National Skyline

The origins of National Skyline trace back to a solo endeavor by Hum bassist Jeff Dimpsey within the indie rock realm. What ignited the project was his 1996 concept for a 45-minute composition, developed in his hometown of Champaign, IL. Over time the endeavor shifted into a band format featuring a constantly rotating roster of players. Dimpsey brought the vision to fruition by recruiting Nicky Macri, an alumnus of C-Clamp and Euphone, alongside Derek Niedrighaus and Jeff Garber, both previously affiliated with Castor (the latter also with Sarge). After the group staged several shows in Champaign and Chicago, most members departed, yet Dimpsey and Garber elected to continue. The pair convened in Dimpsey’s home studio during late 1999 to shape what became the band’s first release. Issued in early 2000 on the Hidden Agenda label, that debut album carried the title National Skyline. Dimpsey exited shortly thereafter, with Compound Red guitarist Jim Minor stepping in as his replacement. The Illinois-rooted outfit then embarked on an extended tour before unveiling its sophomore effort, This Equals Everything, in May 2001.