2009 Best New Performer
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22.01% The Whims*
Others with Votes (more than one):
Gradeight, Verge of Submission, Fistaface, Atomic Farmboys, Firefly Massacre, Jason Paul, Jerome Schooley, Quincy Sanders & The Q-Tet, Roblock, Sparkleteaser, Thank You & Goodnight, Xaphan
Best New Performer
Best New Solo Artist
* On the ballot
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There are lots of reasons to form a band. To meet girls. To meet men. You got the itch. You got the equipment. Why not? For husband and wife pairs Trent and Jena Hirschy and Will and Heather Gerber, it kind of came down to well, a whim.
"We were kicking the idea around for a while, and in April it all just came together," said Trent, who handles guitar -- both bass and lead -- for the Whims. "Battle of the Bands was heating up, and we decided to go for it. We had seven weeks to prepare, and we really enjoyed the nice little run we had."
By "nice little run" Hirshy's referring to the Whims' semifinals showing at last year's battle, not bad for a brand spanking new band. And now this foursome can add "Whammy win" to their list of reasons to continue to be spontaneous. The Whims took top honors in a tough Best New Performer category, beating out indie rockers Castles and The Dead Records as well as metal acts Krimsha and Autovator in a close race.
"We were completely shocked," Trent said. "We were hopeful and we were just glad to be a part of the festivities, but when Linda [Jackson of Indiana News Center] called our name we were extremely happy. It meant a lot."
Trent is no stranger to the whole band thing. A part of metal act Slagg for five years, he eventually made the tough decision to go it alone, and, like his high school friend, Will Gerber -- in charge of all things keys for the Whims -- started composing and recording music with the help of his computer and his wife. Joining forces only made sense. The result is a feast of poppy electronica with a twist that is simply irresistible. Seriously. Listen to one of these folks' songs -- "Chemistry," "Rickshaw" -- and try to not move. It's a losing battle.
Currently the Whims are in the process of recording their first album, which will include their hit "Celestial Bodies," featured on Battle Songz II, Songs from the whatzup Battle of the Bands 6. And they can be heard regularly breaking it down at area venues like Columbia Street West, Calhoun Street Soups, Salads and Spirits and Wooden Nickel.
Here's hoping, given the talent and fun the Whims have injected into the arm of the local music scene, that other couples just might follow their lead. And why not start now? Exchange the Trivial Pursuit board for a soundboard. Turn that wine glass into a mic. The Hirshys and Gerbers are living proof it can happen to you. (Deborah Kennedy) |
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