Made up of Manti High School students Sam Jensen, Clayton Thurston, Colter Tidlund and Will Reader, the group has earned growing attention across the region through energetic live performances, versatile musicianship and a chemistry that audiences notice immediately.

While still in high school, the four musicians are already showing something many bands spend years trying to develop — the ability to collaborate naturally and make each performance feel fresh.

Three members of the group — Sam Jensen, Clayton Thurston and Will Reader — will enter their senior year this fall, while lead guitarist Colter Tidlund will begin his sophomore year. Despite the age differences, the musicians have developed a connection that translates seamlessly to the stage.

Part of what makes the group stand out is the versatility each member brings.

Sam Jensen often takes on lead vocals but is equally comfortable behind a guitar or keyboard. All four members are capable lead singers and regularly rotate responsibilities during performances, creating layered harmonies and changing instrumental arrangements that keep audiences engaged.

Their musical journeys began long before they formed a band.

For Sam Jensen and Colter Tidlund, early experience in musical theater helped lay the foundation. Both credit local mentor Denise Hagemeister with helping develop their musical abilities and performance confidence through youth theater productions.

Jensen said one pivotal opportunity came during his freshman year when Hagemeister invited him to participate in the Snow College DPAC Summer Intensive program.

The experience provided advanced stage exposure and helped build the confidence that continues to shape his performances today.

Additional encouragement came from Amanda Hansen of Ephraim, who mentored and directed both Jensen and Reader during a middle school musical production. Through that experience, the boys gained valuable stage time and strengthened their love of performing.

Jensen has continued developing his skills through vocal coaching with Claire Yarrington of Spring City, piano instruction from Kyle Alm and guitar lessons from guitarist Alvaro Pastor.

The musicians also point to strong support within the halls of Manti High School.

Theater teacher Kory Howard and music educators Doug Knapp and Bryan Sullivan have each played important roles in encouraging the students to grow artistically, develop confidence and pursue opportunities to perform.

Behind the music is a story of friendship.

Jensen and Reader first became friends during middle school and shared an interest in performing. Thurston later joined the group after moving back to Utah from Texas to attend Manti High School.

Although newer to the local school community, Thurston’s family history in Sanpete County runs deep. His father and grandfather are both graduates of Manti High School and Snow College, continuing a longstanding family connection to the area.

Thurston’s own musical journey began in fourth grade when he joined a percussion program and discovered a passion for rhythm and performance.

Years of experience in competitive marching band programs helped refine his abilities as a drummer and performer. Those experiences, combined with his vocal talents and musical instincts, have become an important part of the band’s energy and sound.

Music has also been woven into family life for each member.

All four boys grew up surrounded by music and influenced by fathers who sing, play guitar or both.

Earlier this year, that influence came full circle during Manti’s Scandinavian Heritage Festival, when the young musicians shared the stage with their fathers as part of a special performance group known as “Fathers and Sons.”

Reader’s musical background extends into the national spotlight. His father, Adam Reader, is known to many online as “The Professor of Rock,” a successful YouTube creator whose channel explores the stories and history behind classic rock songs and artists.

One of the band’s biggest moments came earlier this year.

In February, local event organizer Debi James invited the group to open for nationally recognized rock band Royal Bliss during the Winter Concert Series.

The performance introduced the students to a larger audience and represented an important milestone in their musical journey.

Since then, momentum has continued to build.

The band has appeared at events throughout the area, including a recent performance in Moroni that drew enthusiastic local support. Photographer Selah Jacobson captured images from the show that reflected the energy and excitement surrounding the group.

While opportunities continue to expand, the four musicians remain grounded in the community that helped shape them.

With support from family members, teachers, mentors and local fans, these young performers represent a growing generation of artistic talent emerging from Sanpete County.

Their versatility, musicianship and genuine friendship have already created something special — and if early performances are any indication, this may only be the beginning.