Kiss Kiss

Kiss Kiss is an indie rock band that emerged from SUNY Purchase. The group was formed by Joshua Benash (Guitar, Synth, and vocals) and Jared Karns (drums) after the members had participated in various college bands. The name Kiss Kiss is derived from a series of short stories by Roald Dahl. Although their music is primarily indie in style, it also includes an electric violin that adds an orchestral sound to many songs. The contrasts within Kiss Kiss' songwriting and vocals have also been described as extremely frantic at times, yet melodic and soothing at others. This unusual variety of styles has helped the band's music to appeal to a wide audience.

Kiss Kiss' first release was their Self-titled EP, released on October 11th, 2005. Their debut full-length album, Reality vs. The Optimist, was released on February 6th, 2007 under the New Jersey based Eyeball Records. However, it was recorded and prepared for release many months earlier, and several tracks had leaked onto the internet by November 2006.