“With us, it’s always been strong songs first,” says Chris Florio (drums) of the New Jersey-based rock trio Mr. Chu. “The rest will follow.”

Diversity is an often-used word when describing the sound of Mr. Chu. Much of this can be attributed to the different musical tastes shared by Chris, Ed Gunderman (bass, vocals), and Doug Fallone (guitar, vocals).

This diversity is evident in Mr. Chu’s catalog. “Gegwsi” is a Smithereens-style number with a tune you’ll still be humming the morning after a Chu show. “More The Merrier” and “Unkempt” flow with an energy reminiscent of Nirvana. “Nonchalant” and “Realities” fit comfortably in the pop-punk crevice between Green Day and Goo Goo Dolls.

The band spent the last year playing shows around the tri-state area. Recently they have appeared in New York City at The Lion’s Den, Brownies and Coney Island High, and in Hoboken at Zells and Love Sexy. “That’s why we do this--the thrill of playing out live in front of both people we know and people who have never heard us before,” explains an excited Chris. “So far the response has been fantastic, and we’re constantly adding new songs to make the show fresh for people who always come to see us.”

Mr. Chu recently finished up their new CD at Boulevard Studios in New Milford, NJ. Recorded under the supervision of Jon Burman & Mike Marri, whose recording credits include Ours, Teenbeaters and Scout, the band could not be happier with the results. “Recording at Boulevard was one of the most gratifying experiences of my musical career,” beams Doug. “We had a certain sound in mind, and they had no problem not only capturing it, but adding a lot as well.”

As the band is beginning to see the rewards of their hard work and dedication, Chris has reason to sound excited: “I feel the CD will offer a lot of new and great opportunities for the band, both live and with airplay. This is something we’ve been always wanted to do, and to now be doing it is incredible.”