On The Verge

The Main Squeeze

Bloomington, Ind.
Corn Funk
www.mainsqueezemusic.com

Proof that funk music can come out of the cornfields of Indiana, The Main Squeeze blends soulful vocals, jazzy guitar riffs and a high-energy groove to form a sound that is slowly bringing the band to global attention. In the past year, the band went from playing for a mere 170 people at a hometown venue to performing at big-name festivals such as Equifunk, Bonnaroo and Summer Camp—and opening up for The Roots and Jane’s Addiction at a Rolling Stone magazine sponsored Super Bowl party. “It was an unbelievable opportunity,” says keyboardist Ben “Smiley” Silverstein. “It felt amazing, and showed how dedicated our fans are to us. We’re extremely thankful.” Recently, the quintet traveled to Macau, China to compete in the Venetian Macau International Jazz and Blues Competition, where they took home first place and a hefty $32,000 prize. The group also released their debut self-titled album—a collection of 12 tracks that showcase singer Corey Frye’s impressive Stevie Wonder-influenced vocals and the young group’s ability to jump across genres with ease.