OTTUMWA — A group of “small-town kids” are getting a chance to live out their big-city dreams.

The Ottumwa band “She Swings She Sways,” was recently signed to a record label in Des Moines. The label Authentic Records, which signs bands from around the Midwest has just helped the Ottumwa group complete their first full-length album and is promoting them on a 44-day, 25-state tour. They will be heading out after their “big release party,” which will be from 8-11 p.m. tonight at Roe’s Restaurant and Bar in Ottumwa.

The group officially became a band after their first stage performance in July of 2005. Band members include Cory Canny, John Gordon, Diana Garles, Jason Bolinger, Troy Morgan and Wes VanAntwerp. All are from Ottumwa except for Garles, who hails from Fairfield.

Their original goal was to get signed to a label. Now that they have done that, their goal is to become professional musicians.

For now, their CDs are only available online at: www.sheswingsshesways.com or at www.authenticrecordsonline.com.

The band hopes to produce more albums and become even more well known after their national press and radio campaigns along their tour.

Morgan said the album, which is called “Wasted Love Songs,” features Indie pop, acoustic rock and Midwest style songs about failed and unrequited love.

“’Wasted Love Songs’ says it all,” said Garles.

“I think we have all had a time in our lives where we have listened to a song or a record and it has made us feel better,” Gordon said. “We just want to be able to pass that along. The power of a good song is a special thing.”

Gordon said most of the songs are from personal relationships or experiences.

“Some are confessional and some are observational,” he said.

Each band member said they are looking forward to different things along their tour.

“I like to see new places and meet new people,” Garles said.

“I’m looking forward to playing our music every night,” VanAntwerp said.

Morgan said this is a big opportunity for the band and it is something they want to do.