The Kansas punk rock outfit known as KTP has taken time and careful steps in getting to where they are today. More than seven years of traveling, recording, gigging, and writing have been invested by this tight-knit group. Born in rural Southeast Kansas, the group's humble beginning as high-school friends with a radical style quickly stirred up a buzz around the area. But since its conception back in December of 2000, KTP has grown from a neighborhood phenomenon to an estimable, national touring act.
Now based in Lawrence, Kansas - known as the "Free State," and a long time oasis for counter-culture in the principally conservative area - the band has carved out a niche and plenty of notches throughout the Midwest. Relentless touring and playing have not only expanded their style but also increased the number of their loyal followers.
The self-proclaimed "Kings of the Plains" have an agenda. And the gang of four have certainly come by their title honestly. These boys are dedicated to their craft and love what they do. Maintaining their independence, the group has toured the entire continental United States (self-sponsored), as well as played on nearly every stage the great state of Kansas has to offer. Never mind the fact that the group logged a staggering ninety shows last year alone—the year 2007 also saw the release of two full-length records. Even before jumping on with Zero Youth Records in late 2006, KTP recorded and released multiple demo tapes, an EP, and did the initial first press of their self-titled album on their own dime.
To record their latest album KTP entered Blacklodge Studios, owned by Ryan Pope (Get Up Kids) and powerhouse and producer Ed Rose. With engineer Josh Browning at the helm, the band emerged with its proudest recording to date: Rockers. The record combines the grit and guts of punk rock, the drive and hooks of rock'n'roll and a lyric sheet ranging from thoughtful commentary on the social degradation of America to all-out, jump and shout sing alongs. The twelve song record is a thoroughly enjoyable listen start to finish which resulted in its extremely positive reviews from zines and fans alike and being featured in Punk Rock Confidential as a top ten music pick. The record has also seen good rotation on numerous small-market radio stations and podcasts nationwide--most notably Punkradiocast.com and Lars Frederiksen's Rancid Radio. Whether you're spending the night alone in your basement or on a reckless run to crash the next Saturday night house party, Rockers offers a sound everyone (yes, everyone) in the punk community can get into.
KTP has quite a reputation that follows them, despite not having broken into any major spotlight. The music is honest, the attitude is real, and their form is rare nowadays. If you are from the Midwest and don't love them or hate them by now, you obviously aren't paying attention. This is not a group that leaves the option open for you to ignore.
