User:Piratemurray/dirtbag and the empire

Dirtbag And The Empire (sometimes referred to as simply "Dirtbag") are an unsigned British band from London formed in 2005. The band currently consists of Arul Murugan (lead vocals, bass), Mez Pahlan (guitar, vocals), John "Leafy" Costaschuk (guitar, vocals), and Jay Rao (drums).

Malibu
Dirtbag And The Empire originated from a previous band, Malibu, which was formed in London 2003 by Arul and Mez. They regularly found new drummers and vocalists to join them on stage but it was never a solid band as the members kept changing.

Dirtbag And The Empire
In September 2005, Arul and Mez decided to start a new band with the help of Jay and Luke Bird (Rhythm guitar).

In February 2006, they were asked to perform in the EEE talent show, which was to be their first ever time performing together on stage. Before this show they had the difficult task of naming the band and after a bit of confusion between whether to be named Teenage Dirtbag or The Empire they were became Dirtbag And The Empire.

Unfortunately, in the summer of 2006, Luke left the band to move to Australia so John Costaschuk (aka Leafy) stepped in to play rhythm guitar.

Music style and influences
While Dirtbag And The Empire are primarily considered an alternative rock group, their music contains strong elements of grunge, metal and occasionally soft rock.

The band cites their musical influences as, The Offspring, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rage Against The Machine, John Frusciante, The Cure, Janes Addiction, Metallica and The Vandals.