The Heavyweights Battle of the Bands recently wrapped up at The Intersection in Grand Rapids, and local group Izzy Reign took home the top spot this year. She’s definitely an artist worth keeping an eye on.
Grand Rapids New Rising Star Izzy Reign
Izzy Reign stood out as the only female-fronted act in the Heavyweights Battle of the Bands. From the very first listen, the quality of her demos was undeniable. I honestly thought I had clicked on a completely different artist on YouTube because I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.
When Izzy was selected for the finals, she didn’t even have a full band in place yet, but she quickly pulled together a powerhouse lineup, bringing in drummer Matt Marquez of Norma Jean, and Taylor Roberts on guitar, who has his own band Riding With Killers and also tours with Taproot. That’s one way to make a serious statement with your first show lineup.
Izzy wrote the album with producers Nick Matzkows and Jon Eberhard (I Prevail) and the three did an amazing job. The songs and production are solid and sound as if Izzy Reign is already a national touring artist.
Bands like Pop Evil, Wayland, and Sleeping With Sirens are all from the West Michigan area and I believe that Izzy Reign could be the next artist from the region to make it to the next level.
Izzy Reign Emerges as Grand Rapids’ New Voice
Izzy Reign will be performing at the Upheaval Festival this year, and I highly recommend you attend the show. I also recommend getting familiar with her music and getting a copy of her debut self-titled album Izzy Reign…