The Beat: A Mover, A Fighter

last updated: December 21, 2007 04:24:18 AM

HOME BASE: Modesto

PLAYERS: David Niacaris, drums; Dawson Schonoff, lead guitar; Clayton Johnson, lead vocals/guitar; and Jeff Kleiner, rhythm guitar/vocals

SOUNDS LIKE: The band calls its sound Cartel meets Sherwood. It combines catchy melodies with powerful drums in its guitar-driven pop rock.

BACKSTORY: The band started as an acoustic project by frontman Clayton Johnson and his best friend, Andrew Beatty, last year. Based on his first demo, Johnson was able to land a spot on performing on local ABC affiliate morning program "Sacramento & Co," live performances at B93.1 FM and a Modesto Area Music Association Award nomination this year. After a couple of record labels expressed interest, Johnson put a full band together this year and now has what he considers "the perfect lineup." Drummer Niacaris had previously played with the popular Modesto group The Evening News and met Schonoff and Kleiner through friends and the music scene. The new lineup will head to the studio in Oakland in January.

QUOTE ME: "It's been crazy watching everything grow so fast. I'm so proud to have worked so hard, being able to do something I love and to have such great bandmates. Be sure to keep your eyes open for us." -- Clayton Johnson

NEW MUSIC: A Mover, A Fighter's EP, "The Silver Lining," came out last year. A new CD is slated for release early next year.

NEXT GIG: Shows 7 p.m. tonight at the Modesto Underground (cover $8), 7 p.m. Saturday at the State Theatre with Evaline, Self Against City, Fat Skeleton, Jupiter is Useless and Bel Air Academy (tickets $13 in advance, $15 at the door) and Feb. 2 at the Riverbank Queen Bean (an acoustic show).

FIND ONLINE: www.myspace.com/amoverafighter

-- Marijke Rowland

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