Breaking new ground within the exploration of pure-styled rock & roll, Ike Reilly unveils an unusual ability as a songwriter, venturing to assault the ruggedness of hard rock tones and forwarding crude and fierce lyrics within his songs. Born in the little town of Libertyville, IL, Reilly follows a separated trail of most of the singer/songwriters of the late '90s. Unlike other artists, Reilly prefers the harshness of intrepid rocking riffs, sustained by ingenious melodies and exalting words. The arrival of a nationwide wave of enthusiasm surrounding his creations within the indie music scene turned out to be motivated by his thrilling debut album, Salesmen & Racists, which hit record stores in 2001. Nevertheless, his path within the music world began years before in the late '80s, and still in Libertyville, where he always lived. During that time, Reilly played along with the Drovers, a Celtic rock band running around Chicago's club scene. After the Drovers, he moved on and formed the Eisenhowers, by then enjoying reasonable success within the local club arena. Following the Einsenhowers, Reilly assembled Community 9, dedicating most of the activity covering classical themes of punk rock. In the beginning of the '90s, and withstanding any expectations, Reilly decided to retire. During the years that followed, the musician worked on all kinds of jobs, from hotel doorman to cemetery worker, only to return to music almost nine years later. Reilly's chance showed up when Mike Simpson of the Dust Brothers listened to a demo tape containing some of his work, a few months before Reilly signed a contract with Republic Records. Salesmen & Racists, his successful debut album, hit record stores in July 2001, with recording credits to Reilly himself, Ed Tinley, and Mickey Petraila, previously responsible for the work of artists like Beck, Eels, or Luscious Jackson. ~ Mario Mesquita Borges, All Music Guide
