The Back Alley

The Back Alley stemmed from the solo recording project of singer Ralph Porter who released songs such as “Scared To Be”, “Dear Indecisive Mind”, and “Tonight” on his own back in 2022. The Back Alley is now a 5-piece independent rock band based in Chicago, Illinois. The band is a hybrid of the critically acclaimed rock band Ax and The Hatchetmen’s members Hunter Olshefke (Bass), and Sal Defilippis (Guitar), who have joined members Jaden Cone (Guitar), Ralph Porter (Vocals), and Ben Kremer (Drums) to perform and record original music while also paying homage to their singers past discography by performing completely new takes on songs like “Your Love”, “Flower Girl”, and “A Man On The Loose” at their live shows.

After forming late in 2022, 2023 saw the band quickly gain buzz by playing sold-out shows at legendary venues like Schubas Tavern and Fitzgerald’s Nightclub while also supporting acts like Arcy Drive and Easy Honey for a few shows on their tours throughout the year. On top of playing shows around the midwest at venues like The High Noon Saloon, The Subterranean, The Cobra Lounge, and making appearances at DIY shows at The University of Illinois, The University of Wisconsin, and back home in Chicago, the band also released two singles and a five-song Live EP during 2023.

The Back Alley is now working on finding their own sound by transitioning from the Bedroom Pop vibes of Ralph Porter’s solo work into a more guitar-heavy indie rock approach with new songs from the band such as “Gump”, “Lightning”, and “Why”.

The band kicked off their 2024 by opening for The Freddy Jones Band at their sold-out show at The Park West Theatre. They hope to carry this momentum throughout the year with new music and shows.