The story of J minus goes back to
classical times. While studying the supernatural music of the spheres, the
ancients discovered a bizarre musical key somewhat like the cry of a baby
zebra. They knew it was powerful and they kept it a secret, referring to
it as “J minus.”
Fast-forward to 2002: Songwriter Dylan Fant would occasionally summon the
forgotten key in his studio while he sang; the result was awesome and
terrifying. Through chance introductions and online ads, he enlisted
Trevor Wheetman and Chris Mongillo on vocals and guitar and Myer Harrell
on bass to repeat the achievement. For years they toiled in vain but knew
their work together - from energized rock to poignant acoustic ballads -
was worthwhile in and of itself. The band stumbled upon the J minus legacy
and the name became a reminder of their lifelong mission: to move
listeners to laughter and tears with music.
Today, J minus is not your typical rock band. They don't party hard or
wear tight pants, and share only two tattoos among them (on alternating
weekends). Their sound defies direct comparison, aside from hints of
radio-friendly rock reminiscent of Death Cab for Cutie, The Samples, and
Toad the Wet Sprocket. They are the alternative to "alternative" at a time
when indie rock is the status quo. Look for the third full-length album
Devil Music in mid-2010. If you find them on stage…the stars might align
and you may be the first in years to witness the elusive, mysterious sound
of J minus.
