In the Jacksonville music scene, Rusholme Ruffians is a gem among rocks. From its golden-haired goddess lead singer to the unrelenting creative collaboration between band members, their sound continues to get better and Jacksonville has taken notice. In fact, Folio Weekly once dubbed this band as the "best coiffed rock-n’-roll band." What really separates this band from others is that they draw from their own inspiration. In doing so, each note is more unique than the one before it.

“It's hard for people to tag us with specific comparisons, which sounds cliché, but it is obvious that the music we grew up listening to influenced how we approach our music. Post-punk, '90s style alternative, and a little [progressive] rock finds its way into the writing process,” says Nicole VanNienwenhove, lead singer.

The current incarnation of Rusholme Ruffians came about after each member collectively decided to quit performing as a Smiths/Morrissey tribute act and begin writing original work. The group formed in December 2007, six months after Nicole and guitar player Jay Stamper saw Morrissey in concert. Nicole decided to start a Smiths/Morrissey tribute act. Bass musician Chris Hartman joined shortly after answering a Craigslist advertisement. Lastly, Jon Lorimier joined as the drummer in June 2009 after the tribute band ended, but Jay Stamper and Jon Lorimeir have been in bands together for more than a decade. It’s this time together that bonded the group and helped them develop their sound today.

Check Out Rusholme Ruffians Live:
October 10, 2010, 1:00PM Jacksonville Landing (Jacksonville Zombie Walk). All ages show.
October 16, 2010, 9:30PM clubTSI. 18+.