"We're just a rock band. No more. No less. Just rock." This is how local rock band House 10 describes its sound.
The band, which was originally formed in 2005, recently changed its lineup. Jason Cage, guitarist for the band, is the only original member. Joining him is singer Jeffrey James, bassist Jason Kennick and drummer Justin Mitchell.
The current members came together through previous band members and friends.
"This is the first time it actually stuck," Cage said.
Although the members of House 10 come from varying musical backgrounds, the result is a very talented band, with a cohesive sound.
Cage took guitar lessons from Dave Thompson, of Dawson. Kennick was taught by his father, George Kennick. Both Justin Mitchell and Jeffrey James credit genetics for their musical ability.
"It's pretty much in my bloodline," Mitchell said.
As for the name of the band, they didn't need to look any farther than their own front yard. The name comes from guitarist Cage's house number -- 10. "It was between Screen Door and House 10," he said.
For the members of House 10, naming their influences and favorite bands is not such an easy task. Each member is influenced by numerous musicians of yesterday and today. Some of these influences include Pink Floyd, Dave Grohl, Scott Weiland, Chris Cornell and Audioslave, Iron Maiden, Cliff Burton and Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Cage cites instructor Thompson as one of his influences, but said he really can't pinpoint just one.
While House 10 adds its own touch to covers of popular rock songs, the group also draws from its influences in penning its own compositions. For the band, writing songs is a collaborative effort, with each member contributing something different.
"It's an open canvas to paint your own picture to," Kennick said. "Everybody's open to new ideas."
The other members of the band agreed. They said they'd moved upwards since Kennick joined the band, saying it's a lighter atmosphere.
Their passion for playing rock music carries into their live performances, too.
To the members of House 10, it doesn't matter how many people are in the audience; whether it's a full house or not, they still give the performance their all.
Mitchell describes performing as "a natural high without a hangover."
To James, "it's total freedom."
To Cage, the best part about performing is "being who I know I want to be."
House 10 has completed a demo disc, which includes covers as well as some of its original songs. On the disc, the band "tried to keep it as real as possible" without a lot of over dubbing, James said. They want to be able to play any song on the disc and have it sound just as good live.
The band is currently playing at various venues in the area.
"If they want to see something different and original, come see us," Cage said.
A schedule of House 10's upcoming events can be found on the band's Web site: www.House10.net.
