Since 1988, the Eastside Milwaukee band has written for themselves a truly unique, musical history--a story void of stereotypical self-destruction and rock-star excesses that have traditionally secured many artists fifteen minutes of notoriety. After eighteen years together and with all of the original members still in tow, The Gufs have established their legacy in the pantheon of Milwaukee rock bands by making simple and honest music that has not only withstood the test of time, but more importantly has built a significant group of very dedicated and loyal fans.
With the release of their debut and trendsetting full-length CD recording Staring into the Sun in 1990--the first for an unsigned artist in Milwaukee--coupled with a series of sold-out club performances throughout the city, The Gufs guaranteed themselves a unique position in the local music scene. The Gufs subsequent independent releases, Songs of Life (1992) and Circa 89 (1993), and their constant touring throughout the Midwest created an enormous fan base that was soon impossible to ignore. Alive and well on college radio and extensively touring, The Gufs soon signed a major label recording contract with Atlantic Records based on the strength of their fourth and last independent album, Collide (1995)--recorded at Butch Vig's Smart Studios in Madison, Wisconsin--during this same time the newly emerging alternative rock format spread across the nation. After slightly reworking their last independent release, The Gufs re-released their eponymous titled album on Atlantic Records in 1996. The Gufs major label debut quietly rose to national prominence behind the hit singles Smile and Crash (Into Me), as the band and the album quickly created a foothold on the nascent Modern Rock scene.
After two years of successful touring and solid sales of their major-label debut, The Gufs returned to the studio with highly renowned producer, Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace, Finger Eleven, Simple Plan) in 1998 to record their second and final album for Atlantic Records. The release of Holiday from You (1999) was highlighted with a dramatic combination of music, including the radio friendly songs, Last Goodbye and Give Back Yourself, featuring Rob Thomas of Matchbox Twentyand marked the penultimate songwriting and recording achievement of this now veteran rock band. Despite the critical success of the record, The Gufs quickly asked to be released from their contract with Atlantic when it became clear that the album was not being properly marketed. By the end of the year and with masters in hand, The Gufs entertained a series of uninspiring major-label offers resulting in even greater disillusionment with the industry--a trend that continued for the next few years. Reflecting on their past and undecided about the direction of their future, The Gufs collectively determined to take an indefinite hiatus from their music and more importantly the business. Despite widespread rumors of the bands demise, the release of a new The Gufs album was never in question; it was only a matter of time.
Seven years since the release of their last album, The Gufs have now returned to Milwaukee to begin work on their seventh studio recording. Led by the unforgettable sound of Goran Kralj's voice and the bands easily accessible songwriting and mature music sensibilities, The Gufs brand of melodic rock and emotional lyrics will undoubtedly produce another album that will showcase their ability to connect with their fans.
GALLERY
