The songs that stand the test of time are always the ones that strike an emotional chord with a large group of listeners; they are expressions of the collective struggles or joys of humankind. The four members of THE MOTION know how to tap into these universal themes and in the process, they create powerful, unforgettable rock songs that could easily serve as the soundtracks to some of the most important moments in the lives of their listeners. Originating from Raleigh, North Carolina, THE MOTION initially consisted of three members, Mark McKee (vocals, guitars), Mike McKee (drums, percussion), and Chris Rafetto (bass, vocals). As a rock trio, they had the privilege of recording their first EP with veteran producer Ted Comerford (Virginia Coalition, EBO, Zox) in 2005. “The Arrival EP,” as it was called, was very well received and immediately began opening doors for the trio. As the group continued to develop, however, they began feeling stunted by the sonic limitations of a trio, and they made the pivotal decision to add long time friend Chris Boyette on guitar. This allowed lead songwriter, Mark McKee, the option of guitar duties or sitting behind the piano. From this point, the sound took off, allowing the group to create a more varied palette of sounds and textures as well as a wider sonic landscape through the music. The result is high-energy pop/rock full of lyrical emotional depth, executed with the precision of seasoned musicians. Although influences such as The Fray, U2, Radiohead, The Killers, and Ryan Adams resonate throughout the music, THE MOTION’s sound is a unique fusion of these musical influences and their own distinctive, forward-thinking musical ideas. Once the band had taken shape, THE MOTION began picking up bigger and bigger gigs and proving themselves as a group that could connect with audiences all over the country. THE MOTION has played countless clubs and venues all along the east coast from New York City to Atlanta, Georgia and just about everywhere in-between. They have shared the stage with such distinguished acts as Lifehouse, Annuals, Nathan Asher and the Infantry, The Mile After, and Honor by August (to name only a few). Additionally, THE MOTION has been featured on NC radio stations 96.1 WBBB FM and 88.1 WKNC, and several songs from their first EP can be heard at Carolina Hurricanes home games at the RBC Center in Raleigh. THE MOTION is no stranger to the festival circuit either, with noteworthy appearances at the Carrboro Music Festival and the North Carolina Acoustic Music Festival. THE MOTION is a band you will soon be hearing more of, and once you hear them, you’ll never forget them. As lead vocalist of the groups explains, THE MOTION strives to “create a bond between us and the audience, something that can truly last beyond the duration of each performance.”