Neon Trees' story is filled with bizarre coincidences, odd twists of fate, stratospheric success and Mormons (the Provo, Utah, quartet is comprised entirely of Latter Day Saints — my aunt, uncle and cousins say hello). The band began as a quintet and took the name Neon Trees in 2005, when vocalist/keyboardist Tyler Glenn was inspired by the phosphorescent trees on the In-N-Out Burger signage. In 2006, Neon Trees released their first EP, Becoming Different People, and embarked on a major California tour, amassing a loyal fan base. Shortly thereafter, the band lost three members, leaving founders Glenn and guitarist Chris Allen. Replacements came in the form of bassist Branden Campbell and drummer Elaine Bradley. (Coincidence alert: Campbell’s father helped design the In-N-Out Burger lights.)
After solidifying the new quartet, Neon Trees played a small Las Vegas club for a show attended by Killers' drummer Ronnie Vanucci Jr., who recommended the Trees open for The Killers on dates during an extensive 2008 tour. That ultimately helped secure the band's Mercury contract. (Fate alert: Campbell and Vanucci played together in a Ska band called Attaboy Skippy.)
Neon Trees play Bogart's Thursday with Eastern Conference Champions and The Limousines. Go here to read Brian Baker's full Sound Advice.