Lineup: Sandra Gallardo and Adam Monica. Featuring members of: Blue Flashing Light. Influences: Bloc Party, No Doubt, The Ting Tings, Paramore, The Killers, Radiohead and The White Stripes. 

The Orkids

Gallardo provides the main vocals for this new duo as classically trained guitarist Monica take turns on drums, keys and, of course, guitar. Formed in August of last year, The Orkids are currently in the process of finishing their EP and plan on releasing a full-length not long after. From the samples of music made available so far, The Orkids' repertoire ranges from keyboard-heavy pop rock to trip-hop; "Paper Dolls" sounds like the next Lady GaGa hit while "Run with Me" recalls Kelli Dayton-era Sneaker Pimps mixed with more modern house beats. That's what I heard, anyway. The Orkids themselves think they sound more like No Doubt and Paramore, so maybe that is a more accurate description of what's to come. If Monica looks familiar, you may have also seen him on Athens stages as the guitarist for local band Blue Flashing Light. Live the pair either employ a backing track or invite "familiar faces" to play additional instruments. You can learn more at www.myspace.com/theorkids.

Next show: Check website for updates. 

Michelle Gilzenrat