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January 01, 2005

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When I was in Virginia I hosted a few open-mic nights around Fredericksburg. This one here, at Borders Book store, was a popular event. Sponsored by Picker's Supply, a local music store that I worked at, it was focused and held for all ages. So it was able to provide a great place for younger people to perform. I thoroughly enjoyed hosting this event as I was able to see some amazing talent in some very young people. Some of which certainly would have gone far on American Idol.

One group in particular that I was impressed by was "Encircle", formerly known as "Beyond the Sun". This young group played some very elaborate and advanced music for a group of people their age. All of which were approximately around 19 years old, at the time. Since I had first become acquainted with them they had changed a few band members. But the main three members still remain.

On the left; Jenna Ewing has an incredible talent and a very strong voice with a great range and control. She was actually gracious enough to assist our band one weekend at the Ni River Community Church for the lead vocal performance in the song, "Bring me to Life" by Evanescence. A very challenging song, and I must say that she nailed the part. Jenna is quite talented at the guitar herself and writes a lot of the songs and music for the band. She has also taken over the job, and doing quite well, I understand, at hosting the open-mic shows there at Borders, since I moved to Arizona.

Next is Matt Luger, of which I can't say too much because he was always the quiet reserved artist. But none the less talented. Matt is an impressive guitarist. I always enjoyed having him show up at the shows because I knew he would do a great job. Although he, as well as the others, always maintained a very humble attitude which is often difficult to find among many professional musicians at any skill level.

Then there's Jay Cole, there in the middle. Jay had a great personality and was quite skilled at a variety of instruments. He has, since then, landed a job as a DJ for a local radio station. (http://www.wysk.com) Although his hours at the radio station conflict with the normal, evening hours of playing in a band, he still retains his desire to be a part of Encircle, and I envision that eventually coming to fruition.

The other members in the picture here have since departed. But the last time I saw them playing they had a new drummer that was quite impressive and picked up on their songs extremely quick.

Good luck to all of them and I look forward to following their endeavors. And so can you all. Currently their web site is under construction, but it will hopefully be up and running soon at:    http://www.encircleband.com/ 
And there, eventually, you too can see how impressive these people really are.

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