Combo Audio was a Champaign/Chicago based rock band performing and recording between 1980 and 1987. Originally formed as a project and vehicle for songs written by John Kellogg and collaborator Rick Neuhaus, it eventually evolved into a live performing trio. Combo Audio had various members over time with Kellogg being the consistent member throughout its duration. The classic lineup of the band at its height featured vocalist, guitarist, keyboardist Kellogg, drummer percussionist Neuhaus and bassist, vocalist Angus Thomas.
Combo Audio recorded and released early tracks to local and national college radio eventually releasing the single "Romanticide" on an indie label. "Romanticide" received a "Top Single Pick" in Billboard propelling wider airplay nationally resulting in a major label signing with EMI/America. The band built a following throughout the midwest with dynamic live shows and increased airplay on college radio and major stations in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. A "Romanticide" video went into power rotation video on MTV and the band continued touring headlining theaters, college shows and appearing with other 80's iconic bands Talking Heads, U2, Duran Duran, The Tubes, INXS, Sparks, The Busboys, Berlin, Stray Cats and Billy Idol.
Though lumped into the "New Wave" category of the time, Combo Audio's music was pure raw rock with pop sensibilities on top of an undercurrent of improv, jazz, funk and experimental sonic pyrotechnics. Their sound stands the test of time and is still current today.
Combo Audio music can be heard on most global major streaming music services. Also available in binaural headphone versions on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon and Tidal - Dolby Atmos versions available on Amazon Music and Tidal. Combo Audio can also be found on Bandcamp.
Combo Audio recorded and released early tracks to local and national college radio eventually releasing the single "Romanticide" on an indie label. "Romanticide" received a "Top Single Pick" in Billboard propelling wider airplay nationally resulting in a major label signing with EMI/America. The band built a following throughout the midwest with dynamic live shows and increased airplay on college radio and major stations in Chicago, New York and Los Angeles. A "Romanticide" video went into power rotation video on MTV and the band continued touring headlining theaters, college shows and appearing with other 80's iconic bands Talking Heads, U2, Duran Duran, The Tubes, INXS, Sparks, The Busboys, Berlin, Stray Cats and Billy Idol.
Though lumped into the "New Wave" category of the time, Combo Audio's music was pure raw rock with pop sensibilities on top of an undercurrent of improv, jazz, funk and experimental sonic pyrotechnics. Their sound stands the test of time and is still current today.
Combo Audio music can be heard on most global major streaming music services. Also available in binaural headphone versions on Apple Music, Spotify, Amazon and Tidal - Dolby Atmos versions available on Amazon Music and Tidal. Combo Audio can also be found on Bandcamp.