The Format

Categorized on Rhapsody.com as "jangle pop", The Format fits nicely in this category with bands like the Gin Blossoms from the 90’s. However, they fit in the category without completely conforming to it. Perhaps that’s why it’s often hard to categorize them. Jangle pop, alternative, and indie have all been used to describe their sound. And their style could differ from song to song. Perhaps that’s part of their appeal.

The band’s name was chosen as a sarcastic tribute to the music industry’s desire to "format" a hit song. And when you listen to their lyrics, you realize that they bring originality to a pop genre that doesn’t always support free thinking.

The band was formed by Nate Ruess and Seam Means and were later joined by members Mike Schey, Don Raymond, and Marko Buzard. They release their first album, Inventions + Lullabys, in 2003. Their second album, Dog Problems, was released in 2006 and proved to be a worthy follow-up to their debut. They’ve also appeared in a variety of compilation albums such as the soundtrack for the television show Veronica Mars and on the soundtrack for the movie National Treasure. Originally with the now defunct label, Electra, they are part of a new family at Atlantic Records.