The Mess Around

Formed in Brooklyn, NY in early 2007, The Mess Around was initially composed of Dave Harrison (vocals, guitar), Mark Wheeler (bass, vocals), John McKloskey (guitar), and Gregory Libbee (drums). Initially playing almost weekly, the band gained a reputation for shambolic, alcohol-fueled shows, often playing beefy, high-adrenaline blues-based numbers while rolling on the floor, taking whiskey shots mid-song, and stopping the set to tell jokes. In 2008, McKloskey quit and was replaced by Nick Petropoulos, formerly of Cheri Love Affair. With Petropoulos in the lineup, the band developed a more unique sound, blending garage-rock, soul-music, hardcore punk, and AC/DC-style arena rock. Catching the attention of Dean Rispler, the band recorded its debut album for his label Drug Front Records in April of 2010. After a myriad of rejected album covers, titles, and concepts, Rispler and the band all agreed on the title "5371088" and a 20 year old picture of Wheeler's girlfriend as the cover. The album was finally released in summer 2012 and received universal praise for its energy, straightforwardness, and production values. In late 2013, Gregory Libbee quit due to a shoulder injury that prevented him from playing drums. He was replaced by Mike Rivera (formerly of the Ten Cent Fuck Flicks) and the new lineup debuted in the summer of 2014. However, by summer of 2015, the band had collapsed due to infighting and lack of interest, and the members went their separate ways.