Colossal

Colossal was an indie rock band that originated in Elgin, Illinois, in 2001. With a unique sound that blends elements of punk rock, jazz, and pop, the band carved out a niche in the math rock scene. Known for their complex musical structures and insightful lyrics, they released an EP and a full-length album, becoming recognized for their distinct approach to songwriting.

How The Band Got Started

Formed by a group of friends in 2001, Colossal was initially comprised of Jeff Feucht (bass), Jason Flaks (vocals, trumpet, guitar), Rob Kellenberger (drums, backup vocals), and Pat Ford (vocals, guitar). After a few months of jamming together, the band began performing live around Chicago by the spring of 2002. Their energetic performances and genre-crossing sound quickly earned them a dedicated following.

In 2003, Colossal released their debut EP, *Colossal* (also known as “Brave the Elements”), through Asian Man Records. The six-track EP showcased their ability to blend punk’s raw energy with jazz and pop sensibilities. Critics praised the record for its ambitious and intricate compositions, which maintained accessibility while pushing musical boundaries. The band’s tour across eastern Canada and the East Coast that summer helped them further solidify their presence in the indie rock scene.

The following year, as they were preparing to record their debut album, the band went through a lineup change. Jeff Feucht left to focus on his career in teaching and was replaced by Eli Caterer, known for his work with the Smoking Popes. This change helped shape their next musical direction, and with Caterer’s help, Colossal recorded *Welcome the Problems*, their debut full-length album, released in September 2004. The album’s sound was more refined and cohesive compared to their earlier work. The tracks were tighter in structure, and the overall production was more polished, receiving critical acclaim and further expanding their fanbase.

After *Welcome the Problems*, the band continued to evolve. Neil Hennessy (of The Lawrence Arms) joined as a second drummer, adding a new layer of complexity to their already intricate sound. Chris Perrin also joined, replacing Caterer as the bassist. The band’s lineup was solidified, and they embarked on a successful east coast tour. In January 2005, *Welcome the Problems* was re-released on vinyl through Grey Flight Records, and the band kept busy, assisting Mike Park with the recording of his second solo album, *North Hangook Falling*, which was released in 2005.

However, in 2005, Jason Flaks decided to leave the band, marking another shift in Colossal’s dynamic. Eli Caterer returned to the band, rejoining them on guitar. In 2006, Caterer’s original band, Smoking Popes, reunited, leading Kellenberger to leave Colossal in order to join the Popes on drums. Colossal went on hiatus shortly after.

The band reemerged in 2016 to play a special reunion show for Asian Man Records’ 20th Anniversary in San Francisco. The same year, they released a split 7-inch with the band Owen, marking their first new material in over a decade.

In 2017, Colossal’s EP was reissued on vinyl, and their debut album *Welcome the Problems* was also remastered and released again in 2018.

Discography