From left: Hunter Olshefke, Sal Defilippis, Axel Ellis, Quinn Dolan, Nick Deputy, and Phil Pistone. (Photo: Arista Records)
The Chicago-based indie rock group Ax and the Hatchetmen is kicking off its “Way Too Late” tour with a stop at Wooly’s this weekend. Led by guitarist and singer Axel Ellis, the band also features Sal Defilippis on guitar, Hunter Olshefke on bass, Nick Deputy on drums, Phil Pistone on trumpet and Iowa State University alum Quinn Dolan on saxophone.
The sextet has performed in Des Moines four times since it formed in 2018, growing a following with each pass-through and even selling out xBk Live in March.
The current tour follows a slew of newly released singles, including “Love Songs,” “Flagstaff,” and “Sunscreen,” as well as Ellis’ return from filming “The Runarounds,” a musical teen drama series on Amazon Prime.
Defilippis, the guitarist, recently answered a few of our questions about making music, life on the road, and the group’s upcoming gig in the East Village:
What made you want to make music together?
We all played in jazz band in high school. Some of us were already friends, but we all enjoyed everyone’s company and playing music, so we did it together.
Whose music inspires you?
I’d think we fit in the alternative/indie rock categories, but we cover a lot of different genres. Our influences are all over, from The Strokes to The Backseat Lovers to Hippo Campus.
What does the band enjoy about performing in Des Moines?
The crowd is always super fun and engaging. Our sax player, Quinn Dolan, went to Iowa State and always knows how to bring out fun people.
You played 80/35 last year. What was that like?
It was a blast, from the lineup to the atmosphere. It was a fun time all around.
Is there anything you like to do when you stop in Des Moines?
We love to go downtown and always try to go to the best food spot. We also try our luck to see if any tattoo spots have walk-in appointments available.
Do you work on new music while you tour?
As much as we can. With the day-to-day playing and getting to the shows on time with a group of six boys, it can be pretty hectic.
When can fans expect a new album?
We’re ready to get right to it now that Axel’s done filming for “The Runarounds.” We’re super excited to start this tour and are stoked to be releasing more music next year.
Tickets are available online for the show at 8 p.m. Saturday at Wooly’s.
