BandWagon Magazine - December 2024 - Remedy

A LIGHT IN THE DARKNESS EP: HARD ROCK THAT HEALS

BY ROWAN CLARK

For Remedy, music isn’t just sound; it’s a lifeline, a reflection of struggles, and a beacon of light for their fans. With their deluxe release of A Light in the Darkness, the Northern Colorado hard rockers continue to blend ferocious energy with heartfelt introspection. The project isn’t just another album—it’s a testament to their growth as musicians and their dedication to creating music that uplifts and inspires.s

“This album isn’t just a chapter for our band—it’s what we strive to be on a daily basis,” explains lead vocalist Dylan Shutt. “We’re hearing stories about how our music is helping people overcome addiction and heal. At the end of the day, it feels so good knowing we can take our faith, be creative, and actually make a difference in people’s lives.”

pletely new sonic attitude, with more modern and heavier parts, and aggressive vocals. We feel confident our music can reach the masses.”

This growth is evident in A Light in the Darkness, a project that has been transformative for the band, both creatively and professionally. Working with producer Taylor Hahn and mastering legend Ted Jensen elevated the album’s sonic quality to a new level. “Taylor opened the gates, allowing us to work with Ted Jensen, who has worked with artists like I Prevail, Morgan Wallen, Shinedown, and Post Malone,” Shutt shares. “These opportunities are what local bands dream about, and we couldn’t be happier with the incredible work and impact these two guys have made.”

that everyone faces and allows everyone the opportunity to connect with our music, despite their alignment with our beliefs,” says Wood. “We strive to show an escape for these struggles by sharing what has been the greatest way out we’ve ever been given. If we can provide hope to people by spreading our faith whenever and wherever we can, we believe we’re living according to the purpose God designed for us.”

Since their debut release, The Villain in Me, Remedy has evolved in both sound and purpose. Known for combining raw hard rock with emotionally resonant themes, the band has drawn comparisons to genre heavyweights like Skillet, Memphis May Fire, and Wage War. But their sound has also matured. “Our early days brought four kids to the stage so eager to get music out and find our way,” says lead guitarist Nick Wood. “Yet the Remedy we know today has developed a com-

To maximize the impact of their music, Remedy embraced a strategic rollout for the album. From January to June 2024, they released a single every five weeks, bolstered by heavy social media content and marketing efforts. This steady flow of material culminated in the EP version of A Light in the Darkness, released over the summer. Remedy has since continued to promote the project while preparing for what’s next.

A defining element of Remedy’s appeal is their ability to integrate their faith into their music in a way that resonates with a broad audience. “Our music talks about struggles

Looking ahead, Remedy is already laying the groundwork for a dynamic 2025. The band plans to play mainstream festivals, continue building their presence in their home state of Colorado, and push their creative boundaries with new material. “Metal continues to evolve, and we hope to establish Remedy as a band responsible for the evolution of the genre,” says Shutt. “Most importantly, we will continue to try and show people there is a place for them in this world, no matter who they are, where they came from, or what they’re going through.”

With A Light in the Darkness set to drop and new opportunities on the horizon, Remedy’s trajectory is one of growth. For a band that started as four kids with a dream, they’ve become so much more—a beacon of hope, resilience, and connection. And for their fans, Remedy’s music remains what it has always been: a lifeline, a reflection of struggles, and a light in the darkness.

CELEBRATE THE RELEASE OF THE DELUXE VERSION

SATURDAY DECEMBER 21ST

WHOVILLE HOLIDAY

SATURDAY | NOV 30 | 9 - 11:30 a . m .

WHISKEY WONDERLAND

and other Spirits of the Season

• Hor d’oeuvres and wine provided This year’s signature events include:

• Whiskey Giveaways

• Featuring Local Distilleries

• Viewing of the Trees

• Hors d’oeuvres

SATURDAY | NOV 30 7 - 9 p . m .

• Glass Fusion led by Laira Ziegler

THURSDAY | DEC 5 | 6 - 8 p . m .

THE BHADDIES’ SAINT: SANTA KIMEX

BY LANDON UNGERMAN

Santa KIMEX, the rising reggaeton-MEXA artist from Chihuahua, Mexico, is lighting up Greeley, Colorado, with her infectious creativity and unapologetic energy. KIMEX is a vibrant multi-disciplinary artist whose work spans painting, murals, set design, makeup, and fashion, and of course, music. Her creations are as bold and eclectic as her persona, embodying a joyous defiance that is "for the baddies."

“I want people to feel like they can create themselves,” she shares. For KIMEX, the power to transform one’s identity and express individuality lies at the core of her artistry. She represents an audacious voice for women, the LGBTQ+ community, and anyone seeking freedom in self-expression.

TO BE CUNTY IS TO BE FREE

Santa KIMEX isn’t just a stage name; it’s a declaration. “She’s here. She’s cuntier,” KIMEX explains. The “Santa” invokes a saintly reverence, while “KIMEX” ties her to her heritage and reggaeton-MEXA movement. Through her music and presence, she’s carving out space for joy, fun, and unabashed femininity—elements she finds are often missing in a male-dominated industry.

“We’re finally starting to see women having fun and owning it,” she says, referencing artists like Sexy Red. “People criticize it, call it ‘ratchet,’ but no—she’s having a great time. And that’s what I want to do, too. Just have fun and bring that energy.”

For KIMEX, “having fun” doesn’t diminish the substance of her work. Instead, it empowers others to reclaim their narratives. Her music is a party with a purpose, a space where listeners can shake, dance, and feel represented.

From Chihuahua to Greeley: Finding Community

Born in Mexico, KIMEX moved to Colorado at eight, facing challenges of cultural transition and a starkly individualistic American lifestyle. “In Mexico, everyone knows everyone. All the moms hang out; there’s so much community. Here, it’s different—so individual-focused,” she reflects.

This sense of loss fuels her mission to bring people together. Through her music and art, KIMEX invites her audience to share in her culture and celebrate

their identities. She’s proud to amplify the voices of Greeley’s Latino and queer communities. “At my shows, the Latino baddies are loving it. They feel represented, and that’s the best feeling.”

KIMEX’s music is steeped in the sounds of reggaeton-MEXA, a genre blending traditional reggaeton with Mexican influences. While this style thrives in Mexico City, it’s less recognized in Greeley, making her work a bridge between these cultural spaces. “The kind of music I do isn’t really heard here,” she says. “But I want to bring it, diversify it, and share it with Greeley.”

With plans to release her debut album next summer, KIMEX promises a collection that’s “for the baddies.” It will be music to move to—an anthem for self-confidence and celebration. She also dreams of taking her sound back to Mexico City, where the reggaeton-MEXA movement is thriving, while continuing to represent her adopted hometown.

ART AS EVERYDAY LIFE

For KIMEX, creativity isn’t confined to one medium or moment—it’s a way of life. “I create every day,” she says. “Whether it’s painting, making music, or designing sets, there’s not a day where I’m not working on something.”

Her multidisciplinary approach was on full display during her recent set, where she incorporated towering cac tus sculptures she made herself. “I want everything I do to feel complete, from the visuals to the music. It’s all part of the same story,” she explains.

Her work extends beyond music into community events, like her recent Día de los Muertos gallery show at the Toyton Gallery, and WeldWalls Mural Festival. Surrounded by the art of her friends and fellow creatives, she de scribed the night as a celebration of “beautiful brown people.”

EMPOWERMENT THROUGH COLLABORATION

KIMEX credits much of her cre ative confidence to her partner, Ian “Mamash”, who encouraged her to embrace her full artistic potential. “He pushed me to put myself out there and reminded me that being authentic is all that

matters,” she says. This ethos of collaboration runs through her work. She thrives on building spaces for others to shine, whether through shared gallery shows or musical partnerships.

Her message to her fans is clear: “It’s okay to collaborate. It’s okay to create yourself, to find a community of people like you and grow together.”

KIMEX, KIMEX, KIMEX!

As Santa KIMEX looks ahead, her vision is bold and unapologetic. She’s creating not just music but a movement—one that empowers women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and anyone ready to own their voice.

Whether she’s painting a mural, making music, or designing a set, her work radiates joy, individuality, and an invitation to let loose. “After a show, when I see how people respond, it reassures me that this is what I’m meant to do,” she says.

With her upcoming album, KIMEX is poised to take her artistry to new heights.

FLEEKA

EMBRACING BIG FEELINGS AND CRAFTING HER OWN PATH

Fleeka’s journey into music was as natural as breathing. From the moment she could talk, she was singing—a memory her mother fondly recalls. “I know it might sound cliché, but it felt different for me,” Fleeka shares. “I couldn’t picture myself doing anything else.” Her childhood was filled with performances at family gatherings and even the local Dress Barn, where the store manager would pay her to sing on the counter top. These early experiences solidified her passion for music and gave her the foundation to pursue her dream.

Fleeka describes her music as “Unexpected Pop,” a blend of heartfelt storytelling and dynamic, genre-bending production. Influences like Taylor Swift, Colbie Caillat, and Hannah Montana played pivotal roles in shaping her artistic voice. “Songs like Bubbly and Picture to Burn were my go-to tracks,” she says.

Initially releasing music under the name Caydence Joy, Fleeka gained positive feedback for her song Be You Tiful, which encouraged her to continue creating. However, as she grew, she felt the need for a more mature and edgy identity. After two years of self-discovery, Fleeka was born. Inspired by her Swedish roots, the name pays tribute to her heritage, while also representing her growth as an artist.

Fleeka’s debut EP, Big Feelings, is a powerful exploration of emotions and the human experience. “I feel a lot—maybe even too much—but I’ve learned to find beauty in every moment, good and bad,” she explains. Music became her outlet for channeling and understanding her emotions, and she hopes the EP will encourage listeners to embrace their own feelings. “Without the bad, how can you appreciate the good?”

BY MATTHEW DIETRICH

The EP features a mix of old and new material, including songs she wrote as a middle schooler that have been reimagined for this project. One such track is Greater, which Fleeka describes as an “audible fight between my heart and my mind.” After struggling to find the right direction for the song, her producer, Adam, helped breathe new life into it. “Love can be blinding,” she says, “and this song is about reassembling my mind so I can love wisely and think clearly.”

Her creative process is ongoing and immersive. Fleeka often draws inspiration from personal experiences, memorable interactions, and even snippets of lyrics or quotes that resonate with her.

Although she enjoys every aspect of making music.. performing live is where Fleeka feels most at home. “I love meeting new people and interacting with them,” she says. “Those connections fuel my passion and make my music feel even more alive.” Her performances are designed to take audiences on an emotional journey, mirroring the themes of her EP.

Fleeka’s hope is that listeners feel seen and understood through her music. “Feel to heal,” she says, a mantra that underscores the entire project. She wants her audience to know it’s okay to feel deeply, to challenge old patterns, and to embrace growth.

As Fleeka looks to the future, her focus is on evolving her sound. With plans for more music, collaborations, and genre-blurring projects, she’s excited to explore new directions while staying true to her roots. “I’m a fan of so many genres, and I can’t wait to incorporate new stories and experiences into my catalog,” she shares.

Fleeka’s Big Feelings is more than an EP— it’s an invitation to feel, reflect, and grow. Her music is both deeply personal and universally relatable. She leaves her audience with a powerful message: “To succumb to the enormity of the problem is to fail the one.” Through her art, Fleeka is creating a space where emotions are not only welcomed but celebrated.