A second-generation post-hardcore act, I Am the Avalanche features members of several earlier emo and screamo outfits. Signing with the indie label Drive-Thru Records in 2005, I Am the Avalanche debuted on half of a split CD single with their labelmates the Early November, previewing their debut album with two early demos.

In many ways, Jet Lag Gemini are early bloomers. While the New Jersey-based band met and formed while still in their early teens during high school, one wouldn’t suspect youth or a lack of experience from their mature and polished sound. Representing three countries between them, lead singer/rhythm guitarist, Misha Safonov (22), emigrated from Russia in 1993, lead guitarist, Vlad Gheorghiu (18) and his brother and bass player, Matt Gheorghiu (20), came to the U.S. seven years ago from Romania. Rounding out the band, drummer Dan Diliberto (18), the lone non-immigrant of the group, grew up in New Jersey.

The band’s first EP, Business (Doghouse Records 2006), with its playful and classic rock leanings, merely hinted at things to come. Jet Lag Gemini’s knack for blending the energy of more abrasive bands with great pop hooks and hair-raising guitar solos, has won them countless fans both locally and nationwide. This culminated in several national tours including dates on the Vans Warped Tour, as well as playing with Hellogoodbye, The Almost, The Matches, Halifax, and others.

New Jersey’s Drive By have toured with so many bands in the years since they initially formed in 2003, it’s nearly unbelievable. My Chemical Romance, Saves the Day, Senses Fail, Paramore, Every Time I Die, Boys Like Girls and Circa Survive are just a few from the long list of groups they’ve shared a stage with since the release of I Hate Every Day Without You Kid…, the first release on Riot Squad Records, over two years ago.