Local band Making Faces was recently selected to perform at an international music festival in China, where they are on tour through Sept. 7.
An agent who is connected to the cultural council in Hunan saw them at Sunfest in May as they rocked the main stage, opening for Barenaked Ladies, and encouraged them to submit an application to the festival.
They were selected to represent the United States as the only American rock band among 26 other acts from different countries.
The festival takes place in Zhangjiajie, the same city that the movie Avatar used as its “mystical city of Pandora” in which the national forest there boasts breathtaking views, unique trees and a mountainous landscape.
“We can’t wait to make an impact on China,” said John DeMatteo, vocalist/guitarist of the band “This is a huge opportunity for us, and we are very excited.”
Hailing from West Palm Beach, Making Faces formed in 2011 and has performed more than 250 shows in the last two years.
Members include DeMatteo, Matt Shea, Jesse Lopez, Matt Gaulin and John Boes.
Making Faces full-length album, Bright Roads Ahead, was released in February 2012, and their second album is in the works. They made a regional impact in the southeast during their summer tour. They are constantly performing and touring.
With a creative blend of genres, they have dubbed their sound as “Rock Reggae Funky Punk” as if Sublime, 311, the Chili Peppers and Green Day had a baby.
They are known for energetic, catchy songs, fun-loving positive vibes, crowd interaction and stage antics. They believe a song can be used to open the mind and penetrate the heart. Their vibe puts smiles on faces, with positive and inspirational lyrics.
They have headlined and performed at major events and venues including the Vans Warped Tour, Sunfest, the BB&T Center, Light Up Ocala, Ignite the Night, the Delray Affair, the South Florida Fair and Hard Rock Live.
Learn more about Making Faces online at www.makingfacesmusic.com or www.facebook.com/MakingFacesMusic.
ABOVE: Making Faces formed in 2011 and has performed more than 250 shows.
