iSound

Cantus Firmus was formed out of absolute necessity. The three members, brothers Kellee and Kerry Van Hemert, and Phil Davidson needed a creative outlet. Other area bands had all fallen into the same post-hardcore/screamo monotony trap which forced area music lovers to look elsewhere to satisfy their musical cravings. Something new was needed. As the band began to write songs, they realized that everything they did as a band could not be typical. That mindset has led them to think outside the musical box. Whether it was interesting rhythms or unique melodies, the band had a mission. Their brand of alternative rock would be different. The first CF show was at The Vaudeville Mews in Des Moines. Six songs were played that night to a crowd hovering just above single digits. After the boys’ set, the sound guy came down and told them it was the best first show he had ever seen. All that from a guy who sees shows every night, it was encouraging for them to say the least. However, they w...