Dropping both blunt and obscure references to the sea amongst catchy chord progressions and witty lyrics is the mélange style of Maritime. Blending influences and techniques from the dismantled bands that brought them all together (The Dismemberment Plan and The Promise Ring) seems to be producing new sounds with a breathe of fresh air. Hailing now from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the band has recently released its third full-length album entitled, Heresy and The Hotel Choir (2007). I first discovered Maritime off the Flameshovel Records band list since the Chi-town Indie label is host to some favorites of mine such as Chin Up Chin Up. I knew, at that moment, that the band was “Muffin Worthy.”

As we all seem to be leading hectic lives in the month of December, Maritime, too, is all over the place. Making a recent pit-stop to record some live acoustic work on Public Radio International, having to prepare for some more tour stops in early 2008, taking in the aftermath of a successful album release in October and most likely trying to enjoy the holiday season in what little time is left. Maritime, although predominantly known in the mid-west and east coast, are not an unfamiliar face to our beloved southern California. They have musically influenced audiences at the House of Blues San Diego and Anaheim, rocked out with Jimmy Eat World at the Wiltern on Wilshire, and even commanded stage presence at what was once Johnny Depp’s great Indie band launchpad, the Viper Room. Following the release of their already acclaimed 2007 album, my guess is we will be seeing some more of Maritime in our backyard, as will the rest of the world.

Lyrical selection from song, Are We Renegade -

“It’s a full time job trying not to work at all.
Crack a smile until we look drunk or awful in our best suit.”

I threw down two great songs from their 2006 album, We, The Vehicles and hopefully you will be encouraged and subconsciously directed to check out their most recent work.

Maritime – Parade of Punk Rock T-Shirts

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Maritime – No One Will Remember You Tonight

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