Allison combines her passion for music with writing and leadership by producing teen-friendly concerts with 1308 Productions, a non-profit that she and her family created to bring emerging bands to youth at an affordable cost in the Miami area. The shows have since become officially endorsed by MTV’s Rock the Vote organization and encourage teens to get involved with politics. Not only are rising bands getting great exposure with new audiences, but teens who help Allison organize and promote the events receive community-service credit.

When asked how she feels about being on this list, Allison says: “It amazes me that I’m recognized in a list of only 18 students. It really is an honor, since the reason [for getting involved] was not to be recognized. I did it because I enjoy it, and I’m glad for all of the positive results that are created.”

Clark Douglas Burris, director of Rock Ensemble, Sound Engineering and Guitar Studies at Miami Beach Senior High School, says: “By taking the unusual initiative, as a teenager, to provide these special events for her fellow teenagers to display their musical talents, Allison has set the example for others to follow. This is only one of the ways in which Allison, in her own unique fashion, has improved the world.”

View all of the “18 Under 18″ winners here http://www.jvibe.com/Real_life/18Under18.php

Indie-rock sensations Ex Norwegian are receiving an uproarious reception to their debut album, Standby, being declared the “next big indie thing” by Revue magazine. Performing at New York’s CMJ Music Marathon mere months after their formation, the band has become the new buzz band of the year seemingly overnight. College radio led the charge with over 140 stations spinning them regularly now and the music blogosphere quickly followed with the band receiving rave reviews critically, cover stories, and featured spots on some of the most popular music sites. All the while the band’s fanbase continues its rapid growth since the release of their two singles, the Shins-styled folk-pop “Something Unreal” and the irresistibly catchy “Dance Trance Pants.”

Visit their website and catch them on their upcoming dates!