The Mascot Theory

The Mascot Theory is a Wisconsin-based Americana-Rock band known for emotionally honest songwriting, soaring harmonies, and a sound that moves fluidly between introspective folk-rock and full-throttle, heartland anthems. Centered around the reflective songwriting of vocalist/guitarist Erik Kjelland and brought vividly to life by the dynamic interplay of Cory Swadley (lead guitar), Nick Fry (bass), and Paul Metz (drums), the band creates music that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. Their chemistry fuels a live energy that’s intimate, explosive, and always evolving. Whether on stage or in the studio, The Mascot Theory crafts songs anchored in melody, driven by heart, and wide open to the unknown.


The Mascot Theory has been kicking around Wisconsin weekend-warrior style for the past decade, but like many musicians, the great pandemic-induced entertainment halt of 2020 forced the band to reflect and refocus musical efforts. With the core foundation of singer/songwriter Erik Kjelland and the rhythm section of Nick Fry on bass guitar and Paul Metz on drums, The Mascot Theory used this time off to slightly shift their sound away from their acoustic-driven folk-rock music and into a more classic rock inspired Rock and Roll groove, especially thanks to the addition of lead guitarist Cory who brings a strong musical swagger and reverence to the guitar gods of the past. In 2021 the band made a major leap towards a more national focus when they were discovered and signed by manager Chuck Toler of TolerVision LLC, who helped steer the careers of artists like Cheap Trick and Mudvayne. Toler circulated the band’s music around to trusted colleagues in the business and this led to producer Terry Manning (Led Zeppelin, ZZ Top, Shakira, Lenny Kravitz, Stax Record) taking an interest in the band and agreeing to produce their first nationally-focused album “Every Sign Of Life”. In April 2022 Manning and the band assembled at Sonic Ranch Studios near El Paso, TX and recorded 13 new songs as well as 2 updated versions of classic live show staple songs.



Along with a 2017 WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) win for Best Male Vocalist (Erik Kjelland) and a nomination for Best Americana/folk artist, The Mascot Theory has won over 20 MAMA (Madison Area Music Association) awards including back to back 2016 and 2017 Artist of the Year awards. They have played major festivals throughout Wisconsin including Summerfest, Freak Fest, and Mile of Music Festival, and have shared the stage with BoDeans, America, Don McLean, Vance Joy, Frank Turner, Chase Rice, Kaleo, The Wild Feathers, Guster, Blitzen Trapper, Cory Chisel, Andy Frasco and the UN, Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts, American Aquarium, and Lillie Mae.


Since the band's formation in 2011, The Mascot Theory has released five original albums and two live albums including 2020's "Live at the Mineral Point Opera House: " EP album. Along with a 2017 WAMI (Wisconsin Area Music Industry) win for Best Male Vocalist (Erik Kjelland) and a nomination for Best Americana/folk artist, The Mascot Theory has won over 20 MAMA (Madison Area Music Association) awards including back to back 2016 and 2017 Artist of the Year awards. They have played major festivals throughout Wisconsin including Summerfest, Freak Fest, and Mile of Music Festival, and have shared the stage with BoDeans, America, Don McLean, Vance Joy, Frank Turner, Chase Rice, Kaleo, The Wild Feathers, Guster, Blitzen Trapper, Cory Chisel, Andy Frasco and the UN, Miles Nielsen and the Rusted Hearts, American Aquarium, and Lillie Mae.