The Pugilists are four Milwaukee rock veterans ranging from ruggedly handsome to somewhat homely. Originally the backing band for Milwaukee power-pop stalwart Nick Pipitone, the Pugs have now left the nest and are learning to fly by means of falling out of tall trees.
Led by nobody, really, the Pugilists are, in alphabetical order by first name, Don Moore on guitar and vocals, Jack Rice on bass and vocals, Jack Rodee on guitar and vocals, and Nick Verban on the drums.
NOTE: The Pugilists are the only band in the known world whose members' names, when arranged alphabetically by first name, are in the exact same order as they would be in if arranged alphabetically by last name. The Pugilists challenge you to find another band who shares this remarkable trait. Go ahead. Send us a message if you can find another band like this and you'll win a fabulous prize. Queen? Nope, guess again, Slugger. Four words: John Deacon, Brian May. What about Finnish metal outfit Children of Bodom? Sorry, Tiger. Close but no tomato. Keyboardist Janna Wirman does have the last alphabetical surname of the band, but drummer Jaska Raatikainen has the last alphabetical first name.
What are you, scared? Thought so.
Bands and artists they have played with or still play with reads like a "Who's Who" of bands consisting of them and people they've played with, including: The Lackloves, Spill, The Pugilists, The Mighty Deer Lick, The Carolinas, Sugarsmack, The Blow Pops, Michelle Anthony & Stick Pony, Goat Radio, Pipitone, Spin Jive, The Nads, Debt Service, the Substitutes, the Billy Seidel Band, happytown, Covert Operation, Mary Karlzen, Neon Moon, Tommyheld, the Nick Verban 3, Tinted Blind, Stealing Dan and The Don Moore Soultet.
Will the Pugilists rock YOU? The answer to that question can be summed up in one word: Perhaps.