Chinese Happy
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| Chinese Happy | |
|---|---|
| Country | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Years active | 2003 – Present |
| Genres | Punk Rock |
| Labels | Unsigned |
| Members | Michael Fiedler Vance Puchalski Aaron Zdroik Jason Fiedler |
Chinese Happy is a pop-punk / alternative rock group hailing from Detroit, MI which consists of Michael Fiedler (vocals, guitar), Vance Puchalski (guitar, vocals), Aaron Zdroik (bass) and Jason Fiedler (drums). The band has thus far chosen to embrace the DIY punk ethic of independently recording, promoting and touring. They have released one e.p., one full length record and toured in support of these releases.
Contents |
[edit] History
Previous incarnations of Chinese Happy date back to 1998, but the band didn't truly find its footing until the release of 2003's "Apathy is worse than Hatred". While primarily a collection of three chord punk songs, this six song e.p. showcased other diverse elements ranging from folk rock to post-hardcore. Some opined that it was perhaps too much of a hodge-podge, but nonetheless "Apathy.." received praise through various internet music channels, as well as nationally distributed publications such as Punk Planet, who proclaimed that "Chinese Happy is an incredibly energetic and surprisingly original band that won me over instantly". The track "Plush Iron Bonds" received moderate rotation on XM Satellite Radio. After playing upwards of 150 shows in support of "Apathy..", the band started work on their full length album "Rampage" which saw an early 2006 release. They are currently touring in support of "Rampage".
[edit] Lyrical Themes
While the band as a whole does not identify with one religion, political party, social movement or subculture, their lyrics have at times dealt with social issues such as substance abuse, feminism, freedom of speech, racial tolerance, and gay/lesbian rights. One of the more obvious examples being a track from "Rampage" called "Stick it to 'em" which criticizes the implementation of the USA Patriot Act.
[edit] Street Art
The band has expressed a fondness for street art and in the past has encouraged fans to use such tactics to help spread their message. One such campaign involved the hanging of bed sheets emblazoned with the bands name and esoteric messages in various public spaces. While they wholeheartedly embrace the DIY ethic, the band has not ruled out the possibility of future support by a label.
[edit] Discography
- Apathy is worse than Hatred, e.p. - 2003, Self Released
- Rampage - 2006, Self Released
[edit] Trivia
- The band escaped serious injury in 2004 when their tour van caught fire and was destroyed.
- "Apathy is worse than Hatred" contains hidden bonus tracks including a cover of the song "Everchanging" by the band Rise Against and seven minutes of the band hitting each other with wiffleball bats.
- The album artwork for "Rampage" appears to have been inspired by the 1986 video game of the same name.
[edit] External links
- Chinese Happy -official website.
