The Story Of several new bands coming to the Rex

As January draws to a close, we’ll start to see some life being breathed into this cold… As January draws to a close, we’ll start to see some life being breathed into this cold city, in terms of shows. The Story Of will pay a visit to the Rex Theatre this Saturday, along with The Lights Ahead and School of Athens.

All the bands bring an indie feel to the table, which should warm the hearts of Pittsburghers. The indie scene has been stagnant; as emo becomes more of a sensation, some good, old indie rock in the veins never hurt.

The Story Of will show off ethereal indie textures when they headline the show this Saturday. The five-piece from Ohio is led by vocalist Christman Hersha, who also plays keyboards and does “programming.” You’ll hear a lot of electronica textures on their debut album, and perhaps even strings – which might even be synthetically transposed on the keyboard at the show.

Critics across the country have been describing them as art rock and dark dance music. Some songs will have you thinking they’re the infamously catchy and danceable indie rockers, The Faint. Other songs will convince you they forgot the ’80s are long over. Regardless, this music is fun with a dark spin on it.

The Lights Ahead are somewhat reminiscent of Coldplay, combined with the aesthetics of college rock. The music is piano fronted, with a fluttering lead vocal done by Jon Zebraskey, and his partner in crime, Josh Shapiro.

The Lights Ahead were originally a two-piece hailing from the Steel City, but have recently enlisted a full-time drummer. The show this weekend will be the first time they play as a full band, rather than an acoustic-only set.

So not only will you wonderful folks see two bands you may have never heard rock out, but you will also get a taste of School of Athens. Try to make it to this show to hear some truly original music from the tri-state area.

The Story Of, The Lights Ahead and School of Athens will be performing this weekend, Sat., Jan. 31, at Rex Theatre from 9 p.m. to closing.