Relo

Relo is a group of musicians from Central Florida who create, record, and perform songs that are classified as Alternative Pop. This all-star lineup consists of Matt Brown (vocals, keys, guitar), Alex Bennett (drums), and Paul Allan (guitars). While each member may be influenced by different groups or genres, their goal is to create well-crafted pop songs. Singer/Songwriter Matt Brown composes all of the songs, which start with an idea or demo recording. Next, collaboration within the band arranges these demos into distinct, marketable songs. "We've got a really great song writing process going on" says Alex Bennett, drummer. "Matt is always writing new material. He'll pick up an acoustic guitar and play a song idea he's been working on and minutes later we'll have written parts for 2 verses and a chorus."

The band made a 6-track demo EP in April 2008 with the help of Conrad Johnson of Inertia Sound Studio, Lakeland, FL. The listener will hear a calmer, folk-influenced instrumentation combined with female vocal backings and harmonies. "We didn't have a full-time drummer when we made these demos, so we just improvised with shakers and tambourines," says guitar player Paul Allan. "It made for an interesting live performance. We would pass out little trinkets and percussion instruments to the crowd. It sounded amazing."

No longer held under the limitations of being an acoustic band, Relo finds influence in a wide range of instruments and styles. "Over the Holidays I found an old Korg Synthesizer in the attic of my parent's home in South Carolina. I quickly dusted it off and plugged it into my guitar amp. The sounds are incredible. I think I annoyed my family for about 3 days straight, but I ended up writing a couple new songs which we now play in our set," said Matt Brown.

Optimistic about the new songs being written, Relo has secured studio time this Spring '09 to record a proper EP. The EP will be produced at The Vanguard Room in Lakeland, FL by Copeland front-man and producer, Aaron Marsh. The band had some brief studio time with Marsh in December '08 and ended up creating the song "Closure," which will be featured on the EP. "We want to make a really like-able record for everyone," Says Matt Brown (singer/songwriter). "It will be much different than our previous set of songs. It's going to focus on electronic beats and a lot of vocal melodies. Radio-friendly music. We're really excited about it."

The band is eager to get on the road once the record is completed. Relo regularly plays shows in Tampa and Lakeland supporting touring acts like Bradley Hathaway and Tigercity. "We love being a part of the Tampa and Orlando music scenes," says Alex Bennett. "But we don't want to limit ourselves to just Florida. Touring is definitely our immediate goal once the record is completed."

Indeed, the future of this young band is very bright. Listeners can expect to hear songs off the upcoming EP as soon as Summer '09. Log onto myspace.com/reloband for frequent updates and concert listings.