The chemistry of sound, the alchemy of rhythm, and the physics of the beat all come together in the form of pop rockers, The Science Fair. Founders Chris Heine (guitar) and Chris Young (bass) shared a mutual love of jazz and funk, but when combined with fellow Scientists Jonathan Davis (drums) and Brian Bills (vocals/guitar), the result was something altogether different.
Calling themselves The Science Fair, their sound coalesced into a blend of rock that took elements of 80s New Romantics like Roxy Music and Simple Minds, and modern dance oriented rock like !!! and the Killers. After a series of performances in southeast Michigan, the band began work on their first full length release.
There’s a twisted sensibility to The Science Fair, in that the upbeat tunes mask darker lyrics, dealing primarily in the convoluted dynamic of human relationships. Disinterested lovers speak honestly about cheating and sexual manipulation is confessed as dysfunction is dismissed as the norm. And it’s all done with an equal dose of humor at the ridiculousness of it all, a reflection of the times we’re living in.
While the initial influences are clear, there’s also something distinctly Detroit about The Science Fair as well. The sonic fusion of genres in a way that makes sense has precedents in groups as diverse as Was (Not Was), the White Stripes, and Funkadelic. The Science Fair steps to the plate, proud of its heritage, but not looking to mimic anyone that’s come before.