Console is a live video game music (VGM) rock band based out of Honolulu, Hawai'i known for their epic concerts and playful use of costumes. The group takes turns rearranging and reanimating VGM typically from the 8bit to 32bit (90's & 00's) retro eras of gaming with the purpose of performing and recording in mind. They hope to continue to continue to have fun as they grow their fan base in Hawaii and online throughout the world.
Console was founded in March, 2017 when guitarists Cullen and Brian met each other by way of YouTube and discussed the possibility of assembling a band after jamming one day. The two guitarists had many various musical ambitions and interests but found common ground when they both realized they had a mutual interest in performing Video Game Music (VGM). Brian had already been performing some VGM with his previous metal band Leviathan by this time, but didn't get a chance to pursue VGM seriously until he met Cullen. Now, with Cullen's help, Brian invited his long time keyboard friend Eric who also had a passion for VGM to join the band. The three quickly began to meet regularly, arranging material and rehearsing what would later become much of the material for Console's debut album as they sought out other members to join the band. When they finally got a full line up and a catalog of songs, the band took to open mics and showcase concerts until eventually landing the coveted Kawaii Kon gig in 2019.
During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns founding member Cullen moved away, leaving the band. The band pivoted; rather than trying to find a replacement and look/wait in vain for live shows, they decided to focus inwardly. During this period the band would focus more on recording independently and performing online through the popular game-oriented streaming platform Twitch. Console would complete 17 episodes of the Chillin' at Proto Man Sam's series, as well as perform on Bonus Stage Van's 10th episode.
Eventually key member Eric would move away too, leaving the band, and with his departure it seemed like the band was going to be on an indefinite hiatus. Before the remnant members gave up all hope on Console recovering from the departure of Eric and other members, drummer Reece answered an old, tired-out Craiglist posting seeking VGM musicians. With Reece's joining, the band was revitalized! All that was needed now was a keyboardist to complete the band. Brian asked begged keyboard (cat) friend Reika to help the band with the keyboard parts and the band was able to function once more!
Hawaii would eventually emerge from the pandemic isolationism in later 2021, and Console was preparing to ride that wave, performing at smaller DIY show's hosted by the Kailua Music School. It was a great opportunity to play for a younger audience, knock the dust off, and prepare for bigger gigs. Luckily for the band, the bigger gig did come when the band was asked to perform prior to the closing event of the 2022 Kawaii Kon, to an audience of hundreds of like-minded nerds. Unfortunately, this would be Proto Man Sam's last epic performance with the band as he too, like many before him, would also be moving away.
Mikey, a former band mate of Brian's, with a recent itch to play music again would quickly join the band. With the momentum of the recent Kawaii Kon performance, Mikey was to be immediately put to the test on radio at KTUH and other various gigs. Now, with this new team and new beginning, the band is in the process of arranging new fresh material, finishing their debut album [COME ON ERIC] and gathering capital to finance performances at other major conventions throughout the world.
Now, Console is preparing for a new adventure... but what could possibly be next? Follow us on social media to find out more and follow our journey!