Instant Rivalry

Instant Rivalry [http://www.myspace.com/instantrivalry] is an independent alternative rock band from Picton, Ontario, Canada formed by Meg Hutton (lead singer, rhythm guitarist and songwriter), Caleb Hutton (lead guitarist, vocalist and songwriter), Adam Ungar (Bass guitar), Bradley Sallans (drums). The band formed in October 2006 and released their first EP in April, 2008. Instant Rivalry is known for its distinctive sound and specialized tuning. This "sound" separates these teenagers from the crowd and makes them stand out upon radio play. Instant Rivalry takes an original touch, an oldschool flare and a new age rock edge to pump out such a unique sound that is uncomparable to anyother band. However, the band has been compared to alternative metal band Evanescence [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Evanescence] and fellow Canadian rock band State Of Shock. [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/State_of_Shock] They have released three hit singles and one EP album.

History

Meg Hutton, always a writer and entertainer began at an early age. She wrote lyrics, poetry, stories and eventually made her way to a piano at the age of six. Caleb Hutton, a goaltender and successful entrepreneur, learned how to play guitar at the age of 14. The two members, who are brother and sister, played their first performance in November, 2005. As they began to compose original pieces, they turned to long time friend Bradley Sallans and former bassist Kody Casselman. Within a month Instant Rivalry was a name beginning to grace peoples lips. Within three months of being a band, Instant Rivalry released their hit single The Highway. In the first week Highway reached number five on 91X's Indie Rock Chart in which is remained, peeking at number 2 for seven weeks.

The Name

The original, attention demanding name has had it's controversy. Many fans believe the name comes from the brother-sister rivalry between front woman, Meg and her brother and lead guitarist Caleb. It is still unknown where the name originated. However, Meg laughs and says during an interview with 91X Loyalist College station, "Honestly, it's not that complicated. I thought of it while watching a movie".

Members

"Meg Hutton" has two ambitions in life; Be inducted into the Song-Writer Hall Of Fame and Do a duet with John Rzeznik* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Rzeznik] of the Goo Goo Dolls* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goo_Goo_Dolls ] . She has been compared to Amy Lee of Evanescence and Dolores O'Riordan of The Crannberries. Megan is a songwriter and lyricist for Instant Rivalry.

"Caleb Hutton" the eldest of the four band members also produces and masters music and wishes to one day open his own studio. Caleb is the main song writer for the band and also, occasionally takes lead vocals for a few songs.

"Adam Ungar"is a trained musician. Adam joined the band late February, 2008 in time for the release of the bands selftitled EP.

"Bradley Sallans" began playing drums at the age of 12. He joined the band October 2008.

Influences

Meg claims her biggest influence is that of John Rzeznik (Goo Goo dolls) and Maroon 5. Followed closely by Radiohead, Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) & Paul Westerberg (The Replacements). Meg claims, “A song is a story of a person’s soul. That’s that. So if it’s not pouring out, it’s not ready to be told.” Meaning that if you are struggling to write a song it is not ready to be written.By far Caleb’s main influence is the lead singer and guitarist of 90's grunge band Kurt Cobain. He also looks to Neil Young, Eric Clapton, Lynard Skynard, Led Zeppelin and Avril Lavigne for inspiration. Caleb is the main instrumental writer of the bandAdam's influences include Rush, The Allman Brothers, Boston and the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Adam is a complicated bassist and well trained musician who influences the band greatly.Bradley looks to Meg White (The White Stripes), Phil Collins (Genesis), John Bonham (Led Zeppelin), Neil Pert (Rush) to maintain a strong well balanced rock style.

The Picton Rising Star Competition

Instant Rivalry competed in the first Picton Rising Star Competition. They were "instantly" a crowd favourite, playing extra songs outside the competition to entertain the crowd. The band came in third. However, it gave them the initiative and drive to pursue their hit single The Highway. The competition was hosted by Jeanette Arsenault (award winning french/English singer/songwriter). Now IR is promotes the competition.

References

* [http://www.myspace.com/instantrivalry] Instant Rivalry Official Webpage
* [http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=7340881173] Facebook Group
* [http://www.cjlx.fm] Loyalist College CJLX FM (91X)
* [http://www.myspace.com/rockstar_xox] QuotesPicton Gazette.April 25,2008.Pg. 2.