Powerful sonic landscapes set the mood for lyrics that explore life's bittersweet truths. paradigm's melodic alternative rock sound and live show have caught the attention of the music industry and attracted a substantial fan base since the band began its journey in Stockton in 1999. Guitarist Steve Stratton and vocalist Shannon Curtis began as a writing team early in the year and were later joined by drummer/vocalist Tony Edwards and guitarist Keith Ogden. Now, with the August 2002 release of their debut LP Standing in Line, paradigm is set to carve a significant niche in the alternative rock arena. 　　 　　paradigm's female front-person sets the band apart in a genre dominated by male leads. Contrasted with the dark or angry voices often found in alternative rock music, paradigm's lead singer delivers inspiring lyrics. Through use of stories that reflect both the melancholy and hope of real life, paradigm relates familiar and thought-provoking experiences similar to those which artists such as Sarah McLachlan, U2, and The Counting Crows offer. The band's layered guitars, effects, and backing instruments, driving drums, and tight bass lines create a perfect backdrop for Curtis' gripping vocals. 　　 　　paradigm received recognition early in their career when the Orange Amplifier Company selected them as grand prize winners of their Millennium Competition at the NAMM Convention in Los Angeles. After playing a live acoustic set in March of 2000 on one of Northern California's largest alternative radio stations, Stockton's B93.1, and recording a demo that included the single "You Are" later in the year, talent buyers began to notice the buzz around paradigm. Over the past two years the band has gigged consistently, opening for national acts Jennifer Knapp and Shaded Red, and generating a solid fan base in the San Francisco, Sacramento, and Davis areas. In addition to playing a wide range of local venues like San Francisco's prestigious Paradise Lounge, the G Street Pub Davis, and the Hard Rock Café Sacramento, they have traveled up and down the west coast performing at venues such as LA's world famous Whiskey-A-Go-Go and Portland's the Bitter End.