Express: The High-Energy Architects of Modern Funk Rock
Express is a dynamic American funk rock band known for their explosive live performances and genre-blending sound. Hailing from Chicago, the group achieved mainstream success with their 2018 album Transit Lines, which debuted in the Top 20 of the Billboard 200 chart and spawned several certified gold singles.
Early career
Formed in 2012, the core trio of vocalist/bassist Maya Vance, guitarist Leo Chen, and drummer Samir "Rhino" Jones met while studying at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Their early sound was a raw fusion of classic funk rhythms and aggressive rock guitar, honed through relentless gigging in Chicago's underground club scene. Their self-released 2015 EP, The Terminal Session, caught the attention of independent label Groove Heavy Records, which signed them later that year.
Breakthrough
The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of their sophomore album, Transit Lines, on Groove Heavy. The lead single, Velocity, became a crossover hit, reaching number five on the Billboard Alternative Airplay chart and earning a gold certification for over 500,000 units sold. The album's success was fueled by a constant touring schedule and strategic sync placements in major film trailers and sports broadcasts.
Key tracks
Velocity — This breakthrough single defined their signature sound with its driving bassline and anthemic chorus, becoming a staple on alternative radio.
Midnight Runway — A showcase for their funk roots, this track from Transit Lines features a celebrated guest trumpet solo from Trombone Shorty.
Signal Fade — A slower, more atmospheric cut that demonstrated the band's songwriting depth and received critical acclaim for its lyrical maturity.
Circuit Breaker — Known for its complex, syncopated rhythm and a fiery guitar solo from Chen, this became a fan favorite and a live set highlight.
Downtown Express — The lead single from their 2021 follow-up album, this collaboration with producer Mark Ronson added a polished, dance-floor ready sheen to their established funk rock formula.
Following their breakthrough, Express maintained momentum with their 2021 album Neon Currents, which debuted at number 12 on the Billboard 200. The band has since collaborated with artists like Gary Clark Jr. on the track Blue Wire and contributed to the soundtrack of a major video game franchise. Their consistent output and electrifying stage presence have cemented their reputation as a formidable live act in the modern rock landscape.
Fans of Express often appreciate the work of similar high-energy acts. The Revelettes share a similar blend of punk energy and soulful vocals. Rival Sons offer a comparable raw, blues-infused rock power. Lawrence brings a parallel level of tight, horn-driven funk musicianship. Joyous Wolf matches their intense, guitar-forward rock and roll swagger.
The music of Express maintains a strong presence on radio airwaves, particularly on alternative rock radio stations and modern rock FM channels. Their hits are also frequently featured on online rock radio streams and independent music radio stations that champion guitar-driven, rhythmically potent music, ensuring their songs reach both dedicated fans and new listeners daily.
Listeners can explore the high-octane funk rock catalog of Express on radio stations featured across our network. Tune in to discover their essential tracks and live performances through the variety of radio stations available on onairium.com.
