ANIMATO, is a high-energy, electro dance machine comprised of Joey Medina (Lead Vocals/Guitar/Keys), Steve Mungarro (Bass/2nd Vocals/Synth Programming), Rexelle (Keys/Synth Guitar/2nd Vocals/Percussion), and Jason Ywahu (Drums/Programming). The band began to form in late 2012 in the wake of the breakup of previous Los Angeles band “The Tender Box.” Joey and Steve (originally hailing from southeast LA) of the now defunct group decided to join forces and start a new project that incorporates a more electronic-infused sound. And after an active search, they then brought on San Diego native multi-instrumentalist Rexelle (also known as Maria-Rexelle) in late 2012, and Boston native drummer Jason Ywahu in early 2013 to add the final pieces of the puzzle. The result of this “Social Experiment” as the band calls it, is a musical collaboration that encompasses a myriad of influences combined with 80s Electrofunk, Synthpop, Darkwave, and Britpop.

Since then, ANIMATO has independently released their self-titled debut EP in September 2014 along with the music video for “Souls for Gold.” This song is featured in the upcoming film “Looking for Lions,” which was officially selected to premier at the 2014 Austin Film Festival.

Earlier this year, ANIMATO was featured in the nationally broadcasted Guitar Center New Year Sale TV commercial.

A few months later, ANIMATO won the national “Musician of The Year” title at the 6th Annual RAWards Indie Arts Awards held by the RAW: Natural Born Artists organization.

And just recently, ANIMATO won the Skinnie Magazine/Acropolis Records Battle for The Vans Warped Tour, which won them a slot to perform at the Vans Warped Tour in Ventura, CA.

“Heavy on energy and light on boring, the band’s self-titled EP is filled with catchy melodies and dance grooves that will get your head nodding and your sweat glands pouring.” – I Am Entertainment Magazine

elxcel is following