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Rhea Silvia


Band: Rhea Silvia

Members: Jason Barshinger, bass and vocals; Michael Adams, guitar; Cory McClain, drums

Who we talked to: Barshinger

How did you guys get together? I had known Mike for years. We kind of ran side by side with a couple projects we were in. I had started working with a band and Mike had come into that project. Eventually, we had an opening for a drummer. We had Cory come into that project, too. None of us were really content with playing though. We just decided . . . we want to do this for the music and not for any other reason, and decided to move on and do our own thing here. It's been a blessing to work with these guys ever since.

Where did the name come from? Rhea Silvia is a Greek mythological figurehead. She's the mother of two . . . emperors. We wanted our name to be as profound as the music we write. The name kind of symbolizes a new direction. We really wanted a name that defined who we are and what kind of steps we're taking musically. We've always been into the Greek mythology. It's cool to kind of dig into that deeper.

Can you describe your sound and style? We go for a hard rock sound that is big and fun but, at the same time, complex. It's something that another musician can really enjoy. We have a good, heavy groove section and that helps going out and having the regular listener enjoy a fun beat. When I'm singing a song, it's about a story. There's always a theme to our songwriting.

Where do you get your inspiration to write songs? Personally, there are two places. I do get it out of real-life situations. At the same time, I like to consider myself a writer. I think that's one of the most interesting things. I try to base (songs) on the tones and lyrics of what I'm saying and how I sing it. What we're doing right now, I'm having so much fun with because it's what I've been wanting to do for so long. We've been very open about saying this is for the music. We're not trying to go out and get signed next week. We're not trying to have a million dollars in the bank account. If it happens, fantastic. If we're still here in the central Pennsylvania area making great music and being respected for it 20 years from now, then that's where we're at.

Who are your influences? Mike . . . is very heavy into the virtuoso-type guitarists (like) Steve Vai (and) Eddie Van Halen. Cory loves a good rhythm section. He likes bands more like Jimmy Eat World, Thrice and Incubus. My influences range so much. Bass-wise, it's anyone from Victor Wooten (Bela Fleck and the Flecktones) and Billy Sheehan to Cliff Burton (formerly) of Metallica. I love to pick up new things anywhere. Lyrically, I go from Smashing Pumpkins and Counting Crows. At the same time, (I'm influenced by) Metallica . . . Pearl Jam and Soundgarden and the guys I grew up with.

Are there any places you guys like to play? We've played a few shows down at the Depot. That's pretty much been our home base in York. Over in Lancaster, we always enjoy playing the Chameleon Club. It's always fun . . . seeing everyone out and having a great time and trying to put on a great show for everybody.

What are your feelings about the York scene? The scene has a ton of great people in it right now. Everyone's willing to help everybody out. I haven't seen any stepping on toes. I love it. Everyone is willing to . . . do their part to make the scene stronger. It's great to see that everyone's appreciating having the music here.

What is coming up for you in the future? We're going to have a four-song demo done very soon. . . probably within the next month. We are looking to do . . . a full-length album by the end of the year or by early next year.

- ERIN McCRACKEN, FLIPSIDE STAFF