They call themselves Misconception.

The teenager-stacked band, loaded with nothing but local kids, formed in 2007 and is passionate about music.

Misconception closed out the Music on Main Street spring concert series Friday at Centennial Park as its four members entertained a modest crowd with 12 songs.

“Even if there’s 20 people in the crowd, we don’t care,” bassist Doug Jeffries, 18, of Springville, said. “It’s music. As long as people are coming out to support local bands, we’re happy.”

Rhythm guitarist Carl Bushnell, 17, drummer Anthony Matteucci, 17, and lead singer/guitarist Anthony Vargas, 18, are all Porterville natives.

The group can — and has — play in front of large audiences.

Misconception performed before 4,300 spectators in April at Fresno’s Selland Arena during an FFA convention.
“We just want to get ourselves out there,” Bushnell said.

The band leans toward rock and alternative, but “we play a little bit of everything,” Bushnell said.

Councilman Pedro Martinez said he meets every Monday with local high school student councils to discuss various topics.

Once a survey was taken, and the students said there are not enough activities in Porterville geared toward the younger crowd.

Martinez and the council asked the Porterville Chamber of Commerce if Friday’s date could be reserved for Misconceptions.
The chamber agreed.

“Parents and the community get to see these young people doing something positive,” Martinez said. “It benefits everybody.”

Marisela Lara, 15, who met Vargas while she was on vacation in Mexico, said she was impressed with the group’s talent.

“I like their music,” she said. “This is the first time I’ve heard them play. For the first time, it’s pretty good.”

The Connors against Cancer Relay for Life team was on hand selling apple chips, beef jerky, candy and cookies.“We take every opportunity we can to raise money for our team,” Diana Martinez said. “It’s a family-involved activity.”

-- Contact Alex K.W. Schultz at 784-5000, Ext. 1045.