Forbush High/Yadkin County Local Music Scene

Although people look upon Yadkin County as a haven for country music, local rock groups are springing up across the county. Forbush High School itself is home to four bands and there are rumors of more bands to come. At the front of the Forbush music scene are two bands, Vent and the Saiyans.

Vent, led by Matt McCarn and Nick Martin, has risen to the top of the Forbush pile. Vent has recently completed their full length debut album, Soon You Will Know, and have already sold over 100 copies. They are noticing a considerable growth in their fanbase since the release of their demo cassette I Love Raisins. Currently, Vent is preparing for a summer tour.

The opening act for Vent's summer tour, the Saiyans, is hard at work also. Despite numerous setbacks, the Saiyans have gotten all the songs for their debut album written and are preparing to record. Vocalist Ricky Lineberger and guitarist Travis Kepley have collaborated to write three-chord riffs that would make Steve Jones jealous and the punk sound they've been striving for is starting to come together. While the production of their first release left a lot to be desired, such as poor equalization and little noise reduction, they've got new equipment and a new setup. And, most importantly, they promise the vocals will be more audible throughout the album.

As for other local acts, SHIFT and Beer have also both been active. SHIFT, Thomas Rose's one-man band, is looking to follow the hit single "Sucks" with an EP entitled Memories Of Me. Beer, a cover band featuring Vent's Matt McCarn, is rumored to be a permanent fixture soundchecking for Vent. And more bands may be on the way. Rusty Niese and Travis Kepley are looking to start a ska/hardcore punk band and Michael Burleson is trying to start a hard hitting metal band.

That's all that's up in the local music world for now.

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