Preston School of Industry

Preston School of Industry was an indie rock band formed in the early 2000s by Scott Kannberg, also known as Spiral Stairs, after his departure from Pavement. Here are some key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Background: Preston School of Industry was formed in 1999 by Scott Kannberg, the guitarist for the influential indie rock band Pavement. After Pavement disbanded, Kannberg began working on solo material and eventually formed Preston School of Industry as a full-fledged band. The name "Preston School of Industry" is derived from the Preston School of Industry, a former reform school in California.

2. Musical Style and Influences: The band's musical style was reminiscent of Pavement's lo-fi indie rock sound, characterized by catchy melodies, off-kilter arrangements, and Kannberg's distinct vocal delivery. However, Preston School of Industry also incorporated elements of classic rock, garage rock, and folk into their music, giving their sound a more varied and eclectic feel. Kannberg's songwriting continued to be a driving force behind the band's music, with lyrics that often touched on themes of introspection, alienation, and everyday life.

3. Album Releases and Critical Reception: Preston School of Industry released their debut album, "All This Sounds Gas", in 2001 to positive reviews from critics. The album showcased Kannberg's songwriting chops and the band's tight musicianship, earning comparisons to Pavement while also establishing Preston School of Industry as a unique entity in its own right. The band released two more albums, "Monsoon" (2004) and "The Furnaces of Palingenesia" (2004), before disbanding in 2004.

4. Legacy and Influence: While Preston School of Industry may not have achieved the same level of commercial success or mainstream recognition as Pavement, they made a significant impact on the indie rock scene of the early 2000s. The band's music resonated with fans of Kannberg's previous work and attracted new listeners with its catchy hooks and clever lyrics. Preston School of Industry's influence can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of indie rock bands, showcasing the lasting impact of Kannberg's songwriting and the band's contributions to the genre.

5. Post-Band Activities: Following the disbandment of Preston School of Industry, Scott Kannberg continued to pursue music, both as a solo artist and as a member of various other bands. He released solo albums under the moniker Spiral Stairs and collaborated with other musicians on projects like The Jicks. While Preston School of Industry may no longer be active, their music lives on as a testament to Kannberg's talent and the band's place in indie rock history.