Electronic Press Kit
Brief Band Bio
Porcupine Avalanche was born when five seasoned musicians came together with a simple goal: to make great music, light up the stage, and have a blast doing it. With more than 75 years of combined experience and countless past projects, the band brings both skill and passion to every performance. Covering a wide spectrum of rock—from classic and alternative to glam, grunge, pop, country, and even the occasional heavy metal anthem—Porcupine Avalanche keeps audiences singing, dancing and partying all night long. The band plays both public venues and private events throughout the Chicago area and along the North Shore/northwest suburbs.
Vic Effenleau, lead singer
Dave Mooney, guitar & backup vocals
Stevie H, lead guitar & backup vocals
Steve Chapman, bass guitar
Mike Borkowski, drums
Videos
American Pie - Don McClean
Beautiful Day - U2
Bad Moon Rising - CCR
Don’t Look Back in Anger - Oasis
Found Out About You - Gin Blossoms
Girlfriend - Matthew Sweet
Heroes - David Bowie
Sample Set List
Last Kiss - Pearl Jam
Learn to Fly - Foo Fighters
Mr. Brightside - The Killers
Mr. Jones - Counting Crows
Pretty in Pink - Psychedelic Furs
Push - Matchbox Twenty
Rockin’ in the Free World - Neil Young
Surrender - Cheap Trick
Stay With You - Goo Goo Dolls
The Middle - Jimmy Eats World
Thunder Road - Bruce Springsteen
Train in Vain - The Clash
Wagon Wheel - Darius Rucker
We’re an American Band - Grand Funk Railroad
Pumpkin Fest 2025
Highwood, IL
October 2025
Private event
Lake Forest, IL
July 2025
Selected Shows
28 Mile Distilling Co.
Highwood, IL
September 2025
Northwestern's Martin Stadium
Evanston, IL
June 2025
Arlington Ale House
Arlington Heights, IL
August 2025
Wooden Nickel
Highwood, IL
May 2025
Fan Testimonials
"You guys really brought super-charged energy to 28 Mile last week -- you packed the place and then rocked the walls off! Singing, dancing, and a whole lot of smiling people! Can't wait for their next show!"
— John Servatius
"You guys were so great. Marty and I loved coming to see your show. Your passion and energy really brought the excitement up to a fever pitch, especially in Mr. Brightside and Learn to Fly! Wow!!!! We'll be back. #groupies"
— Peter Vander Velde
"Where did all those people come from? I don't know how you do it, but you guys are impressive at drawing a big crowd and keeping them happy all night!"
— Jeff Carlson
"Your show at Martin Stadium was awesome, man. You guys have a great sound & energy. Great song list -- makes it super fun when the crowd knows every song and can sing along. I look forward to seeing your next show."
— Jim Foley
" Such a cool experience at your show. I knew you and your friends were talented, but I was blown away. Just sad that I didn't get an autograph. Next time? :) "
— Holly Matson
"Your show at the Nickel was soooo fun! Put us on your fan newsletter list, please! We're coming to all your shows, and you can count on me for backup singing (from the back of the room, of course!)
— Dave Meneely