About Raised on Zenith :

Imagine what you'd have if you could somehow create a musical group with the finest qualities had by the Russian group, Kino, Seattle's Nirvana, and David Bowie. We introduce you to a musical phenomenon that is a beautifully strange amalgamation of Eastern European punk rock, American "alternative", and British Manchester-Pop. Zhenia Koval, was born and raised in the Ukraine, but finally arrived in Chicago in 1994 by way of his adopted home in Lincoln, Nebraska. Although he originally came to the city to study film, he was, at heart, a talented guitarist and songwriter, and he immediately immersed himself in the local music scene. One of his first projects in Chicago drew from his experiences with the thriving indie rock scene in Nebraska, home of Saddle Creek Records and such bands as Bright Eyes, Cursive, and Strawberry Burns. This solo effort, simply called Zhenia, had two important outcomes: the start of his collaboration with guitarist, Derreck Whitlatch, and the writing of the song, "Looking at the Sky." These two events marked the beginning of Raised on Zenith. Zhenia and Derreck met in 2001 through mutual friends, and began playing music together after discovering that they had similar tastes and influences. They also shared a common vision for a new musical group; one that expanded on the delicate beauty of Zhenia, but required the addition of key personnel. In 2005, we introduced Steve Dobkowski who adds his tour experience, unique skills, and flawless meter to fill the drum spot perfectly. Steve is also joined by the newist bass player, Dave Tantillo who takes his live experience and adds an agressive and melodic combination of low end for the rhythm section. These two remaining members would prove to be the perfect compliment to Zhenia's unique vocal and musical style. What seemed like an unlikely combination of widely different styles and influences would become the harmonious brew known as ROZ.

Members:
Zhenia Koval----vocal, guitar.

Derreck Whitlatch----guitar.

Dave Tantillo----bass guitar.

Steve Dobkowski----drums.

Location:
Chicago, Illinois

Influences:
Kino, Nirvana, and David Bowie