FAST Suzi began in a CD store in 1989.  Store Manager Matt Smith and guitarist Mickey Thomas struck up a friendship based the music they both liked, blaring out of the stereo system in the store, in particular, the Steve Stevens solo album, Atomic Playboys.  

Mickey and Matt sought musicians to put together a band they originally named Atomic Playboys.  A letter from Billy Idol's management company changed the band name idea fairly quickly.  The name FAST Suzi came very organically. FAST, was spelled F.A.S.T. as an acronym of the first members of the band (Terry)Frazier, (Todd) Alimorong (Matt) Smith, and (Mickey) Thomas.  Suzi was the name of the daughter of one of band member's girlfriend at the time, and a name was born.  

The songs were crafted in great rehearsal spaces like The Space Place in Chicago and the original Ranger Sound, first on North Avenue in Oak Park, then in Franklin Park.  The key to the music was singable with a classic style, guitar based without ego driven solos, and one other important element:  They had to be played very LOUD. 

F.A.S.T. Suzi rocked audiences at every show. The band played in many of Chicago's iconic venues including SOP's, Stay Out West, The infamous Gateway Theatre, and the legendary Thirsty Whale.  

Songs like, "A Better Yesterday", "The Urge", "I'm in Love," and the single, "Giving it All To You" rocked audiences at every show.  "Giving It All To You" even got radio airplay.  It started with Ralph Rasmussen's local show on WVVX FM, then spread to Chicago radio stations like WLUP FM (The Loop), The Original Q101 (WKQX-FM), and the Detroit rock and roll powerhouse station, WRIF FM.  

After a few lineup changes, the band went dormant for many years.

In early 2019, Matt left his last band feeling very unsatisfied with paying tribute to music he didn't write. Matt adds, "No disrespect to the band I was in.  It was fun; it was a learning experience, but I wanted more."

After considering many music opportunities from Chicago music community, the decision was made to return to the music that was created and played with blood, sweat and tears and closest to Matt's heart.  

After discussion with the original members of the band, Matt decided to resurrect a new Fast Suzi; one that would play the original music that he, Todd, Terry, Buddy, and Mickey created.  The plan was to revive the original music, play some favorites from a time gone by, and more importantly, write new music.   

Matt first enlisted Rich Zei to helm the ship.  Rich was involved with the original version of the band, mixing sound at The Thirsty Whale and other venues.  His knowledge and expertise have been invaluable from day 1.

Next to join was guitarist Mark Schuth.  His skill and connection to what we call "The Thirsty Whale days" were important to bring to the band.  Next were bassist Mark Schiele and vocalist/guitarist Amy Stephan.  Matt explains "Both Amy and Mark are a link between classic music eras in Chicago, and their talent is undisputed."  Last but not least, after an exhaustive search, the band was fortunate to have drummer Rich Matula join the band. "I like to think of Rich as our very own John Bonham.  He's solid, creative, and a really great guy,'  Matt further explains.  

The new Fast Suzi took to Ranger Studios to begin rehearsals in yet another nod to the past.  Working very hard on the songs that Fast Suzi created, they are set to bring their "Rock and Roll to Fill Your Soul" to audiences everywhere.

Matt closes by saying, "This group are the most talented musicians I've ever played with.  Their passion for music, their unending drive, and the fun they radiate together will make for a very unique experience."

Rock and Roll To Fill Your Soul... indeed.  (Thanks, Mick, here's to you.)