The members of West Gate are always in their element; although that’s hard to believe when the local scene consists of VFW-playing emo kids, chic indie rockers and uninspired metal bands. “We’re used to not fitting in,” says guitarist Kurt Andrews. The ‘element’ that West Gate creates mixes ripping guitar solos and powerful vocals with a driving rhythm section and electronic atmosphere. With the upcoming release of their first full length album, Daylight, West Gate dig their heels even further into the local rock scene. West Gate’s intense live show has been the driving force behind their growing following, which has led them to some of the biggest local venues in the NY/NJ metropolitan area. Over the past two and a half years, West Gate has rocked the stages of NYC’s Knitting Factory and Arlene’s Grocery as well as Asbury Park’s legendary Stone Pony and Sayreville, NJ's Starland Ballroom where they earned opening spots for Powerman 5000 and Monster Magnet. The quintet, hailing from South Orange, New Jersey, formed in November 2006 when guitarist Kurt Andrews and bassist Rob Struck were looking to form a side project. Andrews approached vocalist Pete Kelly with a demo and the intent to find a singer. Kelly recorded vocals for the new track that same day, and played it for drummer and mutual friend George Roskos. Within a day they were both onboard. Soon after, West Gate turned from side project into primary focus as Struck and Andrews watched their former band collapse. From the ashes, they completed the current West Gate lineup with fiery guitarist Alex Goldenthal. Fall 2008 brought West Gate around the northeast as they successfully toured in support of their Debut EP, Selah, produced by GRAMMY® Award Winner John Seymour. This summer looks to be even bigger for West Gate as they gear up for a three week tour that spans the East Coast with stops in the Midwest. WEST GATE: Kurt Andrews Peter Kelly George Roskos Alex Goldenthal