The late '90s saw a slew of modern acts surface that were aimed at more "mature" listeners (Everclear, Our Lady Peace, Live, etc.), and Sweden's Prime STH is a carrier of the torch. Comprised of chaps who go only by single names and/or initials -- NOA (vocals/guitars), Martin (guitar), JSPR (bass), and Kaz drums) -- the band originally came together when the members were still in their teens. 1994 saw the release of a band-issued four-track EP, which landed them a deal with a small local record label. Unfortunately, the label went out of business after Prime STH had completed six tracks, which tied the fledgling group up in litigation until 1998. The quartet continued to play live, building a substantial following (and opening local shows/festivals for Faith No More and Rage Against the Machine), before Reprise Records stepped in and signed the band, resulting in their 2001 debut, Underneath the Surface. ~ Greg Prato