NIYA
Niya was formed back in 1998. Twin sisters Leigh Ann & Jenna were always in bands through out the years, and decided they wanted to start a band that was different from others, something that was not so typical on the music scene.
They met up with Rich Trotman within this time through a local music newspaper ad, and they started forming their musicial vision.
They later went through many drummers to weed out the missing link. (it was a very spinal tap situation with drummers for us) ha!
Through an internet ad, they found Darwin, and started creating their New eclectic style of rock n' roll with a punk twist.
Niya has openend for many heavy hitters in the past few years, including: The legendary MISFITS, Twisted Sister, Dee Snider, L.A. Guns, KingsX, and Fishbone.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Niya has been touring on the East Coast since 1999.
They have openend for The Misfits, Twisted Sister, L.A. Guns, Dee Snider, Fishbone, and Kings X along with many others.
Niya has 2 cd singles released, and are recording their 5 song demo for January 2004 release.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
We try to play live as often as we can, in between writing and recording. WE LOVE PLAYING LIVE!
It is our biggest drive, that power and excitement to play in front of a live audience. There is no drug in the world that can beat that feeling!
Your musical influences
Well we all have many different influences, which we feel plays a major roll in our writing.
We are from one extreme to another, and it really shows in our diverse style of music.
Jenna is influenced more from the underground scene like PJ Harvey, Sonic Youth, Girls against Boys. Leigh Ann if more into Frank Zappa, Ozzy, black sabbath, slayer, Rich is a kiss freak, and loves a wide mix of all sorts of music.
Together it just works..
What equipment do you use?
Ludwig Drums, Ibanez, Fender, Les Paul guitars, Fender Bass guitars.
Amps we use Marshals, Ampegs, A variety of Crazy pedals, & Ebows.
