Blinded Black

Emo-leaning alternative rock outfit Blinded Black was founded in the mid-2000s by vocalist Jeff Nizick, drummer Jake Rohlmann, and guitarist Nick Rohlmann. It wasn't long before the St. Louis crew had recorded and self-released their debut album, and as local support increased, the band embarked on a round of dates throughout the Midwest to advance themselves beyond their city's limits. Thanks to the guys getting the word out via MySpace, crowd turnouts were respectable and the response positive. Encouraged to take the next step, Blinded Black — rounded out by guitarist Mike Smith, bassist Tyler Hanks, and keyboardist Chuck Kraus — began looking for the support of a label, and wound up approaching California-based SideCho Records, drawn in by the label's roster of bands like Tokyo Rose and MC Lars. A few showcases later and it was official. Blinded Black subsequently hit the studio with producer Marc McClusky (Hit the Lights, Norma Jean) to complete their SideCho debut. Under the Sunrise surfaced in February 2007, and a spring tour with Lovehatehero and Vanna followed.