You've probably heard their single (Gotta Leave) on the radio, or maybe you've even seen them live at the central city park. And if you haven't heard them, you've most definitely heard of them. It's the new local band -- the Outsiders. Although, privately, guitarist Scott Summers insists the name is Cyke And The Outsiders, Rogue is the official front girl.
I caught up with the band after an awesome performance at the park last Tuesday. You won't be seeing them in bars, because they are fronted by a 16-year-old girl. Southern Marie -- known only as Rogue -- sings with a simple haunting beauty. Although small in stature, her voice could easily fill a music hall -- with or without a microphone. In talking to her, I discovered her personality to be quite opposite of her singing voice -- she is quiet and reserved, and always polite.
"Ah feel that Ah've been givin such a unique opportunity here that mos' kids mah age would neva get to experience. So Ah'm really enjoyin' every aspect of this job."
Fans of Rogue, and the group, have commented on the mystery surrounding the white streak in her hair and the long gloves she wears to all performances. She provided me with no answers.
Rogue is backed by Jean Grey -- known as Red, she is a tall redhead with a straight-forward air about her. Red is currently engaged to group guitarist Cyke.
"It's been wonderful being able to spend more time with him," Red says with a smile, "but having to fit band practice into my schedule at Xavier's School for the Gifted is quite hectic."
In fact, all of the band members, and crew live and or work at the school. Students there have become huge promoters and fans of the band.
Scott Summers, known as Cyke, plays wonderful riffs on his guitar, and when I spoke to him he was wearing his trademark red sunglasses. I asked him about them, but he just shrugged and said, "I like 'em."
Ororo Monroe plays base for the band. She hails from Africa, bringing an interesting flavor to the group's music. When asked about the band's unique sound, she replied, "This is what we like to play. We just hope everyone enjoys listening to it." Ororo goes by Storm.
Last but certainly not least comes Logan, known as Wolverine, the drummer with the crazy hair that every girl is falling for. Sometimes he and Cyke provide backround vocals on the music. Wolverine admitted gruffly to being amazed at the record sales. The Outsiders' first release, "From The Sky," was charted at number five last week.
Part of their success is due to the fan club and fan site, both headed by young Bobby Neeson, another student from Xavier's. "Rogue's my best friend, and Mr. Summers and Ms. Monroe are my teachers, and plus I love the music, so I guess I'm their number one fan." Bobby admits to coming to every show he can with a large group of students. During Tuesday's performance, Bobby commented on how beautiful Rogue was, and she smiled at him, so young hopefuls out there -- set your sights elsewhere!
And young ladies after Wolverine, forget about him. He admits to having a thing for one of the female band members, but made me promise not to say who.
If you haven't heard this wonderful band yet, make an effort to! It's a treat.