Breaking into Arizona’s notorious local rock music scene takes an incredible amount of talent and guts. But for ASU freshman, Chris Trevigne, finding success comes second to simply playing out his passion.
“If you’re not happy at the end of the day regardless of your Facebook fan count, then being in a band probably isn’t for you,” Trevigne said.
Trevigne is the frontman of Clementine, “a rock and roll band at heart” with punk, indie, and pop influences. Originating in November of 2012, Clementine are already drawing crowds to shows around the valley, with their most recent being at The Underground in Mesa.
Playing live is what Trevigne and his bandmates, drummer, Christian Rich, and bassist, Alex Sanders, love to do best. The trio all attended high school together and Trevigne describes his bandmates as two of the most talented musicians he knows.
Trevigne writes all the music for Clementine while performing vocals and guitar.
“I’ve been playing music since I got my first guitar in the 6th grade,” says Trevigne.
He’s been writing music just as long and the experience shows. Clementine’s tracks are composed of raw, relatable lyrics that shine though the carefully-crafted melodies and strike the listener by the mere power of Trevigne’s words. When listening to the track “Coral and Conch” for example, the listener can’t help but reflect on the heavyhearted lyrics with a feeling of understanding and awe.
Clementine will debut their EP (extended play), “Ama Te Stessa” in late May or early June. Trevigne said recording this album at Parametric Studios has been “the most fun any of us have ever had.”
Until they reach their goal in playing at SXSW next year, and someday Warped Tour, Clementine will definitely be seen at more shows around town.
“We’re just doing what we love to do and hope that people catch on.”
Check out their music and “Like” their Facebook page!