The Maine, Arizona Rockers Return to Rio

By Chesney Hearst, Contributing Reporter

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – Since 2007, Tempe, Arizona natives The Maine have been perfecting their brand of rock and the 2011 release of their third full-length album, “Pioneer,” marks a leap closer to a more cohesive musical oeuvre. Embarking last year on a world tour for the album, they first took on North America, then South America, and play in Rio on July 29th at Circo Voador in Lapa.

Band members John O’Callaghan (vocals, guitar), Kennedy Brock (guitar, back up vocals), Jared Monaco (lead guitar), Patrick Kirch (drums), and Garrett Nickelsen (bass guitar) and a camera crew will make their way through Brazil and Argentina before moving on to the European leg of the tour.

Using social networks, the band is sharing pictures, live EPs and videos of their ongoing tour adventures, taking fans with them along the way.

“The first time we came to Brazil in December of last year was some of the greatest shows we’ve ever been able to play,” said bassist Garrett Nickelsen to The Rio Times.

“I remember walking out on stage and having such an overwhelming feeling of excitement that I’ve never felt before. I really can’t wait to be in Brazil again.”

The energy from their Brazilians fans so inspired The Maine that they have chosen to shoot their first live DVD in São Paulo on July 28th. When questioned about capturing the energy of the Rio de Janeiro show as well, Nickelsen said, “The entire Rio show won’t be filmed like the São Paulo show but I’m sure some of the extra footage will make it onto the DVD.”

Being two-time Warped Tour veterans and having previously toured with bands Taking Back Sunday, Bad Rabbits, Good Charlotte, We the Kings and Never Shout Never, The Maine are definitely no strangers to the road. Their comprehensive live shows won them the title of Best Live Band of 2010 by AP readers.

Adding to the overall experience, The Maine enhance their tours and form stronger bonds with their fans through producing and distributing other types of media, such as live EP downloads, photos and live videos. In 2009, they released a book entitled “This Is Real Life” which included journal-like accounts and photographs of their time on the Warped Tour. Following that was the release of “Black & White Keepsake Book,” also filled with photos and touring memoirs.

When asked about their openness with fans and consistent sharing through their website and Facebook page, Nickelsen said, “We have always run the whole social network thing the way we would love our favorite bands to do. I think people that listen to our music really love the constant updates, it really keeps people connected to what we are doing all the time.”

The Maine’s show at Circo Voador promises to be an experience. “I think everyone is Rio can expect a really long set full of songs from all our records.” said Nickelsen who remained tight lipped about which songs the set would include but added in the end, “I can bet everyone who comes won’t be let down with not hearing the songs they came to see.”

Location: Circo Voador, Rua dos Arcos, Lapa
Dates: Sunday, July 29, 2012
Time: Doors open at 7PM