My first interaction with Midwest Dilemma was a myspace message three years ago. Front man, Justin Lamoureux (Vocals, Classical and 12 string Electric Guitar), asked my band to open for him on his way through Nashville. Last week, I got an email suggesting that I mention MD in my next unsigned artist piece.

MD is an Omaha based band much in the Saddle Creek style. Lamoureux is the classic artsy mastermind behind the melodic, symphonic -and original- sound that is MD.

Omaha is notorious for exceptionally creative and dark indie rock and Midwest Dilemma fits the bill. MD stands along side artists like Bright Eyes, Cursive, Elliott Smith and brings to mind artists like Joanna Newsom and Sufjan Stevens.

When I played with Midwest Dilemma years ago, Lamoureux was alone. I really enjoyed his folk/indie rock vibe back then. However, while the progress he’s made with the band he’s pieced together holds true to his old style, it exhibits major growth and polish.

Look out for the new record to be released on May 17th, Timelines & Tragedies. Lamoureux gives credit for the album’s full-bodied feel to his band. “I sort of outlined the sound and the band filled in the rest, making it dimensional and complete. They have helped me create something real and lasting.” says Lamoureux.

I’m getting old. I haven’t enjoyed going to shows for years. When I do venture out into society to observe live music, I take special pains to miss the opening bands and catch the mid section of the set I want to see. I have literally seen The Cure play and wondered when their set was going to end. Needless to say, it’s gotten pretty bad.

That’s why I am so astounded by Gone City. The first time I saw them play I totally lost it. There set feels like 5 minutes of a good dream to me. I danced and clapped and completely forgot that my aging bones start to ache when I’ve been standing for more than 10 minutes.

Mike Flynn, Paul Brantley, Jesse Palmer, and Billy Gemmill seem to have a firm grasp on killing it. This band specializes in catchy, thick, straight-ahead rock ‘n’ roll and I cannot get enough. They only have two songs up on their myspace; I guarantee you will be moving within the first measure of their song Devil’s Got My Soul. At first glance, the message seems a little sketchy, but upon closer examination the song isn’t nearly as evil as it lets on. Devil’s Got My Soul is featured in a yet unreleased independent horror film.

Take a look at their EPK. Seriously, somebody sign these dudes so I can single handedly buy all their records.

Send me an email about your favorite unsigned artist and maybe I’ll feature them next week.