Ear splitting music, dancing teens, and blinding stage lights. Last Friday night, Epicentre hosted a Relay for Life Benefit concert which directly supported cancer patients. This concert showcased local bands including three bands from Cathedral Catholic High School – Burnout Kids, The Skains, and Her You & I.

All of the proceeds from ticket sales went to benefit the American Cancer Society. “The money goes towards important cancer research,” said junior Alex Romero, the drummer for Her You & I.  “Basically, we sell as many tickets as possible, and all the money goes to this benefit, so it’s a really good thing that we’re doing.”

For the bands, playing any show is a great opportunity, but it’s even better when they know it’s benefiting something important.

“We thought it was a good cause so we signed up for it,” said Alex.

All of the bands that played that night were really excited to do something good for cancer patients. Shaker Kattoula, a CCHS junior and the lead singer and guitarist for the Burnout Kids, was especially motivated to give back to the American Cancer Society because his grandfather was a victim of the disease. “It was specifically that reason that made me want to do it,” he said. “I’m excited to give money to help patients. I’m excited to know it’s supporting a good cause.”

All members of a community can give back to others in their own way. For these local bands, music is their way of sharing their talents for a good cause. “Why not help in any way I can?” said Shaker. “If music is a way to do that, then I’ll do everything I can.”

“This is the first time we’ve done anything like this, and it’s pretty exciting knowing that we’re doing something good for the community,” said Alex.