SECONDS BEFORE

Minneapolis modern rock act Seconds Before fills a void in the Twin Cities music scene. Not content to ease into a comfortable niche, the band fuses high octane rock, memorable pop sensibilities, and futuristic electronic sequencing into a sound that’s as hard to pigeonhole as it is to resist. These five music geeks have a wealth of experience as songwriters and performers, and their enthusiasm and professionalism come across both in their recordings as well as their explosive live shows.

The band is currently promoting its first full length CD, Further Destinations, released in late 2003 on their own newly formed label, Lost Arts Recordings. Recorded at Integral Studio and produced by Ev Olcott of Halloween, Alaska & 12rods, Further Destinations showcases the band’s pop songwriting chops and top drawer musicianship. While leadoff single “Heart Of Concrete” is shaping up to be a local radio favorite, the band continues to bring their music to as many new fans as possible through regular regional performances and a recent successful college radio campaign.

Since forming in 1999, Seconds Before has weathered plenty of rough times, not the least of which has been turnover not once but twice in the ever-critical vocalist slot. Fortunately, the serendipitous arrival of former WITH vocalist Brian Larson has cemented the band with its strongest lineup to date. Known as much for his wicked, self-effacing sense of humor as his amazing vocal talents, Brian brings a wealth of website and graphic design know-how to the plate and plays a key role in promotional efforts. The band also features workaholic guitarist Carl Skildum, whose “side project” band, The Good Fight, recently signed a recording contract with California’s Indecision Records. Seconds Before, however, continues to be Carl’s number one priority. Rounding out the lineup are fellow Picturesque alum and band business guru Chris Dales on guitar, former Tremorphlo drummer and MIDI man Stan Rodgers, and Jason Bauer on bass, formerly of Downside and Suspect Bill. Jason’s skill as a photographer and graphic designer is apparent in the sleek design of Further Destinations’ album artwork.

The band plans to put as much effort as possible into promoting Further Destinations, but the ride doesn’t stop there. In between live performances, Seconds Before is already writing material for a follow up album with an eye on a mid 2005 release.