Toledo Idol: 1959 Hat Company

TOLEDO, Ohio - Honestly, the 1959 Hat Company sounds more like a store name than a band name. But six Toledo musicians say their choice actually makes sense, because they are inspired by music of the 1950's.

The indie pop band tries to make their sound fun, happy, and psychedelic.

"Some of it's really happy sometimes, positive, makes you feel happy," said Kyle Bliss.

The 1959ers say they've actually been well received in bigger cities but are hoping Northwest Ohio music lovers will look to them for inspiration.

The band has a wide range of influences, including 1950s Motown vibe.

To make that sound, the Hat Company uses a number of instruments, so they can get an original sound, and ith six permanent members, there are plenty of minds at work in crafting the sound. They also work off-stage, too.

"We all run a label based in Toledo called Little Pocket and we have some of the best artists," Bliss admits. "we are all in each other's bands, so that's pretty cool."

But for the most success so far, these guys and gals say they hit the road.

"I would say more out of Toledo we've had better stuff," Bliss said. "We play pop fests across the country like Athens PopFest and the New York PopFest."

Unfortunately, organizers with the Athens PopFest in Georgia canceled the 2009 event due to the worsening American recession, but the 1959ers are expected to perform May 16 at the Cake Shop on Ludlow Street for the 2009 NYC PopFest.

For now, the 1959 Hat Company is based right here in Toledo. In addition to performing in New York City, they're going to perform at Mickey Finn's and Frankie's, spreading their music and creativity.