Paper Tongues

Formed in 2007, Paper Tongues take a multi-genre approach to their music by fusing rock, rap, funk, pop, and soul, drawing upon unexpected influences like Steve Perry and Grandmaster Flash in the process. Originally rooted in Charlotte, NC, the group began when eight musicians assembled to play an ongoing series of improvisational sessions. It was during these sessions that the band — which featured guitarists Devin Forbes and Joey Signa, keyboardists Clayton Simon and Cody Blackler, bassist Danny Santell, singer Aswan North, and drummer Jordan Hardee — started fusing their various musical tastes into what would become Paper Tongues. With the lineup established, the band decamped to California and began recording music alongside an eclectic set of producers. In 2009, the band worked with producers like John Fields (Jimmy Eat World), Brian West (Nelly Furtado), Billy Hume (David Banner), and Mark Endert (Maroon 5) while creating their debut EP, Ride to California, which appeared in late 2009 courtesy of A&M/Octone. A self-titled album followed in 2010.