Blue October

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• Genre: Post-Grunge
• Hometown: Houston
• Blue October Website

About

This alternative rock band from Texas came together in the late '90s. Formed by vocalist/guitarist Justin Furstenfeld with his brother (and drummer) Jeremy, the current lineup includes Matt Noveskey on bass lead guitarist, CB Hudson (who replaced original guitarist Brant Coulter) and violinist Ryan Delahoussaye. A multi-instrumentalist, Delahoussaye also plays viola, mandolin and keyboards and was one of Blue October's original members along with the brothers Furstenfeld. Two years after releasing a well-regarded debut, The Answers, in their hometown of Houston without any label support or management, Blue October were signed to Universal Records. But that relationship was short-lived. After unleashing 2000's Consent to Treatment they were dropped -- only to be re-signed by the label a few years later, following the enormous success of their single "Calling You," which was also featured on the American Weddingsoundtrack. On their strength of their live shows and enthusiastic audiences, Dallas independent label Brando came calling, putting out their live CD (with DVD), Argue With A Tree, followed by another studio effort, History for Sale. Universal ended up signing them up for a fourth studio effort, 2006's Foiled, and reissued History. Even though they are now back with a major label, Blue October still consider themselves an indie band because of their DIY beginnings, and their huge loyal fan base.

- Michele K-Tel