The Magnolias, a tried and true name in American hard rock, earned this status via loud, brash shows on expansive tours of the U.S. in the 1980s and 90s. Fronted by singer/guitarist, songwriter and co-founding member John Freeman, the band solidified its reputation as one of Minneapolis' most formidable musical acts by delivering from-the-gut, yet melodic, hook-laden tunes across five albums for the Twin/Tone and Alias record labels. The group disbanded for a time at least in 1997 only to reform again in 2000. The Magnolias' inaugural European swing in 2008 coincided with the band's release of a compilation of out-takes, demos, live songs and other gems entitled Better Late Than Never. This collection, on the SMA label, remains available on The Magnolias' official website, as well as at CD Baby. The Magnolias returned to tour Europe again in the Spring of 2009.

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Freeman, the only member to fly The Magnolias flag non-stop since the group's inception in 1984, spearheaded the band's revival. The Magnolias' current lineup includes re-recruited lead guitarist MikeLeonard, who had been in the group from 1993-95, drummer Pat Mckenna who played with Freeman in The Pushbacks (1997-2000). The band is complete with the rediscovery of bass talent Kyle Killorin, whose service to The Magnolias dates to 1987. The Magnolias' high-energy American punk is consistently compared favorably to the band's influences, including The Clash, The Only Ones, The Undertones, The Real Kids and Buzzcocks. The Magnolias fans, new and old, will witness intense performances by these reunited and rejuvenated musicians who, like their hometown friends The Replacements and Suicide Commandos, play stripped-down rock 'n' roll tight, fast, hard and loud, the way it was meant to be. [Steve Sharp]