Avigdor Zahner-Isenberg began writing songs as a high-school sophomore, using the name "Avi Buffalo" as his musical alias. Within a year’s time, the Long Beach native had put together a full band with drummer Sheridan Riley, bassist Arin Fazio, and keyboardist Rebecca Coleman. After playing several small shows, the teenagers won the support of engineer Aaron Embry, who welcomed Avi Buffalo into his home studio for a round of recording sessions. The band’s quirky lo-fi pop songs also attracted attention from Sub Pop Records, and the label released Avi Buffalo’s first single in late 2009. A self-titled album followed in April 2010. ~ Andrew Leahey