When thinking about the epicenters of DIY Alternative Rock music in the United States, cities like New York, Detroit, and Denver often spring to mind. However, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is quietly fostering a vibrant and rapidly growing DIY Alternative scene, and one band leading the charge is Diet Lite. This article delves into the band's history, style, recent releases, and their impact on Milwaukee's music landscape.
Band's Formation and Musical Style
Diet Lite was started in 2017 as a collection of various recording projects between drummer Evan Marsalli and guitarist Kelson Kuzdas. The band quickly brought guitarist Max Niemann into the fold, and they’ve been hammering out tunes across the Midwest ever since. Described as where “garage rock meets power pop,” Diet Lite showcases sweet hooks, pungent absurdity, and the spirit of drunken collaboration.
Diet Lite blends a variety of old-school Rock sounds, making them sound like they fit in with the rest of the Alternative music being made today. Their music contains elements of Punk and Rock from every decade dating back to the 1960s. This fusion creates a sound that appeals to a broad spectrum of Alternative Rock fans.
In an interview, the band members shared insights into their diverse musical influences. Max Niemann noted that in the early days, each member had distinct music tastes, but over time, they've coalesced into a more cohesive taste through mutual discovery. This blend of influences is evident in their music, which draws inspiration from bands like Twin Peaks and Parquet Courts while maintaining an original sound.
Jon Told Bob Told Rob EP Review
Diet Lite's EP, Jon Told Bob Told Rob, exemplifies their ability to blend diverse Rock elements into a cohesive and modern sound. Here's a track-by-track breakdown:
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Glammin the Hill
'Glammin the Hill' kicks off the EP with a modern sound reminiscent of early 2000s Punk Rock, calling to mind bands like Green Day during their American Idiot era. The instrumental arrangement, melody, riff, and drum beat all contribute to this nostalgic vibe. The vocals, too, echo the Punk Rock style of the early 2000s, providing a refreshing contrast to Diet Lite's more familiar sounds.
Lenny
'Lenny' takes a classic Rock direction with a Surf Rock feel. The riff evokes images of The Ventures or early Beach Boys, but with a Punk Rock edge. This gritty element elevates the Surf Rock sound, while the vocals, delivered in a J. Geils Band style, make the track stand out.
Harbour a Hand
'Harbour a Hand' continues the retro Surf-Rock sound, with a melody and tone similar to 'Lenny.' The song's standout feature is its pacing, which alternates between fun, fast-paced beats and slow-burning rhythms. This dynamic change in tempo adds texture and diversity to the instrumental arrangement.
Madison City Parking Ticket Groove
'Madison City Parking Ticket Groove' mixes early 2000s Garage Rock with 70s Punk music. The vocals retain a Surf Rock sound reminiscent of The Kinks or The Beach Boys. The track is considered a standout, blending nostalgia with a contemporary feel.
Stuck Again
'Stuck Again,' the EP's closing track and first single of the year, combines old-school Hard Rock with early 2000s Garage and Indie Rock. The riff is reminiscent of bands like Ted Nugent or Steppenwolf, while the melody and vocals evoke The Strokes or The White Stripes. The song's fuzzy, distorted sound creates an energetic vibe, complemented by harsher vocals reminiscent of The Ramones or The Sex Pistols.
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Into the Pudding Album
Diet Lite's album 'Into the Pudding' has garnered attention for its eclectic mix of sounds and relatable themes. The title, inspired by a Ken Kesey phrase, reflects the band's sense of being "in the know" within Milwaukee's burgeoning music scene. The album features tracks like "Debora," "Tom Tom Club," and "Madison City Parking Ticket," each showcasing the band's versatility and growth.
The single “Debora,” is a volume-cranker. The track’s sound flies in the face of the lyrical content, which the band summarized as “hard-fought love lost and the bitter craving for something you know probably ain’t all that good for you, in the vein of Dylan’s ‘Most Likely You Go Your Way (And I’ll Go Mine).’” The name was inspired by the Lily James character from 2017’s Baby Driver, who lamented the near-total lack of “Debora” tunes in the world. As the band noted, “We wanted to give her one more song.”
Live Performances and Impact
Diet Lite's live performances are known for their high energy and infectious enthusiasm. Whether opening for iconic bands like Jimmy Eat World or headlining local venues, they create an engaging experience for their audience. Max Niemann shared a personal connection to The Rave, recounting how his mom first brought him to the venue in 2009 for an All-American Rejects concert, making this performance a full-circle moment for him.
The band's ability to connect with their audience through honest lyrics about everyday struggles, combined with their determined musical edge, resonates deeply within Milwaukee's music scene.
Memorable Performances
Some of Diet Lite's most memorable performances include shows at Linneman's in Milwaukee, which they praised for its great sound and enthusiastic crowd. They also fondly recalled a house show in Oshkosh, emphasizing the intimate connection that house shows provide between bands and fans.
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Diet Lite's Role in Milwaukee's Music Scene
Diet Lite is instrumental in pushing and growing an Indie Rock community in Milwaukee, creating much-needed diversity in the city’s music scene. In a city that is mainly known for its intense and heavy Hip Hop, Diet Lite sticks out and shines like a star. Their presence offers a refreshing alternative and helps to cultivate a more inclusive musical environment.
The band members have also spoken about the importance of supporting local venues and fellow artists, emphasizing the strength of the Milwaukee scene lies in its network of friendships and connections.
Social Media Presence and Engagement
Diet Lite has effectively leveraged social media to connect with fans, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. By consistently posting content and engaging with their audience, they have maintained a strong online presence. One notable example is drummer Evan Marsalli's ongoing effort to get Weezer's Rivers Cuomo to duet a video, which has garnered a significant following and helped promote the band's music.
Perspectives on Diversity and Inclusion
Diet Lite is mindful of diversity and inclusion within the music industry. They actively seek to support underrepresented communities and recognize the historical contributions of Black and African American culture to American music. They also express a desire to see more diverse lineups at their shows, reflecting the diverse and unified nature of the Milwaukee music scene.