MIGGS

MIGGS has quite literally been through it all. From ups to downs (and the unthinkable in between), the Tampa, FL alternative rock outfit has weathered last-minute label shifts, lineup changes, and everything else that the industry can possibly throw at a diligent, dynamic, and dedicated group of musicians. In over a decade on the scene, they’ve delivered five full-length albums to a diehard fan base, culminating on 2012’s 15th & Hope (the last record to be produced by the legendary Phil Ramone), enjoyed multiple television and film syncs, performed on Good Morning America, and played alongside everybody from Maroon 5 and Scott Weiland to Plain White T’s.

However, in 2014, vocalist and guitarist Don Miggs experienced something of a personal revelation that would inform his next musical step. “I realized that, in some ways, I was making music to fill a hole so people could tell me I’m great or chase some sort of mythical thing that somebody else deems a hit,” he admits. “I decided I was done doing that. You can’t guarantee making anybody else happy, so you might as well make yourself happy. So, I started writing songs, and I didn’t stop.”

Working with collaborator Charlie Midnight and his MIGGS band mates Michael Lombardo [bass/vocals], John Luzzi [guitar/vocals], and Walker Adams [drums/vocals], Don churned out thirty songs in record time. Remarkably, this marks the first time the band has followed up an album with the same lineup, and it speaks to their chemistry and unity. “We have four completely different perspectives,” John declares. “With four completely different musical tastes, I feel like we’re just beginning to really mesh in the studio and live. It’s exciting to be part of.”

Outside of MIGGS, Don stands out as an in-demand producer in his own right. He runs a studio out of Tampa, hosts his own radio show The Miggs & Swig Show on iheart radio, and will be a vintage guitar collector and aficionado forever. However, he’s bringing out his most powerful statement yet in 2015 with MIGGS. “Dammit, I care a lot,” he leaves off. “I want people to listen and feel like there’s a melody, and it matters. Like somehow I gave them a piece of themselves. I told a story that makes them get lost in their moment. If I can do that, on even just one of these songs, I win. The rest of the time I want them tapping their feet or shaking their ass.”