This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The biggest local music story of 2010 was the ascent of Neon Trees from the oft-overlooked music scene of Provo.

Now another Provo band — remember this name: Parlor Hawk — is aiming to climb the ladder to regional and national success.

It would take endless prodding for the modest, self-effacing five young men of the alt-country folk band to brag about their recent attention. Fortunately, others are talking about them. "It's one of the quickest ascensions of a band I've seen," said Corey Fox, owner of Velour, the heart of Provo's live music scene.

Nationally, iTunes featured the quintet's 2010 debut album "Hoarse & Roaring" in its Indie Spotlight in July, and then named the album to its "Best of 2010" top singer/songwriter list. They're one of the youngest acts on the 2010 list, which also includes well-known musicians such as Joshua Radin, David Gray and The Weepies.

The band's musical influences include Neil Young and Wilco. But it's the recent success of Neon Trees that inspires them to believe this might be their breakout year. "They're an example that a Provo band can make it," said bassist Andrew Dyer, 27. "It's possible. They brought Provo some attention."

Provo has always been a red-headed stepchild in Utah music circles, with sibling Salt Lake City often dismissive of its musical comrades an hour's drive south, much as the hipsters of the University of Utah do their best to brush off conservative culture of Brigham Young University.

But recently Parlor Hawk has been snagging plum gigs in Utah's capital city, including opening for former Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page in December, and supporting The Civil Wars' high-profile show at The State Room on Jan. 20.

The hard work could be attributed to the influence of each of the five going on two-year Mormon missions, as well as two having graduated from college with the other three on track to graduate soon.

When Parlor Hawk came together in 2009, the band was recruited to help songwriter and lead singer Drew Capener record a solo record.

But now it has grown into a band of five equals. "The first time our lineup formed, I thought we were on to something," said T.J. Nokleby, 26, lead guitarist. And the growing number of local fans will agree that he's right.

Parlor Hawk will open for The Civil Wars at The State Room,638 S. State St., Salt Lake City, on Jan. 20. Tickets, $12 in advance, $15 day of show, at http://www.thestateroomslc.com. Remember this name: Parlor Hawk

For a video of the young Provo alt-country folk band, visit http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8jVX57tX0M.