We are a few people that got together to do something with our lives that contiain substance. We just want you to love us; that's all we ask for in people.
Our Funeral Forgotten - Colorado Springs, Colorado
Our Funeral Forgotten performs some of the most impressive alt-rock you'll hear around town (Colorado Independent Newpaper.) Sounds like HIM, Angels and Airwaves with a touch of Classic Johnny Cash. Live show is a must to see. Edgar Allan Poe meets rock.
"Every song we write about is about hope, whether it's about hoping to get the girl back, being in a better place, or not being spiteful or cynical. Veering away from the dark and into the light."
VEER was formed in late 2004 by Crispin and guitarist Eric Schraeder. Originally from Port Alberni, BC, the two longtime friends surprisingly found themselves living as neighbors: "we knew each other previously because we had played in bands together. We were both living out of our rehearsal studios in downtown East Vancouver," recalls Crispin.
At the time Crispin was the front man of Everything After, where creative differences led to his departure. While the remaining members of Everything After regrouped under the name Hedley, Crispin was gaining attention as a songwriter with credits on Motley Crue's drummer Tommy Lee's solo CD Tommyland: The Ride. Eric, who had recently relocated back to Vancouver after a stint in Los Angeles with 40 Foot Echo (Hollywood Records), was working on projects of his own. Next drummer Beni was brought into the fold who has established himself as one of the top drummers in the city. Finally Roots, and Fid who play bass and guitars respectively came on board to round out VEER's lineup.
Much of VEER's music is a reflection of their life experiences. "Wish You Well" and "Sold Me Out" clearly demonstrate a positive message while showcasing their skills as songwriters. "Wish You Well" is about the area we're living in," explains Crispin, "looking at people who can't turn their lives around. No matter how rough a time we're facing, our life isn't that bad. The only thing we can do for them is to wish them well."
VEER recently finished their debut full length CD with producer Dean Maher (Trapt, Atreyu, Rise Against) at Green House Studios in Vancouver, BC.
Standing out in the crowd, we are the ones next to you that were never seen. We remained the reserve, those who choose to lack in vocal contribution to the majority, but never miss a single beat of the world and its cold effect, building candid emotion. Our silent, expressive nature never realized, but christened our outside message even more. Our words spoken, few and far between, were never heard, drifting away like a thin smoke captured by the wind.
Now, on this stage, we release this energy, with built pressure from years of listening... years of watching... years of transcribing feelings into screaming syllables of rage. Now, its time for you to listen to how this God given life is anything but perfect - yet, is at the same time.
You have to hear us.
You want to hear us.
You will hear us.
We are Withheld.
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For those that thirst for musical expression, the need for it stands out above all things. These were the feelings of Chris Shumate and Noah Labhart as they followed their separate paths toward the same goal. Chris started playing bass guitar at age 16, and Noah started playing guitar at age 14. Both self taught, the musicians thrived on expression and writing music from the soul, rather than conforming to societal standard. Once the two met, they began experimenting with several projects, trying to fill the musical void that was for so long. Influenced by the sounds of Sevendust, Breaking Benjamin and Atreyu, the two began formulating ideas to create the perfect sound. But who would be the front man? Or would it be a man? Shelby Standley, long time friend of Noah’s, had been singing since she was 10 years old. The unmistakable consistency of her voice led Chris and Noah to consider a female vocalist. Once Shelby joined the band, her enthusiasm and hidden desire for self expression became an asset to the bands musical composition. Here, the band began exploring other influences, such as Flyleaf, Evanescence and Lacuna Coil. But the group felt that the music was still missing pieces. So they moved forward, and started considering rhythm guitar players. Jeremy Caywood had previously played bass in a band with Noah, and had taught himself to play guitar and drums. His steady, driving riffs removed this responsibility from Noah, allowing him to focus on lead guitar. After many nights of late dinners and rigorous sessions, each member agreed that it was crucial to find a drummer. The band allowed a few people to try and mesh with the groups sound and dedication. However, none of them fit the bill. Steven Summers had not only played drums in several bands, but was a childhood friend of Chris. Coming from a metal background, Steven provided the band with thrashing beats and momentum needed to reach their goal. At the conclusion of the bands second practice with Steven, they had already recorded a 4 track live demo. With this type of progress and questions from inquiring fans, the group figured it was time to choose a band name. Long discussions led to the group’s decision to go with Noah’s suggestion of the name “Withheld”. Each band member can recall time periods in their life where they have stood by and watched, observing their world evolve around them without contributing an opinion.
But they are withheld no more…
