First Nation

Intuitively blending folk, noise, and snippets of pop into an organic, experimental whole, First Nation features singers/guitarists Nina Mehta and Kate Rosko and percussionist Melissa Livaudais. The New York City-based trio got its start when Mehta and Rosko, who had been playing together for awhile, began jamming with mutual friend Livaudais (who was formerly a member of Wikkid and also plays in Telepathe). After spending a year practicing and honing their sound -- which revolves around layered vocals, circular guitar parts and volatile, expressive rhythms -- they began playing live dates, beginning with a tsunami benefit in January 2005; later on, the band shared the stage with acts such as Excepter and Gang Gang Dance. First Nation caught the attention of Animal Collective, who signed the band to their Paw Tracks imprint and took the band on tour with them. - All Music Guide