Battles consists of four men with long histories in music making: Tyondai Braxton, son of alterna-jazz musician Anthony Braxton, has worked with hip hop producer Guillermo Scott Herren and noise rockers Parts & Labor. Ian Williams is originally from Pittsburgh math rock pioneers Don Caballero, and also played in noise rock trio Storm & Stress. Dave Konopka, guitarist and bassist, brings the rhythmically complex guitar style of his previous band Lynx into the equation. Veteran of the hardcore scene John Stanier used to play for Helmet - now, when he's not drumming for Battles, he fills out alterna-metal rock supergroup Tomahawk and Australian hard rock band The Mark of Cain more ›

"Split Works is saddened to announce that P.K.14's drummer Jonney has broken his foot! Though the band was scheduled to open for New York rockers Battles this weekend, it looks like they'll have to sit this one out...Wishing Jonney a speedy recovery. Fans are welcome to send virtual flowers and cards to jonneygetbetter at spli-t dot com. Fear not! We've rustled up not just 1, but 2 intrepid acts in each city to sub for P.K.14, bringing with them a spacey, lo-fi, hi-fi, fiercely experimental and eclectic sound; fitting support for the futuristic noise of Battles." In Shanghai, Mr. Particle and AV Okubo will be filling P.K.14's shoes. more ›