Member Since: 11/6/2004
Band Website: purevolume.com/verbatym
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PERSONAL PAGES
JOVAN JOHNSON - VOCALS
NIK JOHNSON - DRUMS
RUSSELL STEEDLE - LEAD GUITAR
RJ MESA - BASS
OFFICIAL BIOGRAPHY
verbatim [ver-bey-tim]: word-for-word from the original source or text
skilled at transcribing speeches, proceedings, etc., in a word-for-word manner
verbatym [ver-bey-tim]: a band of brothers, in both the literal and Shakespearian sense, unique in their power-pop/alternative sound, with strong lyrics, who repeat nothing verbatim
Words, notes, energy and personality are important to succeed in the music business. And while sampling has become more popular, the other traits should be original and heartfelt. There can be nothing wrote, or verbatim, about them. These are things that Verbatym, despite the name, has in spades. As Jovan Johnson, lead singer, says, Because of our age, the listeners expect our enthusiasm and energy, but we like to surprise them with our dedication, hooks, and lyrics.
Brought together by brothers Jovan and Nik Johnson in a town where entertainment competition is fierce, Verbatym quickly became known for their kinetic live performances. The dynamic shows attract the fans, who know to echo not only the lyrics, but also the intensity, while new listeners quickly join in, not wanting to miss the experience. These new listeners, though drawn in by the attractive wrappings and catchy hooks, soon find something more in the package. Intelligent and witty, the entire setfrom lyrics, to music, to attitude is delivered with a sly sort of poise that smacks of sophistication beyond their years.
Jovan and Nik started by learning and playing together Jovan on guitar and Nik on drums, experimenting with beats and riffs and sounds, which led to a more professional duo over five years ago. They have since built around them a strong band, completing the sound and look of Verbatym. Finding people with the same dedication and ideas of what they want is never easy. Hell, try getting a group of people to agree on what DVD to rent at Blockbuster", Jovan says of the process of adding band-members RJ Mesa (bass), and Russell Steedle. (Lead guitar, back-up vocals) But we've done it, going through not only the typical teenage growth, but growing as a group, as lyricists, musicians, and vocalists.
And grown they have, touring throughout California, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Arizona, Oregon, and Washington. They have played in venues such as the House of Blues and University Theater in Las Vegas, the Roxy on the Sunset Strip in Hollywood, and Chain Reaction in Long Beach. They still continue to wow the public with smaller, more intimate performances at coffeehouses, house parties, and the like, as well as contributing their sound and time to local charities. In May of 2006, Verbatym won Las Vegas' local battle of the bands competition against the cream of Sin City's home-grown talent, proving to those who didn't already know that they have what it takes.
In January of 2007, Verbatym released their EP, Infatuation Strikes Again. Ranging from rock to alternative to ambient, it nevertheless is pure Verbatym. With hooks and beats that catch the audiences immediate attention, the lyrics are what keep them listening. With an emotional depth that transcends typical teenage angst, lyrics such as, "You're drowning in a sea that's full of your past, and this time I won't be your gills", and "Your mouth is writing checks that your heart cannot cash", speak of personal experience that everyone can relate to.
The band recently completed a new demo, with not only a new collection of songs, but a new direction within the group. The maturing process is reflected in a tighter sound and different influences, bringing in power-pops fun rhythms infused with soul sexy melodies.
Verbatym is ready to take off; the sound, look, and attitudes are all in place, drawing on previous experiences and inspirations. With a new demo under their belt and shows planned throughout the summer, they hope to capture not only the ears of the industry, but the hearts of would-be fans across the world.
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EXTRAS
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