The Seven Pieces: A Deep Dive Into The Current Members Of Ax And The Hatchetmen And Their Prime Video Connection
Ax and the Hatchetmen have solidified their status as one of the most exciting and dynamic indie-rock collectives to emerge from the Chicago music scene in recent years. As of late 2025, the band is riding a massive wave of momentum following their debut LP and the breakout television success of their frontman.
This article provides the most current and definitive look at the full lineup, their musical journey, and the unique crossover career of their lead singer, offering a fresh perspective on a band that blends jazz-trained musicianship with anthemic indie-pop hooks.
Ax and the Hatchetmen: Full Biography and Current Lineup (2025)
Ax and the Hatchetmen officially formed in Chicago, Illinois, in 2018, and have quickly evolved from a local college band into a nationally recognized act. Known for their infectious energy and dynamic sound, the group often performs as a six- or seven-piece ensemble, though the core members drive the band's creative direction.
The band’s sound is heavily influenced by classic indie-rock acts, most notably The Strokes, a connection that became a reality when a member of their idol band collaborated on one of their biggest hits.
The Core Members and Roles
- Axel Ellis (Vocals, Guitar, Frontman): The band's namesake and primary creative force. Ellis is a gifted songwriter whose career took a unique turn with a major acting role.
- Sal Defilippis (Guitar): A key guitarist who contributes to the band's layered, signature indie-rock sound.
- Hunter Olshefke (Bass): The band's bassist, providing the crucial rhythmic foundation.
- Nick Deputy (Drums): The drummer, rounding out the core rhythm section.
Expanded Lineup Members
The band often expands its lineup for live performances and recordings to achieve its full, rich sound, which includes jazz-trained musicians. These additional members may include:
- Kenny Olzewski (Vocals, Guitar): Mentioned in some lineups as a contributing vocalist and guitarist.
- Phil (Unspecified Instrument): Also mentioned in the six-piece configuration, contributing to the band's complex arrangements.
The Breakout Star: Axel Ellis’s Role in 'The Runarounds'
One of the most significant and unique developments for the band in 2025 is frontman Axel Ellis’s successful foray into acting. This career pivot has brought an unprecedented level of mainstream attention to Ax and the Hatchetmen.
Ellis stars as Neil Crosby, nicknamed 'the Buddha,' in the highly anticipated Amazon Prime Video musical series, *The Runarounds*.
The show, which premiered in 2025, centers on a newly formed rock band. Ellis’s role as one of the main characters, alongside a cast that includes Jeremy Yun and Zendé Murdock, has introduced his musical talent and the band's name to a global audience far beyond the typical indie-rock circuit.
This dual career path—leading a successful band while starring in a major streaming series—makes Ellis a unique figure in the current music landscape and provides a compelling narrative for the band's rise.
The Hatchetmen's Discography: Essential Songs and Collaborations
Ax and the Hatchetmen’s discography is marked by a series of high-energy tracks that perfectly capture the spirit of youthful indie-pop. Their recent releases are essential listening for anyone tracking the latest in the genre.
The Debut Album: So Much to Tell You (2025)
The band’s dynamic debut full-length album, *So Much to Tell You*, dropped in late 2025, serving as a spirited coming-of-age record. The album showcases the band's versatility and strong songwriting, featuring a mix of upbeat anthems and more introspective tracks.
Key tracks and entities from the album include:
- "Red Carpet"
- "Flagstaff"
- "7x9"
- "Lucy"
- "Oasis"
- "Hotel Room" (One of their most popular tracks)
Major Singles and Topical Authority Highlights
The band has built significant topical authority through strategic collaborations and consistent releases of catchy singles.
1. "Blurry Lights" featuring Albert Hammond Jr.
This collaboration is a landmark moment, as it features Albert Hammond Jr. of The Strokes, one of the band's biggest musical influences. The song quickly became one of their most popular tracks, blending their signature sound with the unmistakable style of the legendary guitarist.
2. "Stay // Honestly" (2025)
Kicking off 2025, the single "Stay // Honestly" continued their momentum, showcasing a polished sound produced by Jake Sinclair. The track is a perfect example of their ability to craft infectious, radio-ready indie-rock.
3. Other Essential Singles
Before their debut LP, the band gained traction with a series of successful singles that remain fan favorites, demonstrating their range from upbeat tracks to more melodic pieces:
- "Love Songs"
- "Peach Trees"
- "Sunscreen"
- "Sick"
- "She's A Woman"
- "Honey"
The Future of Ax and the Hatchetmen: Tour and Musical Direction
With their debut album out and the publicity from *The Runarounds* at its peak, the band is poised for a major tour cycle in late 2025 and 2026.
Their musical direction continues to be a vibrant mix of indie-pop energy and rock sensibility, often drawing comparisons to the sounds of 'Just the Two of Us' in their more melodic moments. The band's commitment to a care-free, positive message, particularly in tracks like "Love Songs," resonates strongly with their growing fan base, ensuring their continued relevance in the modern music landscape.
As the "Hatchetmen" continue to evolve, blending high-profile acting careers with high-quality music production and live performances, they are a band that music enthusiasts and TV viewers alike will be following closely.
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