"For the Sleeping" Giving New Name to Hard Rock

"We are all like blood," For the Sleeping's lead singer Keyton Gill said, "and that's what we have that some bands don't."

Indeed, For the Sleeping breaks all the 'norms' of the hard rock music scene. With Patrick McGill on drums, Brandon Kalz and Josh "Bitz" Watkins on guitar, Ben Hughey on bass, and Gill on vocals, they might seem like your average high school band, but they're working to change the stereotypes against the rockers.

"Well, we just want to show people that hardcore music really isn't angry all the time," Gill said. "We always have a positive message to all of our songs, and we are here to show people that you can be a happy person and listen to heavy music. What I want people to draw from [our music] is that you really shouldn't put a stereotype on something before you actually try it."

Though they're in the game for changing people's perceptions, they're also in it for fun. The fans "are the greatest," and the band says that it's the fans that make the show. If the crowd gets involved, it really brings the guys out.

"Their music is so real," a Conway High School freshman commented. "They have a really strong fan base, and it's not surprising. Everyone can relate, in some way, to their music."

A strong fan base is no understatement. For the Sleeping's Facebook fan page lists 225 fans, and that doesn't count those who haven't added their page, or lack a Facebook. Compared to other bands, that makes for a pretty strong group.

Even though the performances bring them fame, Gill reveals that the band is as human as any of us.

"This band has turned my life around and is helping me right now. We are all extremely close. I know I'd help another band member if they were in my position, and this band has helped me." Gill said.

Though their last performance left fans craving more, For the Sleeping is ready to try again. The band is sixth of ten to play at Soundstage for the Support Your Scene Fest. The show starts at 5 pm on December 4th.

"Admission price is $10," Gill noted, "We want to thank the fans for being there for us, and helping us through the changes soon to come."