Write-up by Kristen of The Beacon Established in 1997, Strength For a Reason (SFAR) is a hard-hitting, in-your-face band that hearkens to the old New York hardcore style of music forgotten in the mix of other trendy, hybrid hardcore pop sounds. The band has stayed true when selling out to popular sounds is mandatory to become the next big thing. The Nanticoke based band of 20-somethings includes Karl Kivler on the mic, Ed Banja on drums, Josh Rhinheimer on bass, Jack Siergiej on guitar, and Tom Thompson on guitar. Their current full length CD, Show and Prove features 11 original tracks. SFAR signed to Thornz Records in 1998 when they proved the strength of their work on the CD compilation, Step to the Plate. Locally, SFAR has earned a few musical titles, taking 1st runner up in The Weekender's readers' poll for "Best Local Original Band." The band has also been described as, "one of Pennsylvania's best and fiercest bands around" by Frenzy Radio, an online hardcore radio station. Over the years, SFAR has shared the stage with some of the most influential acts on the scene such as Agnostic Front, Hatebreed, and Madball. They have played clubs all along the East coast and ventured to the West coast to tour with The Hoods, hitting cities like Las Vegas, San Diego, and Hollywood. This past October, they traveled overseas to tour throughout Europe. According to James Walwrath, the founder of Thornz Records, "Strength For a Reason has taken a lot of different styles, put them together and made them totally work. They are one of the best bands out there now, and it's because they're true to themselves and their fans. I like to work with bands that I can relate to and the positivity in their lyrics is what really drew me into the band." The band responds to fan support by returning encouragement in the form of lyrics laced with positive themes of unity, religious faith, and being yourself, which is unexpected coming from a band with a sound that hits you like a ton of bricks. "Our songs are mainly about the importance of friends and family in your life, showing respect for people, staying true to yourself and your beliefs, and not letting anyone take advantage of you for any reason," said Jack Siergiej, the band's guitarist. Siergiej added, "There is nothing like having someone come up to you and say that you've helped them get through tough times. It gives you the motivation you need to keep going as a band." "Hardcore shows are the only place that I feel comfortable--it's a lifestyle. Our shows are a lot different than mainstream concerts. Your probably a little confused if you think that Disturbed is hardcore and Ashlee Simpson puts on a punk rock show," said Ed Banja, the band's drummer. "The reason I book SFAR is because musically they are one of the tightest bands in the area, and they consistently put on fun performances," said Matt Zavacky, a local club promoter. "They promote themselves well and have a very dedicated following of fans who show up to every show, just to see them, no matter who else is on the bill." Partly due to this reputation, SFAR just recently signed to Spook City Records(USA)/Burial Records(Europe), sharing a label with bands like Blood For Blood, Death Before Dishonor, Dead and Buried, and Slapshot. Their new album, Blood Faith Loyalty, is due to hit stores in late May or early June. Previews indicate it has more in-your-face, circle pit-makin', straight up old school hardcore sounds than the last album. SFAR will be making two appearances in the area next month. On April 4, there will be a show in Scranton at the Tripp Park Community Center, and on April 8, they will be playing at Wilkes University. More information can be found at their website, www.strengthforareason.com.