"If a person is willing to let go of pre-existing notions of a band and the band is doing something that is true to itself, then both sides will be satisfied," says Ontronik "Andy" Khachaturian, original drummer for System of a Down and lead singer for VOkEE.
"Satisfied" is an understatement for fans of VOkEE. This new 4-piece creative collective out of the NoHo Arts District in Los Angeles, CA is making believers out of those who think that hard-hitting rock music with integrity is dead. The band's unique sound is not surprising; Ontronik played drums for System of a Down from 1994-1997 and now on vocals brings the same passion to VOkEE songs as he did with |Know|, |Sugar|, |War?| and the many others he helped write on SOAD's self-titled debut album. Although the bands differ in style, the energy that drives VOkEE is definitely comparable.
VOkEE was formed in 2005 after Ontronik parted ways with his previous band. He explains, "I left my last band and started thinking about doing something on my own, but eventually returned to the concept that I need to share my vision with a collective of artists." After spending time searching for the right people, VOkEE's lineup was finalized: Co-Be on guitar, Tedd on bass, and PC on drums.
VOkEE is making heads turn and ears perk up for a simple reason: there is nothing else out there that sounds like VOkEE's music. When asked about their distinctive sound, Ontronik states, "I think it's a good thing when you can't describe a band's music, because it means that you are discovering something fresh." The music is heavy, inspiring, melodic and passionate, drawing on the different cultural dynamics of the band, including Ontronik's deep rooted Armenian and Mediterranean backgrounds. Live shows are invigorating experiences that redefine concert-going. You can't simply go to a VOkEE show you become part of the energy that drives the event.
Today's consumers of music are more knowledgeable and sophisticated than ever. VOkEE is able to appeal to all kinds of listeners. The music is motivating and complex enough for those who seek an eclectic taste in music, while being accessible enough to intrigue the music majors and radio-listeners alike. Their songs blend into the soundtrack of people's lives with a familiarity that is hard to find elsewhere in the music industry.
As for the future of the band, Ontronik says, "What we are really focusing on is writing and performing the best possible expression of what we have in our minds' eyes. The songs of a band should speak for themselves. The energy behind those songs and the passion within the individuals of the band performing those songs is what drives a good band." VOkEE displays their performance on a recently self-released DVD entitled, .timelinesnvirtual. , which can be purchased through the band's website. They have been consistently playing shows in Los Angeles and neighboring cities at such clubs as The Roxy, Knitting Factory, Keyclub, just to name a few, since January 2006.
To learn more about VOkEE's music and message, visit www.vokeemusic.com or www.myspace.com/vokee |
|
Contact Artist
Add to Profile
Add to station