3/2/07, 4:48 pm EST

Assignment Seven Finalist: Eddie O’Keefe on Voxtrot

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Note: This is not an official Rolling Stone article. What follows is a submission to the “I’m From Rolling Stone” writing competition.

Voxtrot

by Eddie O’Keefe
Age: 18

Locked away in a studio in Houston, Texas, Ramesh Srivastava and his twee tinged outfit, Voxtrot are recording their first, as of yet untitled, full-length debut. Having already recorded and released three EPs independently, and with help from myspace, the band has gained a word of mouth following even Pete Wentz would be jealous of. With hook heavy tunes, Morrissey-like lyrics, choc-full of youthful exuberance, and a danceable backbone, Voxtrot have become overnight blog darlings, attracting attention from the industry and music fans alike.

However, with all the praise surrounding Voxtrot, the band still has a lot resting on the success of their first LP, which is currently slated for a May release. With hype comes responsibility; Srivastava and co. have to prove they can take the vigorous energy they brandish on songs like “The Start of Something,” and develop their EP spirit into a full-length classic. With the pop sensibilities and crafty songwriting littering the 13 tracks that make up their current, official catalogue, very few doubt the band will deliver.

Voxtrot’s music, although unique, is also instantly recognizable. Songs like “Soft & Warm,” and “Trouble,” are prime examples of their sonically produced and infectiously catchy tracks. And on songs like “Raised By Wolves,” Voxtrot exhibits a typical sense of urgency in their delivery; they rip through their songs with a ferocious passion, like Belle & Sebastian on speed.

Currently opening for a slew of dates with The Shins, Voxtrot has certainly made their presence known across the country. The band has been touring non-stop since 2003, proving that determination, hard work, and a little bit of talent pays off.