Chicago has been slaying the music scene lately - giving Brooklyn and LA a run for their overrated money. Definitely not excluded in that scene is NE-HI, a quartet of talented dudes whose infectious melodies, ambiguously relatable lyrics, and mesmerizing guitar riffs have helped set them apart in the community.

Comprised of Jason Balla, Alex Otake, Michael Wells, and James Weir, the boys of NE-HI have been around for a little over two years, with a library of nine solid, surf-rocky, shoe-gazy tracks. With the release of their debut self-titled album just last year, and letting the anticipation of their next one build, their most recent single “Drag” is just enough to hold us over…for now.

“It definitely seems a little magical”, said Jason when he talked to us about the band’s journey and success till now. With “Drag” following suit in dreamy, raw fashion, new music from NE-HI is definitely forthcoming. Jason says the band will play a good chunk from that pool when they start their month-long tour starting this week.  It makes sense that the guys find themselves “itching to be gone longer” after strings of dispersed shows, as they’re constantly being praised on their live performances and energetic stage presence.

“Now is the time for Chicagoans.”, said Jason, but now is the time for NE-HI.