In a flurry of high energy, grooving rhythms, tight harmonies and blazing guitars, it might be easy to assume that the band on stage brings an attitude the size of Texas. But a conversation with anyone in the group quickly debases any fear that they’ll be asking for specifically branded bottled water. The members of Seventy Six are your average, down-to-earth kind of guys, happy to exist as established, sonically unique, and personable performers. These troubadours just like to have fun with music and people, bringing the two together as often as possible. Although the individuals in the band had been making music in concentric social circles for several years, they finally coalesced in May 2005 to develop a repertoire of music and plan to perform. Guitarist and vocalist Brock Dittus had been writing music for several years, and after sitting in as a bassist with other groups for some time, he felt the itch to release his own songs to the public. Collaborating with fellow guitarist and songwriter Jordan Anderson, a long standing musical accomplice, the two completed several demo recordings, and then incorporated bassist Miles Tillman and drummer Jason Harper for their first rehearsal to feel out the material in a live setting. Before the rehearsal had even begun, Jordan received a phone call requesting a band for an upcoming show at the end of the week. The band has played an intense schedule of live performances ever since, a total of over 30 dates in just over a year. One of the most exciting developments was participation in the Portland Rose Festival’s 2006 Music Fest, in which they tied for third place. Musically, the band has many influences, including classic 1970s rock, pop rock of the eighties, mid-nineties alternative, and more. While it is difficult to capture the band’s sound in a single genre heading, some distinctives of the band’s sound include infectious, rhythmic guitars and a penchant for rapid-fire vocal delivery. Despite the bravado of their rock and roll music, the band proves to be personable, accessible, and entertaining. The band’s lyrics draw philosophic insight out of simple metaphors and clever wordplay, but are hardly heavy handed in their delivery. Tongue in cheek, Brock and Jordan often show a well-developed sense of humor as they reflect lyrically on life. In live settings, the band aims to engage the crowd with the music through energetic stage antics, teaching singable parts, and covering familiar songs at each show. Operating out of the belief that music is something everyone should have a chance to enjoy, the band has played in a wide variety of venues, including grange halls, parks, coffee shops, schools, a rodeo, and a youth detention facility. And there’s no limit to where they’ll go next. You won’t want to miss them! Look for Seventy Six performing live at your favorite local venue soon.