A fresh, exhilarating force has emerged on the rock and pop punk scene with the release of Power Take Off’s self-titled debut album. Dropped on September 27th, 2024, through Stryker Records and distributed by Virgin Music Group (Universal Music), the album is already making waves in the music world. With a growing fan base and an unforgettable live presence, Power Take Off has cemented themselves as a rising band to watch.
Their single “All the No’s”—an empowering anthem about perseverance and self-belief—had peaked at #27 on the SMR Top 50 chart during the week of November 19th, 2024. Produced by Scott Wilson at Sunshine Studios in Colorado Springs, the track resonates with listeners thanks to its uplifting message and driving energy. Recently their single “Between You and Me” peaked at # 39 on the SMR Top 50 chart on February 4th, 2025 and currently, a third single “Do You Wanna” was just added to several radio stations receiving rotation across the country. Fans of Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) Green Day, Weezer and Blink-182 will find familiar, yet refreshing sounds in Power Take Off’s music, which blends the rebellious spirit of pop punk with polished, anthemic rock.
The Birth of Power Take Off: A Band Built on Family and Determination
The story of Power Take Off begins in 2019, in the midst of global uncertainty. As the world grappled with the challenges of the pandemic, Scott Theis (vocals) and his son Ayden Theis (drums) transformed their basement into a creative haven, where they began writing music together. What started as a father-son project quickly evolved into something bigger—an energetic and dynamic band with a mission to captivate audiences.
Scott, a fourth-generation farmer and truck driver, has always balanced his passion for music with his work. His career as a drummer took him across the U.S., but Power Take Off marks his debut as a lead vocalist. His son Ayden, now 17, brings a youthful energy and exceptional talent to the drums, following in his father’s musical footsteps. Together, they’ve created the foundation of Power Take Off’s sound—a blend of classic rock influence with modern pop punk vibes.
The duo soon expanded, adding guitarist Ethan “Hank” Schluter, guitarist Mike “Cowboy” Delp, and bassist Jakob “JR” Ripp. Each member brings their own musical experience and style, creating a well-rounded and energetic sound that defines the band’s identity.
A Sound That Captivates Audiences
Power Take Off delivers more than just music—they create an experience. Their energetic performances are infused with catchy hooks, clever lyrics, and an undeniable connection to the audience. Fans of MGK and Blink-182 are drawn to Power Take Off’s fusion of rebellious pop punk energy with stadium-worthy rock anthems.
What sets Power Take Off apart is their ability to surprise and engage their audience. During live shows, Scott and Ayden often switch roles, with Scott taking over on drums and Ayden stepping up to the mic. This unpredictability, paired with their high-energy stage presence, makes every show a memorable experience for fans. The bond between Scott and Ayden is palpable, and their collaborative synergy drives the band’s success.
Debut Album: A New Chapter in the Band’s Journey
The release of Power Take Off’s self-titled album signals the beginning of a new era for the band. The album showcases the talents of all five members, blending a variety of musical influences into a cohesive, high-energy record. At the heart of the album is the lead single, “All the No’s”, a song that has quickly resonated with fans for its message of defiance and perseverance.
Produced by Scott Wilson (Saving Abel) and supported by industry veterans such as John Lousteau (Chief Audio Engineer at Studio 606), Paul Schluter (Paul Schluter Music), and Pierre De Reeder (64 Sound), the album delivers polished production alongside raw, emotional performances. “All the No’s” has already received airplay nationwide and continues to climb the charts, reflecting the band’s growing popularity.
Scott and Ayden: The Heart of Power Take Off
At the core of Power Take Off is the strong father-son relationship between Scott and Ayden Theis. Raised on a dairy farm in Verona, Wisconsin, Scott’s love for music blossomed early. As a child, he listened to country legends like Kenny Rogers, Glen Campbell, and Dolly Parton on AM radio while working on the farm. His parents gave him a drum set when he was 12—a gift that sparked his lifelong passion for music.
After spending years playing drums for various bands, Scott has taken on the role of lead vocalist and songwriter for Power Take Off. His lyrics draw from his life experiences—both joyful and challenging—and speak to universal themes of resilience, love, and hope. For Scott, music is not just a career, but a way to connect with others and inspire positivity.
Ayden, following closely in his father’s footsteps, has been playing drums since the age of two. His natural talent and dedication have made him a crucial part of the band. With a love for artists like Johnny Cash, Elvis, and 80s heavy metal bands, Ayden has developed a unique style of his own. Together, Scott and Ayden form the backbone of Power Take Off, pushing the band to new heights.
A Band of Talented Musicians
The supporting members of Power Take Off add depth and diversity to the band’s sound. Ethan “Hank” Schluter, known for his intense stage presence and skillful guitar work, grew up surrounded by music, as his father, Paul Schluter, was a member of the renowned prog metal band Last Crack. Ethan’s ability to blend various musical influences—from blues to jazz to rock—brings a distinctive style to Power Take Off.
Jakob “JR” Ripp, who started his journey with the band by running sound and selling merchandise, eventually picked up the bass and became an integral part of the group. His energy and dedication have helped Power Take Off continue to evolve and grow. Guitarist Mike “Cowboy” Delp rounds out the lineup, adding a gritty, driving sound to the band’s performances.
Power Take Off: A Bright Future in the Music World
With their debut album now available and their single charting, Power Take Off is poised for a promising future. Managed by Michael Alexander of Sandman Music Management, the band is quickly gaining
traction in the rock and pop punk world. Their unique blend of high-energy performances, clever lyrics, and powerful musicianship ensures that they will continue to captivate audiences.
As they look to the future, Power Take Off remains committed to connecting with fans through their music. Their story—a tale of family, perseverance, and passion—resonates deeply with audiences, making them one of the most exciting new bands to emerge in recent years. From their roots in Barneveld, Wisconsin, to the national stage, Power Take Off is ready to take their place in the music world.