American Idol alum delves into progressive rock with Chicago's District 97; just signed to premier prog rock label Laser's Edge

Ken Golden, President of Laser's Edge Group, announces the addition of Chicago's District 97 to the Laser's Edge label. The label will release the band's debut album Hybrid Child in Fall 2010.

Featuring 2007 American Idol finalist Leslie Hunt, District 97 mixes adventurous musical prowess with accessible catchy vocal melodies. The band features exceptional musicians including Chicago Symphony Orchestra cellist Katinka Kleijn. District 97 was formed in the Fall of 2006 by drummer Jonathan Schang, keyboardist Rob Clearfield, bassist Patrick Mulcahy and guitarist Sam Krahn. The foursome from Chicago honed a no-holds barred style of Liquid Tension Experiment inspired Instrumental Rock before deciding to add the right vocalist. They found their vocalist in Hunt, a 2007 American Idol Top 10 Female Finalist. With a look, sound and stage presence comparable to a young Ann Wilson from Heart, Hunt's dynamic performances pushed the band into a new direction. After attending a show and being highly impressed, Kleijn joined the band. She was followed shortly thereafter by one of Chicago's finest young guitarists, Jim Tashjian. With this new lineup of peerless musicianship in place, District 97 began wowing crowds and establishing a devoted fanbase through packed shows at legendary Chicago venues such as House of Blues, Schubas and Martyrs'.

We are in the process of negotiating with a very well-respected Progressive Rock record label to release our debut, "Hybrid Child" worldwide. Stay tuned for details, and take look at our music video from our first single, "I Can't Take You With Me." This was filmed in February at the Serbian Cultural Arts Center by The Allan Film Company. Enjoy!