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This Minneapolis based sibling pop-rock band features Mari Abdo (17) on drums/vocals, Matt Abdo (20) on guitar/keyboard, and Jake Abdo (21) on bass/vocals. The Abdomen started writing, performing and recording as pre-teens. They have released 4 CDs to local distribution, toured the greater Midwest, and performed dates in Southern California. In 2005, The Abdomen received the Minnesota Music Academy's "Best Teen Band" award and were selected to attend the first ever Grammy® Camp in California. The siblings continue to perform regularly in support of their latest CD “THIS TIME.†The title track was mixed by 2007 Grammy® winner Ryan Hewitt (Red Hot Chili Peppers).
Born in Minneapolis, Jake, Matt, and Mari Abdo were raised in the Twin Cities music scene. Jake and Matt Abdo started a garage rock band in their preteens, with their dad on drums. The AbdoMEN played festivals, parks, schools and even night clubs (with a permit) in the Twin Cities area. In junior high, they recorded CDs of original and cover songs (in 2000 and 2001). In high school, the brothers recorded “BETWIXTâ€: a full-length album of completely original songs. The album received critical praise and helped earn them the Minnesota Music Academy award for “Best Teen Band.†In 2003, kid sister Mari (then 13) replaced their dad as the band’s drummer. She soon became a co-vocalist and contributing songwriter. Her heartfelt songs and bittersweet voice dominate the most recent album “THIS TIME.†The band is in demand and recently performed at many major Midwest festivals and clubs including Summerfest (Milwaukee), First Avenue and The Fine Line (Minneapolis).
At the center of the band’s artistry is songwriting. With unusual skill and confidence, the still young players deliver performances like old souls but with youthful energy. They are influenced by classic and modern rockers, singer/songwriters and soul artists. Jake, Matt, and Mari all collaborate in songwriting. Although songs are usually initiated by one of the band members, nothing is completed without the contributions of all 3 siblings.
The Abdomen are writing and recording demos with writer/producers Jeff Arundel (Keri Noble), and Kevin Bowe (Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd). They are completing another year of school (University for Jake and Matt, senior year of High School for Mari), while preparing for a full-time music career starting Spring 2008 with a new CD and a major touring schedule.
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