Gathered around a table at Macri Park, the five amiable members of North Highlands reflect on their whirlwind experience since the band’s inception in May. At their three-month mark, they had written and recorded a six-song EP that they have likened to a Chili’s sample starter platter for its eclectic nature. By October, they booked an unofficial CMJ show that drew a mesmerized crowd, who raved about it seconds later, thanks to the Internet. In December, they played an uncomfortably packed show at the Cake Shop and acquired a van to gear up for a future tour. – Read Nancy Chow’s interview with the band here.