Vokee ‘Rocks Out’ for New Year’s (Winter 08)

Anahit Khatchatrian
anahitk@ucla.edu

Los Angeles based alternative rock band, Vokee, joined forces with bands, Full Force Rising and That Noise, in a private event on January 12 at Amp Studios in North Hollywood to kick off the New Year.

Inviting true fans that sincerely appreciate music and art, Vokee provided food, drinks and music for an entertaining celebration.

Vokee brought forth a powerful energy that was highlighted in the small studio. Bringing a fresh perspective to their music, the band debuted many new songs and performed revised versions of their old ones. In order to achieve audience participation, Vokee gave control of the microphone to ASA at UCLA member Marijean Vardanian, who inspired many individuals who came to the show through her songs.

Vardanian writes and sings her own songs, and her guitarist and drummer, both non-UCLA students, assisted her in a touching performance.

The current line of Vokee was solidified in 2007. Ontronik Khachaturian, former System of a
Down drummer, is Vokee’s lead vocalist and lyricist. Peter Clark, also known as P.C., contributes awesome rhythmic beats on the drums. Colby Mote, the lead guitarist, brings heavy base into the sound, and Tedd Wenri completes this sound with his guitar. The latest addition to the band is Brian Vasquez, KROQ’s very own DJ Vasquez. As a DJ, Vasquez has acquired a professional musical ear, which contributes to the bands overall electronic sound.

Along with creating great music, these five band members also have non-band related jobs. It is refreshing to see that in spite of their daily routines, they believe in their art and find time to share their musical talents with the world. On the event, Khachaturian said, "We had an awesome time. It was great to see a bunch of our friends having a good time and rocking out to our music."

So there you have it: A four year old, five-man band, just trying to make a difference for themselves and for others.

Vokee filmed a music video in mid-2006 for their song, "Angels", which is also available for download off their website. Currently, the band is working on putting together an album. Their other popular songs, "Hands of Time", "Signs" and "Ocean", are also available on their website. All that is left is for this band is to get signed so that they may share their art with the world.

Connect:
http://www.myspace.com/vokee
www.vokeemusic.com