Jil Station

Move over, Butch Walker. AMG predicts Jil Station’s Kyle Dreaden will be taking home the AMG Award for best frontperson this year.

If you’ve been bored by the timid awkwardness of young local bands, you haven’t seen the spectacle, the “performance prodigy” that is Kyle Dreaden. At the tender age of 18, Dreadon is able to careen across the stage, woo young female fans, and essentially mesmerize audiences with the air of a seasoned performer.

AMG caught up with Jil Station at their last Masquerade show, and we were drawn from the back of the venue to the front row by the end of the night. Not even a drunken frat boy rushing the stage could throw off the performance. Without missing a beat, Dreaden crossed the stage with expert grace and gently guided the rowdy fan off the stage and back into the excited crowd.

If Dreaden’s charisma is in any way a product of youthful arrogance, it is a confidence that has been earned. Jil Station’s records sound as mature as his performance. Guitarist Chris Barnett’s versatile and melodic style is reminiscent of Johnny Marr, while bassist Adam Holzwrth works closely with drummer Brandon Solan to create a steady backbeat.

On top of it all, Dreaden lays down his silky, Gahan -esque baritone that croons intelligent lyrics and moving melodies.

Salivating A&R reps, control yourselves. Jil Station has already signed their soul away to The Platform Group in NJ.

Lookout for their first full length release, “Still Love” out later this year. The “Still Love” EP is available now, featuring tracks recorded with Jeff Tomei (Smashing Pumpkins, Matchbox 20).