Origin: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Contact: Daniel Savage
Song: "Take It Back"
If Jeff Gutt so desired, he could be a solo artist, putting his name out front and riding the notoriety of being a finalist on "The X Factor" who dazzled audiences and judges alike with his commanding voice and electrifying physical presence. But that's not really Gutt's style. So say hello to Rival City Heights, the new group that Gutt formed in the wake of his success because, at heart, he's been a band guy during the vast majority of his 20 years of pounding the musical rock. Rival City Heights calls Gutt's Detroit base home, but its members come from a variety of backgrounds. Guitarist Gary Pittel also hails from the Motor City, as does drummer Brandon Brown. Fellow axeman Cyamak Ashtiani has played all manners of music in Detroit, Nashville and Los Angeles, while bassist KC Jenkins is also an accomplished guitarist and vocalist from San Diego.
On its debut self-titled album, Rival City Heights shows all the virtues of its members' familiarity with each other. The eclectic album tracks - from the amped up, anthemic first single "Take It Back" to spikey "Burn with Me" and the haunting power ballad "Fading Out" - are filled with instantly memorable hooks and head-snapping dynamics, a seamless blend of timeless technique and inventiveness.
Rival City Heights is available for publishing, label interest, booking agent, sync and brand opportunities.