Biography

Cal Rifkin is a power pop group from the Nation’s Capital consisting of Erik Grimm (Guitar/Vocals), Keith Butler Jr. (Drums), and Robin Rhodes (Bass). The band formed in the Fall of 2018 and was solidified by the members’ shared love for greasy Ledo’s pizza, early 90’s baseball aesthetics, and rock ‘n’ roll music. Chock full of jangly guitars, big riffs, and gorgeous Beach Boys-esque harmonies layered over sugary hooks, Cal Rifkin's latest EP, Better Luck Next Year effortlessly captures the essence of ‘70s power pop. The lyrics strike a delicate balance between self-aware and heartachingly sincere, and the delivery is intimate and earnest without taking itself too seriously. Grimm’s uncomplicated melodies and driving lead guitar complement the groove of the rhythm section in a way that sticks in your head for days. “All the ingredients are there…The driving, lo-fi rock sound, the sentimental lyrics, the secretly sick guitar solo…” - Mike Dranove (The Deli Magazine) “The guitar driven single, [‘God Damn’], is a prodigiously story driven exclamation mark. The thought and instance of life – at the moment – at that slice of life.” “The song is a blissful shoegazy shimmer to hold on to.” -Come Here Floyd