FROM CLEVELAND
WE AREN'T
INTO MAGIC.
"There was no synchronized choreography. No in-ear monitors. Not a single choreographed fist pump or EDM-style drop to tell me when to feel things. I ordered a cranberry vodka and it came out room temperature, so I simply went on stage and asked the band if they could fix this, and they said “Sir, we are currently playing a show.” As if that’s an excuse. There were no lasers. No autotune. The drummer counted off a song manually like some sort of wild raccoon. And the bassist? He made eye contact with the crowd. What happened to mystery? To spectacle? To fifteen-minute ambient intros synced to a giant LED screen showing wolves running in slow motion?
Live Review: Houdini’s Code – A Devastating Triumph of Authenticity
*by Sterling Chadwick-Banks, Contributing Editor at Modern Soundscape Quarterly
KEVIN CEDAR
Kevin Cedar took the stage with the confidence of a man who’s never watched a single David Lee Roth high kick compilation. From the first note, it was clear this performance was going to be raw, unpredictable, and—most offensively—entirely unprocessed by autotune. Where were the arena-rock squats? The mic stand spins? At one point, he even adjusted his own mic stand like some sort of working-class troubadour. I paid $14 for a gin and tonic and I deserved choreography.
And don’t even get me started on the wardrobe. No velvet top hat. No silk scarf. Not a single leather pant was harmed in the making of this show. Where are the skirts, Kevin? Where are the skirts like Axl Rose promised us?
Vocal Review: Kevin Cedar –
*by Sterling Chadwick-Banks, Senior Opinion Architect at Echo Chamber Review
LEAD VOCALS/GUITAR
SHAWN DAVIS
Hey, I’m Shawn Davis, the lead guitarist for Houdini’s Code. I’ve been playing guitar since I was seven, and over the years, I’ve been in a bunch of bands like Green Tea, Pass the Napkins, On Fire, and The Crumpkins. Music has always been a huge part of my life, and my influences are all over the map—from Bon Jovi and Foo Fighters to The Killers and Johnny Marr.
Playing with Houdini’s Code lets me bring those influences to life and create something unique with my friends. I’m all about making music that connects with people, and I’m so glad you’re here to check us out. Thanks for being part of the ride—hope you dig what we’re doing!
LEAD GUITAR
DOM MIKULA
Bass player/songwriter from Youngstown, Ohio. Now calling Cleveland home, I've transformed that early fascination into a lifelong pursuit of musical expression.
The bass wasn't just an instrument—it became my voice, my companion in exploring the vast landscape of sound, but like any passionate explorer, I couldn't resist venturing beyond those four strings. My musical journey expanded to include the guitar, synthesizer, and clarinet. What sets my musical journey apart is the diverse influences that fuel my creativity. From the raw energy of progressive metal to the sophisticated patterns of jazz, and from the groove-based rhythms of funk to the timeless beauty of classical compositions—each genre has become a teacher, offering unique lessons in musical expression.
My life's symphony extends beyond the stage. When I'm not crafting bass lines or experimenting with new sounds, you might find me:
Hiking trails and discovering nature's rhythms,
Finding inspiration in visual art and poetry,
Creating culinary masterpieces in the kitchen,
Staying active through sports and exercise.
This blend of musical passion and life experiences shapes not just my songwriting but my entire approach to performance. Every note played is a story waiting to be told, every performance an opportunity to connect with fellow music lovers like you.
BASS GUITAR
CULLEN PERDUE
Hey, I’m Cullen, the drummer for Houdini’s Code. I’ve been playing drums for as long as I can remember, and there’s nothing better than locking into a rhythm and making music with great people. I joined Houdini’s Code in 2024, and I’m pumped about what’s ahead for the band.
I always wanted to join a band but never had the opportunity until I met the guys from Houdini’s Code. Now, I’m living my dream, and I couldn’t ask for a better group of people to share it with. Can’t wait to see you all at a show soon!