In The Spotlight Featured Artist: Ion Vein

by Derric Miller
Staff Writer

Ion = electric charge. Vein = tubes that carry blood to the heart. Band name = Ion Vein.

Chicago-based Ion Vein hopes their music sends a rush through your body, and the name is original and apropos, said Ion Vein guitarist Chris Lotesto, so Ion Vein it was.

The current incarnation of Ion Vein formed in the Southside of Chicago, home of Bad Bad Leroy Brown, in 1997. The lineup of this progressive/power metal juggernaut is Lotesto; Russ Klimczak on vocals, who has been with the band since late '95; Brian Gordon on bass, who joined in ‘97, left in 2000, and returned in 2004; and Chuck White on drums, who joined in late 2003.

Memories was being developed, Ion Vein worked with producer extraordinaire Neil Kernon, and his touch obviously helped catapult this fledgling yet adept group to greater heights.

“It was a blast, he's an amazingly talented producer,” said Lotesto. “He really got the best out of us!”

The band is currently working on the follow up to Reigning Memories; something Lotesto guarantees won’t take as long to release. “You can certainly expect the new stuff to be even heavier, yet still melodic, and to be more focused,” said Lotesto. “It's a natural progression for us.”

Ion Vein Rocking out Live! Picture appears courtesy of Ion Vein

The reviews for both albums have been amazing, and so have the critiques of the live shows. Ion Vein has opened for the likes of Armored Saint and Metal Church, and they have been a constant presence at the Chicago Powerfest, ProgPower USA and BW/BK as well. Ion Vein will again be playing the Chicago Powerfest April 8-9, with bands like Morgana Lefay, Tad Morose, Twelfth Gate and Archetype.

Ion Vein is going to explode upon the scene in a global sense. They have signed a European/Asian licensing deal with Now and Then Records out of the UK for Reigning Memories and the next album. But they are still awaiting the official release of the album. Luckily, talent of this caliber can’t be suffocated by bad luck or lackadaisical promotional efforts.

The destiny of Ion Vein is to be one of the biggest names in genre, and this is why they are Hardrock Haven’s “In the Spotlight” artist.

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