LVL IV, pronounced Level Four, is the debut album by American post-grunge band Future Leaders of the World.
Background and release In 2003, singer and guitarist Phil Taylor, drummer Carl Messina, and bassist Toby Cole drove to Los Angeles to record a demo, which led to Cole's departure due to creative differences. Bassist Bill Hershey and lead guitarist Jake Stutevoss joined the lineup, and the band signed a deal with Epic Records. LVL IV was released in the fall of 2004,[ Future Leaders of the World], AllMusic as was a music video for the song "Let Me Out"."Let Me Out". MTV. (December 1, 2004).
Touring The band toured in 2005 with the likes of Chevelle and Crossfade, and took part in the Jägermeister Music Tour with Submersed and headliners Alter Bridge that spring.Alter Bridge To Lead Jaegermeister Tour. Billboard. (March 2, 2005). Retrieved on 9-04-09. While on tour, the band was informed by Epic Records that their contract was terminated.
Critical reception Johnny Loftus of AllMusic gave the album 2.5 out of 5 stars, and said it is sonically influenced by Nirvana and Rage Against the Machine.
Track listing "Spotlight" – 4:11 "Everyday" – 3:22 "Let Me Out" – 4:04 "Kill Pop" – 3:47 "Unite" – 5:12 "Make You Believe" – 3:26 "Sued" – 4:05 "House of Chains" – 4:42 "4 Sale" – 5:02 "Your Gov't Loves You" – 4:13
Personnel Phil Taylor – vocals, rhythm guitar Bill Hershey – bass guitar Jake Stutevoss – lead guitar Carl Messina – drums Mike Flynn – production
Chart positions LVL IV spent one week on the Billboard 200 at #153 and reached #4 on Top Heatseekers with a total of 20 charting weeks.
Album Chart PeakpositionYear Billboard 200 1532004 Top Heatseekers 42004
References