This Theory holds up

When a band’s moniker includes a female name, it usually references someone or something, whether real or mythical. But the members of the Juliana Theory say their band’s name warrants little thought, which is more than a little surprising when you consider the thought and passion the five musicians seem to put into everything they do.

The Pennsylvania band started five years ago as a side project, each member tackling an instrument he had not played in previous bands. Singer-guitarist Brett Detar played in the Christian metal-core band Zao, while bassist Chad Alan, guitarists Josh Kosker and Josh Fielder and a since-departed drummer played in various short-lived groups. They soon became so comfortable in their new roles and their influences were so similar -- the Beatles, Pink Floyd and U2 -- they decided to make the Juliana Theory their sole focus.

“ ‘The Juliana Theory’ ... is a pretty stupid band name if you ask me,” Detar says. “Let’s just say this: Every band has a name and for better or for worse, this is ours.”

After playing for nearly a year in and around their hometown of Latrobe, near Pittsburgh, the band put out its first release, “Understand This Is a Dream,” on independent label Tooth & Nail in 1999 and began to tour the country.

The record’s rhythmic textures and introspective themes, coupled with the group’s dramatic live shows, helped Juliana Theory gain a loyal and growing indie following. Although the sound was more head bobbin’ than shoe gazer, the members found themselves branded with the “emo” label.

“I don’t think we would know what to do if we weren’t getting tagged with some label or buzzword,” says Detar. “We write the music that we want to write and whatever people want to call it, they can call it.”

Based on the success of its first two albums (together, their two indie discs have sold more than 180,000 copies), the Juliana Theory was invited to play some dates on the 2001 Warped Tour. Juliana Theory’s just-released major label debut, “Love,” expands upon the rich, multilayered sound, thanks in part to producer Jerry Harrison (formerly of the Talking Heads).

Juliana Theory’s catchy tunes could easily fit rock or pop radio formats, but it remains to be seen if the band can translate indie fan love into mainstream adoration.

“Everybody has a different definition of success,” Alan says. “For us it’s going out and being able to play to a few thousand kids a night and really being able to connect with them through the music. We’d love to sell millions of albums. But we won’t change who we are to accomplish that.”

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Juliana Theory

Where: The Palace, 1735 N. Vine St., Hollywood

When: Friday, 5:30 p.m.

Cost: $15

Info: (213) 467-4571.

Where: The Glass House, 200 W. 2nd St., Pomona

When: Saturday, 7 p.m.

Cost: $15

Info: (909) 629-0377

Where: House of Blues, 1530 S. Disneyland Drive, Anaheim

When: Sunday, 7 p.m.

Cost: $18

Info: (714) 778-2583.