Upshot
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Upshot

Champaign, Illinois, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2007

Champaign, Illinois, United States
Established on Jan, 2007
Band Rock Funk

Calendar

Music

Press


"We Want More!!"

“Out of this world talent, mesmerizing energy, and a remarkable ability to electrify an audience sums up my description of UPSHOT. They performed for the Hard Rock Rising Battle of the Bands in Indianapolis and each performance was jaw dropping. I get asked all the time when they are coming back to Hard Rock Cafe Indianapolis to perform and I can’t get them booked soon enough. UPSHOT will have you yelling Encore because when they are finished performing, you will always be left wanting more”! - Julie Shilling, Hard Rock Cafe Indy


"Stop looking...This is your band"

I've seen thousands of live performances and rarely have I been able to say that a band has so captured my attention and appreciation as much as Upshot. They are an absolute pleasure with which to work. From the first moment we met, they made me feel as if we're family. After months of worrisome planning they arrive, and a sudden calm washes over me. I know that everything is going to run smoothly because they bring a professionalism, positivity and kinship that is appropriate and, graciously, reassuring. Upshot is a true treasure. They are so passionate and talented that I get lost in the joyous moment and immediate presence of their genuine performance. Stop looking. This is your band. - Crystal Summers - Navy Pier, Chicago,IL


"A Diamond in the Rough"

Upshot. What’s the upshot to seeing them perform you ask. Pure entertainment, professionalism, a musical gem. Each time we see them perform, it is like watching a rough diamond taking shape into brilliance. They are a treat to watch and pleasure to call them friends. - Matthew Medlen


"Our Reception was a Hit!"

Upshot was awesome! All night at the wedding people were asking us about where we we found them and why they hadn't heard of them before. Sara's voice is so unique and the rest of the band are phenomenal musicians. Book these guys you won't regret it! - Danielle Berry


"Chicago Sun Times Review"

"Infectious rock and roll...the way it used to be played." - Neil Steinburg - Chicago Sun Times


"More Music Wednesday: Upshot, Nona Hendryx and More!"

"I need you all to heed the advice I’m about to give you: If you have the opportunity to see this band play live, get your ass there. I had no clue what to expect when lead vocalist/guitarist Sara Hall stepped up to perform at Chicago’s Back Lot Bash singer-songwriter competition to open for Chely Wright a couple of months ago. I had been lucky enough to be asked to sit in as a guest judge for the events and there was hella talent from a variety of genres vying for the spot. Well Sara and her accompanying guitarist, Matt Zimmerman, got up on stage and the Janis Joplin Southern Rockabilly Soul that came like a big hug out from her guts put an immediate smile on my face that didn’t leave until they finished their set.

...I’m actually really surprised at City Noise and the range of genres it touches. Hall’s voice transforms so sneakily from Folk-Soul into Soul-R&B and then punches you in the face with Metal-Funk" - Mia Jones - afterellen.com


"Fundraiser for St. Mary 's Hospital (Chicago)"

“Upshot is Amazing and has a Vibe that appeals to All ! The Band made our Fundraiser for St. Mary 's a tremendous success. Lagunitas is going to use Upshot for Future events as well. I have received tons of messages and calls about how everyone loved the Band! Thank you for playing nonstop fantastic music with incredible vocals !” - Susie Cassidy


"Upshot"

"One of the cool things about doing this show is when you find a band who plays music that's different from everything you've featured before. Another cool thing is when you find a band who is energetic, upbeat, and genuinely excited about making that music.

Upshot is both of those things." - Darrin Snider - Indy In Tune


"REO Speedwagon Shows Boundless Energy"

"The band (REO) took the stage after a 30-minute performance by Champaign-based Upshot, which is Hall's daughter's band. Sara Hall had the same friendly smile as her father, and while she looked punky, with a mohawk and chains hanging from her jeans, her voice was thick and bluesy." - Danielle Hatch - Peoria Journal Star


Discography

Bring Bourbon 2015

City Noise, 2011


Photos

Bio

UPSHOT is not your typical, everyday type of band. They are an eclectic mix of five talented musicians that possess a very diverse and unique musical styling. They are heavily influenced by all genres, ranging from funk, blues, rock, reggae, hip-hop, and gospel….just to name a few. They have an impressive list of originals that are entertaining, thought provoking, and genre-defying. Their talent, accompanied with their diverse creativity, never cease to incite the audience to sing along and dance!
Because of their music and talents, they have had the honor of sharing the stage with amazing and talented acts spanning between the likes of REO Speedwagon to Davina and the Vagabonds. They have released two albums. Their debut album, “City Noise”, introduced people to the diversity and range that UPSHOT is. Their sophomore album, “Bring Bourbon”, is more grown up, not only lyrically, but musically as well.

Lead singer Sara Hall brings the warm and raspy lead vocals. Matt Zimmerman accompanies her with the organic and unique rhythms on the guitar. Jared Manker provides the beefy, fluid, and funky rhythms from the bass. Adiare “Peety” Thomas infuses gospel-influenced beats from the drums, and Seth Anders rounds it all out with the mellow haunts of the saxophone. Just like one of Grandma’s old recipes: A pinch, a dash, a smidgen, a heap, and you have what cooks up all things UPSHOT!

There really isn’t any end in sight for this band. They always strive to reach new fans and share their music with the world as they continue to tour. In the meantime, they will continue to open the ears and hearts of all who want to rock with them, while bringing out the dance moves in everybody that comes to their shows. Until next time: Music, Love….and Bourbon!

Band Members