By now, it should come as no surprise that I am a huge advocate of the Pittsburgh music scene; everything from hip hop and pop, to straight up rock. The music and talent this city has is not only dynamic, but is also progressive and truly something the rest of the world is starting to notice. Surely, Pittsburgh has produced greats like killer vocalist Christina Aguilera and hip hop icon Wiz Khalifa, but now, it’s time for rock bands to take the reigns. Bands in Pittsburgh are really starting to show the world just what they can do.
Of An Empire (www.ofanempire.com) is one of those Pittsburgh bands that give people a reason to recognize our city as a music town.
Last weekend, Of An Empire had their CD release party for their album, OAE, at Club Café. Though the record itself – available on their site and on iTunes – had a soft launch in 2011, the band’s official release was certainly something to talk about. Ever since I have heard of the band, they have had a buzz surrounding them; it was hard for me to not hear a conversation that didn’t include lead vocalist and guitarist Camden Leeds’ and drummer Matt Gray’s names. They have been huge staples in the business. 
Entering Club Café was a bit tricky. The venue was absolutely packed, and naturally, I needed to make my way to the bar for a beverage. That was not an easy task, since the bodies seemed to be sandwiched together. This was a great sign for the band, in that you could tell right off the bat that they had an amazing amount of support. The opening band, Round Black Ghost, had a ton of people present for their performance as well. The energy level the audience was giving the performers was another great sign for what the night would entail.
Of An Empire’s CD is right up my alley in terms of listening, and is quickly becoming a Maniac favorite. It is a rock album that you can listen all the way through, with powerful vocals, great guitar runs, and driving drumbeats that really hook the listener. The CD opens with a more mellow rock edge on “Days In Between” that is reminiscent of cruising down the highway with the windows down on a summer night. Perfect. Their music makes you feel, and at the end of the day, that’s all anyone wants; to feel something that moves them. They certainly have accomplished that with this record.
OAE opened the show with the above song, which happens to be my personal favorite. When watching the crowd’s reaction, I knew it was the perfect way to suck everyone into their world. The set included emotional highs and lows, as they took the audience on a rollercoaster of anticipation and passion. They succeed on all accounts. Bravo, gentlemen.
The band is made of up Camden Leeds (lead vocals and guitar), Clark Johnson (lead guitar and vocals), Matt Gray (drums and vocals), and Sam Grumet (bass guitar), and they are some of the most down to earth guys you will meet. It certainly makes wanting to support them and their music all the more enjoyable. The CD is great and the show was amazing. With high energy both on stage and in the studio, Of An Empire is a band that is certainly taking Pittsburgh by storm, and here at Maniac, we can’t wait to see what they do next!
For more information about Of An Empire and their album OAE, but sure to check out www.ofanempire.com or visit them on Facebook. Don’t forget to get your copy of OAE today!
By: Dominic Janidas
Photography: Jamie Farris
