3. 3
General Information
Band Members:
John Bajorek (Age 26) – Vocals
Joe Kashul (Age 24) – Lead Guitar
Kevin Kattner (Age 25) – Guitar/Synth/Backing Vocals
Jesse Matusek (Age 26) – Drums
Sam Tom (Age 26) – Bass/Backing Vocals
About:
Under Influenced is an unsigned punk band from Milwaukee that started in June of 2009. The band
has undergone two reformations since its start, and transitioned from a trio to a quintet. Although
its roots are deep in punk soil, the band draws influences from numerous sources in genres such
as alternative, metal, and popular rock, which is ironic considering its name. The band’s sound –
one that seeks to inspire creativity and invoke emotions – has been described as being both unique
and familiar at the same time. Under Influenced is proud to create music that encourages people
to stand up for their beliefs, be themselves, and avoid being negatively influenced by others. The
members of Under Influenced enjoy activities such as skiing, online gaming, airsoft, wiffle ball,
swimming, baseball, building forts, and playing music.
NOTE: Under Influenced is not a cover band. In general, the band’s set list is comprised entirely
of their original music. If necessary, the band will play cover songs live to extend their set list or
provide the audience with familiar music.
Musical Influences:
Under Influenced draws musical influences from bands such as Rise Against, Alexisonfire, The
Offspring, At the Drive-In, Rancid, Taking Back Sunday, and A Day to Remember.
Social Media Links:
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/underinfluencedofficial/
Myspace: http://myspace.com/underinfluenced
Twitter: http://twitter.com/UnderInfluenced
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCipda64AW1jfRtnJ6qDyJ-Q
SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/underinfluenced
Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/underinfluenced
PureVolume: http://www.purevolume.com/UnderInfluenced
4. 4
Biography
Under Influenced started in spring of 2009 as a trio (Sam, Kevin, and John), practicing and playing
mostly 90's cover songs in garages and basements alike. Eventually, the band's cover songs were
replaced by original music, and a fourth member was added to the lineup. The punk/alternative
quartet recorded a short demo of their songs later that year, and soon began to play out at regular
venues.
The band continued playing live shows in 2010, and also recorded two EP's at Cherry Pit Studios
– both were released that year. Between these two releases, however, the band lost their original
drummer, but found a replacement to keep them going strong.
Under Influenced experienced significant growth over the next two years as they racked up a large
number of live shows, including some from a short Midwest tour. The band made three return trips
to the studio during this time, recording two EP's and a single. In addition, they signed a publishing
agreement with Cherry Pit, which opened up doors for their music to be placed into TV, film, etc.
The band also received a sponsorship from Supercuts in 2012 through the "Rock the Cut"
campaign.
The year 2013 proved to be both positive and negative for the band. Although they proudly
completed the recording process of their debut, full-length album, Under Influenced's second
drummer decided to part ways with the band. For several months after the event, the group
remained dormant, and the album unreleased.
It was not until spring of 2014 that Under Influenced was able to reform by adding two new
members - Joe and Jesse. The newly reformed quintet spent most of the year practicing and
preparing for the live shows they played in the fall, but they also spent some time writing new
music as well.
Currently, Under Influenced is focusing on moving forward. They continue to write new music,
sharpen their live performance skills, and prepare for upcoming shows and recording
opportunities. The reformed band released their debut album Attunement to the Core in the spring
of 2015. In addition, the band released their debut music video, “Under This Empty House” (filmed
by Enterprise Films of Milwaukee, WI), along with a brand new EP, Adrift, in March of 2016, and
are currently executing a vigorous promotion campaign for them as well as booking shows for the
spring and summer. Specific links to the album, EP, and music video can be found below.
Finally, the band wishes to thank everyone who continuously supports them or has supported them
in the past – friends, family, and fans from all over the world. "Without all of you, Under
Influenced cannot exist. Words alone cannot express our gratitude for your support."
5. 5
Discography
Attunement to the Core [Album] – April 4, 2015
Attunement to the Core consists of twelve songs and one poem produced, engineered, mastered,
and published by Eric LaBrosse (Marashino, The Heroes Lie) at Cherry Pit Studios in Menomonee
Falls, WI. http://soundcloud.com/underinfluenced/sets/attunement-to-the-core
Purchase links:
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/album/id983022322
Interpunk: http://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=226662
Track List (link to lyrics below):
1. Blood on Concrete
2. SuperMegaUltraNatural
3. Scene Attacks on Mr. Popo
4. This is What We’re Fighting For
5. A Heartbeat is a Sound
6. Automatically Systematically
7. Song Structure on a Pedal Case
8. Shouting For Change
9. This Song Ends Very Cool
10. Holes
11. Against All Reason
12. Breaking Point
13. Edge of Conflict
https://www.dropbox.com/s/xi6fqsg8mnjxc62/Under%20Influenced%20Song%20Lyrics%20-
%20Attunement%20to%20the%20Core.pdf?dl=0
6. 6
Adrift [EP] – March 1, 2016
Adrift consists of three songs produced, engineered, mastered, and published by Eric LaBrosse at
Cherry Pit Studios in Menomonee Falls, WI. http://soundcloud.com/underinfluenced/sets/adrift
Purchase links:
iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/adrift-single/id1087721544
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01C7FWRJW/ref=dm_ws_sp_ps_dp
Track List (link to lyrics below):
1. Transistor Revolution
2. My Blood Will Be the End of You
3. Under This Empty House
https://www.dropbox.com/s/76yu5vh2c36ahac/Under%20Influenced%20Song%20Lyrics%20-
%20Adrift.pdf?dl=0
7. 7
Photos
Photo 1. Taken by Steve Miller Photography in Waukesha, WI on February 24, 2016. Band members from left to
right: Sam Tom, Joe Kashul, Jesse Matusek, John Bajorek, and Kevin Kattner.
8. 8
Photo 2. Taken by Steve Miller Photography in Waukesha, WI on February 24, 2016. Band members from left to
right: Joe Kashul, Sam Tom, Jesse Matusek, John Bajorek, and Kevin Kattner.
9. 9
Photo 3. Taken by Mika Kennedy Photography in Romeoville, IL on February 15, 2015. Band members from left to right: Sam Tom,
John Bajorek (top), Kevin Kattner (bottom), Joe Kashul, and Jesse Matusek.
10. 10
Music Video
Overview:
Under Influenced have just released their debut music video “Under This Empty House” via
BlankTV at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivv0ymd93Mo on March 1, 2016. The music
video was filmed in various parts of Waukesha County by Eddie Curran and Enterprise Films of
Milwaukee, and features one of the songs from the band’s latest EP. Special thanks go out to all
of the friends and family that were involved in the project.
About:
“Under This Empty House” tells a story from the perspective of two people who were previously
in some sort of relationship. Although the song was written in such a way that this relationship
was a loving one, the ideas expressed in the lyrics could also be interpreted for relationships
between friends, family members, coworkers, etc. The person who tarnished the relationship is
forced to live with the burning guilt inside them because of their ignorance, carelessness, and lack
of admiration towards the other. The hurt or abused person constantly has thoughts running
through their head about making a break for it – they argue over their own ideas suggesting there
is something better for them elsewhere. Eventually, the mistreated person builds up enough
confidence to say, “I will not tolerate this anymore,” and makes a positive change in their life.
Photo 4. Music video still-shot taken by Eddie Curran of Enterprise Films for the social media “thumbnail.” Photo
contains John Bajorek (center) and other Under Influenced band members (background).
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Recollection of Filming Process:
“Since this was our first music video, the most memorable part of it was probably the setup. We
decided to film the video in our guitarist’s house, which we normally practice in, as well as our
drummer’s pole shed. Both locations required extensive overhauling to create a backdrop for the
shots of the band members, relationship scenarios, and mock live show. We wanted to create
scenes that sort of embodied the setting of the song in addition to the mood, and the old style cellar,
kitchen, and great room of the house made that possible. Consequently, we probably won’t feel
excited about moving a lot of furniture around again anytime soon.
The pole shed was most definitely the coolest place for us to film the mock live show. We had to
relocate a lot of agricultural equipment, lumber, and other odds and ends to make enough room for
the band and crowd, but it gave the music video an extremely interesting background. If one looks
carefully, they can see huge iron chains, a flag, a “FOR SALE” sign, a fishing net, and much more.
It’s like the perfect place to play a game of “I spy!” Creating the music video was an incredible
experience overall, but we will most likely film the next one when it’s not so cold outside.”
Account written by John Bajorek of Under Influenced on February 23, 2016 – Milwaukee, WI
12. 12
Press
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MILWAUKEE’S UNDER INFLUENCED RELEASES DEBUT MUSIC VIDEO
Milwaukee’s up and coming Alternative/Punk Rock Band, Under Influenced, have just
independently released their debut music video “Under This Empty House” as well as a brand new
EP, Adrift – the band is unsigned. The music video was filmed in various parts of Waukesha
County by Eddie Curran and Enterprise Films of Milwaukee, and features one of the songs from
the band’s new EP. Adrift consists of three songs produced and engineered by Eric LaBrosse
(Marashino, The Heroes Lie) at Cherry Pit Studios in Menomonee Falls, WI. Although its roots
are deep in punk soil, the band draws influences from numerous sources (Rise Against,
Alexisonfire, The Offspring, A Day To Remember) in genres such as alternative, metal, and
popular rock, which is ironic considering its name. The band’s sound – one that seeks to inspire
creativity and invoke emotions – has been described as being both unique and familiar at the same
time. Under Influenced is proud to create music that encourages people to stand up for their beliefs,
be themselves, and avoid being negatively influenced by others. Preceding the release of their new
EP, the band has received airplay on FM 102.1 WLUM Milwaukee, been featured by APM Music,
had song placements in Mitsubishi advertisements, and received spins on MLB Network.
The music video’s world premiere is currently being featured exclusively by BlankTV at
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivv0ymd93Mo. In addition, the band’s music can be purchased
from their distributor, Interpunk, at http://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=226662
(hardcopy), digitally in stores such as iTunes (http://itunes.apple.com/album/id1087721544), and
locally in the greater Milwaukee area. Be sure to keep up to date with this explosive quintet through
their Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/underinfluencedofficial.
For more info, a promo request, or to set up an interview, please contact John Bajorek.
###
Press release issued by John Bajorek of Under Influenced, published by CW Ross of CW’s Place Blog on March 21,
2016 – Milwaukee, WI
While Milwaukee is becoming known for its indie and hip hop scenes, as well as the local DJ
community, it’s often overlooked that there is a thriving punk scene, too. There are great bands
crafting undeniably great songs, and another one from Under Influenced has gotten the visual
treatment. The video for “Under This Empty House” is incredibly well shot, and credit goes to
director Eddie Curran and the Enterprise Films crew. That is, however, not to discredit the song,
as well, which is as aggressive yet catchy as you would expect a great punk song to be. The track
comes from the band’s Adrift EP, which was recently released, as well. Check out the video, and
get familiar with the name Under Influenced.
Article written by Allen Halas of Breaking and Entering Media on March 1, 2016 – Milwaukee, WI
13. 13
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MILWAUKEE’S UNDER INFLUENCED RELEASES DEBUT ALBUM
Milwaukee’s up and coming Alternative, Punk Rock Band Under Influenced have just released
their debut, full-length album Attunement to the Core independently – the band is unsigned. The
album, consisting of twelve songs and one bonus track (poem), was produced and engineered by
Eric LaBrosse (Marashino, The Heroes Lie) at Cherry Pit Studios in Menomonee Falls, WI.
Although its roots are deep in punk soil, the band draws influences from numerous sources (Rise
Against, Alexisonfire, The Offspring, A Day to Remember) in genres such as alternative, metal,
and popular rock, which is ironic considering its name. The band’s sound – one that seeks to inspire
creativity and invoke emotions – has been described as being both unique and familiar at the same
time. Under Influenced is proud to create music that encourages people to stand up for their beliefs,
be themselves, and avoid being negatively influenced by others. Their song
“SuperMegaUltraNatural” has received frequent airplay on FM 102.1 WLUM Milwaukee, and
“Blood on Concrete” has been featured by APM Music.
The record is now available for purchase through Under Influenced’s distributor Interpunk at
http://www.interpunk.com/item.cfm?Item=226662 (hardcopy), digitally in stores such as iTunes
(https://itunes.apple.com/album/id983022322), and locally in the greater Milwaukee area. Under
Influenced recorded a follow-up EP in July, and planned several live shows for the remainder of
the year in support of their new release. The band is also in the process of filming a music video
for their latest EP. To keep up to date with this explosive quintet, check out their social media at
https://www.facebook.com/underinfluencedofficial and https://twitter.com/underinfluenced.
For more info, promo request, or to set up an interview, please contact John Bajorek (above).
###
Press release issued by John Bajorek of Under Influenced, published by CW Ross of CW’s Place Blog on July 20,
2015 – Milwaukee, WI
This week’s Milwaukee Artist of the Week is Under Influenced, a ball of energy in the form of an
alternative/punk quartet. Forming in 2009, the band started by playing mostly covers. Over time,
they began writing original tunes, and eventually cut some homemade recordings, and later a demo
at Cherry Pit Studios, which they now signed a publishing deal with. The band bounced around
for a while, playing house parties and other small shows, until their first official show, opening for
The Used at The Rave in 2010. Since then, they’ve racked up close to 100 shows under their belts,
lost and found a drummer, and released an EP with their full length debut on the way. They also
have a sponsorship from Supercuts, which I can honestly say is a first for this blog, but it gives the
band national exposure.
Musically, Under Influenced is ready for the national attention. It’s ironic that The Used was their
first opening gig, because you can pick up traces of influences from them in Under Influenced’s
sound. There’s also a hint of The Offspring in their sound, as well as punk legends The
Descendents, and a host of other bands. Under Influenced has a broad set of musical influences,
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though, as evidenced by their demo title, We Could Call It Anything, which the band says was
based on how their sound was “all over the place.” Their latest release, Attunement to the Core,
will be out on Blank Face Records in the near future. Check out an earlier video of them here, and
stream some new songs from Attunement to the Core on Reverbnation.
Article written by Allen Halas of Breaking and Entering Media on November 1, 2013 – Milwaukee, WI
15. 15
Contact
For all types of inquiries, please contact John Bajorek via the information below:
John Bajorek
1223 South 23rd
Street, Suite 210
Milwaukee, WI 53204
(414) 303-6787
underinfluencedband@gmail.com
@MangsliceUI (Twitter)
Thank you very much for your consideration of Under Influenced – we look forward to
speaking with you soon!
