Leaders of the Brit Pack

Chicagoist is a big fan of channeling our inspirations into our creative output, so we’re naturally drawn to the British Invasion — worshipping Locksley. Named for Robin of Locksley from Robin Hood, one has to expect and accept a certain amount of best-intended robbery. Fortunately, this fab foursome from Madison (by way of Brooklyn) has the gumption and showmanship to pull off the rip off with more than a bit of style and an endearing dose of pluck. Whereas Chicago’s dour own Redwalls attempt a similar aesthetic, it’s Locksley that delivers because you can believe these guys truly love the music they emulate.

The past year has seen big changes for The Little Unsigned Band That Could. A laundry mishap at the Double Door last April led to an inspired ditching of their cutesy matching outfits, and an equal maturation of their live show quickly followed. Going it alone without a label used to spell poverty and anonymity for independent bands, but a savvy marketing and relationship development combined with plain old dumb luck has landed Locksley in Spin magazine, in several national advertising campaigns, on tour with The Rapture, and on the stage of the Jimmy Kimmel Show. What gives? Accessible songwriting, a lively stage show, and plenty of gosh-darn-it smiles. The audiences at Locksley shows are challenged to have as much fun as the band is having, and the result is a vibe that can’t be Beat-led.

Those of who have only known the likes of the Kinks in grainy TV-appearance films will appreciate Locksley’s dedication to recreating, recycling, and reinterpreting the garage pop goodness that made the early 1960’s an exciting time to be a rock 'n' roll fan. Derivative? Sure, but you’ll still want to put Locksley in your pocket and save their hopped-up, danceable Brit rock for a rainy day.

Locksley plays Kinetic Playground tomorrow night with Scissors for Lefty, Bockman, and SeepeopleS. And don't forget, there's still time to win free tickets to see them!

Thanks to Laura Gray for the above photo.