We actually went through a few different names at first (astray, static station etc.). None of them really seemed to fit us. The name Point Proven actually came from the lyrics in one of our songs. It just clicked with content of our music.

We play live as much as possible. We feel it's the best way to be heard. We've played all over the Phoenix area as well as a show in Reno, Nevada. The best experience live was probably when we won the Battle of the Bands for Hard Rock Cafe. We got a lot of fan support and we always appreciate that.

The internet is probably the best thing to happen for underground artists. It a great avenue for your music to be heard. I think it gives some of the power back to the bands instead of with the big record labels.

Absolutely. Our main goal is to be heard by as many people as possible. If signing with a major label is the way to do it, then we're there. However, you have to be careful that you don't walk into a deal that could hurt you.

"If only there was something I could write to change everyone around me..."

The chorus of "If Only," from Point Proven's latest EP Before the Capture, reflects the band's desire to not only break into the industry, but to continually make an impact through its music. Music is the absolute priority for this quartet from Tempe, Arizona. With musical influences ranging from Ani DiFranco to Incubus, the group places as much emphasis on the content and delivery of its lyrics as the musical sounds behind them. "We knew we had something special right away," says front man Grant Croissant. "The chemistry between the four of us was amazing. We're best friends with the common bond of music."

In the beginning stages, Point Proven consisted of lead singer Grant Croissant and guitarist Nate Barna recording acoustic songs on an analog 8-track recorder. Studio owner Dess Fletcher heard the songs and presented the duo with the opportunity to lay down some tracks in Omaha, NE. Within the first couple of days of recording, it became apparent that their songs warranted more than simple acoustic recordings. Nate's brother and drummer, Zack Barna, and longtime friend and bassist, Evan Hixson, were brought in and Point Proven was born.

The band wasted no time booking and promoting shows, developing its website and selling CDs and merchandise. In an attempt to measure its early success, the band entered Phoenix's Battle of the Bands at the Hard Rock Café and won. With a rapidly growing fan base, Point Proven continued writing and performing new songs. "We feel that each song we write is better then the last, and the fans always seem to agree," says drummer Zack Barna. "We take pride in the fact that our music is versatile and unpredictable. Remaining fresh takes little effort for us because each member of the band is involved in the writing process, from brainstorming general melodic concepts to writing specific lyrics, guitar progressions and drum beats."

While pleased with their initial album Dess Presents, Point Proven continued writing new material while perfecting their live performance and establishing themselves at local venues. Searching for a bigger sound, the band connected with producer Sean White of Platinum Studios in Phoenix. Within one week, they recorded six full songs and one simple acoustic song called "Captivate". The new EP Before the Capture demonstrates definitive growth from the previous Point Proven recordings. "War Paint" and "If Only" quickly became the band's battle cries, drawing the greatest crowd reactions. In a true testament to the band's versatility, drummer Zack Barna takes over lead vocals on the song "2 Minutes of Me," and when played live, Nate moves to the drums and Grant plays guitar. "Zack and Nate wrote that song in 20 minutes in the studio and Zack's voice just fit the song better," states bassist Evan Hixson. "There are no egos in this group; we all want to make great music that captures the way we feel."

Motivated by live performance and inspired by the recording process, Point Proven's future is truly in their hands. "Thoughts of doing this for a living keep me up at night," guitarist Nate Barna says smiling. "I've never wanted anything so badly in my life." With support growing exponentially, it's only a matter of time..

Jimmy Eat World, Incubus, Dashboard Confessional, Taking Back Sunday, Ani Difranco, Dave Matthews Band . . .

Anywhere with a beach.