Salisbury Post, Salisbury, NC - November 15, 2002

justincase
by Erin Henrickson

Charlotte band justincase has been ready for the spotlight for a long time now.

The sibling band, comprised of Justin, Nick, and Hannah Tosco, has been performing regularly in the surrounding area for the past five years.

They have played for many Charlotte events, such as Carolina Musicfest, Center City Fest, Festival in the Park, and the Weanie Roast.

Recently they have been on the Charlotte news and various radio stations, including the Bob and Sherri Show.

"Both of our parents are musicians, so music and instruments have always surrounded us growing up," said Hannah, 16-years old.

The band performs original material written by 19-year-old Justin. He offers a unique vocal style that is complimented by his guitar playing.

His sister, Hannah, rocks it up on the bass, while Nick, 17, on drums, adds the catchy beat that gets the adrenaline pumping.

All three siblings play the piano, since their mother, Holly Tosco, formerly taught piano lessons. She's currently a Montessori teacher.

Their father, John Tosco, teaches guitar at Central Piedmont Community College.

Both parents have been actively involved in their children's musical careers, setting up performances throughout the United States and making new contacts in the music industry.

This past year, justincase sealed a deal with Maverick Records and put the finishing touches on its self-titled album, which was released on Oct. 29.

Included in the new album is their first nationally released single, "Don't Cry for Us," which was co-written by their record label mate Michelle Branch ("Spirit Room").

Starting off the album, "What I Wouldn't Do" shows promise of the rock 'n roll songs to follow.

"Without You," a duet featuring Justin Tosco and Branch, is a particular favorite of the band, since they had the opportunity to work with Branch. This track features the harmonizing abilities of both Justin and Branch.

The Toscos first got to know Branch at the EAT'M Music Conference in Las Vegas, before either had a record deal.

EAT'M, which stands for Emerging Artists and Technology in Music, is a music showcase for aspiring artists.

"We were the only kids walking around with guitars," said Branch with a laugh.

She was the first to officially introduce justincase to the world, when she helped to premiere their single's music video on MTV's Total Request Live.

In fact, Branch assisted in helping justincase land their record contract.

"I told them (Maverick Records), 'Get your butts down here-- you have to see this band," she said.

Since the release of their album, the band has taken on "two killer musicians," as Justin put it, to add a more professional sound to their live performances.

Along with their new additions, justincase has spent much of its time on the west coast, performing for middle and high schools around the Los Angeles area.

They also have performed at various clubs in the area to broaden the promotion of their album.

"Two of the best were when we opened for Michelle Branch," said Justin.

More recently, they've embarked on a Wal-Mart tour in which they have a 20-minute set to perform songs from their album and then meet with fans afterwards for autographs.

There also has been a drawing for an autographed guitar at each one of the tour locations.

"Who has time for big shopping malls when everything you need is just down the street at your local Wally-World?" Justin pointed out.

In fact, three tour dates were devoted to the surrounding areas, consisting of Fayetteville, Morehead City and Greenville, SC.

The Wal-Mart tour has helped the band earn new fans from all age groups.

While many people were just practicing their usual shopping routine, they couldn't help but notice that something was taking place.

"What's going?" a girl of about 5-years old asked.

When she found out what was taking place, she announced it to those with her.

"A band!Look!" she screamed, while pointing to the three siblings.

This tour finishes up in November, and then the band plans to head back on the road. Details have yet to be worked out.

The band can always be caught in Charlotte at the semiannual acoustic show, the Tosco Music Party, which was started more than 15 years ago by justincase's parents.

The "music parties" originated in their living room, and throughout the years, they have continued to move onto larger venues. In fact, the past couple of shows have sold out, with more than 700 people present.

The next music party is scheduled for Jan. 18 at Spirit Square in downtown Charlotte.

"No matter how big my kids get, they will always play for my parties because I'm the dad, and I said so," said John Tosco, laughing, at the last Tosco Music Party.

The Web site for justincase is www.justincasefans.com and for Tosco Music Party www.toscomusicparty.com.