The Leftovers are traveling the globe and taking the world by storm. They’re also attending classes at USM.
The band formed in 2002, and immediately turned heads with their EP Mitton Street Special. Two years later, they released their first full-length album, “Stop, Drop, Rock, & Roll.” In 2006, Cheapskate Records put out The Leftovers’ second LP, “Party Tonight.” Their most recent album, “On The Move,” was released by Rally Records in 2007. It was recorded in Wisconsin at the studio of legendary producer Butch Vig (Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins).
Since then, The Leftovers have toured all over the country and played with a variety of renowned punk acts. The band has even toured Europe-twice. Bassist and lead vocalist Kurt Baker was absolutely floored by the band’s most recent success overseas: “It was a crazy time. Every show was sold out, and a whole bunch of people were singing along to our songs. They already knew the words!”
Kurt and guitarist Andrew Rice still live in Maine, while drummer Andy Woronoff resides in Boston. Two-thirds of Maine’s premiere pop-power-punk trio rocks by night, and has to show up for classes the next morning. It’s not unusual for the band to play a string of shows in Canada or down the East Coast for the weekend, and then have to drive back for school. Speaking about a forthcoming mini-tour to New York City and back, Andrew says he’s just worried about getting back in time for his Media Studies class.
Though the band is enjoying considerable success on both sides of the pond, they still have to deal with the hassles of college life. Textbooks are still too expensive. Certain classes are still boring. But when it comes to music, The Leftovers are “on the move” towards international success and worldwide glory.