Formed in 2004 in Boston, a'tris released their debut album, appeal, in November of 2005. a'tris is the brainchild of Mason Taylor, from the Berklee College of Music, and producer/songwriter Michael Kreher. Taylor and Kreher added co-writer/guitarist Ben Azar to their team after Azar weathered the band's national tour in the spring of '06. The group draws upon myriad influences to create a noise that moves crowds to their feet. What does this mean? It means it is alternative. You should ponder that. But don't think too deeply, because that hurts.

The front man/singer/keyboardist/tunesmith hails from Charlottesville, Virginia. Since relocating to Massachusetts, he has teamed up with several talented musicians, engineers, sonic manipulators, sound wave amplifiers, and assorted players of various instruments. Does he look tortured in his picture? Or are you just imposing your feeling onto him? There is no projection allowed here.

There are many musicians that make noise behind the vocals. They all have stories to tell. The best way to understand these stories is to come to a show. After listening to the show, you should approach the band member slowly and ask him questions. Buy him a beer. Do not make sudden movements, the musicians tend to be skittish.