Philpot

Philpot emerged as a straight-ahead and melodic hard rock outfit that first drew attention in late 2004 after delivering an energetic performance before several celebrities inside a stylish New York City venue owned by Velvet Revolver’s members, which generated media coverage from outlets such as the New York Post and NY Press. Far from a typical local gig for an ambitious Manhattan act, the moment belonged to a notably youthful group—some still in their teens—who had traveled from the small-town setting of Dugger, IN, where they practiced and composed material inside a flower shop employing one of their own. The lineup features lead singer Kentz Ward, lead guitarist Caleb Smith, rhythm guitarist Josh Kennedy, bass guitarist Tyler Evans, drummer Arthur Ready, and keyboardist AJ Boone. An early boost arrived from Travis Meeks of Days of the New, who secured a pair of out-of-state support slots for the then-unknown ensemble at his own band’s concerts. Philpot unveiled Bitch Be the World in July 2005, showcasing their signature full-throttle, guitar-driven sound anchored by Ward’s raspy vocals. Broader exposure followed with the 2007 release of Hate Writes Better Than Love through Toucan Cove Entertainment under the Universal Records banner; despite refined production values, the record retained the same direct and forceful rock approach. Several songs echo the raw early style of Oasis, notably “Rock ’N’ Roll Star.”