Wayside was formed in 1996 while its members were still attending the University of British Columbia. While in its infancy, Wayside had managed to gather enough of a fan base to play in clubs like the Starfish Room and the Brickyard, and opened for acts such as Rymes with Orange and The Special Guests. Instinct and influence have helped define Wayside’s musical style. The Wayside sound sticks close to its rock roots but flirts with elements of pop and punk. Its driving rhythm, layered with infectious hooks and harmonies, have helped define a sound that is catchy and distinct. Their six-song CD "...Until Now" captured the attention of Vancouver radio station CFOX 99.3FM and the PMIA (Pacific Music Industry Association) who chose Wayside as one of the top nine bands out of over three-hundred entries in their Demolisten Derby contest in 1998. As a result, Wayside was rewarded with recording time and a track on the Vancouver Seeds 13 compilation CD released in 1999. Following the CD's release, the band used its newfound confidence and stage presence and began to win new fans in clubs throughout Vancouver. A solid following emerged that the band continues to draw upon to this day. Their live show circuit culminated with their inclusion in the New Music West festival in 1999, 2000 and 2001, further defining their place in the local music scene. In 2002, Wayside turned over a new leaf, converting their keyboardist into a bassist and adding a second guitarist. Wayside has been able to take their existing sound and tweak it to perfection. Fresh off their first gig, Wayside entered bandFEST2002, featuring bands from Vancouver, the Lower Mainland and Victoria in a massive battle-of-the-bands event. Wayside stormed their way through 4 rounds and made it to the bandFEST BC Championship Finals held at Mavericks on the Waterfront. Wayside spent the latter half of the year in the studio recording four brand new songs and released their CD to a packed house at the Anza Club in February 2003.