orange is in was formed in 2002 out of the years of writing, recording and constant quoting of the movie Stripes by two talented veterans of the Houston music scene, George Kovacik and Jeff Balke. Blending pop hooks, hard-driving rock rhythms and a rootsy edge, the band has earned the respect of musicians and music fans throughout the region.
After years of performing and recording together, Balke and Kovacik put together a group of outstanding musicians and began a new approach to their own musical ideas.
The band, made up of veterans of the Houston music scene, is a blend of Beatle-esque pop hooks, driving rock grooves and some roots and 80's thrown in for good measure.
Kovacik is a singer in the tradition of ranging pop and rock music. Inspired by Brian Wison and driven by Bruce Springsteen and Elvis Costello, Kovacik has a big, driving voice that powers through rock songs and floats over pop melodies.
Balke's years of experience as a rock and jazz bassist (the Basics, Under the Sun, Tony Vila) as well as his love of a wide range of musical styles, solidifies the low end and brings an ear for both the arrangements and production of the songs. He and drummer Steve Salazar bring a diverse range of musical styles to the rhythm section while providing the energy and locking down the groove.
Chris Rogers (Skillit, Blender) has a rock music pedigree. His father is a well-respected Nashville musician who has been performing pop, rock and country music since the 1960's with a wide range of well-known musician. Rogers' guitar enfuses the raucous energy he gained in years playing punk music with a true understanding of great pop melody, a strong sense of groove and a sound born out of rock's greatest traditions. His production, writing and arranging skills have allowed the band to tighten its sound while still broadening its musical landscape.
Amy Price (Paisley Close, Gordian Knot, the Buddhacrush) adds a touch of the bittersweet with her violin and her voice, singing background vocals to offset Kovacik. Prices influences, an equal mix the traditions of classical, the lilting soulfulness of folk and Celtic music and the powerful melodies of rock and pop, add a truly unique voice to the band.
Salazar (the Basics, Los Super Vatos), who joined the band in 2006, is an accomplished musician with years of performing and recording experience. He has worked with rock and Latin music heavyweights like David De La Garza (La Mafia) and has toured throughout the US playing a wide range of musical styles. Steve has the high energy of a hard rocker, the diverse talents of a veteran musician and a seriously funky groove.
The band released its first full length CD, Another Lame Semi-Tragedy in early 2006 and its second CD Come and Take It in 2007. Already winning friends and fans throughout Houston and the surrounding area, the band continues to perform throughout Texas and is constantly working on new material and performing live throughout Texas.