Originating from Evanston, Illinois, Manwolves is a six member hip hop/jazz band that is currently becoming a musical icon in Chicago. The band consists of Ari Garfin, Eli Cohen, Julian Freeman, Henry Wolf, Jamie McNear, and Michael Werner. All graduates from Evanston Township in 2016, Manwolves started out as a classic high school band. Although having that high school label, Manwolves’ talent is far from most high school bands. With all members musically advanced, Manwolves has produced tracks that show a wide variety of musical talent and creativity.

For example, Michael Werner, trumpet/keyboards player, is known for his upbeat jazzy solos in songs. Rumor has it that in the production of their song Vices, Michael came up with the jazzy solo on spot while practicing with the band. Not only did that solo represent the musical talent that Manwolves has, but also shows how spontaneous and creative these young artists can be. Although most of Manwolves tracks are originally produced, they also show a creative side by sampling a variety of old music and comical videos.

 In their song 8:38, Manwolves sampled Mr. Sandman by The Chordettes. Despite the song coming out in 1954, Manwolves was able to create a fresh new vibe that flows very well. The more comical side of Manwolves is displayed in the song Sauce. The songs starts off with a snippet of the Gucci Mane and Wilbur Cooper interview. The snippet is Gucci Mane educating Wilbur on the importance of “sauce”. Even though the snippet didn’t have any musical effect, it was a creative opening to the song. Tiffany Gradzki ‘18 said, “Well I think they’re another example that all Chicago kids are ridiculously talented, and they inspire young artists in Chicago to create what you love and people will react to it.” Ella McCarthy ‘18 said, “I really like their style, and I’m very excited to see what they come up with next.” Hayley Wellman ‘18 said, “I don’t know much about them, but I know that they are very popular in Evanston.”

Representing the city well, Manwolves is officially certified on Soundcloud with a little over 1300 followers; their top song, You, currently has 58,000 listens on Soundcloud. Performing all over Chicago and even in parts of Evanston, Manwolves is now performing in bigger venues. In 2015, Manwolves performed at one of Chicago’s most popular concert venues, House of Blues. Not only is that reflective of Manwolves’ vibrant music, but they are also great performers. Lead vocalist/rapper, Jamie McNear, is a great performer with a lot of energy. With all that energy, Jamie makes it seem like every show could be his last. Hopefully that won’t be anytime soon, because he is great artist who has a lot of potential. As a whole, Manwolves is solid group that is starting to emerge in Chicago’s music scene as the new kids on the block. As of right now, Manwolves is set to have their next show at Schubas Tavern on 11/22 at 7 pm; tickets will be $10 online and $12 at the door. For any more information, visit www.manwolves.com

Photo taken by ColinB Photography