Search - Valis :: Head Full of Pills

Say what you will about VALIS...just as long as you can do it without using the words "trees" or "screaming" because Van Conner has stepped out of the shadows in what can only be described as a total reinvention of self. With a thundering, explosive rhythm section and equally searing guitar licks, VALIS treads familiar ground with their heavy, riff-laden rawk but brings something new to the table with an incredible enthusiasm and lust that have been somewhat lacking among other survivors of post-grunge Seattle. Formed in the basement of Mudhoney drummer Dan Peters back in 1996, VALIS began as a casual side project for Conner and Peters along with Patrick Conner (Kitty Kitty) and Kurt Danielson (Tad). By 1998, they had released their first record, a split release on Frank Kozik?s Man?s Ruin. All veterans of the Northwest scene, the boys began paying their dues, sharing bills with Fu Manchu and Queens Of The Stone Age. Producer Wes Weresch officially joined as VALIS? resident Eno figure, adding theremin and an array of sound-producing gadgets to their sonic arsenal. Danielson left for parts unknown, making way for Adrian Makins to add his considerable skills to the mix. And finally, VALIS found a new home right here in the U.S. After inspiring countless bands and sub-genres, Van Conner has come back to the music that inspired him in the first place: rock?n?roll. Head Full Of Pills features the kind of strong songwriting and guttural psychedelic rock that could revitalize the Northwest?s once-supreme rock dynasty.