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Wednesday, June 1, 2005 | ||
What do you think of this story? | Ariana wins battle ready for moreThe winners of the Villages recent Battle of the Bands contest, Ariana, have only been together since last fall, but they are already getting their share of attention. We were just having fun. Chris Page, lead singer for the group admitted. The vibe must have translated well to the crowd and the judges, because it got them the winning spot, something theyve done more than once. Youre judged on live performance, song quality and personality. Page added. It may be surprising that this group of young men crank out a sound more seasoned than their few months together might produce, but they have been into making music for several years. Chris, 20, who moved up from Tallahassee has been in and out of bands since he was 15. Originally from Albuquerque, Adam McDonald, 18 has four years of bass playing under his belt. Nathaniel Dycus, 19, the groups main songwriter, has been playing guitar for six years. Seth Hensel, the groups 15-year-old prodigy, plays lead guitar, which he switched to from piano at 12. He is also responsible for the bands name, which comes from the Greek word for beautiful music. The bands drummer, Kyle Davis, chose to leave the band for a chance to see Europe before he goes off to school in the fall. Currently Ariana is without a drummer, but they are auditioning for a new stickman at this writing. Were looking for the person that fits us best. We need to be best friends. Page stated. Decidedly high energy, and a little bit heavy, Ariana pummel you with melodies full of positive energy and youthful optimism. When asked about influences and fave bands, the names came without hesitation, Incubus, Audiovent, Hoobastank, Sevendust, Story Of The Year, and The Used. On stage the guys admit to being a little less reserved than when they are in the studio. Interacting with the crowd and having a good time seem to be paramount when they play. Certainly, being able to project their love of rockin out makes a big difference in how their sound comes together. It has gotten them regional airplay on stations such as Gulf 104 in Tallahassee whose Big Red stated, Ariana has the ability to grab you with intense and aggressive guitars while soothing you with melodic vocal hooks. They will make you feel like you are floating and before you know it, the song is over and you are left wanting more. Vocalist Chris admits, I dont model myself after one vocalist. I want our sound to be unique, yet familiar. As for other influences, Adam made a point of mentioning Carlos Santana, whose intricate rhythms he admires. Nathaniel named guitarists Mike Einziger of Incubus and Quinn Allman of The Used as particular influences. Seth, who seems to be the quiet one didnt mention anyone, but when he revved up his guitar a little later, he didnt have to. Sondee Page, Chris mother acts as the bands manager and seems to enjoy being a part of the energy. After they find a new drummer, the boys are planning to do a road tour that could last nine months. They seem psyched for the experience. Whatever is down the road for them, Ariana has decided to go there and give it all theyve got The band will be playing upcoming shows at Crosspoint in Peachtree City and The Tavern in Newnan. You can visit their website at arianarock.com for the latest information and hear what their sound is all about. | |
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