Charles and Frank Torrealba, aka indie pop-rock powerhouse Crystal Kid, have enjoyed an interesting journey in the first quarter-century of their lives. Born in Brazil, they also resided in Venezuela (their father’s native land) and Mexico before settling down in the decidedly different climate of Calgary, Alberta, Canada just before younger sibling Frank hit his teens. As a result of this nomadic odyssey, the brothers formed a bond stronger than most, one that was only enhanced when Charles began playing guitar, which shortly thereafter influenced Frank to take up the bass. Not surprisingly, the brothers were initially influenced by another sibling-fronted band, Oasis, but they describe Crystal Kid’s songwriting style as more akin to Fall Out Boy’s Pete Wentz and Patrick Stump in that Charles writes the lyrics while vocalist Frank provides the majority of the melodies. The brothers were quick to grasp the power of radio. Between 2010 and 2013 Crystal Kid earned over $125,000 in grants from Calgary station AMP 90.3 FM via a competition where artists not only had to display their musical talent, but also their business acumen by submitting proposals detailing exactly how they planned to use the money and providing the judges with subsequent follow-up reports. This money funded their second EP, The End of the Beginning (produced by Daron Schofield and Rick Mizzoni), and a Canadian/American tour that caught the attention of award-winning LA-based producer Brandon Friesen, with whom the brothers worked in 2012. The songs produced from those sessions, featuring propulsive, grooving guitar riffs, synth-infused flourishes and anthemic choruses, showcase Crystal Kid’s unique take on the pop-rock realm. Crystal Kid has big plans for the forthcoming year. Newly relocated to Los Angeles, the Torrealbas have re-entered the studio to record new material and have begun to spread their message in southern California via a series of shows which include gigs at local high schools, increasing their fan base and profile in the ultra-competitive SoCal music scene…all while making a conscious effort to enjoy the experience. “I never want to lose my excitement, my sense of wonder,” Charles notes. “I always want to remain just as excited about music as I was when we wrote our first song.” With an attitude like that, it’s not hard to envision Crystal Kid achieving all of their musical dreams – while relishing every step of the journey. Written by Tom Maguire Two brothers making noise.