One of the most unique aspects of this group is the wide variety from which each band member draws their influences: the seeds of their sound. Inspired by such artists as Radiohead, Bjork, and Tori Amos, singer-songwriter/vocalist LeAnne paired up with the bluegrass and classic rock-influenced guitar soloist Adam Keller three years ago after they met at an open mic on the University of Southern California campus. The chemistry was instantaneous and they soon began writing songs and performing them for friends. Wanting to put together a more cohesive group, they began looking for additional members to complete the band.

Introduced through mutual friends at USC, they found a gem in Frautschi; with his electronic drum kit and home-made drum set, he is an avid listener of electronic, experimental, and avant garde jazz genres. Completing the ensemble was jazz bassist Matt Jung who draws his inspiration from a wide variety of jazz and latin styles as well as artists like Frank Zappa and Bobby McFerrin.

In the last year and a half, Totara has played at wide variety of Los Angeles area venues such as The Whisky A Go Go, 14 Below, The Joint, Room 5 Lounge, Club Good Hurt, The MBar, Ground Zero Coffeehouse, The Blue Cafe, and Hogue Barmichael's.

The wide array of music tastes has made Totara's sound grow into a unique but approachable genre all their own. As a group they enjoy experimenting with music, they are not afraid to challenge the three-and-a-half minute pop standard with epic rock compositions, and they are inspired by the energy of the crowd in their solos. This is truly a band which will move you to the core.