Who? Led by vocalist/guitarist Alan Oakes, the Appearance came together slowly during the recording process for their debut, Lost in Aurora, adding guitarist/vocalist Chad Kulengosky, drummer Justin McCarthy and bassist Jason Nelson. After a nomination for Best Indie Rock band at the 2007 Orange County Music Awards earlier this year, Lost in Aurora surfaced this month via Adrenaline Music Group.
What’s the Deal? Several of the guys grew up infatuated with ’80s metal and ’90s skate-punk, and while the Appearance plays neither, there are subtle nods to both throughout their hook-laden — and spandex-free — debut, which was produced by Chris Fudurich (Nada Surf, AFI, RX Bandits). Their driving alt-rock is like the Foo Fighters meet Jimmy Eat World at the dawn of a new heartbreak under sunny skies, especially on songs such as “It’s Not So Bad.” “Drag” and the title cut continue this trend, as pop/punk and emo nuances get all polished up into churning rock ready for mass consumption.
Fun Fact: Before taking up the drum throne for the Appearance, Justin McCarthy (also the band’s resident video game aficionado) was a seasoned session drummer around Orange County, most notably playing the skins for former MTV reality star Alex M’s post-Laguna Beach band. COREY APAR
Now Hear This: The Appearance – “Not a Soul (Live from the Key Club, West Hollywood)” DOWNLOAD MP3
On the Web:
The Appearance at MySpace
theappearancemusic.com
Talk: Will you get “lost” with the Appearance?
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