The results are in: triumphing over more than 5,000 other competitors, Yorktown Heights, NY-based trio the Scarlet have been selected by an esteemed panel of judges — alt-rock statesman Perry Farrell, Cursive and the Good life frontman Tim Kasher, and Spin editor Doug Brod — as the winner of the Hot Pursuit, Spin magazine and Music Nation’s online challenge in search of the next breakout rock act. And these boys are in for a holiday season full of spoils; the band will receive a record deal with Original Signal Recordings/Epic Records, a slot on the bill at Spin‘s always anticipated, always packed annual SXSW party at Stubb’s in Austin, TX, and song inclusion on an upcoming 2K Sports video game.
To notify the Scarlet, Brod and Spin president Tom Hartle, along with representatives from Original Signal Recordings/Epic Records and Music Nation, rang the band to give them the news. And the Scarlet simply couldn’t believe their ears: “When you say win, do you mean like enter the finals?” asked vocalist Marc Spatafore. “Marc, you won,” confirmed David Wallace of Original Signal. “Yeah, big win,” chimed Brod.
But the real kicker came when Farrell jumped on the line. “Not only are you talented but you have a great sense of humor underlying things, which is important because it shows depth and intelligence,” the Satellite Party frontman said. “You have a great sound for a party.” And that’s exactly what was in store for the band — Marc Spatafore, Ian McGuinness, and TJ Dumser celebrated last night (Dec. 18) at the Spin holiday party at New York City haunt Angels and Kings.
Now Hear This:
The complete congratulatory phone call with the Scarlet
