As grand prize winners of the 2005 DiscMakers Independent Showcase, not only did Plain Jane Automobile take home the distinction of being the best of a series of bands hand-picked by major A&R reps at Billboard magazine and Taxi, they also proved that the title of best unsigned band in the Southeast was just the beginning.

This is just one of the many incidents contributing to a banner year. They played alongside Supergrass, Ok-GO, Stereophonics, Hard-Fi, Morning Wood, Luna Halo, Flickerstick, World Leader Pretend, Need to Breathe, and to packed houses by themselves. Their songs became well received on the airwaves of major Central Florida radio stations. With the addition of Close My Eyes to O-Rock 105.9's daily rotation, there's no telling how far they will get this year.

What began as a collaboration between Duke Crider (vocals) and Luis Mejia (guitar) has full blossomed into a band of world caliber. Their ability to write songs and drive their live shows with stark intensity led them to meeting Paul McCorkell (bass) and James Dickens (drums) and after that nothing seems to be able to stop them.

The chemistry of the lineup solidified everything into its perfect place. Every town was won over and the songs just get better and better. Taking the best of rock, Brit-pop, driving rhythms, and beautiful melodies they seem predestined to make a major mark in the current scene.

Now, with the release of an EP in early 2006 and extensive touring on the way, Plain Jane Automobile is out to prove to the world what they have to their area.

Marcus Smith
Mtv networks