Conway Chicago – Official Website

about

conway

Conway is an electrifying alternative rock band hailing from the heart of Chicago, Illinois. What began as a bedroom project with their breakout EP Last Chance to Dance quickly evolved into a force to be reckoned with in the live music scene. Born from the ashes of a previous venture, frontman Aidan Hargis found his perfect match in bandmates Austin Van Johnson and Jake Dillon, and together they’ve been setting fire to Chicago’s stages with their explosive, high-energy performances.

With roots firmly planted in punk rock and pop-punk, Conway has boldly ventured into uncharted territory, blending elements of dream pop, Britpop, and indie rock with the raw intensity of metalcore and emo. This fearless fusion of genres creates a dynamic, ever-evolving sound that’s as unpredictable as it is captivating.

As they gear up to fuel a revolution of fresh, boundary-breaking sounds, Conway is determined to set the trends, not follow them. With each new track, they’re breaking new ground and challenging what it means to be an alternative rock band. Get ready—Conway is here to make their mark and redefine the future of rock with their electrifying, genre-bending approach.

Aidan Hargis - Frontman, Guitarist, and Vocalist​

Aidan’s musical journey began at the age of six, violin in hand, and has since evolved into a dynamic career that spans multiple instruments, genres, and creative expressions. With roots deep in the DIY punk scene of Chicago, Aidan quickly became a fixture in the underground, playing anywhere and everywhere—backyards, basements, skateparks—where the raw energy of live music still reigns supreme. Through relentless gigging, songwriting, and an ever-growing passion for his work, Aidan honed his skills as a frontman, guitarist, singer, and lyricist.

A true artist, Aidan’s sound is fueled by the high-octane energy of punk, the heart of a poet, and a deep, unwavering love for performance. His musical education, bolstered by a degree in music, seamlessly blends technical expertise with the unpolished power of underground culture. Whether tearing up the stage at a festival, connecting with fans in intimate venues, or pouring his soul into the studio, Aidan is always pushing the limits of his creative boundaries.

Fourteen years and counting, Aidan has made music his life—shaping a sound that’s both fiercely authentic and unapologetically him. From chaotic punk anthems to introspective ballads, his music reflects the highs and lows of his journey, with lyrics that are as raw and real as the man behind the mic. Always the energetic and charismatic frontman, Aidan continues to pour his heart into every note, every song, and every performance—making it clear that for him, music isn’t just a career; it’s a way of life.

Jake Dillon - bassist

Jake has been an integral force in the Chicago music scene for over a decade, carving his name into the city’s underground fabric. From raucous backyard gigs to high-octane club shows, Jake’s journey has been marked by an unrelenting passion for music—whether he’s laying down rolling, thunderous basslines with his band Conway or using his expert ear to record, mix, and elevate the sound of other local acts. His bass tone is a force of nature—rich, deep, and packed with a resonance that brings a level of depth and complexity to Conway’s sound that few could match.

But Jake’s talent goes beyond just his playing. He’s a sonic architect, a master of detail, with a razor-sharp ability to transform raw ideas into polished sonic gold. His unique vision takes every track from good to unforgettable, refining every element with precision and care. He thrives on energy and intensity, and his riffs are fast, furious, and unmistakable.

 Each performance is an all-out assault on the senses—loud, fast, and delivered with the kind of passion that makes you feel like the world is going to end when the last chord rings out. For Jake, music isn’t just a hobby—it’s a relentless pursuit of power, precision, and performance.

Austin Van Johnson - Drummer

Austin’s drumming journey began at the age of ten, and ever since, he’s been unstoppable—tearing through every kit he can get his hands on. From his early days in Jazz Band, Drumline, and Symphonic Band, to cutting his teeth in the raw energy of the Chicago underground scene, Austin has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of rhythm. Now, as the powerhouse behind Conway’s beats, he brings a unique blend of technical skill and untamed passion to every song he plays.

Drawing from the precision of jazz, the rebellious spirit of punk, and a rhythmic intuition all his own, Austin’s drumming isn’t just about keeping time—it’s about shaping the entire sound of the band. His fills are explosive, his grooves infectious, and each beat he lays down carries the kind of intensity that demands attention. Every time Austin steps behind the kit, he leaves a mark, making the music feel uniquely his with a style that’s equal parts calculated and chaotic.

With the heart of a punk and the soul of a jazz drummer, Austin plays with a fluidity that’s both bold and dynamic, taking every song to new heights with his unparalleled approach. Whether it’s a driving, thunderous groove or a delicate, intricate fill, Austin’s presence behind the drums is what keeps Conway’s sound grounded in grit while reaching for greatness.

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