The local band consists of three friends: Michael Smith, senior, (vocals and guitar), Dave Wood, psychology graduate student,(drums) and Jay Raymond, junior (bass).

Its sound can be described as eclectic, funky and laid-back. The songs’ sounds range from slow and jazzy to more melodic and fast-paced. Vocalist Smith has a strong voice that delivers lines with clarity and fullness.

The name Superstring originated because the band was interested in both super symmetry and string theory.

Superstring has played at Otto’s, 118 E. Lincoln Highway, has shared the stage with Moon Boots and Spacklebury and has opened for Mr. Blotto.

Artistic influences that Superstring cites include Michael Hedges, Radiohead, Bill Hicks, Aristotle, Jimi Hendrix and Tal Farlow. The band members are currently listening to Pharcyde and Snow Patrol.

In addition to making music, Smith, a senior physics and computer music major, enjoys being a “beer connoisseur.” He likes Bells Expedition Stout.

In his spare time, he enjoys writing, reading and paying attention to details. He plans to make his passion into a career, whether it be through “bringing miracles to life on stage” or in a lab. Smith is originally from Libertyville and is affiliated with Alpha Kappa Lambda.

“It’s all about good chemistry,” Smith said. “We read off of each other a lot when writing new material as a whole and end up with a sound that rocks our socks – and hopefully yours – if you dig it.”

A three-song demo was recorded in DeKalb at Crimson Rain Studios. The songs can be heard at the band’s Web site, www.superstringband.net. Donations of $1 can be made through PayPal if the listener feels so inclined.

Superstring can be seen, through private invitation only, with Spacklebury Nov. 13 at the Rock Barn Union Funky Fall Fest in DeKalb. For more information about the event, e-mail [email protected].

Weekender is looking for local artists, rappers, musicians, bands, painters, dancers, etc. to spotlight as our Artist of the Week. If you know anyone you would like to see on this page, e-mail [email protected].