With a constant touring schedule, 3 independently released albums, a high energy live-show and a charismatic front person, Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls have distinguished themselves as one of the mid-west's hardest working bands. Their first self-titled release, their second release, "Inaba," and "Hulathong," the most recent offering from Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls, have sold more than 5,000 copies. Most of those CD's were sold from the stage. On-line they've sold CD's as far away as Tel Aviv, the Netherlands, and Japan.
Leo & Bob Kelly met one of their younger brother's friends, Liz, at a party in 1999. Bob just returned from a teaching stint in Japan. Liz was a recent high school graduate. Within a few practices they knew they had something special. A brief phone call to a local drum instructor led them to Greg Hipskind. The line-up is solid, and has not changed in six years.
From the beginning Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls have toured. With shows as far away as Easter Ohio and Western South Dakota, and regular performances between Indianapolis & Omaha, the band has built a loyal and solid fan base in the heart of America. Thousands of names populate the band's mailing list, with fans ranging in age from 8 to 78! Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls have mass appeal.
Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls have played festivals, colleges, bars, clubs, living rooms, back yards, baseball stadiums, coffee houses, and every other imaginable scenario. Along the way they've shared the stage with many national acts, including current Country favorites Sugarland, Richard Marx, Ton Loc (yes, the Ton Loc!), REO Speedwagon, and Hootie & the Blowfish. A June 18th, 2005 date with Cheap Trick was canceled due to an illness in CT's band.
2005 has been the most productive year to date for the band. "Hulathong," the band's 3rd independent release was recorded in January with gold-record producer Tom Tatman at Catamount Studios in Cedar Falls, Iowa. According to Tatman, "You guys have what it takes to make it. Great songs, a tight, rockin band that's fun to see, and a singer with serious star power. With the right breaks, you could go a long way." Released in late June, "Hulathong" has sold almost 1,000 copies!!! In January Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls performed live on-the-air at KUNI, Iowa Public Radio for a segment called "Live from Studio One." The show has been re-broadcast several times, and songs from the evening are often included (along with other Bellyswirl music) in the station's programming. In October the band will release its' first DVD. A live concert, with road footage, and an early promo piece, the DVD is a snapshot of a hardworking band in its' prime. October will also see the band featured on Iowa Public Television's weekly program, "Living in Iowa." Six songs from "Hulathong" were recorded to be played throughout the season as closing segments to this popular IPTV program.
Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls are currently seeking management in hopes of securing a record deal. Keep your eyes and ears open for Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls!
Learn more about Wicked Liz & the Bellyswirls... http://www.wicked-liz.com
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