The mention of "heavy metal" probably brings to mind long-haired, middle-aged "headbangers" screaming into a microphone. While this is true for many bands of that genre, Let the River Swell is an exception.
The Johnstown-born band formed in September 2012 when lead guitarist Tyler Litko had the urge to start playing again, according to vocalist and band spokesman Devin Kieta.
"It was one of those things where everyone was in the right place at the right time. (Bassist) Dan (Crowell) and I were about to move home from Florida," he said. "(Rhythm guitarist) Mike (Orletsky) worked with Tyler and, over the course of a couple weeks,...we got everything together and started writing our first songs."
Their first show didn't come long afterward. They played at Johnstown's Crucified Ministries Church that December. "It was a decent turnout. Johnstown shows are always the best shows," Kieta said.
"It's funny to think (of) now, but without us playing that show, we wouldn't have met any of the crucial people we did (who) helped throw us into the world of bigger shows."
One bigger show they played at was the 2013 Rockstar Energy Drink Mayhem Festival, where the band obtained a spot after winning a Battle of the Bands contest in Jeanette.
"We signed up for (the contest) and (performed in front of) Sumerian Records and Headbang for the Highway. We played a four-song set list just like every other band and, after our performance, we talked to the talent scouts. They were honestly excited about our performance."
Later that night, after the final band finished their set list, the judges announced LTRS was selected to perform on the Sumerian Records stage at Mayhem Festival in Burgettstown, Pa.
Playing at the Mayhem Festival was a dream come true for Litko. "I couldn't believe something I've dreamed about was actually about to happen," he said. "This is why you never give up."
Prior to the event, the band had a broad fan base with plenty of locals, youngsters, and even those of an older demographic, Kieta said.
"We had a lot of support after we announced that we'd earned the spot," he said. "I was humbled by the encouragement from everyone in the area. Playing (at) a festival like that gains you a lot of exposure.
"We love playing and what we do, but when you have people excited to come up and talk to you afterward...wanting pictures, t-shirts or anything of the sort, it's an amazing feeling. It's like a surprise bonus check from work you weren't expecting."
If you're wondering if there will be a repeat appearance at the festival next year, you may have to wait a while. "Out future schedule is still up in the air," Kieta said. "If we have the chance or get offered to play again, of course we will be there. The goal is to (perform at) one of those festivals for the entire length of (their) tour.
"We'd like to get into Warped Tour next year, but as far as large venues or shows go, when the opportunity comes, we will take it."
For more information and tour dates, visit the band's Facebook page or their Bandcamp website.
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