Vernam Cipher, Neighbor

Songwriter and Downers Grove resident Vernam Cipher has an affinity for American music in all its glorious variety: rock ‘n’ roll, honky tonk, soul, string bands, and more. A particular obsession for Vernam is the intersection of technology and inspiration (divine or otherwise), and hence the nom de guerre. His original songs combine irreverent lyrics with memorable tunes that are informed but never constrained by traditional music. "Older music is endlessly fascinating to me, but I’m not one to romanticize the past," he says. "I’d rather be alive today than just about any other time, despite it all. I’m just as ambivalent as the next person about what technology is doing for and to us. You just take the good with the bad and try to keep your bearings, no matter how much the altimeter spins."

Vernam's influences include the Davies, the Louvins, Wilco, Waits, the Elvises, the Kings, Marvin Gaye, Charlie Rich, Nick Lowe, various new or old Dylans, and many more.  Click here for a PDF press kit.  Get Vernam's six-song SWEET SCIENCE CD. For bookings, contact 630-667-4434 or info at cipherdom.com.