Mike Viola is best known as singer, songwriter and musical architect of the Candy Butchers, a highly regarded indie pop-rock band from New York that recorded three critically acclaimed albums for Sony, including 2003’s fan favorite Hang on Mike. Viola’s film work began a decade ago as the co-producer and lead singer of the title track “That Thing You Do!,” which went on to earn an Oscar® nomination for Best Original Song. The latest Jake Kasdan/Judd Apatow film, Walk Hard starring John C. Reilly, features songs written by Mike. A spoof on the Hollywood music biopic, Walk Hard is a perfect playground for Viola’s subversive, witty lyrics and catchy-pop expertise. Walk Hard opens in theatres nationwide on December 21. An independent artist since 2005, Viola released an album of new songs on his own label, Good Morning Monkey Records. Recorded in LA live at Largo, Just Before Dark showcases Mike's sharp abilities as a live performer. Once available on his website, mikeviola.com, the vinyl-only album sold out in three months. His new album Lurch is alive with the classic-pop euphoria and vivid storybook imagery that Viola’s fans have come to treasure. Currently available on his website, Lurch will be distributed worldwide 2008.