Cavashawn got their first taste of the big time at an early age. As high school students in a band together, they scored slots opening for John Mayer, Jason  Mraz, and Edwin McCain. These thrilling teenage experiences were enough to inspire the guys to stick with it. "Trying to make a career out of music isn't exactly the kind of path that is encouraged when you grow up in Ohio," says singer and band songwriter Scott Salmon. "But we're doing it anyway."Half a decade and over 800 shows later, their ambition has paid off.  Salmon, together with guitarist Chris Hellmann, bassist Ben Kubicki and drummer Jesse Feister, released their first EP, Cavashawn, in late February to rave reviews The band has carved out a niche in today's volatile music industry, earning fans both onstage and online. The electric atmosphere at their live shows results in die-hard fans at every outing. And their web presence is as contagious as their performances; with 10,000+ music junkies following the group on Myspace & Facebook alone, Cavashawn is a genuinely unstoppable force in cyberspace. The key to Cavashawn's success is their work ethic. The band is devoted to toughing it out on the road, building their legions of devotees one show and one fan at a time. "We didn't grow up in L.A.," quips Salmon. "We have never had a choice but to make our own breaks."It certainly doesn't hurt that the band consistently churns out hit songs. Likening their sound to a blend of early Maroon 5 meets Jack’s Mannequin, they manage to balance pop sensibility with a sharp intuition for authenticity. Other musical luminaries are beginning to take notice: the band has nabbed opening slots for acts like Better Than Ezra, Jon McLaughlin and One Republic.  And, lest they forget their heartland roots, Cavashawn continues to sell out venues in Chicago, Cincinnati and Columbus while building rabid followings in other markets.If the last several years are any indication, Cavashawn will not be resting on its laurels. And in all likelihood, you will soon be able to experience their singular sound and electric energy at a venue near you.