Tough Tough Skin Resigned to San Francisco Queer Label

Minneapolis, MN, June 06, 2009 --(PR.com)-- Queer Control Records (QCR) recently announced the contract renewal of Minneapolis-based Tough Tough Skin. As one of only two QCR Resident Artists to be resigned, the band is poised to offer fans new tunes and a fresh take on old favorites. With the departure of former drummer Zach McNulty, Tough Tough Skin has transformed from a 4-piece to a 3-piece. In the coming year, the self-proclaimed “melodic punk” trio look forward to the opportunity to record and perform new music.

With the continued support of QCR, the trio will return to the studio this summer for the recording of their sophomore album. Radford Bishop, who previously doubled up on guitar and vocals with now solo front man River Gordon, is currently settling into his new role as drummer. “I have been part of Tough Tough Skin since it's beginning, almost 6 years ago,” recalls Bishop. “In that time, I have tested myself, both as a musician and a songwriter. My most recent ‘growth-spurt’ has been switching from guitar, which I’ve played for 14 years, to drums, which I’ve always wanted to play, but never fully had the opportunity to do so.” While this new chapter will certainly present its own challenges, it also offers a promising reemergence not to be missed.

Tough Tough Skin first teamed up with QCR in late 2007. As part of the label’s inaugural class of Resident Artists, the Tough Tough guys joined label mates to tour the West Coast in 2008. “We loved the experience of being on the '08 roster – touring, getting to know the other bands, seeing what else is happening under the umbrella of indie queer music, and finally, having the support to make a great album,” explained lead singer and guitarist River Gordon. “Being signed to QCR has also helped immensely in increasing our access to opportunities for professional growth. We look forward to seeing what '09 will bring.”

“We are very proud and excited to welcome Tough Tough Skin back for another year,” said Queer Control Records President and CEO Marlene Melendez. “These guys have a genuine passion for making music. Not only are they extremely talented, but they also embrace their capacity for growth and transformation – a quality that can easily be lost. What’s more is that, as musicians, they are willing to speak to a variety of complex issues in their lyrics and on stage, which I think is inspiring and meaningful for all queer people.”

For more details, please visit www.toughtoughskin.com or www.queercontrol.com.

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