Artist description What do you call an independent band who has opened for well-known bands including Jesus Jones, Big Sky, and Gene Loves Gezebel, been featured on the cover of a music magazine, debuted at #1 on MP3.com’s AAA/Alternative music charts, distributed copies of their debut CD to all seven continents, enjoyed airtime on numerous college radio stations up and down the East Coast, and is constantly listed as one of the top played local bands on their hometown college radio station? Well, we call them SHELLSHOCK. Shellshock was formed in 2001 by four musicians who were becoming increasingly disillusioned by the loud rock and cover bands that seemed to dominate South Florida’s music environment. Alex Tavares, Shellshock’s front man, was becoming frustrated with his position as a drummer for a local cover band and sought a forum for his own self-expression. He went into the studio and recorded Finding Myself, an acoustic collection of original music that received ample airplay on local college radio stations. Soon, Tavares was playing acoustic sets in Lauderdale venues where he distributed more than 300 copies of his solo album in two short months. Meanwhile, Alex was searching for a drummer, bass player, and guitarist to add thickness to his music. Alex teamed up with Mike Abay, a very respected local drummer. Mike brought former Aerosmith guitar tech, Archie Avila, to the mix and the three musicians immediately meshed. Allan Ocasio stepped in to play bass and Shellshock was on its way. Since its inception, the band has distributed thousands of CDs to Shellshock fans on all seven continents via their unique website distribution method. They are constantly working to improve the Shellshock sound and to increase their presence and impact on the alternative music scene with instrumentals influenced by Depeche Mode, The Cure, and U2, fused with vocals resembling Dave Matthews and Peter Murphy. The resulting sound is a type of mature alternative music that is both captivating and powerful.

Music Style AAA/Alternative

Musical Influences Dave Matthews, The Cure, Depeche Mode, U2

Artist History formed in 2001 . . going strong since

Group Members Alex Tavares - vocals, acoustic guitar Archie Avila - electric guitar Mike Abay - drums Allan Ocasio - bass

Instruments vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, drums, bass

Albums Suburbia and 7 Pictures

Press Reviews cover of HEET magazine - 2/24/02 "Never judge a book by its cover -- or CD for that matter. Shellhock has a very strong Cure influence, which is prevalent throughout this 4-track debut while "Highway" showcases a good does of Dave Matthews meets Barenaked Ladies groove. It's a mild-mannered experience which achieves the bands desire to give listeners a "...fresh, mature alternative that contrasts greatly with many of the punk and hardcore releases..." I'd love to hear more." - Score Music Magazine Band of the Month - Miaminightout.com - January, 2002 Music Industry Network News - December 9, 2001

Additional Info http://www.shellshockmusic.com

Location Ft. Lauderdale, Florida - USA

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