Although all four members have hectic day jobs, Goodwin is already more accomplished than many local bands, emphasizing “quality over quantity.”The band was recently named Best Rock Band in the 2005 Fort Worth Weekly Music Awards. In 2003, Goodwin was named Best Local Band by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram and Best Unsigned Band by the Fort Worth Weekly.

“I was ecstatic (about the recognition) because I’m working with the best musicians in D/FW,” said Tony Diaz, one of the band’s vocalists.

Guitarist and vocalist Daniel Gomez and Diaz write most of Goodwin’s songs, taking their inspiration from life experiences, relationships and other personal encounters.

“I think they’re songs that everyone can relate to because they are so personal,” Gomez said.

Diaz and Gomez say they agree that recognizing and embracing the band’s limitations has led to its success.

When Gomez and Diaz left their previous band, Bindle, the duo said they were left with the foundation for a successful project.

Goodwin, formed in 2002 by Gomez and Diaz, is influenced by well-known bands such as the Foo Fighters, the Strokes and Weezer.

To round out the group, Gomez and Diaz began the search for a bassist and a drummer.

After rotating through several bass players, the duo finally decided on Bindle-mate Matt Hembree; drummer Damien Stewart joined the lineup shortly after seeing a show.

“Damien was the catalyst for the band,” Gomez said.

The Goodwin members rehearse around their work schedules and treat the band like a business, Gomez said.

Before the end of the year, Goodwin plans to release a precursor to its upcoming album, which will include a song from its new CD and a video of the band.

Goodwin is the opening act for Darth Vato at the Back To School Party 2 on Saturday at The Moon.