With
the odds of making it as a rock star being around one in ten thousand, it’s
vital that promising bands make themselves stand out. They need to have some
sort of X-factor, something that makes people want to listen. Most will look
for some musical evolution, while others prefer to focus on how well they can
perform. On a warm summer’s night at the Irish Wolf Pub, the local band, Eye on
Attraction, gives the Scranton, PA music scene a glimpse into what it takes to
be a rock band. Lively, and energetic to a T, the group successfully highlights
their musical talent but more importantly proves how personality and presence can
make a band in a small town.
Eye on Attraction originally started as a trio in 2010,
with members Mike Trischetta (guitar, bass), Andrew Merkle (drums, lyrics), and
Joe Terry (vocals, bass, guitar). The group has been known for their diverse
style, and flamboyant personality. In 2011, they added a new lead vocalist,
Zach Graham, who not only fit well into the group’s persona, but also added to
their musical versatility with his distinct sound.
Upon arrival, the Irish Wolf pub doesn’t seem the ideal
place for a band performance. Its small stage, dim lighting, and limited
seating give the illusion of a somewhat full house with only ten to fifteen
people present. The space leaves little room to maneuver, and amplifies the
already blaring music from the speakers.
As
Eye on Attraction sets up, they don’t waste any time in giving the audience a faint
taste of what’s to come. Zach tests the microphone by making sporadic noises,
interrupting the then casual, toned-down atmosphere in the bar. There’s pleasantness
about the band as they ready themselves, they don’t seem nervous or worried but
rather excited to make an appearance.
As they take the stage, it’s obvious they want to make an
impression. First giving off a vintage vibe, their attire consisted of
everything from open vests, t-shirts, to skinny jeans with bandanas and scarves
to accent. Zach, Andrew, and Joe take off their shirts leaving them with only
jeans and their instruments. The members of the other local bands playing that
night (Days in Transit, 3 to Breathe, and Cause of Affliction) gather around
the stage for support, while other Scrantonians sit near-by, drinking, and left
to wonder what kind of performance the group was about to give in their half-naked
state.
The attentiveness and energy in the room goes from zero
to sixty as soon as Eye on Attraction begins to play. With most bands
performing in a repetitive, distant manner, the audience can’t ignore this
group’s vigor. Zach took the lead, distinguishing the band from other local
acts with his identifiable voice. His higher pitch and smooth tone, unique from
other vocal leads would almost seem fit for a punk- rock band, but instead, accessorized
Eye on Attraction’s progressive/eclectic rock sound. He draws the crowd in with
his presence, flaunting the free-spirited nature of the band by expressing the
music in movement and conviction.
Despite all their energy it was clear the members aren’t
just jamming out, and putting on an entertaining show; they’re musicians. They
know every move they make. From Mike’s solid guitar solo, to the entire band
quieting as Zach sang the lyrics, “Is this real or just a dream.” Their energy and aptitude never dwindle. Eye
on Attraction knows what it takes to capture an audience’s attention.
Not
only do they know the songs inside and out, they don’t simply give rehearsed,
monotonous performances. Refreshing from numerous bands who give bland shows,
Mike, Andrew, Zach, and Joe give their viewers an experience. Zach has people
in the audience help him sing parts of the song, as he rollicks around the
stage. Andrew throws his head back as he meticulously slams on the drums, and
Joe could almost be an act of his own. He brings out the bass, rhythmically
moving his hands in familiar patterns to him, head banging, and jumping around.
As
the band plays “16 Queens,” a youthful song about fairies, Joe utilizes the
small venue. He jumps off stage running to the back of the room, whipping his
hair. He embodies his music, and mesmerizes the audience. Even the most obstinate
on-looker couldn’t help but tap his foot to the beat. Joe radiated energy and constantly
kept the audience on their toes, making them wonder what he would do next. His
passion enraptures everyone as he stands on the bar then runs outside and plays
on the street. One couldn’t help but stare and smile at his convivial persona. As
Joe runs back inside from his second outing, Zach conducts the band, standing
in front of them like a true composer. It’s obvious the band itself is a
maestro, devotedly controlling the audience’s reactions with their every move.
As
they finish their last song of the night, after an hour of performing, they now
have everyone’s attention. The remnants of their sound and energy linger in the
atmosphere as they receive applause. Some of the most renowned rock bands, who
sell out stadiums, don’t necessarily give performances like these young men.
They rely on backdrops and lights to entertain, but the same can’t be said for
this local band. They know they have to make an impact if they want to be
remembered. It’s evident these young
musicians show promise with their music and lyrics, but what really sets them
apart, and makes them a unique act in such a humdrum community is their
personality. They get on stage and show their true selves, unearthing the youth
in all who experience an Eye on Attraction performance.
Check out the band at Eye on Attraction!
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