Funky Rockin' Beats with a Side of Jazz

Jimmy Rae
The Franchize and Twin Cats came to Spin Nightclub March 17 and freakin' jammed out on St. Patty's Day! The Franchize represent Indianapolis, IN and they are made up of six members: Ian Titus (bass guitar), Ryan Russell (lead guitar), Nate Davis (vocals, emcee), Mark Steele/Unorthodox (DJ), Mark Davis (drums) and George Mallers (keys/guitar). The group blends the sounds of hip-hop, rock, funk and soul and has been recognized as one of the hottest acts in Indy. The Franchize are also highly recognized in the Chicago area along with other spots in the Midwest. Their mixing of hip-hop, classic rock and Motown hits has won over big crowds. Their 2005 debut album, Mergerz & Acuisitionz, includes 14 catchy hooks and two other tracks worth mentioning are: "Birthday" and "Traded It All".

The Franchize have been playing for years and have had the opportunity to play alongside: Bone Thugs 'n' Harmony, Rhymefest, Fuel, Jojo, Avant, Nappy Roots, Nikka Costa, Frickin A and more. The band's musical influences include: Jay-Z, Life, AC/DC, Outkast, Aerosmith, Bob Dylan, Beastie Boys, Marvin Gaye, Rage Against The Machine, Sting, Jimi Hendrix and many more. This diverse taste of music and musical genres is what makes The Franchize so special, as a band. The Franchize are keepin' the rock and rap combo alive with a fresh and unique sound.

Next up are The Twin Cats who jazzed things up a bit with their funky sound. The Twin Cats are a Jazz/Funk band out of Indy also and have been playing since '98. The band is made up of: Seth Catron (guitar & vocals), Adam Catron (drums & vocals), Cameron Reel (bass & vocals), Phil Geyer (keys/organ) and Nick Gerlach (alto & tenor sax, flute). The Twins Cats also have a Midwest appeal and have picked up a solid fan base with their jazz and funk melodies. These funky cats will bring the funk, but keep it jazzy and never disappoint.

Published by Jimmy Rae

I am originally from Yonkers, NY and moved out to Bloomington, IN in 1990. I graduated from Indiana University in Bloomington with a Bachelors degree in journalism.  View profile

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