Built solidly around Hilmer’s no-frills songwriting and seasoned vocals, Ian Hilmer’s StageFright (IHSF) infuses appealing hooks with pathos laden lyrics. Fans of jam bands and indie rock will not be disappointed. Bands in a similar stylistic vein include: Wilco, the Tragically Hip, My Morning Jacket, Tom Waits and Greg Brown.
IHSF will be releasing their first studio album titled “from ourselves� under the StageFright moniker on Aquarium Records late in 2006. Following 2004’s “Live at the Paramount� (Moving Records) and Hilmer’s first release “Kickin’ Time Cross Country� (Aquarium), “from ourselves� showcase’s Hilmer’s songwriting abilities as well as the musical interplay amongst his new line-up—Hilmer’s best to date.
In his 10+ years of playing hallway bars, festivals and theatres across the Midwest, Hilmer has garnered a reputation as one of Minnesota’s finest entertainers and songsmiths. “He gives the thinkers something to think about, the dancers something to dance about and the drinkers something to drink about.� says one fan. Highlights of his career include a 2006 performance at the South by Southwest Festival in Austin TX, and past performances at the 10,000 Lakes Festival and Harvest Fest (some of the Midwest’s premier music festivals).
The members of Ian Hilmer’s StageFright (IHSF) have been involved in dozens of blues, rock and jam bands in the Midwest. Alongside, shouldering the blame are Aaron Lacher (elec. Gtr/vox), Dave Hansen (drums/vox), Matt Ulman (bass) and Dan Draz (demes). Their tireless pursuit has earned Hilmer and company the ability to entertain rowdy bars, or captivate quiet audiences.