Capturing a sound that manages to mix pop sensibility with a bone-crushing groove, the five-man band CRUSHED should garner heaps of crossover interest with their just-released EP, Shadows and Substance.

Hailing from the arid locale of Phoenix, Arizona, the group which consists of singer/guitarist Mark Lauer, guitarist Mike Halland, guitarist/keyboardist Harry McCaleb, bassist Paul Surra, and drummer Jeff Garten, they caught the attention one of rock's most renowned producers, Mike Clink, the man behind none other than GUNS N' ROSES Appetite for Destruction, and other rock classics.

"Crushed is a blend of hard rock with melodic overtones, similar to a wolf in sheep's clothing," explains Clink. "On their most recent effort, Crushed exhibits how they have grown as a band and as accomplished songwriters. Shadows and Substance is a reveling insight into the exciting future of Crushed". This is the second Crushed recording released under Clink's label, No Relief.

The EP is the culmination of songs the band recorded with Mike Clink in Hollywood California and additional tracks recorded by up and coming AZ producer, Larry Love.

"This is some of the bands best work," explains Halland, "you can really hear the passion in Mark Lauer's voice and the great vibe we captured in the studio with both Mike and Larry."

The six-track EP effectively captures "the Crushed sound" and the band comes out swinging on the groove-heavy, 'Distance Between Us'. Next is the first single and title track, 'Shadows And Substance', a powerful and moving track with a huge chorus. Returning to the Crushed groove with 'Sky Is Curved', another track with a chorus reminiscent of ROBERT PLANT. The next track is a cover of the song 'Reptile' by THE CHURCH, a great song that Crushed managed to make all their own. Next is the Mike Clink produced track 'Slowly Unwinding', recorded at Mike's studio, Sound Instinct in North Hollywood. This is probably the most unique track from the six song EP. The verse is mesmerizing and bluesy with a catchy chorus and the unmistakable Crushed groove.

The final track is a Clink produced cover of 'Love My Way' by the PSYCHEDELIC FURS. A huge hit in it's day, Crushed has managed to add a unique touch to the song and with its release will undoubtedly attract new fans.

Having built a solid following in the Arizona region, the group is itching to bring the songs from 'Shadows and Substance' to life on concert stages throughout the world. Halland admits "We have had our share of ups and downs but we are very excited about bringing this record to the people."

More on Crushed at the band's website and/or MySpace page.