By Grace Ann Brew
Starting tonight, Jammin’ Java proves that rock ‘n’ roll is here to stay with their biannual Battle of the Bands. Throughout July and August local bands will compete in front of judges such as music producer Jim Ebert and Stephanie Williams, managing editor of DC Music Download. Prizes include $2,500 cash, the opportunity to record a single with Jim Ebert and a spot headlining Jammin’ Java.
While the competitors hail from all over D.C., Maryland and Virginia, we spoke with NoVA band Calm The Waters about their beginnings in music, their sound and the upcoming competition. Cheer on your local artists this summer by purchasing tickets here.
Members: Erik Matson (lead vocals, guitar), Nathaniel Darling (guitar, vocals), Joe Palgutt (bass), Brian House (drums)
Hometown: Fairfax
Who we spoke with: Erik Matson
Their sound: We are kind of into pop punk and post-rock bands, so I think our sound is maybe a cleaner version of that, but it doesn’t necessarily sound like it. In more general terms, we’re an alternative rock kind of sound.
Their start: Three of us [Erik, Nathaniel and Brian] met at George Mason University. We were involved in a campus ministry called Cru. After I graduated, they were still around, and we started playing together a little bit. The fourth guy in the band [Joe] is a friend from our church.
Their singularity: We have a fairly unique sound. We’re very intentional about the lyrics and the content of the songs that we write. Most of our songs deal with deeper issues and are a little bit more intense. I think there’s an intensity about the energy that we have that makes us stand out a little bit.
Their shot: I don’t necessarily expect us to win. It would be nice to make finals at least. We enjoy playing, so it’s one more opportunity to play. I think we’ve grown a lot as a band since we started a year ago, and I think our songs are pretty solid. I think we at least have a shot.
The Battle at Jammin’ Java
227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna
Calm The Waters performs July 7 at 7:30 p.m.
$10
