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A long-winded history:
When biology lab partners Noah Ferguson and Steve Reno both got electric guitars for Christmas in 2001, they decided it would be only prudent to start a band. With Steves marching band percussion buddy Brannden Francisco on drums and a rotating rabble of young virtuosos sharing bass and lead guitar duties, the second story loft of the Reno familys garage was transformed into a musical think tank known to some as Jam Central Station, and to others as The Spanish Castle.
Entering their junior year of high school in 2002, Noah, Steve, and Brannden began to solidify as a group, writing their first songs and recruiting promiscuous Snohomish County musician Ricky Porter as a permanent fourth member. After playing a few shows in the garage and crashing a school dance, the quartet recorded a three-song demo in the summer of 2003 under the moniker The Locals. Heavily distorted guitars, eclectic keyboard parts, and an uncomfortable-sounding baritone lead singer characterized the groups sound.
More garage shows with other Snohomish County bands, often followed by mass viewings of Donnie Darko, continued through the bands senior year. In the summer of 2004, The Locals played at The Old Redmond Firehouse, the Kirkland Teen Center, and Seattles now-defunct Milk Bar. That summer also saw the recording of a second demo; four tracks, including Stickarm Billy (and his Blood-Red Spurs of Justice), written and sung by Ricky, were recorded at the Kirkland Teen Center. Two other tracks, Malia (Wont You Please?) and Don and Debbie, featuring Noah on tenor saxophone, were recorded at the Reno house.
After high school, the four clowns went their separate ways. In November of 2004, they played the infamous Spastic Colon Research Benefit Show in Rickys bedroom. Brown ribbons were worn by all who supported this noble cause.
This is how Noah, on behalf of The Locals, described the band in 2003:
"The Locals are a dynamic blend of mentally-retarded, socially misfit punks who appreciate geeks and see the value behind co-operating with nerds as well. We enjoy donuts and boobs."
Message Board:
http://www.b2g5.com/boards/board.cgi?&user=SteveOReno
Other links:
http://www.garageband.com/artist/_the_locals
http://www.purevolume.com/thelocalswa
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