Arya

Passionate and forceful with a confident and refreshing energy Arya hits the stage with a captivating presence The band unites a perfect mix of heavy rock and hard metal with thunderous compositions, and in your face vocals. Their striking dynamic songs all have their own personalities mixed with high energy performances onstage. Fully Formed in May 2011, Arya has had the opportunity share the stage with such acts as Otep, One Eyed Doll, Picture me Broken amongst many others, this is our story...

In the late months of 2011, Guitarist Mike Dobbs began a search to find the musicians who would complete an ensemble of a dedicated and driven rock powerhouse: lead guitarist John Maxwell, bassist Wayne King, screamer Matt Kampmeier, and lead vocalist Jericka Millsap. The group worked vigorously to find a sound that would work in today's industry whilst remaining completely unique. It was the combined talents of what each band member brings to the table that gives Arya their uniquely marketable quality that they have today. in 2012 Arya was awarded the "Rising Force" award at the Project Backstage Midwest Rock awards, an award given to those (as described by the staff) that have the potential to make their mark.Throughout the last year the staple members Mike, Matt, and Jericka have been through a great amount of twists and turns including several member changes and gear set backs that ultimately kept the band from recording anything solid. Being a brand new band at the time Arya also was caught up by a non stop circle of playing out monthly, although this grew their fan base tremendously within months their fans became restless for a cd.

In 2013 Lead vocalist Jericka was added to Revolver's Hottest Chicks in Rock and Metal Official Facebook Fan Page making her a staple role model for thick women that can rock out and wear what they want. She was also nominated for Female Rock Vocalist of the Year for the IMEA Awards along side 4 female musicians from across the country.

With opportunities knocking Arya finally put their foot down and swore no matter what would happen it would not stop progress and immediately hit the studio. They released their debut single "By a Thread" which was received heavily by the local media and their entire fan base.

The Summer of 2013 Arya is in production of their first full length album, with the hopes of a long tour after it's release. Arya being amped with huge amounts of ambition and determination, plan to go after bigger and better shows such as Warped Tour, SXSW and a lot more. Equipped with an intensely loyal and constantly growing fan base, numerous strong relationships with club owners and fellow bands across the country, and a stage energy to be reckoned with, Arya is well on their way to forging a new path and proving that success as an independent band can be achieved.