Sixer

Sixer emerged in Richmond, Virginia, toward the end of the 1990s, uniting former Ann Beretta members Leer Baker on guitar and vocals with Chris Rupp on guitar, plus Casey Martin and Dan Duggin. The quartet moved past punk rock’s standard velocity by layering infectious grooves with sharp guitar lines, shaping an uncommon blend of alternative rock and roll. Their fast rise inside the local underground scene owed much to vigorous live shows that quickly assembled a dedicated audience in the months after formation.

The year 2000 brought their opening release, the EP Busted Knuckles and Heartbreak, which drew widespread acclaim. A lengthy run of dates with Blanks 77 followed. Saving Grace, the band’s first full-length album, surfaced on TKO Records in 2001. In the ensuing period the Richmond group logged an expansive trek across the United States and Europe, appearing as support for the Forgotten.

Personal difficulties prompted a brief break once the members returned home. After regrouping they signed with BYO Records and issued Beautiful Trash in the summer of 2002.