Canadian alt-rock trio the Perms formed in Brandon, Manitoba in 1998. Brothers Shane (bass/vocals) and Chad Smith (guitar/vocals) had been playing in their own bands for several years before enlisting drummer Paul Thorsteinson to form a classic power pop trio inspired by their mutual love for '70s rock and power pop. Citing Cheap Trick, Badfinger, and Weezer as influences, the Perms signed with Winnipeg indie Hugtight Records and released their debut album, Tight Perm, in 1998. The band eventually relocated to Winnipeg, where high-school friend John Huver replaced Thorsteinson on drums in time to record their 2002 follow-up, Clark Drive. Subsequent albums include Better Days, Keeps You Up When You're Down, Sofia Nights, and the four-song Aberdeen EP. ~ Timothy Monger