Chicago Power Pop Trio The Safes Provide Anthemic Ass-Shakers

Chips off the block, The Safes -- three brothers from Chicago -- credit their dad, a working musician and record collector for laying down a rich musical foundation that inspired them to naturally progress from siblings into a power pop trio. Their new release, Record Heat, is loaded with muscle-y, driving guitar riffs and catchy vocal melodies. Tracks like "Change the Game" are anthemic ass-shakers whose tambourine-tinged stomp easily make you reach for the repeat button. The boys promise some rollicking, rock 'n' roll fun when the hit Scottsdale's Rogue Bar on May 16, with local openers The Rebel Set. We caught up with guitarist/singer Patrick O'Malley between shows.

Up on the Sun: So, it's three brothers O'Malley that make up this trio. Who does what?

Patrick O'Malley: For our live show, Frankie and I have vocal and guitar duties and Michael is on the drums and some vocals, too. Frankie and I will do bass work in the studio but we have a touring bassist for these live shows.

How did you come to start making music together?

We grew up in a musical family where we were always exposed to music and learning about music. It seemed only natural to start a band. It's been great. We have had a lot of fun and success as The Safes.

And why The Safes as your name choice?

Well, the Righteous Brothers was already taken, so we became The Safes instead.

You guys recently hit the road for a hearty tour in support of your new release, Record Heat. How's it going so far?

This tour is going great so far. We have gotten so much awesome feedback from our fans about the show and about the new album. Plus, it's selling like hotcakes.

Any fun tour stories or highlights since you hit the road last week?

The highlight so far has been playing live on WFMU's show, Three Chord Monte hosted by Joe Belock. Last night, in New Orleans, we were hoping Nicolas Cage would come out to the show, which happened the last time we played there, but we had to settle for the drummer from Spoon.

Your new release was recorded with killer producers Jim Diamond and Jason Ward (known for recording bands like White Stripes and Arcade Fire, respectively). Did you all come together or were those separate sessions?

We recorded with Jim Diamond and Jason Ward separately. Both of those guys are awesome to work with and we had a ton of fun making this album.

Keeping with the well known names, the Bravery's bassist Mike Hindert directed your new video for the song "Hopes Up, Guard Down." How'd that happen?

Mike Hindert put out a single by The Safes on his label a couple years ago. He is a big fan and supporter of the band, and a good friend too. When we finished Record Heat, we sent Mike a copy and about a week later, he sends us this great video -- cool guy and very talented.

Being on the road always requires a soundtrack. What are you guys listening to lately?

Lately, we have really been getting into Thee Lexington Arrows, The Dustys, and The Wreaths.

Anything else you want people to know about the Safes?

Yes, we want everyone to know we deliver! Find any show in Metro Phoenix via our extensive online concert calendar.

9 Tips for Using A Fake ID To Get Into A Show Here's How Not to Approach a Journalist on Facebook The 10 Coolest, Scariest, Freakiest Songs About Heroin The 30 Most Disturbing Songs of All Time