Niles, Michigan band, The Erly, formed in late 2017 by vocalist/bassist Collin Mattiford and vocalist/drummer Fran Gleason. Trevor McDonald joined soon after on guitar and vocals, turning a last minute “musician wanted” ad into a Craigslist success story. The band released albums Shadows (2018), Reckless (2021), and Culture Fever (2023), building a loyal regional following with songs like “Flame The Main,” “Red Roof Inn,” “Hey Amanda,” and “Jasmine”.
The Erly’s trajectory shifted with the addition of keyboardist Simon Kauffman Hurst and the release of Salem Lights (2024). The album, and its singalong centerpiece “55 On The Other Side,” helped push the band onto the national stage, playing alongside acts such as Sixpence None The Richer, Cracker, and Max.
On August 21st, 2026, The Erly presents Midnight River Show, the fifth album in their catalog. With producer Paul Bennett at the helm, Midnight River Show brings tales of triumph, woe, and all the in-betweens.