Few artists can find the elusive balance between a song that hooks you in and a song that encourages another detailed listen. It’s on this fine line of ambitious pop-rock that indie piano-rocker, Jacob Vanags, has found his home. As a Kent, Ohio native and well-traveled New York “resident,” Vanags has meshed his multitude of experiences and inspirations to create a brand new niche between the same-old and the usual. One reviewer describes it as “a mix between Death Cab for Cutie and The Format.”

Vanags is now premiering this fresh sound with Pulses Are Pluses, a six track EP released on November 3rd, 2009. After the successful debut of his first solo EP, The Come On! Collection, Jacob was joined by drummer and trumpet player, Zach Periharos, and bassist, Nick Cantatore, to create a full and energizing mix of piano rock anthems with pulsing beats and masterful basslines. Add in Dylan Ebrahimian’s violin prowess and Jeremy Landis’ production expertise and you have an epically exciting six songs. Lyrically, Jacob revolves the EP around a central theme of positivity and the realization that “you have all that you have.” But nothing could sum it up better than a choir finishing out the EP on “Jonah’s Dream,” a youthful illustration of a world without futile fighting.

The “JV3,” as they are endearingly called, have a nine-day, nine-show “Spring Break” tour under their belt and are ready to embark on more adventures in whatever vehicle and trailer they can get their hands on. Playing at several music festivals and venues such as “The Bitter End” and Chicago’s “The Bottom Lounge,” as well as getting plenty of college and internet radio airplay, this ambitious group can only work their way up. Next on the list? A music video with creative group, Better With Bangs, some vital PR, some brand new fans, and hopefully a very cheap and spacious trailer to call their own.