In a time when people are using Tinder for last minute hook-ups and free pizza, one SoCal DIY band is using the dating app to build a tangible fan base conveniently co-located to their live show circuits. I stumbled upon these guys while surfing Tinder (I had just come out of a serious relationship, don’t judge!). The profile of a faceless (and probably) cute guy in a sharp graphic tee with an adorable puppy peaked my interest. Sold, swipe right. Admittedly, I didn’t read the bio until after they started messaging me about what sort of music I’m into. Once I realized it was a band, I had to meet up with them to get the inside scoop on their music and why they were using dating apps with ulterior motives.

I met up with Christian (Drums) and Danny (Guitar). The explain it has been Christian’s idea to join Tinder as a band while brainstorming ways get their name out to more local fans. Their fan base has been spread through other countries and states from Youtube traffic and other social media campaigns, but how to get more LA folks was the new mission. Tinder was a perfect way to connect with fans locally and increase attendance at their shows.

Dating sites and musicians both have a proven track record of bringing out a few crazies (sorry mom!). As a result of their Tinder fan-scouting, they have invited some intense fans. “There was one fan that showed up by surprise, and drove about an hour and a half to see us,” they told me. “She was very persistent on trying to hang out with one of us after the show, and several times after that night.” The girl has since backed off, but there’s bound to be a few more as they continue to grow in popularity.

The band name (which can be Googled - PAPERFOX - all one word) was actually inspired by the Thrice song “Paper Tigers." They don’t mind sharing their name with girly shoes, though (now Google PAPER FOX - 2 words). “It's amazing! Hope they start making men's shoes so we can rock them during our shows.”

While this band isn’t a first for any of these guys, their roles in PAPERFOX have given them new challenges. Their singer, Richard, had previously been a drummer until they couldn’t seem to find the right singer to front the band. Danny suggested Richard try singing and as you can see he turned out to have a great voice, so it’s worked out so far!

Check out the bands melodic, indie-rock EP Dreamcatcher here now!

With a fluid sound and effortless lyrics, the new self-titled EP release from Australian musician Cat Cork starts with a simplistically relatable bang. Tranquilizing vocals on the introductory track, “Dreaming My Life Away,” whisper effortless lyrics that all listeners can connect with. Reminiscent of the stripped down album, Nebraska by Springsteen, a simple bell keeps the tempo as the rustic guitar plays along with the melodic chorus. As the last refrain hits, the straightforward instruments take over and the epilogue plays on.

“Let It All Go!” takes over from here with its straightforward message. Cat Cork pulls all the stops, letting the listener dive in and be submerged in sea of familiarity. Feelings expressed and honest words bridge gaps missing in most of the cookie-cutter folk being shoveled through your radio speakers—Cork’s music is, well…it’s a breath of fresh air. Engaging questions layered in the verses are answered in the song’s chorus. A tasteful piano presence leads to a surprising element of complexity as the EP bleeds into “Wandering Rocks.” A mix of mandolin and acoustic guitar complement each other as stoic dual vocals collide.

“Hold On” warms up when arpeggiati notes unite with a chugging chord chorus. All instruments build towards a multi-vocal layer, filling headphones with a full and beautiful choir. A fade leads to the stories eerie ending of piano, percussive, instrumental bliss. A quick listen or a repeat play of this EP does not disappoint. It is not a far stretch from earlier work of Cork but leaves fans satisfied and craving more.

Editor’s Note: Worth a listen: “Never Want to Wake Up”

On Tinder with PAPERFOX...

Cat Cork EP Review...