Highland High Friends Reunite: The Elephino Project Revives with New Video ‘Calculate’

Highland High School Friends Reunite to Revive The Elephino Project

Three friends from Highland High School’s Class of 2009 have reunited to bring back their alternative rock band, The Elephino Project. Members Nicholas Paz, Samuel Matkin, and Jeremy Bristol share a passion for music that combines art and activism. They aim to entertain while inspiring thought and action.

Their comeback begins with a music video for “Calculate,” originally recorded in 2011. This song addresses the national debt crisis and has quickly gained over 8,000 views on YouTube.

Bristol, the band’s drummer, emphasizes their unique musical identity, stating, “As good friends, we thrive on the synergy of our creative process.” Lead singer Paz explained that he was inspired to write the lyrics based on Matkin’s guitar riffs. He said, “The song is even more relevant now. The key talking point is, ‘We’re in an economic crisis. Are you prepared?’”

The video for “Calculate” was produced by their friend Tucker Robertson of Bandit Media. It includes stock footage that reflects the song’s themes and was filmed in the Massacre Rocks area. Paz chose this location for its personal significance.

The filming process took about six months, though only four takes were needed for one cliff scene. The band dedicated the video to Matkin’s mother, who passed away in 2022.

Bristol spoke about their approach to serious topics, saying, “We have a sense of humor interwoven into our songwriting.” The humor is evident in the video’s ending, where they emerge from a cave with guitars instead of weapons.

The band is currently working on a new song and music video titled “Danger.” Matkin feels rejuvenated by their reunion, stating, “We are boosting each other’s ambition and sharing powerful messages.”

The Elephino Project looks forward to performing live in their community and encourages fans to follow them on YouTube and Spotify.