Tender Defender
Tender Defender is a punk rock trio from Huntington, New York, United States. The band comprises bassist/vocalist Mattie Jo Canino, guitarist/vocalist Phil Douglas, and drummer Pat Schramm, all of whom have previous ties to the band Latterman. Tender Defender is often regarded as a natural progression from Latterman, and they introduced themselves to the punk scene with their self-titled debut on Dead Broke Rekerds, released on March 3, 2016.
Background
Post-Latterman Projects
Following Latterman’s disbandment, its members ventured into various musical projects, notably Iron Chic, RVIVR, Laura Stevenson & The Cans, and Bridge and Tunnel. Despite pursuing different paths, the band members stayed connected, regularly meeting between tours. The idea of creating new music arose during Latterman’s occasional reunion shows in 2011. Instead of reviving Latterman as a four-piece, the decision was made to continue as a three-piece, adopting the name Tender Defender.
Bassist/vocalist Mattie Jo Canino justified this choice, stating, “Pat, Phil, and I were the three most consistent members of Latterman anyway… But actually, it’s Tender Defender, not Latterman. Kind of like how Jesus is 100% man and 100% God, except gayer and dirtier. […] we could have just called it Latterman, but since we’re not posing, we came up with a new band and some kick-ass new jams.”
Debut Single and Mini-LP
On July 30, 2015, Tender Defender released their first single, “Hello Dirt,” a precursor to a potential upcoming album. The band’s inaugural live performance occurred at Saint Vitus in Brooklyn on August 16, 2015, alongside Shellshag. The self-titled Mini-LP was recorded in Phil Douglas’ Hobo House studio, with artwork crafted by Pat Schramm. Released on March 3, 2016, through Dead Broke Rekerds, the album garnered rave reviews. Subsequently, the band embarked on a month-long international tour in April 2016 to support the album.
2018 Tour Dates
In 2018, Tender Defender announced a new set of tour dates, showcasing their continued presence and commitment to live performances.
Discography
- Tender Defender (2015, Dead Broke Rekerds, Yo-Yo Records)
Members
- Mattie Jo Canino – Vocals/Bass
- Phil Douglas – Vocals/Guitar
- Pat Schramm – Drums
