From playing in garages to performing on the streets of Claremont, four students have formed the band Melon Dramatic in order to express their passion for music. The indie rock band displays their dedication for music through their songs “Grapevines” and “Wasteland Walk”. Melon Dramatic is composed of sophomore Nick Pedroza on the drums and vocals, sophomore Dominic Rivera on the guitar and bass, junior Aaron Reeves on the guitar and vocals, and junior Joel LoGuidice on the guitar and bass.

For over a year, they have together experienced many hilarious moments such as when they threw hotdogs at crowds of people during their performances. They even made an impromptu song called “A Man in a Suit” as a response to a man who tried to kick them out while they were playing.

It all began when the four close friends decided that playing music by themselves was becoming dull and that a group collaboration could liven up their music. During practice one day, Pedroza was busy eating a watermelon while the band was trying out different melodies, which gave them the idea for their band name.

“Our band’s name is a word play off of melodramatic as our drummer Nick put his finished watermelon on his head which sparked the idea Melon Dramatic,” LoGuidice said.

All of the band members enjoy the same taste in music, indie rock, and were inspired by indie folk bands like Bombay Bicycle Club and Nana Grizol. Together, the band writes their own rock songs, which they create with beats and melodies that they find interesting and catchy.

“We do make our songs, starting from a basic tune to creating meaningful lyrics of moments that we think of. It takes time but in the end it’s all worth it,” Pedroza said.

Their passion towards music has brought them out to different locations to perform for audiences and also for their own enjoyment. As residents of Claremont, these group of friends have played at the park in front of the Bridges Auditorium to other areas around the Claremont Village where people usually sit and relax.

“We have been kicked out of some places because we just hooked up our amps and began playing, but we tend to get some small audiences, our max being about 20 people,” Reeves said.

Melon Dramatic is a band of musicians who show their talent in producing tunes and their love for music. They have recently released their new album called “Cre-Ep”, which features their main genre of indie rock infused with their own style of alternative. As the band progresses, they have the goal of getting signed by a record label by next year.