will prove momentous for the Windy City natives. In March, the band will celebrate the release of Black Thorn with release parties in multiple cities including the Stomp Records 15th anniversary parties in Toronto and Montreal. . Consistent with the band's unequivocal work ethic, loads of tour dates are currently being mapped in support of the band's Black Thorn release