A Centreville-based band is set to hit the airwaves and the local music clubs this spring. Their music, a fusion of piano and violin instrumentals set to an electronica backdrop, challenges its audience to redefine rock music.

The Black Cat is filled with admiring fans, and the two-member ensemble with a flair for the theatrics captured their hearts and pulled in their attention to the musical spectacle. Alex Gioeli, 19, has always dreamed for this scene to come to fruition. Turn a pedestrian gaze at Gioeli and see nothing out of the seemingly mundane college sophomore. Open an inquiring eye and see a passionate and ambitious musician looking to make it big one day.

There’s a familiar buzz in the air, a strangely comforting feeling that reminds me of home. Walking down the street, with cold gusts of wind seeping through my cotton gloves and wool coat, I take a moment to look around and observe the ongoing preparations for Christmas day.

The street lamps are adorned with wreath-like decorations, setting off a hazy yellow light that feels all at once familiar and nostalgic. Christmas carols are blasting from the speakers from nearby stores. The songs take me back to Manila, to my family and friends, my home—the way all Christmas songs do. Every song is a time machine, every song has its own moments with me and I am here and there all at once.