Biography
Having completed a six-year period of study in Germany, vocalist John Grant came back to Denver, CO, where he assembled the Czars' original lineup alongside bassist Chris Pearson, drummer Jeff Linsenmaier, and a rotating cast of guitarists. Andy Monley, already acquainted with Pearson through their time together in Jux County, volunteered to play guitar and later joined the group on a permanent basis. The band forwarded a self-produced CD to the Cocteau Twins' Simon Raymonde, who had recently launched Bella Union in partnership with bandmate Robin Guthrie. Captivated by the group's blend of shoegaze and alternative country, Raymonde arranged to bring them to his September Sound studio, where they recorded Before...But Longer in 2000. The Ugly People Vs. the Beautiful People appeared the following year.
Two additional albums emerged before the Czars disbanded in late 2004. Seeking to sustain his musical work, Grant relocated to New York, serving as a backing musician for both Midlake and the Flaming Lips. With assistance from Midlake's members he also started work on a solo project, which surfaced as Queen of Denmark in 2010.
Two additional albums emerged before the Czars disbanded in late 2004. Seeking to sustain his musical work, Grant relocated to New York, serving as a backing musician for both Midlake and the Flaming Lips. With assistance from Midlake's members he also started work on a solo project, which surfaced as Queen of Denmark in 2010.