The band, REDSHIRT, began after Jon Bryan and Chris Traynor (Helmet/Bush) recorded a much anticipated 3-song EP.  The music Jon and Chris collaborated on prior to Chris' departure had generated quite a buzz within the music industry.  Not wanting to lose that momentum, Jon quickly recruited longtime friend and guitar player Pat Donahoe to fill the void.  Jon felt that Pat, who at that time was helping Stabbing Westward's Chris Hall get started with his post Stabbing Westward music, was the innovative player he wanted to help him write and co-produce an album. Jon wanted to work with Pat because he knew that Pat always strives for innovation not only with the guitar, but also with the music itself.  The results were very dynamic.  Pat's explosive and engaging guitar playing propelled Jon's powerful vocals, mesmerizing stage presence, and edgy performances to the next level.  Jon and Pat possess a tremendous amount of focus, both lyrically and musically.  Together they wrote, played, recorded, and co-produced a 5-song demo with the help of bassist Danny Weymouth and drummer Matt Koller.   Danny and Matt provide a progressive, powerhouse rhythm section, which compliments and cements the dynamics of REDSHIRT's music perfectly.  The concept of REDSHIRT's music combines riff elements from classic rock, incorporates them with the "punch" of today's music, and adds a lyrical focus centering on hope and confusion.  Since they started, REDSHIRT has already "held it's own" opening for bands like Filter and Sevendust.  REDSHIRT consists of four experienced musicians, each of whom have played the largest venues and clubs in Chicago and the Midwest with former bands.  These veterans of the Chicago music scene play raw and loud and boast the best rhythm section in Chicago. This is a band that is musical, visual, and has the plan, focus, and determination to appeal on an international level.