The Hertzsprung Gap

Peninsulas You Thought Were Islands CD

The Mantinka Conspiracy Records September 19, 2000

The Hertzsprung Gap formed in January of 99, after bassist/vocalist Matt Alicea left Sweep The Leg Johnny , to pursue a different musical direction. Coupled with ex-Punjab members Jerry Bolen and Eric Acosta, the three began writing music and playing out quite abit in the Chicago area. "Peninsulas you thought were Islands", their debut for Montreal's the Mintaka Conspiracy label, and the band's first full length release, combines the delicate intricacies of Bolen's whispered-like vocals and computer-like guitar playing, with the hard edged, well traveled (almost Seger-like at times) vocals of Alicea, into a collection of 7 songs that cover every dynamic range and emotion. Their music, with the smooth intricacy of Built to Spill combined with the hard edge angst of Drive Like Jehu, has caught the attention of many, drawing much attention in the mid-west and all along the east coast where they have played with the likes of Jets To Brazil, Karate, Tristeza, and the Alkaline Trio.

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