A Romance Thesis emerges from the underground

By: ERIKA SOROCCO - For The Californian | Wednesday, July 18, 2007 12:19 PM PDT ∞

Many bands credit the rock scene as their strongest musical influence; others credit the indie genre, the country/western vibe, or even Top 40 easy-listening as impacting their sound. But Riverside-based band, A Romance Thesis, are slightly different ---- it's sound emerges from the underground.

"I'd say we draw a lot of inspiration from underground music that is on the rise," drummer Matt Marquez said. "Bands like Paramore, Dredge, Saosin and Circa Survive have all left an impression on the result of our music writing. Our own personal influences also play a big role in how the music turns out. From hardcore to orchestra Ö we all bring the slightest sweet nothings from every genre to the music, no matter how small the detail."

Combining the musical talents of Riverside's Breezy Rondilone, Jeff Matajan and Nicholas Rondilone, along with Glendora's Greg Gillard and Rancho Cucamonga's Marquez, A Romance Thesis joined forces in a mix of Disney gigs, past bands, and commitment.

"The band came together after years of Breezy singing and performing pop music, and doing performances for Radio Disney," Marquez said. "The members of A Romance Thesis came from other bands ---- such as Nevea Tears of Los Angeles and Shaunteclair of Rancho Cucamonga. Breezy and I got together after I heard that Breezy wanted to start a rock band. Jeff and Greg joined soon after. And Nick Ö Nick has been there since day one, since Breezy and Nick are siblings."

A Romance Thesis is scheduled to play Saturday at Java Jo'z/Cuppy's Coffee & More in Murrieta, along with Amue (former Drysdale), the Artist, Light Light and Skye. Doors will open at 7 p.m. and the the show is open to all ages. Upcoming shows include the "Bands Against Poverty" show Aug. 10 at The Anthem in Riverside and Aug. 18 at The Vault in Temecula.

"Our music combines styles from each member," Marquez said. "We then work together to smooth out the edges, so everything sounds good. From our catchy and sometimes poppy rhythm guitar riffs, to the experimental underground melodic lead guitar; to the jazzy and funky, yet fulfilling bass sound, to the post-hardcore and rudimental drum parts; all the way to Breezy's strong, passionate, smooth voice, the band has been able to come together and mesh a sound that is easy on the ears, yet new and exciting to the music scene."

Regarding their upcoming Cuppy's Coffee performance, Marquez is confident that nobody in the crowd will leave dissatisfied.

"The crowd can expect a very energetic and expressive performance, from an extremely interactive band," he said. "We don't disappoint."

A Romance Thesis with Skye, Amue, the Artist and Light Light

When: 7 p.m. Saturday

Where: Java Jo'z/Cuppy's Coffee & More, 39209 Winchester Road, Ste. 103, Murrieta

Tickets: $6

Info: (951) 491-9053

Web: myspace.com/aromancethesis

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