ClassX

Pages 40-42

Image Title: “Hey, Hey, Hey...Only Human”

Image Caption: “Matt Demers plays rhythm guitar and sings; Josh Demers (Matt’s cousin) is the leader vocalist; Eric Hoffmann is on bass; Matt Evola plays drums and Amedeo Falconio is the lead guitarist; together they are: ClassX.”

Article Title: “ClassX”

Sub Title: “These five young men, all originally from Lasalle are quickly gaining prominence in the Canadian music industry with their fresh sounds and originality.”

Article Text: “In July of last year their music video on YouTube’s GongShow Hockey, featuring their song “Live What You Love” was the most viewed sports video in the country. And, along with another popular song, “Young & Reckless” which was featured on Much Music, the band has sold over 2300 copies of these two songs on iTunes. They were on stage at last year’s Beaverfest; they played at this year’s Strawberryfest and will be in Grantford this June playing at Hockeyfest.
As their name suggests, ClassX are in a class of their own. It is difficult to categorize their music because while their sound is familiar and leads to comparisons it is at the same time noticeable different and vibrantly distinctive: a blend of contemporary genres rooted in tock ‘n roll but not branded by any one style.

“We have a great appreciation for all kinds of music,” said Matt Demers, “but certainly we have been influenced by classic rock n roll music such as Led Zepplin.” Added with the raucous guitar sounds of grunge, with morsels of pop, hip-hop and rap, the band’s contemporary sound blurs the lines of musical styles to create a unique and memorable sound.
There is great enthusiasm in their music. There is quick rhythm and tempo, clean breaks and changes and the guitar work, drumming and vocals flow well together.

The band has been together now for two years, born from a merger of members from previous bands who’s creativity was stymied by the lack of a unified direction.

“We now have a good chemistry between us and a collective will to produce the kind of music we have great passion for,” said Matt. “Sure we still have arguments and disagreements but we are all dedicated to a common interest and we all recognize that our success if dependent on all of us participating in the creative process.” Unlike the times when bands floundered in obscurity because they were not under contract to a major music label, “ClassX has been gaining popularity and exposure by independently producing and recording their own music.

Included in volume 1 is a sure-to-be favourite, “Only Human” a foot-tapping, hip swaying rock song that will have people dancing on their feet.

“We focus on releasing singles for iTunes and producing four-track discs,” explained Matt. “we are currently working on a two volume set, the first four-song track will be release in July while volume 2 will be released soon after.” The band will also be shooting a new music video sometime in July while currently fans can watch their “New Ritual” video on YouTube which undoubtably will raise the question: there did they get the kangaroo?

ClassX is the new generation of rock n roll but their appeal will gratify even the old rock n rollers (like me) who want to feel the flow of the music and hear every part of the song: the guitar riffs; the twanging bass; the rolling drums and dynamic vocals. Most of all, it is the kind of music that leaves the listener wanting more and the desire to hear the songs again and again. True, these five young men, all in their early twenties are only human, but the composition and execution of their music borders the line of extraordinary. Hey, Hey, Hey!”

- The Drive Magazine

Pages 40-42

Image Title: “Hey, Hey, Hey...Only Human”

Image Caption: “Matt Demers plays rhythm guitar and sings; Josh Demers (Matt’s cousin) is the leader vocalist; Eric Hoffmann is on bass; Matt Evola plays drums and Amedeo Falconio is the lead guitarist; together they are: ClassX.”

Article Title: “ClassX”

Sub Title: “These five young men, all originally from Lasalle are quickly gaining prominence in the Canadian music industry with their fresh sounds and originality.”

Article Text: “In July of last year their music video on YouTube’s GongShow Hockey, featuring their song “Live What You Love” was the most viewed sports video in the country. And, along with another popular song, “Young & Reckless” which was featured on Much Music, the band has sold over 2300 copies of these two songs on iTunes. They were on stage at last year’s Beaverfest; they played at this year’s Strawberryfest and will be in Grantford this June playing at Hockeyfest.
As their name suggests, ClassX are in a class of their own. It is difficult to categorize their music because while their sound is familiar and leads to comparisons it is at the same time noticeable different and vibrantly distinctive: a blend of contemporary genres rooted in tock ‘n roll but not branded by any one style.

“We have a great appreciation for all kinds of music,” said Matt Demers, “but certainly we have been influenced by classic rock n roll music such as Led Zepplin.” Added with the raucous guitar sounds of grunge, with morsels of pop, hip-hop and rap, the band’s contemporary sound blurs the lines of musical styles to create a unique and memorable sound.
There is great enthusiasm in their music. There is quick rhythm and tempo, clean breaks and changes and the guitar work, drumming and vocals flow well together.

The band has been together now for two years, born from a merger of members from previous bands who’s creativity was stymied by the lack of a unified direction.

“We now have a good chemistry between us and a collective will to produce the kind of music we have great passion for,” said Matt. “Sure we still have arguments and disagreements but we are all dedicated to a common interest and we all recognize that our success if dependent on all of us participating in the creative process.” Unlike the times when bands floundered in obscurity because they were not under contract to a major music label, “ClassX has been gaining popularity and exposure by independently producing and recording their own music.

Included in volume 1 is a sure-to-be favourite, “Only Human” a foot-tapping, hip swaying rock song that will have people dancing on their feet.

“We focus on releasing singles for iTunes and producing four-track discs,” explained Matt. “we are currently working on a two volume set, the first four-song track will be release in July while volume 2 will be released soon after.” The band will also be shooting a new music video sometime in July while currently fans can watch their “New Ritual” video on YouTube which undoubtably will raise the question: there did they get the kangaroo?

ClassX is the new generation of rock n roll but their appeal will gratify even the old rock n rollers (like me) who want to feel the flow of the music and hear every part of the song: the guitar riffs; the twanging bass; the rolling drums and dynamic vocals. Most of all, it is the kind of music that leaves the listener wanting more and the desire to hear the songs again and again. True, these five young men, all in their early twenties are only human, but the composition and execution of their music borders the line of extraordinary. Hey, Hey, Hey!”

- The Drive Magazine

Mobile Artist (Season 1) Finalist - EMI - Knox Pearson

Cover mention: "Rockin' the World: A Windsor band gets a big break"

Pages 74-75: "A RELATIVELY NEW WINDSOR alternative rock group is on the verge of an international breakthrough.

Formed only about 4 years ago by the amalgamation of two different bands, ClassX is under contract to an up-and-coming record label meaning that its new CD will have a world-wide release, likely before Christmas.

Little more than a year ago, the group was in a Canada-wide competition in Toronto where the winner would berth on the renowned EMI label. ClassX narrowly missed a victory, but finished in the top 3. Also, the guys have played with national starts including Tea Party, Ill Scarlet, Default and Crash Karma and will be releasing a new music video in the near future. ClassX has also enjoyed its share of radio exposure on 100.7 The Rock, 89X and 96.7 locally, along with some airplay on popular Toronto rock stations.

In addition to numerous appearances at downtown establishments and gigs at the Strawberry Festival, the Tecumseh Cornfest, Beaverfest and the University of Windsor Lancers tailgate parties, ClassX has opened for Bleaker Ridge at the Sandwichtown fest and produced two CDS. The first, a 6-song disc is titled ‘Live What You Love’ and was released about 3 years ago. Some 18 months later, a 4-tune EP ‘ClassX Volume 1’ came out. Both are still available and can be heard on iTunes.

The music of ClassX is aimed primarily at the 20 to 35 age group and is described by drummer Matt Evola as “pop, alternative rock” that’s fairly experimental. The group has been influenced by bands with diverse styles.....groups like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Oasis and Incubus and classic groups like the Rolling Stones, Rush and Pink Floyd.

The five members of ClassX are all from Windsor. The lead singer is Josh Demers. His cousin Matt Demers plays rhythm guitar and contributes to the vocals, Amedeo Falconio is on lead guitar, Eric Hoffmann plays the bass, while Matt Evola is on drums. All five contribute to the writing of their music and each is working diligently toward a full-time career in music.

Just recently, after signing a licensing agreement that allows its music to be used in movies, tv shows, and commercials, ClassX was brought to the attention of Holier Than Thou Records/Respectable Artist Records based in the United Kingdom. After a short negotiation, the local group signed a contract with the label that will distribute the band’s music around the globe and while it doesn’t necessarily mean band members have to move to England, the contract certainly opens the door for potential European tours. Needless to say, the guys are ecstatic about their good fortune.

The band’s first global release on the new label, expected toward the end of this year, will be ‘Time Well Wasted’, a full-length CD of original music. Nearly a year in the works, it was recorded and mastered at Martin Bak’s popular SLR Studios in Windsor. Band members already have the disc in hand and have begun selling copies in two appearances so far this month...one at the Horseshoe Tavern in Toronto, and the second at the Windsor release party at the downtown Loop. ‘Something to Look Forward To’, one of the songs from the album should be available for radio play later this month.

‘Time Well Wasted’ features a mix of musical genres, although listeners can readily identify it as being performed by one band. As Matt Evola explains, “it’s got some poppier songs, it has some heavier songs, some grungier stuff. We don’t want to box ourselves into just one thing and we’re bringing everything possible to the table, but making sure it all blends properly and all makes sense.”

At the moment, ClassX is in the process of finishing a music video from the new album, but mostly the guys are playing the “waiting game ..... waiting for the release of their new album and the opportunity to show the rest of the world what amazing musical talent comes from the city of Windsor."
- Windsor Life Magazine

If you are unfamiliar with Canadian Music Week, it is a 5 day conference/showcase which features over 900 musical acts. Also during this time, they induct the latest person into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. This year the honour is going to Daniel Lanois, a talented solo artist and producer. He produced many of U2’s albums, along with Neil Young, Bob Dylan and Peter Gabriel. Check him out here.

CMW spans a five-day period from March 21 to 25 at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel and various downtown Toronto venues… and it pretty prestigious. Only 4 bands were accepted to play from Windsor! Those bands are the unquiet dead, The Blue Stones, ClassX and Perpetuate.

This week I will have ClassX in studio to talk about CMW, their name change, and when we can expect new music!

Make sure you tune in Sunday @ 6p!

And for more info on Canadian Music Week, check out cmv.net - 95.1/100.7FM Canadas Rock

Taking place in Toronto and kicking off today, Canadian Music Week is an event in it’s thirtieth year, one that focuses on the music business. In addition to a trade expo and conferences, there is also a five night, sixty venue, nine hundred band showcase, known as Canadian Music Fest.

Although nine hundred bands sounds like a lot, out of the thousands of applicants who look to play, the number selected to do so is quite small. Which makes it all the more exciting when four local bands are given the opportunity to showcase what Windsor has to offer. The delegates from our city span the wide range of genres that can be found in our basements, bars, and clubs.

Carrying the baton for alternative rock will be ClassX, a band that you might know as The Classix. These guys always put on an entertaining show, and their upbeat tunes that pull from 90's and modern radio music gets feet moving as audiences are swept up in their catchy and energetic music.

ClassX will be playing The Hard Rock Cafe (279 Yonge St.) on Friday, March 23rd at 7:00 pm for the Supernova Showcase. - WindsoriteDotCA

Three bands and a world of difference.

A showcase Tues-day at Villains Beastro brought out some of the best of the new crop of rock bands in Windsor.

The intimate grill on Pelissier Street was treated to some blistering blues-rock in The White Stripes vein by The Blue Stones, an intriguing blend of acoustic styles by The Unquiet Dead, and a blast from the not too-distant past by ClassX.

The event was organized by The Unquiet Dead's Jamie Greer, and celebrated each band's trip to Toronto's Canadian Music Week festivities in the coming days.

In fact, ClassX could be on the verge of stardom. The five member pop-rock outfit that takes its cue from the music of the 1990s made to the final three in CMW's cross-country search for Canada's best unsigned act.

They will perform a showcase in front of record company execs in Toronto on Friday, and could come back with a recording deal.

"We're really pumped about it," said guitarist Matt Demers.

The band was chosen from among 10 groups which played for EMI Canada representatives last week. Earlier, they'd earned the right to head to Toronto by winning the Road to CMW contest at Windsor's Dominion House Tavern in January.

ClassX, which is a contraction of the band's original name, Classix, has already enjoyed some national attention. Its video for Young and Restless made it into regular rotation on MuchMusic in 2009, and their music was used on The NHL Network's sports feature program, Gong Show Hockey Shacks.

ClassX's four-song sampler CD will be out in early summer. - Windsor Star

Three local bands took the stage at Villains Beastro last night as part of a preview showcase concert for the prestigious Canadian Music Week that is being held in Toronto this week. All three bands – The Blue Stones, The Unquiet Dead and The ClassiX – are gearing up to play the music festival, hosted by the Hard Rock Cafe on Yonge Street.

The final band to hit the stage was The ClassX who brought with them a phenomenal energy, crisp melodies and an electrifying sound. The ClassX features Josh Demers as lead vocalist, Matt Demers on guitar and vocals, Eric Hoffmann on bass, Amedeo Falconio on lead guitar and Matt Evola on drums. The band plays an assortment of genres but are categorized under rock/experimental.

“Everyone in the band is influenced by different musicians, which kind of helps keep things sort of spontaneous and fresh,” said Demers.

“We were two separate bands at one time and kind of merged forces. We started jamming together and realized there was more chemistry with all of us together than there was in our two bands.”

The band was given news just prior to hitting the stage that they had made the final three in an EMI Music competition that started a year ago with roughly 4,000 bands. The winner will receive a record deal with EMI and will be announced on Friday at Canadian Music Week.

The music scene in Windsor is definitely picking up speed, but there is a lack of interest in local bands from those outside of their immediate fan base. “Friends and family they are very supportive,” said Matt Evola when asked about the Windsor music scene.

“There’s not a whole lot of people that come out to a live music event where they don’t know the band playing,” added Demers.

“There’s lots of potential for the Windsor music scene, but it’s just not where it should be,” said Evola. - OurWindsor

Windsor's ClassX recently shortened their name from The Classix, and were formed from the merger of a couple of local bands - The After Party (later The Classix) and Run Home Jack.

Guitarist Matt Demers, 24, said the name grew out of the members' love of 1970s classic rock and the pop-rock music of their youth in the 1990s.

"It's sort of a mixture of Third Eye Blind, Fuel, and guitar music of the '70s, like Led Zeppelin and (Eric) Clapton," Demers said.

Members include Demers's younger brother Josh on rhythm guitar, Eric Hoffmann on bass, Amedeo Falconio on lead guitar, and Matt Evola on drums.

Demers has known Falconio and Evola, who were in Run Home Jack, since high school.

"I was getting tips from Amedeo on how to improve my guitar playing," said Demers. "Then we just decided to join our two bands into one."

The band plays mostly originals and occasionally cover songs. Using the name Classix, the band had some early success in 2009 when their video Young and Restless went into rotation on MuchMusic.

Classix recordings also accompanied a pair of filmed reports on The NHL Network's Gong Show Hockey Shacks, a series that shows off the expensive homes of NHL players.

As ClassX - a contraction of the name in order to avoid confusion with other bands called Classix - Demers and his bandmates won the Road to CMW contest last Friday at the DH, and secured a spot on a Canadian Music Week showcase March 21 at Toronto's Hard Rock Café. CMW is partly sponsored by the country's recording industry.

Demers said a CD, recorded at Windsor's SLR Studios, is in the works for an early-summer release.

ClassX recently signed with local management company, Ian France & Associates. Upcoming shows are Feb. 17 at The Room and Feb. 25 at Dominion House. - The Windsor Star

,” a feel-good track that gets you pumped up – the sort of song you’d play while getting ready for a night out. The chorus is catchy, but not as much as the “na na na na na’s” that have been stuck in my head all day" written about "Girl Like You"

"With this track it’s not the vocals that lodge themselves in my brain, but a lovely guitar riff that my mind decides to put on repeat." - written about "Be Somebody"

"it’s the bass line and it’s tone that really catches my ear, bouncing along all nice and funky, a nice addition of low end without being too deep." - written about "Young & Reckless" - Lauren Hedges, CJAM 99.1 FM Radio Host

,” a feel-good track that gets you pumped up – the sort of song you’d play while getting ready for a night out. The chorus is catchy, but not as much as the “na na na na na’s” that have been stuck in my head all day" written about "Girl Like You"

"With this track it’s not the vocals that lodge themselves in my brain, but a lovely guitar riff that my mind decides to put on repeat." - written about "Be Somebody"

"it’s the bass line and it’s tone that really catches my ear, bouncing along all nice and funky, a nice addition of low end without being too deep." - written about "Young & Reckless" - Lauren Hedges, CJAM 99.1 FM Radio Host

"Super, super good live, they are one of the best bands I've ever seen locally" - live on air March 2009
(About The Classix, formerly known as The Afterparty)

- Audio clip available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9U2zoi7LHQ -- Radio commentary begins at 4:00 mins. - Mark McKenzie, 89X Radio (88.7 FM Radio)

"Super, super good live, they are one of the best bands I've ever seen locally" - live on air March 2009
(About The Classix, formerly known as The Afterparty)

- Audio clip available at: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9U2zoi7LHQ -- Radio commentary begins at 4:00 mins. - Mark McKenzie, 89X Radio (88.7 FM Radio)

"Opening with a megaphone, it was a party as soon as they came on stage, and that never really stopped. The crowd bobbed and danced as the band rocked through songs that fused rock, pop, punk, and 90s easy listening." - Lauren Hedges, CJAM 99.1 FM Radio Host

"Opening with a megaphone, it was a party as soon as they came on stage, and that never really stopped. The crowd bobbed and danced as the band rocked through songs that fused rock, pop, punk, and 90s easy listening." - Lauren Hedges, CJAM 99.1 FM Radio Host