User talk:Jmarthaller

Push Start Nova
Push Start Nova is an American Alternative Rock band, formed in Orange County, CA in 2009. Consisting of Matt Hemphill(guitar,vocals), Ben Harris(vocals,bass), and Sean Murphy(drums)the band's sound has been likened to "grunge rock that can play their instruments". Their self-titled debut album was released in 2010.

History
The band was founded after Rittalain (http://www.myspace.com/rittalin), a band featuring Hemphill and Harris, added Murphy to be their drummer; who had played drums in numerous Orange County bands. Inspired to collaborate on a new project together, the three-piece began making a name for themselves. After several weeks of discussion the name Push Start Nova was decided, based on a story involving Hemphill's car (A Chevy Nova).

After honing a few songs PSN played their first show ever, a junior high event at their church. After playing historic OC music clubs like Hogue Barmichael's and Chain Reaction they decided to hit the studio. Recorded in an office of the same church, Push Start Nova began the arduous process of recording an album. After relying on the help of friends to produce, package, and sing (occasionally) the CD was finally packed and ready to go. Although released independent of a label, it was eventually distributed by Oasis Records and put on several compilation albums.

The CD has been called "a punk rocker's guide to real music" and is characterized by catchy guitar riffs and edgy vocals, all brought together in complex time signatures. Songwriter Matt Hemphill drew heavily on influences Nirvana and The White Stripes, and it shows in the music the band puts out. The band has gotten generally good reviews from the CD, and have received radio play on some local college stations. Artwork for the album was done by DeeHaro in association with Forest Skateboards.

While initially getting a slow start, Push Start Nova is beginning to pick up steam in the Orange County underground music scene, such as their House of Blues Anaheim performance on April 21, 2011. Currently PSN is writing new material and playing shows whenever possible.

Musical Style
Though never ones to take themselves too seriously, PSN have all the makings of a legitimate rock band. Easily compared to grunge acts of the 90's and other mainstream rock groups, closer listening can reveal the band's influences from Dave Matthews Band, Metallica, all across the spectrum to Alanis Morisette. Also a big part of the PSN's music is dynamics, or shifting from quiet to loud between verses and choruses, an influence taken from The Pixies. Since Hemphill is the primary songwriter, the majority of songs are driven by his guitar playing, with Harris and Murphy assisting in arrangements to lay a foundation.

While melody is an important part of the PSN sound, maybe an even bigger element would be the hard-rock style that all three band members come from. According to band members, they play songs that will transfer well to a live crowd. Hemphill states, "Sure we could just stand there and play our instruments perfectly, but that's not fun for anyone. We like to get pumped and see our crowd pumped too." Another integral part of the band's act is their use of creative openers. Whether it be a drum battle with cups, or a hard-rock instrumental, this OC outfit gives it all in performances.

Band Members
Matt Hemphill (guitar,vox)

Ben Harris (vox, bass)

Sean Murphy (drums, percussion)

Push Start Nova(CD)
Track listing:

1. Left And Right

2. My Baby

3. Happy

4. Down That Road

5. Love Sucks

6. Huck Finn

7. Father's Love