ABOUT US
Formed in Spokane, Washington in 2020, Vella La Vella began playing music out of a Pontiac drum car called Helldorado, gaining rapid attention as their pop-up performances flooded the social media feeds of millions of viewers.
Driven by a DIY hard-rock spirit and inspired by the big, bad, and ugly side of electrified rock 'n' roll, the band has steadily built a following that spans mainstream radio-rock listeners to diehard metalheads.
Now based in Los Angeles, Vella La Vella features Johnny Symmes (guitar/vocals), Bryce Pfefferkorn (bass/guitar), and Nachiket Karekar (drums).
FEATURES & CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
National Television & Viral Reach
- Featured with Noah Orion on American Idol, Season 24, premiering January 26, 2026, introducing Vella La Vella to a nationwide television audience.
- The band’s collaboration with Noah Orion generated a single viral video exceeding 100 million views across platforms, with additional high-reach content and collaborations involving creators such as Ross Smith, significantly expanding cross-platform visibility.
Film & Media Placement
- Vella La Vella’s music is featured in the upcoming feature film Ivory Night at the Center of the Galaxy (2026), extending the band’s presence into theatrical film.
Live Performance Highlights
- Performed at major events including Monsters of the Mountain and the Illinois 300 NASCAR Race.
- Selected to open the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in August 2026, one of the largest motorcycle and live-music events globally.
- Sold out the 1,500-capacity Knitting Factory in Spokane, Washington.
- Headlined the Whisky A Go Go and The Viper Room multiple times, both independently and in collaboration with Ultimate Jam Night and Dirty Mondays.
Songwriting & Industry Credibility
- Richie Faulkner [Judas Priest] holds a songwriting credit with the band on the song "Anthem" contributing notable legacy credibility within the hard-rock genre.
PRESS QUOTES
“I love Vella La Vella, as they blend different genres of hard rock without coming off as a tribute band. I can hear the meticulousness as they craft their songs, perfectly mending each genre effortlessly.”…
“A power-piece filled with uniting rock fans, and an endearing call to action. I have faith in the success of this band. The only question is, my dear reader: Are YOU ready for the Revolution that Vella La Vella will bring forth?”
- Sweet T Marie, medium.com
“Blonde, Bad and Beautiful, is equally robust with a strong and catchy chorus and a fantastic guitar solo as well. It reminds me of old Skid Row and the good old 90s.”
- Giovanni Gagliano, giventorock.com
"Revolution" is an assertive, dynamic debut, filled with confidence and elaborate compositions that speak to both the spirit of old-school metal and the nuances of modern music crafting. This album is not just a collection of songs but a well-rounded narrative of rebellion, reflection, and resonance.”
- Amy, clickrollboom.co.uk
“With an opening riff that hits you in the face right away, a gigantic melody, and spine-tingling choruses, “My Guns A’Blazing” is a rock piece with a constant adrenaline rush.”
- Alejandro Balcázar, indieam.com.mx