Life has a soundtrack. And for Claire Dobbs, sophomore, that soundtrack is provided by the reverb-soaked croons and spacious guitar-ridden hooks of California rockers Young the Giant.

Young the Giant was formed in Irvine, California in 2004, known then as The Jakes. They underwent several line-up changes and received mild attention on local airwaves with their EP “Shake My Hand.” In 2010, the band changed their name to Young the Giant and began touring with alternative rock acts Minus the Bear and Steel Train while working on their debut album.

Released late 2010, the self-titled debut was hailed the third best rock album of that year by Amazon.com. Over the past year the record has spawned singles that began to erupt all over the charts, “My Body” went onto peak at number 5 on the Billboard Alternative Songs chart.

Soon the band began playing as guest artists on late night shows and performing during the 2011 MTV Video Music Awards, which shot their debut album to the #42 spot on the Billboard 200 albums chart. Even English singer Morrissey declared Young the Giant as his new favorite band. And after finding a link to the band’s music while skimming a music blog one Sunday, they became Claire Dobbs’ favorite as well.

“The first song I listened to was “My Body”, I liked the way it sounded so I went to YouTube to listen to more of their music.” Dobbs explains. “Their sound is pretty easy going, and their songs have a certain simplicity to them.”

One of Dobbs’ most memorable experiences with the band’s music was during a long car ride with her brother on the way to their grandmother’s house. “My brother and I like the same music, so we listened to their album the whole time while driving on the country roads. We were just belting it out.”

For new listeners, Dobbs recommends students begin with “Cough Syrup.”

“It really rings to you, it’s really very relatable.” Dobbs said. Earlier last year, she saw Young the Giant perform live at Chicago’s Lollapalooza music festival.

“I had a great time”, she said. “[The band] doesn’t rely on studio magic, they sound just as good live.”

Young the Giant will be performing at The Pageant in March with openers Grouplove. It’s a must see show for Dobbs, and she recommends that everyone with a love for music to attend.

“You can’t go wrong with this band,” Dobbs said. “You’re going to be surprised.”