Red Line Chemistry

Despite a devoted local following and a radio-ready sound, Penumbra couldn't quite break out of the Club Wars circuit. After some personnel changes, the Kansas City quintet reemerged in 2004 as Red Line Chemistry, with mohawked, Maynard James Keenan-sound-alike Brett assuming vocal duties. (This is a first-names-only group, perhaps to preserve the fugitive members of the self-described "most dangerous rock band in the Midwest.") Red Line Chemistry's just-released debut, Chemical High and a Hand Grenade, boasts professional production, crisp dual-guitar riffs and neo-grunge harmonies. Yet for all its airwaves-baiting qualities, RLC isn't too censor-shy to unleash a group-shouted midsong Fuck you. Already a fixture on regional showcases such as Homegrown Buzz, RLC has the look (Brett's isn't the only creative coif) and the hooks to attract national interest.