Finch
In music, as with anything, persistence pays off - along with talent. Finch guitarist Randy Strohmeyer kept in touch with Drive-Thru Records co-owner Richard Reines throughout his many musical adventures.
The story starts with a band called Numb, which, according to vocalist Nate Barcalow, was "pretty much a Deftones rip-off." This unit, which also included bassist Derek Doherty, saw Strohmeyer's band play at a party. Later Doherty suggested Strohmeyer join Numb as the second guitarist. A bit reluctant at first, Strohmeyer eventually signed on bringing a Punk edge. In short order, the name was changed to Finch. Drawing on influences as varied as the aforementioned Deftones to Blink 182, the Temecula, CA based group's line-up also included guitarist Alex Linares, and drummer Alex Pappas. When they felt they were ready, Strohmeyer made the call to Drive-Thru.
Reines gave the group an audition more as a favor to Strohmeyer than any thought Finch might be an up and coming act. But, as the story goes, Reines was blown away. He brought in his sister Stefanie, Drive-Thru's other co-owner, into the loop and she was impressed as well. In '01 Finch released their debut EP "Falling Into Place" with "What It Is To Burn" arriving in early '03. The title track was released as a single and was a major success. Appearances on the Drive-Thru Records stage on the Warped Tour along with U.S., European, and Japanese tours with New Found Glory and The Used followed.
"New Beginnings" opens "What It Is To Burn" with machine gun guitars gets the album off to a good start. Finch follows with melodic Rocker "Letter To You" but where the group really excels is the use of guitar breaks in "Grey Matter" and other tracks. These change-ups breathe life into the songs. "What It Is To Burn" is also a killer effort.
The EP "Falling Into Place" contains two songs that appear on "What It Is To Burn" (albeit different versions). The two other songs, "Waiting" and the moody "New Kid" are unexceptional.