Meet Philadelphia’s Own Fat Mezz

Meet Philadelphia's own Fat Mezz, MMR's Local Shots Artist of the Month.

Fat Mezz is a South Jersey rock band. All four members are talented vocalists, taking turns on lead and harmony vocals.

The four grew up across south Jersey, all of them playing shows and picking up early on-stage experiences as teenagers. Meeting each other and playing on and off through the years they eventually joined forces. After playing under several different names they settled on Fat Mezz.

The band's name, Fat Mezz, is a tribute to jazz musician and civil rights advocate Milton "Mezz" Mezzrow, known for his clarinet and saxophone skills, as well as his association with the NYC jazz community's marijuana scene.

Billy Thoden: Guitar and vocals
Kurt Foster: Guitar, Vocals, Songwriter
Dom Levy: Bass, Vocals, Songwriter
Corey Chodes: Drums and vocals

Their sound is rooted in a mix of Blues, Rock, Jam, Psychedelia & Soul. Their original music aims to reflect on their influences, bands of the past and present who’ve been cemented as pioneers and superstars as well as those who’ve been undeservingly forgotten. The band's goal is to blend vintage sounds with new and deliver them to fans of all ages.

This is one of those tracks that seems to transport you to a different time entirely. Soulful vocals paired with a strong horns section make for a transformative experience. The psychedelic guitar solo mid-song is reminiscent of days past.

"Pretty Blonde Noose" has a driving rock feel that is perfect for road trips. Smooth vocals and sublime backing harmonies make for a wonderful listening experience. Corey Chodes' drumming is in sublime form on this track. Not to mention another stellar guitar solo that feels like listening to the good old rock we know and love.

This track is truly soulful, with an opening that grabs your attention from the first note (and sneeze in the background, it seems). It's just another fantastic release from this local group. Give it a listen!