The Fags

Playing energetic '70s-style power pop in the manner of Cheap Trick and the Raspberries but with the energy of a fresh-faced pop-punk band, the F*gs are a Detroit-based trio comprised of three longtime veterans of the Motor City music scene. Guitarist and singer John Liccardello (aka Johnny Speck) was a member of Sponge and Hoarse, as was drummer Jimmy Paluzzi, while bassist Tim Patalan is an experienced producer and engineer who has worked with many of Michigan's leading indie acts. Formed in 2000, the F*gs wasted no time earning a reputation on the Midwest club scene for their passionate live shows, and in 2002 the group released a five-song EP for the Texas-based independent label Idol Records. That year, the group was named "Best Pop Band" by Real Detroit magazine, while they received an award as "Outstanding Alternative/Indie Group" at the 2003 Detroit Music Awards. In 2004, it was announced that the F*gs had landed a major-label record deal, signing with the pioneering alternative rock imprint Sire Records, but after a number of delays, the group released their first full-length album, Light 'Em Up, through Idol in the fall of 2006, with more touring anticipated.