In one regard, the members and music of VOTA are already familiar to alternative rock faithful, though at the same time, this particular point in time is filled with several groundbreaking firsts. Formerly known as Casting Pearls, this one time trio of front man/guitarist/songwriter Bryan Olesen, bassist Case Maranville and drummer Scott Rutz has expanded to a four piece (now including guitarist/keyboardist Riley Friesen) and redirected its guitar charged rock to incorporate additional dance elements, while subsequently signing with INO Records.
"It's a new day and a new chapter for this band," exclaims an obviously excited Rutz. "We have a new sound, a new direction, a new feel, a new member, a new label and new management, so it felt like our old skin didnít completely contain what we do now, nor did it do this band justice anymore."
Outside of ministry intentions, the groupís self-titled debut is loaded with artistic innovation, taking cues from the playersí previous alternative dichotomy, plus additional influences ranging from dance poppers Maroon 5 to ethereal rockers Augustana. Add in a return outing with famed producer Nathan Dantzler (Relient K, Audio Adrenaline, Tree63) and VOTA brilliantly straddles the line of current and timeless.
It's a fact - anyone who checks out a VOTA show will be thoroughly entertained, but outside of a mere performance spectacle, there ís a much more introspective thread that runs through the guysí sets. Besides showcasing a relatable message that runs the gamut of personal and spiritual relationships, plus being lights in even the darkest corners of society, members' humanitarian interests are also major components.
"Weíre interested in moving beyond just the music, which you can see in something like our partnership with Food For the Hungry and everything that's continuously being out on the 180 Tour, our commitment to encourage students through the 180 Tour" muses Maranville of the endeavor they started in 2006. "We want to offer students and listeners of all ages to consider how they can make a positive change in this world, whether that be by lending a helping hand or just living a life of character and integrity on a daily basis."
YOU CAN SEE VOTA LIVE: April 5 - London, ON * NEWSBOYS * Join the Tribe Tour April 6 - Toronto, ON * NEWSBOYS * Join the Tribe Tour
