Starring a guitar player who actually attended UNCW a few years back, there is no reason to even consider doubting the talent and capability of the pop rock sensation, Pico vs. Island Trees.

The band from Raleigh, N.C. consists of five enthusiastic and determined members; Bryan Carter (lead vocals), Jeremy Bullock (guitar), Tommy Perkinson (drums), John Henry Trinko (keyboard) and Brian Howell (bass). Pico vs. Island Trees started their musical journey in 7th grade when Carter and Bullock performed in their first talent show together, covering “Today” by the Smashing Pumpkins. Their passion for music and the great time they had up on that stage led the boys to their decision in creating a band of their own.

Bullock and Carter named their band after a statement they heard from an educational video on First Amendment Rights. In the video, the main character says, “Pico vs. Island Trees? That sounds like a rock band.” The name stuck from there on out.

Pico vs. Island Trees is a pop/rock/indie band, but they mostly identify with the genre of pop. They thrive on the ability to create fun songs for people of all ages to enjoy.

“Pop is all about songs that connect with the audience on a number of levels, and that’s what we strive for. It’s all about the songs,” Howell said.

The boys are greatly influenced by artists their parents grew up on like Led Zeppelin, the Beach Boys and the Beatles. They have recently discovered a growing interest in the classic artists from the ’60s and ’70s. But not only that, the boys’ music has also been hugely impacted by Jeremy’s love for jazz. The lyrics, written by Carter, are mostly a mix of storytelling and experiences drawn from his personal life.

All five gifted members agreed upon working together and chasing their dreams of becoming full time musicians all because of their passion for the art and their love of entertaining. The band is unique in that they don’t take themselves too seriously. They just want to have fun and be who they are.

“There are so many bands out there trying to sell a product that has nothing to do with the reason they started playing music in the first place, and that isn’t what we’re about,” Howell said.

Due to reasons beyond theirs and their producer’s control, things have not gone as well as they hoped it would, but that doesn’t mean the band is struggling. The experience only made them stronger and taught them a lot about the music industry.

“I’d say our greatest achievement so far is taking matters into our own hands. We have realized the current state of the music industry, we can’t rely on anyone but ourselves,” said Brian.

In 2004, Pico vs. Island Trees released their first full length independent album, “Just Wait.” The band is now currently working on writing and producing as many songs as possible. They are also currently on tour, playing all over the Southeast. They hope to book more shows soon and gain more recognition all across the nation.

The band’s shows are filled with energy and excitement. They are there to please and to show the audience exactly what they are made of.

“We want the audience to enjoy themselves. People are paying to be entertained, so we don’t like to noodle around on endless jams or anything,” Howell said.

Pico vs. Island Trees will be peforming at the Soapbox Laundrolounge tonight, April 3.