Gelheads

The Gelheads are an American rock band from Chicago, Illinois which formed in 2001.
Band Members

Frankie D'Angelo
Tim Lydon
Jeff Malas
Mike Catani
History
Standing outside Foo Fighters show that had just let out, D'Angelo bumped into drummer Tim Lydon and handed him a CD and flyer advertising a show at the Double Door. Little did Tim know that a week later he would be playing that very show. D'Angelo's bassist and drummer had both quit the day before the show, just by chance Lydon got in touch with D'Angelo to inquire about playing together. D'Angelo replied "that would be great! how about in a half hour.. my band just quit!" With a head of steam building, D'Angelo finally convinced Chicago veteran Jeff Malas to join on bass. Malas suggested that the trio needed a fuller sound and brough on rhythm guitarist Mike Catani.
With a new sound and lineup, The Gelheads quickly exploded on the Chicago club circuit with their melodic, catchy pop sensible style. In 2001 they released their first demo Snappy Little Numbers containing the single Deer in Headlights. This single made its way on to Chicago's Q101 and earned the band their first break, an opening slot for Alien Ant Farm at the 2001 Guinness Oyster Fest. Playing the 2002 Vans Warped tour, D'Angelo caught the attention of Sugarcult drummer Kenny Livingston who took on management of the band and flew them to Los Angeles to record their most successful release Stars Motel E.P. which contained the single The Enemy. D'Angelo and Lydon, both long time Kiss fans, sent the new CD to Gene Simmons somewhat jokingly. To their surprise, a call to their management from Gene Simmons himself praised the single but wanted to hear more songs than what was recorded. Nothing became of the Simmons call but the Gelheads did open for Kiss on a 2004 Chicago date.
The Gelheads continued a successful run over the next few years opening for such acts as Everclear, Fall Out Boy, The Killers, Papa Roach and Sponge. After suffering a few lineup changes and lackluster response to a string of L.A. Showcases, the band lost steam and took a hiatus in June 2005. At that time, D'Angelo relocated to his native town of Detroit and has since launched a successful solo acoustic career. Both Lydon and Malas have remained active in the Chicago music circle. The Gelheads have had several regional reunion shows throughout the midwest.
Discography
Albums
* Snappy Little Numbers - EP (2001)
* SHIfTMOBILE EP (2002)
* Stars Motel EP (2003)
* Rock And Roll is Not Over (2005)

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