Getting Started have been moving fast. The Chicago five-piece officially began last May with their debut EP Get Up, followed it with Take Care, and by November had released a self-titled debut album that established a clear creative voice, blending modern indie rock energy with the emotional weight of classic rock songwriting. That is a lot of ground covered in under a year, and the momentum has been real, built through packed hometown shows and a growing audience who found something genuine in the music.
The band is Jack Gallo on vocals and rhythm guitar, Eddie O’Connor on piano, Matt Stein on lead guitar, Pat Hickey on bass, and Jack Scanlon on drums. Their music documents a journey in real time, filled with moments of reflection, uncertainty, determination, and growth. The songs explore self-doubt, personal change, and the excitement of possibility with a sincerity that has connected with listeners well beyond their local scene.
Pistonspeak is their first new music of 2026 and the opening statement of what will become their sophomore project. It lands as an emotional indie rock track and represents the strongest version of the band so far.
The Single
The track opens with the patter of drums before the arrangement forms around bright piano plinks and the delicate twang of guitar notes propelled by steady percussive energy. Gallo’s warm vocals enter carrying poignant lyrics above the instrumentation, casting a moving indie rock soundscape with breezy tone and genuine pop appeal. Intricate lead guitar flourishes push the song forward before it surges with intensity into a rousing finale where belted vocals ring out above a swelling arrangement.
The balance between the intimacy of the verses and the cathartic release of the finish is handled well. It is a timeless-feeling piece of songwriting that puts the band’s melodic instincts and performance confidence on full display.
What Comes Next
The band has described Pistonspeak as the start of something larger, with plans to continue sharing new material throughout the second half of the year alongside live performances across the country. For a band whose growth has been driven by both well-received releases and a genuine connection with their audience, that trajectory feels earned rather than assumed.
This is a band worth watching closely right now.
Pistonspeak is out now. Follow Getting Started for new releases and upcoming shows.
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