by Gregory Heaney Formed in 2007, Paper Tongues take a multi-genre approach to pop music, fusing rock, rap, funk, and soul, drawing upon influences like Steve Perry and Grandmaster Flash to create a style of music that’s all their own. Formed in Charlotte, NC, the group began when eight musicians including singer Aswan North assembled to play an ongoing series of improvisational sessions -- it was during these sessions that the band, consisting of guitarists Devin Forbes and Joey Signa, keyboardists Clayton Simon and Cody Blackler, bassist Danny Santell, and drummer Jordan Hardee came together, fusing their various musical tastes into what would become Paper Tongues. With the lineup established, the band set to work recording, lining up an eclectic set of producers. In 2009, the band worked with producers like John Fields (Jimmy Eat World), Brian West (Nelly Furtado), Billy Hume (David Banner), and Mark Endert (Maroon 5) to put out their debut recording, Ride to California, on A&M/Octane.