Conceptually, Dream American is a modern search for the American Dream - in a world where it may not exist - touching on justice, political machinery, modern warfare, and the illusion of success. Musically, the album is a melting pot of influences formed into a unique hard folk rock sound with reasonably short, climactic songs, some with pop structure and hooks, and others that defy traditional songwriting styles for rock or folk. "Since 2005, Noah Gokey and the Skulls have been a staple of the local music scene. In 2012 the band released their album Questions and Answers, an eccentric mix of everything from folk to hard rock and even some reggae. The five piece band—vocalist and guitarist Corey “Noah” Hagstrom, bassist Rob Schmarder, guitarist Kyle Daunce, drummer Bill Nelson, and percussionist Safiyya Hunter—perform often on the local circuit. Now the band is preparing to unleash their follow up record, Dream American. On this record the band has honed their sound down to an uptempo mix of folk and rock that stands out with flourishes of Hagstrom’s windy harmonica solos on tracks like “Stand In,” and restless acoustic guitar strumming on songs like “Stranded,” which at times turns toward chugging guitar tones and squealing pinch harmonics. Noah Gokey and the Skulls will celebrate the release of their new record at Nietzsche’s this Friday (May 2) with support from soul rockers Dirty Smile, the Great Mistake, and John Gusky. The $5 cost of admission scores you a copy of both of the band’s records and a live album recorded at Nietzsche’s in December." - cory perla, Artvoice