Performing on the same stage as popular rapper 2 Chainz isn’t an experience many people can say they’ve had. But four Case Western Reserve University third-year students who comprise the band EX/MAPLE pulled that off as second-years.
David Yang, Owen McCarthy, Evan Harnak and Josh Wang won first place in last year’s Battle of the Bands competition, securing their spot as openers for the university’s Springfest in April. The victory was a follow-up to a runners-up performance in the competition in 2022.
The indie-rock band—whose music is influenced by such artists as Peach Pit, Her’s, Big Thief, The Cocteau Twins, The Sundays, Radiohead, Deftones and more—formed for the purpose of competing in the Battle of the Bands. It quickly transformed into something bigger, and the group now performs at venues such as house parties, clubs, events and more.
You can catch them again in this year’s Battle of the Bands Friday, March 22—or go head-to-head for your shot at performing during Springfest. Applications to participate in Battle of the Bands close Friday, Feb. 23, at 11:59 p.m. Complete the application.
Get to know the band’s members.
David Yang
Major: Neuroscience
Instrument: Guitarist
1. What do you enjoy most about being in EX/MAPLE?
I enjoy the ability to use my brain for musical creativity; it’s a nice break from studying. The community aspect of the band is very important too; creating and listening to music together forms a unique and special group of friends that you can closely relate to.
2. What was your favorite moment from Springfest?
Band performance becomes meaningful because of the friends that come to watch and support us. The favorite part about being on the Springfest stage was seeing the faces of friends and teachers I invited enjoy our music.
3. What was it like winning Battle of the Bands last year?
Battle of the Bands is probably the most nerve-wracking performance, even compared to shows at larger venues off campus. Since our band formed to compete in the Battle of the Bands, winning it was definitely a special accomplishment and a checkpoint to continue reaching for greater goals as a band. It felt really good!
4. Why would you encourage other students to participate?
Another amazing part of Battle of the Bands is the fact that you can meet other incredible student musicians on campus. It doesn’t matter if you are a business major or pre-med—if you’ve got musical talents and/or musical cravings, there is nothing better than getting to know other students who share the same passion. Meeting “sister bands” during Battle of the Bands was not only good for networking in the music world, but also has been one of the greatest sources of support throughout our music career so far.
Owen McCarthy
Major: Materials science/engineering
Instruments: Vocals, guitar, bass
1. What do you enjoy most about being in the band?
I really like the process of learning new music with the band. Each of us has a unique musical background, and we have a lot of fun experimenting with sounds and textures from very different genres, leading to songs that sound original and are fun to listen to.
2. What was your favorite moment from Springfest?
My favorite moment was getting to share all of our hard work with the Springfest audience!
3. What was it like winning Battle of the Bands last year?
Super exciting! We all put in a lot of practice time and effort into polishing our set so that we could sound our best on stage, so I’m happy our hard work paid off.
4. Why would you encourage other students to participate?
The more bands the better! Battle of the Bands is my favorite CWRU tradition, and it gets more exciting each year. Also, student bands make campus life richer!
Evan Harnak
Major: Computer science
Instrument: Lead/backup vocals, rhythm guitar, bass
1. What do you enjoy most about being in the band?
Being able to record meaningful and sentimental albums and EP’s is my favorite part of playing together; we’re constantly trying to improve our craft.
2. What was your favorite moment from Springfest?
My favorite moment was stepping out on stage and seeing the entire crowd glowing and excited for us to play; it was magical.
3. What was it like winning Battle of the Bands last year?
WInning Battle of the Bands was exhilarating and it established a new era for our band. We couldn’t have done it without the huge support from our fans and other people who enjoy our music.
4. Why would you encourage other students to participate?
Participating in Battle of the Bands is perfect for beginners or experienced players who want to perform at a large venue with engaged students who are passionate about music. Performing at Battle of the Bands requires you to push your music and performance capabilities to the next level, so it’s great for building experience.
Josh Wang
Major: Statistics
Instrument: Drums, vocals
1. What do you enjoy most about being in the band?
Playing music with my bandmates allows me to express myself in ways that words cannot.
2. What was your favorite moment from Springfest?
Seeing my friends in the audience while on stage.
3. What was it like winning Battle of the Bands last year?
It felt amazing. We worked incredibly hard on our set (and wrote some sick songs), and it paid off.
4. Why would you encourage other students to participate?
The music scene at CWRU is so much fun—there are so many amazing bands that all have unique sounds. If you’re in a band or a solo artist, try for Battle of the Bands; there’s no downside.