By Grace Ann Brew
For those ready to rock ‘n’ roll all night long, tonight Jammin’ Java’s biannual Battle of the Bands continues. 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 bandSave the Arcadian about their beginnings in music, their sound and the upcoming competition. Cheer on your local artists this summer by purchasing tickets here.
Members: Will McCarry (lead vocals, guitar), Lonnie Southall (guitar, mandolin), Lavar Edmonds (violin, cello), Russell Michelson (piano), Brian Chase (drums), Sam Rodgers (guitar, vocals)
Hometown: Fredericksburg
Who we spoke with: Will McCarry
Their sound: We’re somewhat between the genre of indie folk and indie pop. I think it’s a sound characterized by sort of an organic and natural sound. It’s very much a lush and cinematic sort of sound where you have these slow, rainy ballads and also fast, fun and energetic electric guitar- and piano-driven songs.
Their start: Sam and I had been playing together for many years. We’ve been making terrible demos in our bedrooms for ages and ages. We went to school together [at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg], and one day when I was playing guitar on campus walk—something that I really think I only did once—Russell walked up and asked if he could join. I said ‘yeah, I guess,’ and he rushed home. So he breaks this thing out—a melodica—and we started jamming. He said, ‘well, we should start a band,’ and here we are three and a half years later.
Their singularity: I think ultimately the songwriting makes us stand out. We do have violin, mandolin and these folk instruments. I think that when people hear the songs and then see the instrumentation that we use to craft those songs, it’s eye-catching and ear-catching.
Their shot: I think we have what it takes to do well this year. We’re in a good place where I feel like our songs are original and in a place where they can shine. Ultimately, these things are about meeting other bands, making connections and just having a good time, but you look at that prize list, and it’s some exciting stuff. Winning wouldn’t be so bad either.
The Battle at Jammin’ Java
227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna
Save the Arcadian performs July 9 at 7:30 p.m.
$10
