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THE BAND: The Blend?

THE MEMBERS: Marc Anthony Smith, vocals and guitar; Travis Simpson, guitar and vocals; Brandon Herring, bass; Thomas Whitney, drums

THE SOUND: “Psychedelic blues-based rock and roll, definitely Texas rock and roll,” Smith said. Although the name of the band comes from a flavor of Marlboro cigarettes, it could apply to the foursome's mix of rock, blues, reggae and folk that has a distinct 1960s vibe. The band's members are in their 20s, but “we don't have a whole lot of connection to music that's come out since we've been alive,” Simpson said.

The guys met in private Christian schools, and faith is a common theme in their songs. So is San Antonio, especially the area near Jefferson High School where most of the guys grew up. And if the lyrics in “Your Love Is Like Woodlawn Lake” and “Monticello Sleeping” sound as though they were penned by the iconic San Antonio garage-rock band Los #3 Dinners, that's no coincidence — “That's always been our goal, to be more like the Dinners,” Simpson said. “Just being able to play for a long time and people in this town knowing us.”

THE WEB SITE: myspace.com/theblendt

THE ALBUM: The Blend? (2008)

THE BACKGROUND: Smith and Simpson, the primary songwriters, began playing together in 2002 and added Herring and Whitney in 2003. Despite the fact that Smith currently lives in College Station, where he attends Texas A&M, the band has managed to remain together with no change in lineup.

WHERE TO SEE THEM: At the release party for their debut CD, Friday, March 28, at The Limelight, 2718 St. Mary's

THE 210 TAKE: The long wait for the band's CD, which was produced by fiddler Brian Salvi of the Weary Boys, is worth it. Highlights: “Faith Machine Part Two,” “Butterfly Grip” and covers of “I'm So Glad,” made famous by Cream, and “Level” by the Raconteurs.

Jessica Belasco | 210SA contributor