What’s a Max Plankton?

It’s a band made up of experienced players from Chicagoland playing original rock music that’s been described as Power-Prog-Pop. They like to write fun, melodic and catchy music, with occasional progressive adventures. And to get the full entertainment experience, please listen to the words!

Max released two full-length albums, and they’re continuing to develop new songs. They’ve garnered some loyal fans and they love playing live!

Who’s in Max Plankton?

Rick Bennett is the lead singer and bassist. Before Max Plankton, Rick and John Griffin headed up a rock trio called Frankenpony. They had four full-length albums, played often in Chicago (Elbo Room, Beat Kitchen, Lion’s Den, Gunther Murphy’s, Cubbie Bear) and downstate, and even had a song played in an episode of the TV sitcom “Help Me Help You” on ABC.

John Griffin is the guitar master (and studio wizard). In addition to Max, John plays in the legendary Chicago punk-art-rock band, Tutu and the Pirates, and he plays in too many other bands to list across the country and the ocean (literally).

Brian Robery drives the drums and sings, too. Brian had a long stint touring with Uncle John’s Band (popular in the Midwest as a Grateful Dead tribute band). Outside Max Plankton, Brian has other steady drum gigs, too. He also makes drums in his spare time!

It's a pleasure to have Christina "Danger" Pollitt" back on keys and vocals after having an adventure away from Chicagoland! Besides her work on our Chakra Con album (including co-writing and singing lead on the title track), you must listen to her "Whiskey Bends" songs (with John Griffin on guitar), available on your favorite streaming services.

Kyle Magnusson plays keys on many of our recordings. He's a tremendously talented musician, and he's in high demand. He's not playing live with us these days, but he's still part of the band family.

What’s with the name?

Max Planck was a famous physicist. Google him to learn more, if you are so inclined. Plankton are tiny water organisms. Max Plankton is either the most plankton you can possibly have, or it’s a tiny water-based German physicist. Or a band from Chicago...