The Fold

From a rather complicated tangle of events, and by a sometimes dark and winding road, The Fold have managed to not only survive the rough times, but to make the best of them. Their upcoming sophomore album, Secrets Keep You Sick, is evidence of the band’s ability to channel their experiences into powerful, infectious songs. Produced by Zack Odom and Kenneth Mount (Cartel), and slated for release on Tooth & Nail, the eleven tracks stand as a sincere soundtrack to the last couple years of their lives, and an open invitation to the rest of the world to share the experience.

While the road leading up to Secrets proved to be very difficult at times * from the band’s history to personal tragedy (Daniel’s mother passed away just months before the band went into the studio) – The Fold found a way to turn the obstacles they encountered into an album full of addictive songs that blend elements of Pop, Rock, Punk, and a little Soul. “We started off with the intention of writing a Pop album but… things change” says singer/songwriter Daniel Castady. Energetic and impassioned, Secrets Keep You Sick slides effortlessly between themes of hope and encouragement – and the occasional spur to get up and enjoy the life you’ve been given. “A lot of my lyrics are influenced by the world around me,” says Castady, “overheard conversations and just the way people interact with each other can be catalysts for ideas, and everything flows from there.” The result of such observations has led to an album full of songs that, years from now, should bring up memories both inspired and inspiring.

After finally settling on a lineup (Daniel Castady - vocals and rhythm guitar; Aaron Green - lead guitar; Keith Mochel - bass/backing vocals; Mark Rhoades – drums) and building a loyal following in their hometown of Chicago, the band released their Tooth & Nail Records debut, This Too Shall Pass in 2006, a very strong first effort featuring finely crafted songs like “Gravity” and “the Title Track”. As a result of some relentless touring - and an excellent live show to prove it – the album went on to set the stage by selling 15,000 copies, revealing just a small portion of what was to come. Now with new songs, packaged and radio-ready, The Fold is ready for the next level. With a touring schedule that has carried them through 46 of the 50 states - and counting * the band has developed into something of a family, and as a result the music has grown immeasurably.

Drawing influences from Sunny Day Real Estate to the Fountains of Wayne, and lyrical cues from greats like Elvis Costello and Billy Joel, the band has formed a charged yet graceful blend of timeless music. Secrets Keep You Sick is full of unforgettable, magnetic songs – from the rousing chorus of “Medicine” to the bright hope of “New Skeptic,” and balanced by the unfailing sincerity of “Hey Rebekah.” Each song on this album finds a way to remain with the listener long after the music is over – often in the form of a melody that simply cannot be shaken, but nearly as often by the resonance of Daniel’s lyrics, which delve deep into themes of love, loss, reminiscence, and the fact that we as people can often be our own worst enemies. With a band so adept at finding hope regardless of circumstances, this should come as no surprise.

In May of 2007, it will be no Secret to the Rock world that The Fold has arrived, poised to achieve greatness. The band’s musical prowess and melodic maturity combine to make perfectly crafted music, full of undeniable hooks and passionate lyrics. “These songs are about letting things out,” says Castady, “sometimes sharing your self and your struggles is the only way to move on.” Secrets Keep You Sick reveals a group quite capable of making something beautiful of life – and finding a way to encourage the rest of the world to do the same.

“Put your favorite record on!”

– “Medicine” from The Fold’s SKYS

Get it HERE!

mae, far, jimmy eat world, sunny day real estate