THE KELLYS With 'On the World Tour,' band comes into its own

The band has formed its own record label.
By GUY D'ASTOLFO
VINDICATOR ENTERTAINMENT WRITER
WARREN -- Ever since they formed three years ago, the Kellys have stood out in the Mahoning Valley's rock music scene.
The band staked its claim with bright pop-rock that takes full advantage of lead singer Kelly McCracken's powerful voice.
On its second album, the newly released "On the World Tour," the group maintains its bouncy sound, streaked with a reggae accent here and a ballad there. But with three years of experience under its belt -- not to mention two new members -- it's clear that the band has matured into a more confident and polished act.
"Our second album is more evolved," said McCracken. "We've come into our own sound."
She calls it a heartier album, with "the energy, drive, drama and power that the first album lacked."
Moe Angelo, the band's bassist and primary songwriter, agrees that the group has jelled. "We're more comfortable with each other now," he said. "We've been through a lot together."
History
McCracken and Angelo met several years ago and created the nucleus of the band.
About a year ago, the band went through a shakeup when the lead guitarist and drummer left. They were replaced by Joel DeGenova and Brian "Civ" Civarella, respectively.
As a result of the lineup change, every member of the band was finally on the same page. The difference is noticeable on the new album and in the live set.
Each member adds something extra -- a hook or a flourish -- that makes the four-piece more than the sum of its parts.
But it's McCracken's powerful pipes and song-stylist sensibility that gives the band its identity and direction.
Angelo makes the most of McCracken's voice. "As I'm writing a song, I always try to imagine her singing it," he said.
Getting down to business
Tongue-in-cheek album titles aside (their debut album was called "Greatest Hits"), the Kellys do plan to tour the world -- someday. The band members just want to do it their own way.
They formed their own record company, Rukus, to release the record but also to maintain artistic control.
"We would like to do it on our own, and not have to answer to anyone," said Angelo.
They band is trying to get its music into as many ears as possible, said McCracken. Toward that end, they sent "World Tour" to radio stations in northeast Ohio and western Pennsylvania, and hired a company to help them get airplay.
They hope to build a following one city at a time, starting with Youngstown-Warren, and then moving outward. It's a plan that, at least so far, seems to be working.
"We are seeing the same people at our shows, only with new faces each time," said Angelo. "They are bringing friends, and friends of friends."
XThe Kellys new CD, "On the World Tour," is available at shows, and will soon be available at www.thekellysmusic.com and at www.myspace.com/thekellys.