
Primer 55, Smile Empty Soul
Wave
∙
Wichita
Friday, November 21 at 7 pm CST
Rock
Friday, November 21 at 7 pm CST
Rock
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Description
SMILE EMPTY SOUL is a hard rock band that originated in Los Angeles, CA in the late 1990's and has stayed true to their brand of "no bullshit", "real as it gets" hard rock to this day. The band signed a major label record deal in 2003 to release their self-titled debut album in May of that year. They realized huge success at alternative radio, rock radio, and the music video channels that have since fallen by the wayside or turned into reality show networks.
After 3 very successful singles/videos and a gold record from the debut album release, the band ran into trouble with their record company (which was in the midst of turmoil at the top levels) and found themselves working extra hard in the trenches, and signed to indie labels or no label at all from then on.
This would become SMILE EMPTY SOUL's destiny, as they have gone on to release many more albums and EP's on various labels, as well as their own company "smile empty music inc". The band just released their 9th full length record "Black Pilled" on October 12th of 2021 completely on their own.
"Smile" has become known for its constant touring and never wavering honest sound/lyrics. They've never changed for anybody, and turned down many opportunities to "sell out" because it's not who they are.
With a calendar full of tour dates, a new album, and just as much drive as they had starting out 20 years ago, this band looks to continue to build on the legacy they've created as one of the hardest working, and most underrated bands in rock and roll.
Primer 55 in a nu-metal/rap-metal outfit formed in 1997 by guitarist Bobby Burns and rapper/singer Jason "J-Sin" Luttrell. They made their major-label debut with *Introduction to Mayhem* in January 2000, which remains a touchstone for their fanbase. Tragically, original frontman J-Sin passed away on August 10, 2018, after a long battle with health issues tied to Hepatitis C. His voice and spirit are still deeply revered by the band and fans.
When the reunited band announced their *Introduction to Mayhem* 25th-anniversary shows, they framed those upcoming performances as a celebration of his legacy. In late 2024, Bobby Burns revealed he had been battling with liver issues. Despite the severity of the condition, Burns has publicly expressed determination and resilience, crediting his recover progress with rallying support from friends, family, and fans. His health battle has become part of the band's narrative of resurgence, and his ability to press onward is seen as a testament to his grit.
Now reunited as of 2025, Primer 55 - with Donny "The DRP" Polinske on vocals, Burns on guitar, Joshua Toomey on bass, and Preston Nash on drums - is hitting the road this October to honor *Introduction to Mayhem*'s 25th anniversary. The tour isn't just a nostalgic revisit - it's a bold statement that, despite loss and adversity, the spirit of Primer 55 endures.
Full bar available during events.
Limited seating available on a first come first serve basis.
All Ages unless stated otherwise.
Support acts subject to change.
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