Halfmoon Mad

No Ordinary Band.

by Wes Cash

What a beautiful collection. Halfmoon Mad has figured out how to combine bright sound with an underlying darkness. The musicianship is such a pleasure to hear in a world of drum machines and samples. These guys (and girl) have got it right. There is such a solid rhythm section held down by Max and Steve, layered with intricate guitar compositions by George the lead guitarist. And floating perfectly on top of it all are the vocals of the beautiful Joanna Stan. Rock's new femme fatal. The compositions themselves show that Halfmoon Mad is no ordinary rock band, but a band that sees the world in all its ugliness, AND all its beauty. The only thing I wish this EP had? More songs. And I can't wait until the world hears more from Halfmoon Mad.



Amazing EP

by David Charles

What a fantastic (although too short) collection of songs. This is an amazingly strong EP, and I really cannot wait to hear a full-length album from these guys. I would recommend this to fans of Alanis Morissette, Incubus, Porcupine Tree, and Eisley... it's like these bands got together and birthed Halfmoon Mad.
- Listeners

Exclusive Interview

Tell us about where you are from and how you got to this position today.
We are a Chicago-based alternative rock band and were brought together by mutual friends. We practice a lot and try to gig as much as we can.

What do you have coming up? What are some of the new projects we can expect to see?
We have a big show coming up at The Hard Rock Cafe on Saturday, November 24 with The Scissors in support of our recently EP release, Earthshine. We are also currently in the process of recording a second demo.

Tell us more about the current song you are promoting to everyone.
Long story short, a former bass player of ours was kind of an ass and was simply not who he initially portrayed himself to be. He was not who he said he was. He was a piece of shit.

How does your music separate yourself from other artists and bands out there?
We really don’t look at our music that way. It isn’t really as much about being different and separate as much as it is about being honest and creating sounds that stir our emotions. We all share a great musical connection and just let each song develop as it may. We are the mountain lions of alternative rock.

Tell us about one of the hardest challenges you had to face in the industry?
Appreciation of our sound. We have found that many people in the industry are only looking for bands that are willing to make identity changing musical sacrifices. It has been difficult to work with people who only want to manipulate your sound.

What was one of the biggest set backs in your career and how did you bounce back?
Mostly finding permanent band members who were as dedicated as the two original members, Max and Joanna. Finding people who had a similar vision for music, as well as a strong work ethic proved to be one of the most difficult setbacks. We persevered through; the only way to bounce is to just keep going, even when things really suck.

What are some things artists need to be careful of?
Shady people, particularly those who can’t deliver what they say they can. Be sure to check the legitimacy of anyone with big promises. Actually, the song we are submitting to Warped Magazine is based on one of our experiences with this situation. Also, bad weed.

What suggestions do you have for other artists like yourself?
Just keep going. Keep working. Don’t stop practicing or writing. Always strive to make honest music.

What is one of your favorite ways to promote yourself and your music?
It’s obvious that everyone uses the internet, but personally, we like to go the extra mile by also delivering all promotional material of our shows by carrier pigeon. Also, Facebook, Twitter, and Reverb Nation are pretty awesome and helpful. Full information is on our website.

Where can people visit you?
Sweet home, Chicago. We chill at Kildare Studios where we practice and all of our shows are posted on our website, halfmoonmad.com, so come hang out with us! - Warped Magazine

As an up and coming band, Halfmoon Mad sure knows how to take lead on and off stage. The beautiful and talented Joanna heads the band with her mesmerizing voice and catchy guitar riffs. Max, the band’s drummer, is not only a rising star but a very humble and funny guy.

I was able to spend the day with these guys and some of our friends in the studio while they mixed the drums at Chicago Recording Company, in downtown Chicago. Upon walking into the studio, I felt like this was really something I could get used to. After working with a good friend of mine, Rob Ruccia at Uptown Recording, I’m thankful to be able to learn about what goes into making music, something not everyone is lucky enough to experience. Recording albums can be new and exciting but like anything, it takes determination and patience to get the sound right, the essence captured and fluid rhythm.

After photographing Jo, I found myself intrigued to be in the same room with her, singing along to Max’s drum beat. Again, an experience I don’t think I could ever forget. Be on the lookout for more Halfmoon Mad as they make big steps into the Chicago music scene. - Lisa Ferch