By Spencer Schneier, Staff Writer

Published in print Sept. 10, 2014

Friday, September 5 The Blind Tiger provided a venue for Greensboro-local band Jonas See in Color.

After the opening acts of Eyes Eat Suns and Bear With Me provided the crowd with a spark of energy, Jonas See in Color took the stage and did not disappoint.

Energetic and exuberant lead vocalist Ryan Downing, a Greensboro native, bounced around the stage, and even off it at times. He informed the crowd that they were part of his family, and that they were therefore responsible for his health.

The beauty of music at this level is not in the perfectly choreographed shows, or smooth sounding melodies. It is in the beauty of the unrefined passion that artists who play for no reason other than the love of music play with.

Much like the book that Jonas See in Color is name for, the band praises the beauty of the ups and downs of humanity.

Downing, who is remarkably personable, was happy to talk about the inspiration for the band’s creation.

The Giver inspired Downing to take a step back, and he even went as far as to say it introduced him to the concept of the counter-culture. It inspired him to see the world in color, hence giving the band its name.

Many of the most beautiful things in life are unrefined, and oftentimes the ideas of refinement and beauty get intermingled.  The Giver critiques this, and Downing and the rest of Jonas See in Color are both beacons and examples.

After studying to become a teacher, it occurred to him that through music he could spread his message to a larger audience.

“You look around the world and everyone is finding something to die for,” said Downing. He continued, emphatically, “but why not find something to live for?”

Unlike the refined performances of larger, pop artists, Jonas Sees in Color attack every note and lyric.

“There’s no guidelines in rock n’ roll – you can do whatever you want,” Downing remarked on why it was his chosen method of expression.

In furthering his message, he continued, “there’s no right or wrong, no yes or no.”

When asked about the journey from a local Greensboro band to becoming a relatively known entity, the UNCG graduate said it was best described as “a blur.” They are constantly travelling, going from venue to venue to spread their message to as many people as they can. While they are not currently on a label, they released the Avalanche EP in 2009.

They also announced at the show that their next release will be available on vinyl for the first time.

Downing also spoke of his appreciation for Greensboro, saying that he loves the town and its southern charm.

Much like the city of Greensboro, Jonas See in Color is not the biggest, most recognizable name. Also like Greensboro, they produce a certain beauty that can only be appreciated because of its genuine nature.

When it comes to art, beauty is not black and white.

Maybe you just have to see in color to appreciate it.