In its seven-year existence, Model Citizen has become one of the best bands to ever come out of Birmingham.

Model Citizen earned its musical stripes by surviving line-up changes, the untimely death of a drummer and many weekends of house parties and grassroots gigging. This trio (Matt Patton-guitar, Craig Gates-bass, Mike Gaut-drumset) plays hard and tight. Described by some fans as Who/Clashish rock music, the players deliver in a forceful but not overwhelming style. Model Citizen knows how to get right up in your face without spitting in your eye. The band has long been a local favorite in Tuscaloosa. Guitarist Matt Patton says they're just doing their thing.

"We're just glad to still be here playing. And we don't plan on going anywhere anytime soon." says Patton.

Well ... except maybe into the studio to record a new EP called "The Inner Fool" , due out in September. Patton says it's hard for them to showcase the band's best qualities on a recording.

"We all love how we sound live, but it's hard to capture the live feeling on a record. But if we can catch it, we're going to take it and shop it."

Model Citizen cut its first teeth playing gigs in Tuscaloosa. Patton says some of his all-time favorite Ttown bands include Club Wig, the Irascibles, Sweat Bee, the Penetrators, Storm Orphans and the Hitchcocks. He says some of the band's favorite current acts include the American Way, Martha and Debbie and the Coke People.

Patton says the Woggles are also a big influence. He says that band's global adventures are inspiring

"The Woggles take it to a level any band should want." he says.

But judging by the show Model Citizen played with the Woggles, this band is climbing fast.

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