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Randy Gray: Vocals, rhythm guitar
Nick Weidner: Vocals
Steve Dombroski: Lead guitar
Dustin Buckley: Bass
Graham Rockwood: Bass
Danny Pica: Drums
"Where do we go from here?" The question is posed by Odayin's vocalists Randy Gray and Nick Weidner in the band's epic song, "Trials and Tribulations." It's a great question anyone has considered on his or her journeys.
In fact, it's a great question for the band itself, which since forming in April 2008 has burst onto Detroit's alternative rock music scene with a progressive sound that has won numerous Battle of the Bands, been performed in nearly every local venue in Detroit, and earned the opportunity to open for names like Ben Kenney of Incubus.
Odayin, from the Ojbwa (pronounced Oh-jib-wah) language means, "heart." The heart stirs up many emotions or feelings, like passion, belief, love and friendship. It's those feelings this group of six fun-loving individuals brings together to create energetic and thought provoking tunes for all ages to enjoy.
With a talent for harmonics, passionate songs and crowd-pleasing performances, it seems the most fitting answer for Odayin's question is simple: To go forward.
Odayin's humble origins began when a group of high school buddies growing up in the suburbs of Detroit all realized they shared the same desire to create music. For years the group played shows throughout Detroit's venues and gained notoriety as an up-and-coming band with a fresh sound. However, when one of the founding members decided to quit, it nearly spelled the end Âfor the young musicians – or perhaps a new beginning.
In April 2008, when the remaining members felt the sun was setting on their time, a ray of hope came in the form of new drummer Danny Pica. Once they had a chance to jam together, the band realized they had truly come together and unlocked their hidden potential. New friendships were formed, and Odayin exploded onto the scene with renewed fervor.
Odayin's sound comes from each member bringing their unique talents and ideas together, creating a fusion of rock and pop that can't be defined by genres. Gray and Weidner pour life experiences and dreams into lyrics full of frustration, love, camaraderie and hope and blend them with Steve Dombroski's energetic guitar riffs, the 1-2 punches of Graham Rockwood's and Dustin Buckley's bass lines and the sturdy support of Pica's beats.
But Odayin doesn't expect listeners to decrypt hidden messages and meanings. Instead, they hope fans will follow their namesake and feel with their heart, to find their own meanings in the metaphoric lyrics of songs such as the vigorous "Mangekyou" that speaks of making amends and prosperity, or the mellow "Undertow" that reflects on a past trying to drag one down.
So take a listen and experience the jams and journey of Odayin. They'll put some thoughts in your brain, a smile on your face and excitement in your heart.
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