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Suede Aces – Band Biography

Rooted in Sayreville, NJ and Staten Island, Suede Aces is a hard rock and blues band with a progressive metal edge—fusing gritty soul, intricate musicianship, and raw emotion into a sound that hits as hard as it moves. Drawing from the classic power of Led Zeppelin, the vocal soul of Janis Joplin and Aretha Franklin, and the dynamic complexity of Rush and modern progressive metal, the band crafts music that’s both timeless and forward-thinking.

At the heart of Suede Aces is vocalist Lily Slix, whose journey began in childhood, following in her father’s footsteps—a lifelong musician. By age nine, she was recording in studios, and by thirteen, performing live with the confidence and intensity of someone twice her age. Her voice is bold, soulful, and full of intent—anchoring the band’s sound with passion and purpose.

Brothers Darrin Bell (guitar) and Tommy Bell (drums) grew up playing together from the moment their father handed them their first instruments. Their lifelong musical bond translates into a seamless onstage chemistry and a sound that’s both tight and explosive. Darrin’s guitar playing blends blues-rooted riffs with a flair for melodic intricacy, while Tommy brings hard-hitting energy and rhythmic drive grounded in classic rock tradition.

James Antonacci joined in 2025, bringing depth, clarity, and a touch of progressive ambition to the band’s rhythm section. Inspired by his older brother, he began playing bass in 2016 and developed a serious commitment to the instrument through high school jazz band and years of performance. His playing blends groove with subtle complexity, drawing from the progressive world to add layered dimension to Suede Aces’ sound.

Dante Pipitone joined on keyboards, enriching the band’s sonic palette with a unique blend of jazz fluency, blues feel, and a deep love for classic '70s American and Italian rock. His playing brings texture and atmosphere—bridging vintage tones with modern edge and adding both elegance and fire to Suede Aces’ already dynamic sound.

Since forming in 2021, Suede Aces has built a name for themselves on the live circuit, known for powerful, no-frills performances that hit home. They’ve opened for Steven Adler of Guns N’ Roses and Slaughter at the iconic Starland Ballroom, shared the stage with Rachel Bolan of Skid Row at The Stone Pony, and in 2024, James Antonacci performed as an opener for Adam and The Metal Hawks—a standout moment that added fuel to the band's momentum.

Their debut album, "Suede Aces", is set to release in summer 2025—showcasing their signature fusion of soulful vocals, heavy grooves, and intricate arrangements. With one foot in the roots of rock and the other in its evolving future, Suede Aces is carving their own path—loud, honest, and unmistakably real.