Listen
Start with the music.
Big hooks, rap cadences and a theatrical edge. Pick a way in.
Apple Music: Golden Coves, Wrongly Free (2026), Wrongly Free (2024) and Dangerous.
Watch
Wrongly Free, the video.
Shows
No shows announced yet.
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About
CHESS
CHESS is a New Orleans-based cinematic alternative rock band blending massive rock hooks, hip-hop influence, theatrical storytelling, and immersive visual production. Their performances blur the line between concert and theater, creating a high-energy experience designed for both intimate venues and festival stages.
Born at LSU in Baton Rouge, the band features Ijo (lead vocals), Leb (rap vocals, piano, and synths), Flip (vocals and guitar), Kaivo (bass), and Matt (drums). Together, CHESS delivers original music that combines modern rock intensity, dynamic musicianship, and a carefully crafted visual experience that leaves a lasting impression on audiences.
Five roles. One strategy.
- IjoLead vocals
- LebRap vocals, piano, synths
- FlipVocals, guitar
- KaivoBass
- MattDrums
- Enter the CourtThe story behind CHESS
For fans of Queen · U2 · Journey · Twenty One Pilots
Book CHESS
Bring the show to your room.
Available for venues, festivals, private events, and support slots throughout the Gulf South and beyond.
- Venues
- Festivals
- Private events
- Corporate events
- Opening support
- Radio interviews
- Podcasts
Press highlights
The short version.
- 3,000+streams on the debut single
- Fred's BOTB2026 winner
- Regional & nationalavailable for bookings
Draws audiences across rock, alternative, and theatrical music scenes.
Request the press kitJoin the list
Be there when it happens.
New music, show dates and anything worth knowing. Short and occasional.