Alligator Online

Few bands rock like the legendary Ramones.

"The Ramones are, simply put, the greatest rock band to ever come out of America," Fauxmones front man Ben Mattison said.

The Fauxmones, a local Ramones cover band, along with March to May and members of Morningbell will play tonight at Orange & Brew, located inside the Reitz Union.

Be prepared for an energetic performance.

"I encourage the audience to hurl epithets and food items if it's not up to par," Mattison said. "Although I can't guarantee we won't hurl back."

Proceeds raised at the show will benefit Florida Alternative Breaks, a student organization where participants forego their Spring Breaks to volunteer for programs benefiting fair trade, the homeless and women's rights among other issues. Programming Director Brian Offenther expects a good show.

"The FAB people are really enthusiastic, and the bands offer a good indication of local talent in music," he said. "The Orange & Brew is a great venue for live music. There is plenty of floor space and even comfy couches along the wings if you just want to sit back and listen. The food is good, too."

If classic isn't your bag, March to May, who are relatively new to the Gainesville music scene, offer up something different.

"We are sort of a Jay-Z meets Common with a dash of Tupac sound, only without the hip hop," drummer Aubrey Way said before reconsidering. "Maybe that's a bad example."

Described as Coldplay-inspired experimental indie-pop, March to May wanted to separate themselves from other bands, guitar player Mike Pensky said.

"We decided that having a piano-based band would be more unique than the common two guitar, bass and drum combo," he said.

Bass player Carl Nyberg looks forward to tonight's performance.

"There is nothing like standing on stage with a responsive crowd," he said. "It puts you in your own world of free expression."

Finally, Morningbell, who has built up a solid following with their psychedelic pop-rock sound, will take the stage shorthanded, bassist Eric Atria explained.

"The show will be interesting because it will only be [singer/guitarist] Travis [Atria] and [drummer] Masa [Enomoto] playing," he said. "You'll see something we've never done before."

Due to an overwhelming course load this semester, keyboardist Stacie Thrushman will be missing in action along with Atria, who will be studying for the bar exam.

Nevertheless, Atria encourages a large turnout.

"It's going to be a good show," he said, "right on campus, not too expensive, and it benefits a good cause."

Tonight's show should offer an intimate setting with three high-energy performances. Doors open at 8:30 p.m. and tickets are $5 at the door or at the University Box Office.