The Click Five

The Click Five

Company type	Band
Industry	Music
Founded	2004
Headquarters	Boston, Massachusetts , United States
Products	Albums, singles, live performances

The Click Five (commonly shortened to TC5) is a rock ensemble originating from Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Established in 2004 primarily by students attending Berklee College of Music, they first caught the eye of talent scout Wayne Sharp. Their initial album, Greetings from Imrie House (2005), marked their breakthrough in the commercial music scene. Following the departure of original lead singer Eric Dill, Kyle Patrick joined the lineup for their sophomore release, Modern Minds and Pastimes (2007). Their third record, TCV, was initially launched in Asian markets in 2010 before a worldwide release in 2011, broadening their global audience. The band dissolved in 2013 but reunited in 2025 for the Click 2025 tour and Playback Music Festival.

The group is recognized for its power pop sound paired with a mod-influenced aesthetic—characterized by tailored suits and Beatles-inspired moptop hairstyles. They describe their music as "new school power pop," with connections to pop punk and teen pop styles. While their debut album found solid success within the United States, their popularity was particularly strong across Asian countries such as Cambodia and the Philippines. To date, The Click Five has sold approximately two million albums worldwide and achieved eight number-one singles spread over seven different nations. Additionally, they featured in the 2007 motion picture Taking Five.

2003–2004: Formation and early development

Ben Romans focused on songwriting at Berklee College of Music, Ethan Mentzer specialized in production and engineering, while Joey Zehr pursued a double major in production/engineering and business studies. During their sophomore year, roommates Mentzer and Zehr relocated to a residence on Imrie Road in Allston, dubbing it "Imrie House." There, they connected with Romans and Joe Guese, forming a fraternity-like collective. The four musicians performed in various local bands without notable success. Their talents attracted Wayne Sharp, a seasoned talent agent with a background in jazz and experience managing the 1980s power pop band Candy.

Romans had experience working at a Nashville record label. In May 2003, Jeff Dorenfeld—former manager of Boston—witnessed Guese and Mentzer perform and subsequently introduced them to Sharp. Although Sharp appreciated their musicianship, he was critical of their songwriting and image, advising them that success would require heeding his guidance.

They soon incorporated Eric Dill, a longtime friend of Zehr’s from Indianapolis. Zehr remarked that this marked the point when they began taking their music seriously as a final attempt before transitioning into conventional careers. In their early twenties, they frequently played multiple shows each week under different band names to circumvent local venue restrictions. Producer Mike Denneen, noted for his work with Fountains of Wayne, assisted them with a two-song demo and facilitated an introduction to Kiss guitarist Paul Stanley, who became an early supporter.

2005–2006: Greetings From Imrie House

By March 2004, The Click Five had completed demos at Imrie House. Producer Denneen pushed them to improve their live performances, candidly stating that they "sucked live." In mid-2004, Boston’s Top 40 station Kiss 108 booked them for its "Concert on the Charles." They released their debut EP titled "Angel to You (Devil to Me)" on April 25, 2005. Principal songwriter Romans co-wrote the title track with Paul Stanley; guitarist Elliot Easton of the Cars also contributed.

After retaining legal counsel, the band sought interest from major record labels. An Epic Records talent scout recommended bringing them to Los Angeles for a showcase performance. Eventually, Lava Records—later absorbed into Atlantic Records—signed them toward the end of 2004. The group began collaborating with the label soon after releasing their EP. According to The Boston Globe, The Click Five was propelled into mainstream pop prominence supported by significant industry resources. They opened for Ashlee Simpson on tour—a $25,000 investment praised by label executives as "the best money we’ve spent."

The EP sold roughly 10,000 units. Their single "Just the Girl", penned by label-mate Adam Schlesinger from Fountains of Wayne, generated momentum leading up to their debut album release. The track reached number eleven on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topped the US Digital Song Sales chart. Its music video climbed to number three on MTV's Total Request Live. The song maintained the number one spot on iTunes downloads for over two weeks and earned RIAA platinum certification as a digital single. The band extensively toured alongside Ashlee Simpson.

Their first full-length album, Greetings From Imrie House, launched on August 8, 2005; its title paid homage to their original rehearsal space. It featured another Schlesinger composition titled "I'll Take My Chances," which included guitarist Elliot Easton, as well as a cover version of "Lies" originally by UK pop group Thompson Twins.

Commercially successful, the album sold approximately 350,000 copies within the United States and debuted at number fifteen on the Billboard 200 chart. The band experienced notable media attention across Asian territories such as Cambodia; MTV vice president Amy Doyle anticipated enthusiastic fan reception there. Extensive merchandising included items like lunchboxes, backpacks, trading cards, and hair styling products. It was recognized as that year’s highest-charting debut from any new rock act with first-week sales tallying 51,541 copies. Additionally, their MySpace page ranked number one for "Most Viewed Band Page."

Touring highlights included opening slots for Ashlee Simpson and Alanis Morissette; solo tours; performances with Big City Rock; and supporting Backstreet Boys during their Never Gone Tour. In August 2005, they appeared performing "Just the Girl" on Late Night with Conan O'Brien. Their second single "Catch Your Wave" was released on November 8 and peaked at number thirty-seven on US Pop Airplay charts. That same month saw them perform at the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

On March 20, 2006, they issued a live EP titled Live at Bull Moose, recorded on September 14, 2005; this was followed by Rolling Stone Originals: The Click Five, recorded in December 2005 and released April 4.

Greetings from Imrie House garnered favorable critiques from About.com and Entertainment Weekly, both commending its infectious hooks; meanwhile Rolling Stone highlighted several tracks with hit potential. Conversely, reviews from USA Today and IGN.com were more critical.

Wayne Sharp was regarded by both band members and producer Mike Denneen as an effective mediator within the group’s dynamics. Nonetheless, members expressed reservations about their rapid ascent and intense media exposure. They also voiced dissatisfaction regarding their record label’s strategy; Zehr observed that unlike previous eras where labels invested years developing artists’ careers, contemporary labels function more like financial institutions requiring artists to be ready for immediate success themselves.

2007–2008: Modern Minds and Pastimes Era and Departure of Dill

By 2006, the band experienced a downturn in commercial success, with their releases falling short of anticipated chart performance. Bassist Ethan Mentzer characterized this interval as "a gradual, prolonged decline." Despite this, they maintained a local touring schedule and served as opening acts for McFly during the 2006 Motion in the Ocean tour.

On November 20, 2006, lead vocalist Eric Dill exited the group, with the departure officially confirmed in March 2007. His replacement was Kyle Patrick, who left Berklee College of Music to assume the role of lead singer and rhythm guitarist. Following his exit, Dill embarked on a solo music career and explored acting opportunities after starring in their film Taking Five, which premiered in 2007.

In early 2007, Click Five shifted their musical direction towards new wave and vintage sounds, integrating synthesizers and moving away from their previous uniform stage attire to embrace distinct personal styles. Their live shows were also modified to accommodate Patrick’s lower vocal range.

From approximately seventy compositions, they selected twelve songs to record for their sophomore album, Modern Minds and Pastimes, released on June 26, 2007. Despite expectations, the album sold only around 50,000 units in the U.S. and reached number 136 on the Billboard 200 chart. Critical reception was mixed; reviewers noted inconsistencies and uninspired lyricism.

The album’s lead single "Jenny" achieved number-one status across several Asian markets including Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore, and Taiwan. Subsequent singles "Happy Birthday" and "Empty" received notable airplay within Southeast Asia. The band embarked on extensive tours throughout Asia in 2007, sharing stages with artists like the Black Eyed Peas and supporting Hilary Duff during her U.S. tour.

Their television appearances included Fox Network’s Good Day Atlanta and Singapore’s Live the Dream. In December 2007, they secured the "Outstanding Pop Act" accolade at the Boston Music Awards. Additionally, Singapore’s radio station 98.7 FM honored them as "Band of the Year."

Continuing into 2008, Click Five toured Asia on their Modern Minds and Great Times Tour and issued the single "Flipside" exclusively for Southeast Asian audiences. They co-headlined a historic rock concert at Angkor Wat Temple and participated in an MTV EXIT event in Bangkok aimed at raising awareness about human trafficking.

On August 2, 2008, they received the "Knockout Award" at the MTV Asia Awards for connecting deeply with young Asian listeners—an unexpected accolade for the group. From late 2008 through early 2009, performances were focused on smaller venues across New England.

2009–2013: Release of TCV and Band Dissolution

In March 2009, their record label dropped them. Producer Mike Denneen observed that Atlantic Records had been reluctant to allow them to evolve into a "genuine" band; however, after parting ways with the label, Click Five gained full creative freedom to write, perform, and develop naturally. They resumed local performances including shows at Boston’s Lizard Lounge—a venue typically known for alternative and indie artists. Ben Romans announced plans for a self-funded album recorded with Denneen in 2010. The band released two complimentary singles online: "I Quit! I Quit! I Quit!" and "Be in Love." On August 6, 2010, their single "The Way It Goes" was distributed to radio stations ahead of the album launch.

On November 13, 2010, they revealed their third studio album titled TCV, which debuted exclusively in Asian markets on November 16. The track "Don't Let Me Go" was released with an accompanying music video in April 2011 as part of MTV EXIT’s anti-human trafficking initiative. The album later saw a UK release through Lojinx and a U.S. release via Q Dee Records in May 2011. A bonus track named "Love Space Time" was included on the charity compilation Together We Are Not Alone, supporting relief efforts for the Great East Japan Earthquake through the Japanese Red Cross Society.

In October 2011, work commenced on an EP consisting of five to six songs. Nevertheless, on January 14, 2013, via Facebook they announced their official breakup after an extended hiatus to focus on solo endeavors, expressing gratitude to their fanbase for ongoing support.

2025: Reunion

Back in 2019, Patrick expressed willingness to reunite if the circumstances were right. By December 2024, The Click Five confirmed their comeback, scheduling a performance at the Playback Music Festival in May 2025 alongside acts like Boys Like Girls and Secondhand Serenade. Their Southeast Asia tour, The Click 2025, took place from May 4 to May 10, featuring only Kyle Patrick, Joe Guese, and Ethan Mentzer due to other members’ scheduling conflicts. The idea for the reunion originated from Guese, with Patrick and Mentzer endorsing it, while new material was considered contingent on audience response during the tour. A fresh track titled "Throwback" was introduced during these shows.

In August 2025, the group held their first U.S. concert in a decade and a half at Emo Nite in Los Angeles, simultaneously announcing forthcoming U.S. tour plans. On August 14, they appeared as surprise guests at the Jonas Brothers' Jonas20: Greetings from Your Hometown Tour in Camden, New Jersey, performing "Just the Girl." Shortly thereafter, an October 2025 U.S. tour was publicized. On September 2, DJ Immortal of 99.9 Punk World Radio FM revealed that new music was on the horizon. Subsequently, The Click Five released "Throwback," their first single in 15 years, on October 24.

Public image

At the outset of their career, the band was noted for their distinctive visual presentation, consistently donning coordinated sharp suits inspired by Mod fashion, complete with ties and moptop hairstyles paired with vibrant collared shirts beneath. They maintained a polished and uniform appearance in all public settings. This aesthetic echoed influences from the Beatles and other beat groups of the 1960s. Billboard characterized their look as purposefully crafted to incite a frenzy reminiscent of Beatlemania.

The Click Five garnered a substantial teenage female fanbase. Guese observed that for many young women, attending their concerts marked both their first live show and initial association with a band, emphasizing that enthusiastic audiences were preferable to antagonistic ones.

The Boston Globe labeled their image as "fluffy teen-dream pinups." While Mentzer defended their stylistic choices, he conceded that some viewed them as "uncool." Critics from USA Today and About.com dismissed them as overly "cutesy," lacking depth and authenticity. A commentator from Yahoo! Music described their sound as reminiscent of a soundtrack suited for a WB television series.

Influences

Members of the band acknowledged significant inspiration from power pop icons such as Cheap Trick and Matthew Sweet, alongside influences from Talking Heads. John D. Luerssen of Allmusic identified parallels with bands like the Knack, the Calling, and labelmates Fountains of Wayne. Mikael Wood of Baltimore City Paper drew comparisons to Fall Out Boy and All-American Rejects due to their broad appeal across genres. Bill Lamb from About.com noted songwriting elements reminiscent of the Beatles and the Beach Boys, while Gary Susman of Entertainment Weekly highlighted vocal harmonies akin to those of Queen, though stylistically closer to the Backstreet Boys.

Several reviewers connected The Click Five's image and stage presence to fellow Boston-based band the Cars. Guese summarized their musical philosophy: "We are essentially a rock band performing pop songs... I have always appreciated the concise nature of three-minute pop tunes," adding that they aim to "have fun" and revive an old-school rock 'n' roll atmosphere.

Band members

Current lineup

• Joe Guese – lead guitar and backing vocals (2004–2013, 2025)
• Ethan Mentzer – bass guitar and backing vocals (2004–2013, 2025)
• Kyle Patrick – lead and backing vocals, rhythm guitar (2007–2013, 2025)

Past members

• Ben Romans – synthesizers and backing vocals (2004–2013)
• Joey Zehr – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2004–2013)
• Eric Dill – lead and backing vocals, rhythm guitar (2004–2007)

Touring musicians

• Scott Simons – synthesizers, backing vocals (2025)
• Will Sweeny – drums, percussion, backing vocals (2025)

Studio albums

Studio albums with notable chart rankings and sales figures

Album title	Release details	Highest chart positions		Sales
		US	KOR Over.
Greetings from Imrie House	Released: August 8, 2005 Labels: Lava, Atlantic Available formats: CD, digital download	15	—	US sales: 350,000
Modern Minds and Pastimes	Released: June 26, 2007 Labels: Lava, Atlantic Formats: CD, digital download	136	—	US sales: 50,000
TCV	Released: November 16, 2010 Labels: Warner Music Group (Asia), Lojinx (Europe) Formats: CD, digital download	—	20
"—" indicates no chart entry or absence of release in that region.

Extended plays

Key details of extended plays

EP title	Release information
Angel to You (Devil to Me)	Released on April 25, 2005 Label: Lava Format: CD
Live at Bull Moose	Released March 20, 2006 Label: Atlantic Format: CD
Rolling Stone Originals: The Click Five	Released April 4, 2006 Label: Atlantic Format: Digital download

Singles

Singles as lead artist with selected chart peaks and certifications

Single title	Year released	Highest chart rankings							Certifications	Associated album
		US	US AC	US Pop 100	US Pop	CAN CHR	PH	SGP
"Angel to You (Devil to Me)"	2005	—	—	—	—	—	—	—		Greetings from Imrie House
"Just the Girl"		11	37	8	18	29	—	—	RIAA Gold certification
"Catch Your Wave"		—	—	68	37	—	—	—
"Jenny"	2007	—	—	—	—	—	1	1		Modern Minds and Pastimes
"Happy Birthday"		—	—	—	—	—	—	—
"Empty"		—	—	—	—	—	—	—
"Flipside"	2008	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
"I Quit! I Quit! I Quit!"	2009	—	—	—	—	—	—	—		TCV
"The Way It Goes"	2010	—	—	—	—	—	—	—
"Don't Let Me Go"		—	—	—	—	—	—	—
"Throwback"	2025	—	—	—	—	—	—	—		Template:TBA
"—" signifies a single that either did not chart or was not released in the specified region.

Promotional singles

Catalog of promotional singles

Single Title	Release Year	Associated Album
"Pop Princess"	2005	Greetings From Imrie House
"My Girlfriend (Forgot Me This Christmas)"		Template:Non-album singles
"Silent Night"
"Headlight Disco"	2007	Modern Minds and Pastimes

Music videos

Video Title	Release Year	Director(s)	Ref.
"Just the Girl"	2005	Vem
"Catch Your Wave"
"Kidnap My Heart"	2007	Template:N/A
"Jenny"		The Aggressive
"Happy Birthday"		Template:N/A
"Empty"	2008	Conrad Jackson and Conor Colwell
"Don't Let Me Go"	2011	Template:N/A

Awards and nominations

Year	Organization	Category	Work Nominated	Outcome	Ref.
2005	Boston Music Awards	New Local Act	The Click Five	Template:Won
		Outstanding Pop/Rock Band		Template:Nom
		Song of the Year	"Just the Girl"	Template:Nom
	XM Nation Music Awards	Best New Pop Artist	The Click Five	Template:Won
		"On the Rise" - Most Important		Template:Nom
2007	Boston Music Awards	Outstanding Pop Act of the Year	The Click Five	Template:Won
		Song of the Year	"Jenny"	Template:Nom
		Male Vocalist of the Year	Kyle Patrick	Template:Nom
2008	MTV Asia Awards 2008	The Knockout Award	The Click Five	Template:Won
	Myx Music Awards 2008	Favorite International Music Video	"Jenny"	Template:Nom
2011	Asian Television Award	Best Music Program	"Don't Let Me Go"	Template:Nom

External links

• Official Website of The Click Five