International Hits
8/15/07-  International Pop Overthrow Vol. 10 features 66 tracks from bands that played the various IPOs this year. ScribbleMonster's proud to have Chocolate Milk included in the three CD set now available from Not Lame Records. You can also watch the band's live performance of Chocolate Milk and a couple other tunes from the Chicago IPO at www.youtube.com/scribblevideo

Don't Worry, We Won't Make More
7/16/07-  There are only a handful of copies remaining of the two Shyster CDs still in print (fan and LIE). Once these copies are gone, there are no plans to print any additional runs.  Frontman James Dague doesn't see a problem. "I really like the idea of albums having a limited run and going out of print," Dague said. "It makes each album more special. And it's not like people are banging down the door for the dozen or so already out of print."

It Figures
6/18/07-  International Music Collectables LLC have licensed the right to use the ShysterS name and likenessess for a special edition action figure set. Limited to only 500 units, the three piece collection will feature James Dague strumming his red Fender guitar, Brian Hufnagl playing his black Music Man bass, and Brett Goral behind his purple Premier drum kit.  Look for the set this fall from IMC Direct and various specialty retailers.

Clueless?
5/14/07-  If you've ever sat and wondered what ScribbleMonster would sound like fronted by fellow children's recording artist Monty Harper (and really, who hasn't?) you'll find that answer and many others on Monty's new CD, "Get a Clue" due later this month.  ScribbleMonster recorded the title track with Monty for this summer's National Collabroative Summer Library Program, "Get a Clue @ Your Library."

ScribbleMonster at International Pop Overthrow
4/14/07- ScribbleMonster will be part of a special all-ages International Pop Overthrow (IPO) show Saturday, April 28th at The Abbey Pub in Chicago.  Each year IPO brings in power-pop bands from all over the world to highlight what is new in the world of power-pop music.  This year's Chicago festival features 130 bands over 16 days (April 13 to April 28) and ScribbleMonster is the one children's band in the lot of 'em.  Expect a high-energy set of family-friendly ScribbleTunes that should pop in a powerful way. www.internationalpopoverthrow.com

Everything Old is New Again
3/11/07- While legal wrangling over rights continues to hold up any digital downloads from the ShysterS, there is good news regarding some of the band's earliest, out-of-print releases. Work is currently underway on remastering the ShysterS' first two albums, the ShysterS and Love at First Sight.  The two albums will be rereleased together on a single CD this June on Belgian record label, Iets de Nichts. The band's third and fourth releases, Let Them Make Noise and Can't Get it Down will be receiving the same treatment and rereleased as a single disc in November 2007.

Michigan Music
2/9/07- The often delayed Michigan CD is officially here.  A Curious Glimpse of Michigan: The Music contains 49 tracks, spanning 62 minutes, performed by more than 40 musicians (including 14 tracks by ScribbleMonster ). No, you don't need to live in Michigan to enjoy the music and the humor of this CD (rated 3 of 3 - a surefire hit - by Cookie magazine). No, you don't need the book A Curious Glimpse of Michigan to enjoy the disc (but it is a cool book). Both are available at www.scribblebooks.com and other cool retailers.

New Music and ScribbleMonster on Spare the Rock
1/3/07- If you missed ScribbleMonster guest-hosting Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child last week, then you missed hearing their brand new song, too. A song that prompted one long-time Shyster fan to write: "This is the best song ScribbleMonster has done to date.  When I first heard the ShysterS would be doing children's music, this is exactly what I imagined it would be."  You can still check them both out here at www.sparetherock.com.

Is It Over?
11/27/06- The future of the ShysterS doesn't look too bright.  James Dague, the ShysterS' singer, songwriter, guitarist and frontman, recently announced that he has no plans of touring or recording as a member of the ShysterS anytime soon. "Perhaps the time will come, but I have never had more fun than I'm having with ScribbleMonster. This is the band we were meant to be all along.  I won't say the ShysterS are breaking up. I believe 'indefinite hiatus' is what the kids are calling it these days."

ScribbleMonster Goes to Washington
10/16/06- ScribbleMonster will be performing live at the XM Studios and recording the show for a future airing of the XM Kids Rumpus Room Concert Series. Seating is limited, but we can get you in. We know a guy. A gal, actually. If you're interested in attending, kindly fire us an email from our contact page. Don't live in DC?  Tell a friend who does. And write your representitives!

What A Hoot
9/3/06- No confusion this time, it's ScribbleMonster who will be making an appearance as part of Hoot Night at Hideout on September 15th. Hoot Night is easily Chicago's most consistently entertaining evening, featuring some of the area's premier talent. So why would they invite D-listers like the ShysterS?

ScribbleRadio
7/20/06- Members of the ShysterS family side-project ScribbleMonster will be guest DJs on this Saturday's edition of Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child. Spare the Rock plays an awesome mix of parent-friendly kids music and kid-friendly parent music.  Miss the show live? Check out the archive at www.sparetherock.com.  Hey, they might even play some ShysterS music. Only, they don't.

Lollapalooza
6/2/06- Did we tell you that the band's playing Lollapalooza this year?  No, not the "real" band... ScribbleMonster.  August 4th & 5th on the Kidzapalooza stage.

It's In Print, So It Must Be True
5/8/06- From Pop Culture: The Sane Man's Guide to the Insane World of New Fatherhood - "Dads I spoke to were pleasantly surprised how much they themselves liked the upbeat folk of Justin Roberts, the modern rock of Ralph's World, and the Muppet garage band sound of ScribbleMonster & His Pals (possibly the edgiest kid's band on the scene today)." Based on the accuracy of that statement, just imagine what other nuggets of wisdom await you in this terrific new book.

Michigan Music
4/5/06- ScribbleMonster is currently working on a bunch of tracks for their friends at Cooperfly Books. The songs will be part of the companion CD to their award-winning book, A Curious Glimpse of Michigan, due later this summer. In the meantime, check out Cooperfly's brilliant Tomato Collection

Flip the Calendar
3/14/06- We've actually received complaints that the Tour page hasn't been updated in over a year.  The ShysterS have nothing planned for the foreseeable future.  You can get ScribbleMonster dates HERE.  Tim currently isn't touring.  If and when the ShysterS book a date to play, I promise we will update the Tour page. Look, you're lucky that you're getting news when, let's face it, there is no news.

Chewy Chocolate?
1/21/06- Almost two years after their introduction, The Hafelstein Confectionary Company has announced they are ceasing production of the Milk Chocolatey ShysterS Raisin Chews. A spokesperson from Hafelstein said the decision to discontinue Chews was made due to dwindling interest in the band. The ShysterS' James Dague refutes that claim and said the public - Shyster fans or not - rightfully demand quality in their candy.  "Milk chocolate is not supposed to be chewy."

Who Are These Guys?
12/28/05- Brett, Brian and James, the ShysterS power-trio, made an appearance as ScribbleMonster last night at Tom Dunning's Hoot Night.  So what gives?  Are they the ShysterS, ScribbleMonster, BB&J? Says Dague, "It depends on the song.  We were ScribbleMonster for the first song and The Inhalers on the last.  I'm pretty sure we were the ShysterS when were were tearing down."

ScribbleRudolph
12/1/05- Just in time for Christmas, you can get a free MP3 of ScribbleMonster's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" with any purchase from the ShysterS Store.  It's brand-spanking-new, it rocks, and our store with ScribbleBooks.com is the only place you can get it.  Distribution is very limited and the offer is good while supplies last.

Back in the Studio
11/8/05- Miscellaneous ShysterS are back in the studio working on various projects - none of them being the ShysterS. ScribbleMonster & His Pals are recording material for four separate albums due out in 2006 & 2007. Tim have been commissioned to record a few tracks for an upcoming movie and Brian Hufnagl is working on a compliation of songs from his various stage performances.  The ShysterS... nothing.  Stay tuned to this site for more details on all of these projects as they become available.

Sox Win! Sox Win!
10/26/05- The Chicago White Sox have swept the Houston Astros to win the 2005 World Series.  From this point forward, the team is to be referred to as the "World Champion Chicago White Sox" - at least for the next year (hopefully longer).

Hurricane Relief
9/1/05- ScribbleMonster & His Pals have joined a group of CD Baby artists in donating all money collected from September disc sales to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund. To make a donation by purchasing a ScribbleMonster disc, visit www.cdbaby.com.

Goral Where?
8/14/05- No, Goralwear.  Brett Goral's clothing line, the only one of it's kind made by drummers for drummers, is celebrating its 15th season with more expansive product offerings. After the sucessful addition of swimwear this past spring, Goralwear is adding new outerwear designed by Brett Goral himself to their fall collection.  Included for the first time are sequined parkas, various wool caps and steel-toed boots with a drumstick holster. Look for Goralwear wherever drums are sold.

There's No Business Like Low Business
7/20/05-  ShysterS bassist Brian Hufnagl is back on the stage again, this time in an original one-man show titled, The Low End. This autobiographical musical chronicles the most miserable moments of Brian's 15-year career as a bass player.  The story begins when Hufnagl abandons his successful position as a trombonist with the Austrian Symphony Orchestra only to watch his good fortune unravel the moment he picks up a bass.  Performing on a black stage, dressed in black, with only a black bass and trombone, one critic compared Brian and his show to a "car crash you can't take your eyes off of." Look for a full-run to begin this fall. 

the ShysterS Turn 20
6/24/05- It was twenty years ago today, that the ShysterS first came out to play. They've been going in and out of style, but they're guaranteed to raise... uh... anyway. You can see how the old guys are holding up at a special performance on Saturday, July 9th. James Dague, Brett Goral and Brian Hufnagl go power-trio for one night only. See the TOUR page for more details.

Surprise!
5/22/05-  The ShysterS made a surprise appearance on stage last Friday with Jet, The Figgs and Alanis Morissette among others.  The friends were all gathered to celebrate drummer Brett Goral's birthday when the crowd was treated to an impromptu performance by Goral and his bandmates, James Dague and Brian Hufnagl.  The next evening, Dague and Hufnagl made another surprise performance on the same stage, this time with their new band, Tim.  Check the TOUR page for future scheduled dates.

Would You Like Fries With That?
4/5/05-  The lastest side offering from the ShysterS family mixes things up a bit. You'll find bassist Brian Hufnagl on guitar, guitarist James Dague on drums, and Zebramoth's Tim Gordon on bass in this latest project. The group hasn't decided on a name, but has already played a handful of shows featuring punk classics and punked-up covers. Having no name it might be hard to look them up, but keep your ears peeled for future appearances.

Loud Music for Small Children Becoming Respectable
2/25/05-  Parenting Magazine selected ScribbleMonster's new CD as a Parenting Pick, their first single, "Chocolate Milk", spent three weeks as the #1 song on XM Kids and the new album has already been certified Tin by the IRAA. Don't have your copy yet?  Get it in our STORE.

Is Anything NOT being released on DVD?
1/18/05-  Trusted sources tell us that the first season of the ShysterS Cartoon Warehouse series is being prepared for DVD release. Cartoon Warehouse was Europe's most popular syndicated kid's show from 1989 to 1993 and featured cartoon shorts created by the band as well as original children's music exclusive to the show. The recent success of the Shyster's latest kid's project, ScribbleMonster & His Pals, has renewed interest in Cartoon Warehouse.  Prior to our asking, Shyster James Dague had not heard about the project. "There were so many artists involved in making that show - I have no idea how they'll track them all down, let alone secure all the rights involved - but we'll see what happens."  We'll keep you updated as details become available.

Change the Locks
12/28/04-  Recently, while passing through Naef, OR, Shyster Mary Anne Keane was recognized by the mayor and presented with a key to the city. "I don't understand how it works," the confused vocalist said. "I mean, I didn't notice a gate around the town and it's not like I'm going to be nearby if anyone loses their key or needs me to open anything.  But still, it's flattering, I guess."

Thinking Too Hard So You Don't Have To
11/21/04-  As part of "Rock History Month", Belgium's Radio Contact will examine the making of the ShysterS classic, Can't Get It Down this Wednesday, November 24th at 7:00 PM. This special will discuss the creative process involved in writing and recording the songs with those involved in making the album.  Literary expert, Michel Wasduvieusart will also be on hand to take an in-depth look and help explain the meaning behind lyrics such as, "Jump your bones, Jump your bones, Oh, I want to jump your bones." 

Scandalous!  A Drinking Song for Children!?
10/18/04-  "There is definitely a void of festive, drinking songs for kids," says James Dague of ScribbleMonster & His Pals.  "So I wrote a 'wave your glass in the air, put your arm around your buddy' kind of song with all the fun that comes with a sing-a-long chorus, but without the drunkenness." Chocolate Milk, the lastest offering from the ShysterS' family band, will be available HERE and at other cool retailers on November 2nd.

Not Satellite - It's PVC
9/22/04-  Today, the ShysterS announced a "ground-breaking" deal with PVC Radio.  "Ground-breaking" as in the PVC pipes are now being run in select markets to prepare for PVC Radio's Summer 2006 debut.  "It's really a great idea.  The audio will travel from our basement studio through a series of PVC fittings that run directly to listeners' homes," explained Shyster James Dague. "There is absolutely no electricity or power of any kind required at any point of the  broadcast. I believe it is the future of radio."

Tommy, Can You Hear Me?
8/17/04-  Live from Tommy van Duijvenbode's Living Room is now available on compact disc and DVD.  Both capture the ShysterS' intimate, sold-out performance from Tommy van Duijvenbode's living room earlier this year. These limited releases will only be available in Europe and all proceeds benefit the Tommy van Duijvenbode Foundation. The first 1,000 copies of the DVD will also include a special poster of the band taken at the show by renowned photographer Les Natuurwetenschappentheek. 

Make Mine a Double
7/3/04- It's hard to stop Brett Goral, aka SuperBrett, who just hours before a scheduled hernia operation, was still wildly drumming in the studio with ScribbleMonster & His Pals.  Just days after the successful double hernia surgery, Goral was back on the road kicking off ScribbleMonster's summer tour.  He insisted on not only setting up his own kit, but was helping the road crew lug around speaker cabinets and amplifiers as well.  Brett was overheard saying "Lets play another set" at the end of the show and was spotted later that evening helping to push a broken-down semi-truck off to the side of the road. 

So Secret, We Can't Tell You.
6/12/04- A limited edition 7" vinyl single featuring three songs from the ShysterS' appearance at Tommy van Duijvenbode's will be available later this month at a secret ShysterS show.  No information will be given about where or when this show will take place, so keep your eyes open for clues.  Only 250 copies of this record are are being made and all three of the tracks included will not appear on the Live From Tommy van Duijvenbode's Living Room CD or DVD due for release this August.

Electrifying!
5/15/04- Brian Hufnagl is trying his hand at acting again, this time on the stage.  Brian will play the role of "Dancing Cylinder Phonograph" in an Off-Broadway musical about the Life of Thomas Edison. So Bright! officially opens next week, but early word has Brian's number, featuring his rousing performance of "Mary Had A Little Lamb", being the show-stealer.

Boo! Buzz.
4/23/04- Production is underway on the follow-up to ScribbleMonster & His Pals' wildly popular, critically acclaimed tin-certified Best of Friends album.  Five songs have been completed by "The World's Only Garage Band for Kids and the Grown-Ups Who Love Them"™ and already the children's music world is abuzz over the early results.  At this time, the new CD is scheduled for a Halloween release. 

Live from Tommy van Duijvenbode's House!
3/16/04- The ShysterS will be playing an intimate gig at Tommy van Duijvenbode's house in Kortrijk, West Vlaanderen, Belgium on Saturday, April 3rd.  Tommy's living room has a chase lounge couch, swivel recliner and dual reclining loveseat, so seating is limited. However, the performance will be broadcast on NTRV TV and Radio Contact, as well as Webcast on Radio Contact's site. Look for a live CD and DVD release of the performance later this summer!

Sweet!
2/19/04- The Hafelstein Confectionary Company is proud to introduce Milk Chocolatey ShysterS Raisin Chews!  This new candy product features rich milk chocolate wrapped around a chewy raisin center and will be available throughout Europe this spring. Each 60g package contains 5 individual pieces, each in the bite-size shape of your favorite Shyster'S head!  Mmmm!

ScribbleTV is Off the Air
1/28/04- The ShysterS' kid project, ScribbleMonster & His Pals, is currently being discussed as a possible television show with a few cable networks.  "We're kind of having a hard time selling the idea of a show that tells kids to turn their TV off," ScribbleMember ScribbleJim said.  "But someone in television is bound to latch on to our foresight."

Keeping an Eye on Crime, So You Don't Have to
1/18/04- First Ray Davies got shot in the leg chasing down a purse-snatcher, then Backstreet Boy Nick Carter captured a jewelry store thief. Wanting in on the action, Shyster Mary Anne Keane has started patrolling local banks in her spare time.  "Just in case," Keane said. "Bank robberies have been way up this past year and I want to do my part."

That's Comical
11/23/03- Two new comic book series featuring the ShysterS are currently being developed by Very Best Comics.  The first project would be a five issue limited series telling the history of the band from 1985 to present day. The second would be an ongoing series featuring the current members of the band as crime-fighting musicians who use their music for the power of good. Former members of the band will also be appearing in the series as the various arch-villians the band will face each issue. Negotiations are underway with the various ShysterS players as well as with creative teams for the books. Both projects are planned for 2005 to coincide with 20th anniversary of the band. 

ShysterS & ScribbleSongs Announce US Deal
11/4/03- The ShysterS proudly announce that their lastest recording, LIE, was picked up for US distribution by ScribbleSongs Entertainment. ScribbleSongs is currently the home of the ShysterS' family band, ScribbleMonster & His Pals.  In addition to distributing LIE and ScribbleMonster's Best of Friends, the ShysterS classic album fan is also now available from ScribbleSongs at great new price! Click HERE to visit the ShysterS music section at ScribbleBooks.com.

The ShysterS?  Rich?
10/30/03- The ShysterS collectively ranked in at 18,285,477th on Music Exchange's recently released 2003 Rich List. Each year Music Exchange ranks the industry's top annual dollar earners. Allowing revenue earned outside of the industry to be be applied to this year's tally gave the ShysterS their first appearance on this prestigious list.

Longer Wait for US LIE Release
10/01/03- The US issue of LIE remains in limbo as the ShysterS and their long-time label, something from nothing records, continue to search for a US label interested in licensing the record.  While original plans called for a simultaneous world-wide release by a major label, the band chose to abandon that deal after learning that the label would not support the planned world tour.  While independent licensing deals have been made throughout the world, a deal has yet to be finalized for America.  In the meantime, the entire EP can be heard and is available for free download HERE.

UK LIE Release
9/21/03- The UK version of LIE will be available on October 21 from Semi-Permanent Records.  Although the tracks will be the same as the versions already released in Germany, Japan, South Africa and South America, the UK issue will include additional video tracks of Fall and They Lied.  There is currently no word on UK tour dates.

America Can Wait
9/13/03- The US release of LIE and supporting tour expected to launch this month has been postponed following the unexpected lack of sales in Belgium (the band's adopted home), Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland and Austria (bassist Brian Hufnagl's original home). Hufnagl has been dispatched to Austria while frontman James Dague is currently in Belguim on a promotional blitz aimed at generating interest and boosting sales. No word on when to expect the US release or tour. 

Maybe Belgium's Had Enough LIEs
9/02/03- After long history of nothing but sucess in Belgium and following another strong showing on the Belgian singles chart with their new song, "They Lied", sales of the latest release by the ShysterS, LIE, have been disappointing. Surprisingly, only 4 sales have been reported throughout the country in the album's first two weeks of release. The band and their long-time label, something from nothing records, blame the Internet for the drastic drop in sales.  It probably doesn't help that the entire album is available for free download HERE.

New Album, New Digs
8/23/03- You may have noticed the all-new look to the ShysterS official Web home.  This site has been retooled to tie in with the upcoming release of LIE. Let us know what you think of the new look and what, if anything, we're missing.

Really. It's Coming.
7/15/03- The new release from the ShysterS is just about wrapped up. Really. After living through a series of events closely resembling those experienced by Def Leppard in their making of Hysteria, the ShysterS have a new found respect for, and understanding of, their UK Rock 'n' Roll brethren. Although no limbs were lost during the making of this album, the ShysterS are still hopeful that the release will match or surpass the 16 million copies of Hysteria sold to date. When will the disc be ready? Late August - MAYBE. Maybe in September. It's hard to say, really. But it IS coming. Really.

More Google Fun
6/12/03- Google seems to like the ShysterS, and that's all right with us. Apologies to those who were seeking Where did Jim Morrison live in Albuquerque, Judas Priest bootleg albums live wild and crazy and best of all, Discussions on role of children's poop in German film. Again, we are so proud to top these searches! Try them yourself! Click to Google in a new window.

Finally! New ShysterS Music!
5/5/03- Sure, it's been years in the making, but it looks like a long-promised new release from the ShysterS will finally arrive this summer. The first single, "They Lied" is already taking Belgium by storm garnering major airplay and chart-topping status on both Antwerp's NRJ Antwerpen and Brussels' Radio 2 (in both cases dethroning 50 Cent's "In Da Club" from the #1 spot). Hear it now on ShysterS Radio.

ARTS for AUTISM CD Now Available
4/2/03- Chicago Parent Magazine calls it "a taste of some great kids' artists". We call it brilliant! This awesome kids album will be featured the entire month of April on XM Kids as part of National Autism Awareness Month. This great compilation of children's artists, including ScribbleMonster & His Pals, is now available at ArtsForAutism.org for only $9.95. All proceeds benefit autism research, educational initiatives and awareness campaigns.

Rock On!
3/15/03- The April issue of "Rock Collector" features the ShysterS' very own Mary Anne Keane on the cover as well as in a feature article. "When my agent set it up, I thought they wanted to see my vinyl collection", Keane said. "But it's actually a magazine for rock collectors. You know, like, boulders." Mary Anne had her family canvas the neighborhood to gather as many rocks as they could find before the reporter arrived at her home. "I was making stuff up as I went along, but I think I pulled it off." Pick up the issue and judge for yourself.

Hufnaglwear?
2/19/03- After witnessing the success fellow Shyster Brett Goral has enjoyed with his Goralwear, a clothing line made specifically for drummers, bassist Brian Hufnagl has decided he wants to join the designer throng. "It's not like I'm just trying to cash in on Brett's success," Hufnagl said. "Bass players have special needs too." While it remains to be seen if there is a demand for apparel designed "for bassits, by bassists", I believe it's safe to say that Hufnaglwear doesn't exactly roll off the tongue.

ScribbleMonster & His Pals Aid Autism Awareness
1/22/03- The ShysterS' spin-off family band, ScribbleMonster & His Pals, will proudly be a part of I-CARE's Arts for Autism Family Festival on April 12th (see TOUR page for more info). The band will also appear with 9 other children's artists on the Arts for Autism Charity CD, available soon from PlayhouseRadio.com. Please check out this nice compilation of tunes that supports a worthy cause. For more information about autism, the CD or show, visit www.artsforautism.org.

Official Statement Regarding December 14th Ruckus
12/16/02- ShysterS manager Mark Ofzoro released the following statement to the press this morning - "Obviously, when you have a situation like this where you combine a group of world-famous musicians, their frothing followers, sports equipment, classic artworks, hand-puppets and vast amounts of condiments together in such a small space, you're only asking for trouble. The ShysterS regret the incident, but claim no fault. There will be no further comment on the matter."

It Just Won't Be Christmas
11/25/02- In a break from tradition, the ShysterS' annual Christmas Bash just isn't happening this year. Spin your memories and be festive all the same, won't you?

What the ...!?
11/09/02- It's amazing the way people Google on to our electronic home. Recent visitors arrived via the following searches- Troubled leather gonzo youth, Ponies Sucking Salesmen, Wrestling in fibranne and Drummer Hijinx in Denmark. We are so proud to top these searches! Try them yourself! Click to Google in a new window.

Keeping Track
10/18/02- What other ShysterS songs can you expect to hear on the forthcoming release? "Love?", "She's So Beautiful Now", "Hardball", "They Lied", "Fall", "Hardly Impressed" and "Love Someone" all look to make the grade. Recording should start and wrap around the Holidays.

Studio Preparation
9/29/02- The ShysterS are currently in pre-production rehearsal for their new album which at this time has no name. Songs being worked out include "Shattered", "Rose Colored World" and "Come Around". Hard to believe, but these will be the first new ShysterS recordings in eight years. Have an idea for an album title? Drop us a line and let us know!

Just Can't Get Enough Goralwear!
8/09/02- Goralwear, created by ShysterS drummer Brett Goral, is having a hard time keeping up with demand for their unique apparel made "by drummers, for drummers". While the brisk business is good news for Brett, it's bad news for ShysterS fans as the demands of customers the likes of Don Henley, Russell Hopkinson of You Am I and Shecky Gold (Buddy Rich tribute) are keeping Brett busy and out of the studio. Brett expects to have his fall line completed and to be available for recording by early November.

The Crops Are Saved!
7/12/02- After a two week absence (what do you mean you didn't notice?), ShysterS Radio has found a new home and is back on the air! Thanks to the fine folks at IUMA.com you can once again get your ShysterS music fix online. Visit the ShysterS Radio page to sample ShysterS classics, rarieties and tunes from their family side-band ScribbleMonster & His Pals.

the ShysterS Prepare for New Album
6/21/02- One year after their last failed attempt (see news item at bottom of this page), the ShysterS are again preparing to record their 10th full-length studio album. Recording is scheduled to take place by this fall with hopes of a late 2002 or early 2003 release. Stay tuned to this site for recording updates and track previews.

"Best of Friends" Certified Tin
5/29/02- Even before hitting the stores, the new album of loud music for small children from ScribbleMonster & His Pals has been certified Tin by the IRAA. While not quite Gold or Platinum, the band is proud to be recognized with this honor for sales achievement. "Only 499,997 more sales to go before we hit Gold!", gushed an excited James Dague when he was told the news. "What's next, a Grammy?"

ScribbleMonster & His Pals is now available at www.scribblebooks.com
4/09/02- Finally, a children's record that won't drive mom & dad batty! Sure, that's only been said about a million times before, but Best of Friends contains 14 tunes that are better characterized as "family songs" than children's songs, as they truly provide something for everyone! This is real music performed by a real band. It's not boring or watered down; it's catchy, intelligent, honest music produced by members of the top-notch power-pop group, the ShysterS. Preview tracks HERE.

ShysterS Radio is on the Air!
4/08/02- You asked for it (somebody did, I swear), you've got it! Now you can listen to the ShysterS while you surf the Net. There are 4 programs available on the ShysterS Radio page of this site. Stream the albums "fan", "hype" or an offering of scary lo-fi demos from the past to present. The ShysterS Radio channel features selections from all of the above. "We've really got to get back in the studio", James Dague stated upon hearing these offerings. "Most of this stuff is pretty old and a lot of it really sucks."

Eat at Joe's
2/31/02- the ShysterS' newest member, Joe Pecora, is the latest in a string of celebrities to open their own restaurant. Groundbreaking on Refried Joe's is set for May with a tentative early August opening. What will be on the menu? "I know that we'll have refried beans," Pecora stated. "I really like refried beans. That may be all we serve." Will his restaurant have the usual rock 'n roll theme? "Well, I only have one guitar, but I may hang it on the wall whenever I come in to eat."

Say Cheese
1/21/02- The Dairy Council has come knocking again (you may recall the ShysterS' "Got Milk?" ad from 2000), this time asking the band to promote "The Power of Cheese". Proposed commercial storyboards involve the band perfoming live, eating cheese, followed by various versions of high-voltage hijinx. Talks are still underway, but if all goes as planned, the new ads should appear sometime this summer.

Goralwear's a Hit
12/30/01- The first line of Shyster drummer Brett Goral's clothing designs, Goralwear, is a hit with both fashion critics and drummers alike! Early clients of the apparel "made for drummers, by drummers" include: The Rolling Stones' Charlie Watts, ChakDaddy (drum programmer for Christina Aguilera), Pete Hayes of the Figgs, and legendary Partridge Family drummer, Hal Blaine. Brett's next spring line will include fibranne, velvet and flannel fabrics with patriotic, romantic and outdoor themes.

Kid Rock
11/30/01- Recording of the ScribbleSongs children's CD containing music written and performed by Shyster James Dague is just about complete. The disc also features the ShysterS' rollicking rhythmic section, Brett Goral and Brian Hufnagl, as well as the vibrant vocal stylings of Jayne & Joyce (the famous Duo from Denmark). Move over Barney, this album rocks! Look for an April 2002 release.

Click HERE to preview mp3 or Real Audio versions of three of the tracks and for information about the ScribbleBand.

The Low Notes of Wrestling
10/07/01- ShysterS bassist Brian Hufnagl is currently in negotiations with the World Wrestling Federation to make a one-time appearance on a future WWF pay-per-view event. Hope is that something will be worked out in time for WrestleMania X-8 taking place this March in Toronto. While it looks most likely Brian's character will be a "bad guy", a name has yet to be selected. Please send any suggestions you may have to this site and stay tuned for further developments.

No Kidding
8/20/01- The ScribbleBooks Company has just released the first 3 titles in a series of children's books featuring ScribbleMonster and his friends, characters created and illustrated by Shyster James Dague. His goal is to provide children, especially young children, with fun opportunities and age-specific media designed to cultivate learning through creative expression in art, thought, music and play. James is currently working on a ScribbleSongs CD chuck full of music for the future ShysterS generation which should be available in December 2001. Visit www.scribblebooks.com for more information.

Shut Up and Sing!
8/6/01- Shyster vocalist Mary Anne Keane is currently working on a side project tentatively titled "Hey! - A Tribute to Women in Music Who Could Kick Your Ass". We wanted to get some more information about what performers were being covered, who else was performing on the recordings, when the album would be released and whether or not there would be a supporting tour, but we were too afraid to ask.

Made for Drummers, by Drummers
7/8/01- Shyster drummer Brett Goral is currently designing a new line of clothing made specifically for drummers. "There's nothing out there made with the drummer in mind," Goral told us. "I'm tired of having to wear clothing that was designed for a guitartist or a golfer or a banker or whatever. What about my needs?" Goralwear is due in finer music stores late fall or early next year.

You're Not Erik!!!
6/21/01- The ShysterS reunion with original producer Erik Westbruk (who has been missing and presumed dead for the last 14 years) has taken another strange twist. After spending a couple of weeks in the studio with "Erik", it became apparent that "Erik" wasn't Erik, but a crazed fan with an elaborate scheme to become Erik in order to get close to the band. The band wasn't happy with the 20 tracks that they recorded with Lars Osterman (aka "Erik") and have decided to take the next couple of months to write more new material before recording again. No producer is set at this time and Erik Westbruk is still missing and presumed dead.