Author: Jessica Golich

Based in Detroit, Michigan. Owner/Writer of LifeBeyondTheMusic.com.

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Music Reviews

Rising Texas Rapper, J’Moris, Releases New EP: ‘Extra’

Rising Texas Rapper, J’Moris, is making major plays in the game and we’re delighted to see him bring the wild thoughts that cross his mind to life throughout his latest EP, ‘Extra. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first and title track, “Extra”, crisp production walks listeners into a hypnotic beat as J’Moris showcases qualities of a seasoned vet right off bat with lyrical reminders of the hustle days when his vision was set on the free lunch line rather than the stars. The second track, “Misbehave”, slows it down into a mixture of 90’s R&B and 2000 Hip-Hop as J’Moris candidly puts his sexual urges and fantasies on blast over a beat that incorporates a soft piano so fluidly that it leads listeners into a state of trance. “Not At All” is the third track in which J’Moris takes his fans through the days of his childhood when he had nothing but crumbs on his plate yet switches it up to the motivation that he has cultivated within which has served to his burgeoning lifestyle and shifting experiences. Closing out with “Speed Boat”, J’Moris lyrically puts it all on the line and twists his intention to take no prisoners throughout each bar while tip-top production takes the track to a level that wouldn’t necessarily be expected from an unsigned artist.

Through his ability to get down to the nitty-gritty, J’Moris spits with no pity and 2019 is his time to shine. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Big K.R.I.T, Jadakiss and Meek Mill, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for J’Moris on Spotify.

J’Moris Social Links:

Facebook • Soundcloud • Twitter

 

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Music Reviews

Delaware Dream Pop Musician, Gina Graves, Releases New Album: ‘And We Rise’

Delaware Dream Pop Musician, Gina Graves, has translated her inner emotional world of feeling into a candid musical work of art throughout her new album release, ‘And We Rise’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Everything You Are”, Gina slowly creates the aura of mystery through medieval instrumentals that lead to her sultry vocals that take listeners down the lyrical road of attachment as Gina comes to realize how deeply connected she has become to another human being. “Glide” is the second track in which Gina lyrically reaches for a place of freedom as she shares the message that she is over the mind games that another plays and it is her time to cultivate her wings and fly away with ease and grace. The third track, “If You Dare”, is a haunting lyrical reminder of the past memories that continue to creep up into Gina’s mind as she attempts to either remove herself or dive fully into from a situation.

“New Star” is the fourth track that slows it down into a mollifying journey into peace as Gina lyrically strives to open her eyes to all of the good that is readily available and alive throughout her life. The fifth track, “Your Beautiful Self”, is a gentle reminder of the remarkable qualities within another that have captivated Gina’s soft, open and vulnerable heart. “I Am Light” is the sixth track in which Gina introspectively challenges herself to see the qualities that shine within herself as she reaches for higher ground. The seventh track, “Bring You Back”, peels back layers of pain and self-imposed agony as Gina lyrically aches to bring back the person, thoughts and feelings that she thought encompassed another human being. “Turn Blue” is the eighth track in which Gina lyrically throws in the towel and leans into accepting the expiration date of a love that once served the awakening of pieces of her soul. The tenth track, “All Your Dreams”, opens the windows to invite in Gina’s dreams as she lyrically makes it known that love is the key component aiding in her day-to-day wellbeing. Closing out with the eleventh track, “And We Rise”, Gina instrumentally trickles her way into clarity and climbs over inner mountains to see a new and promising view.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as KT Tunstall, PJ Harvey and Tori Amos, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Gina Graves and stream ‘And We Rise’ now on HearMeNow.

Gina Graves Social Links:

Facebook • YouTube • CD Baby

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Music Reviews

Indie Rockers, Arden & The Wolves, Release New Cover – “Mary Did You Know”

Los Angeles Based Indie Rockers, Arden & The Wolves, are roaring forward with soul-infused fire and make that known throughout their cover of Pentatonix’ “Mary Did You Know”. Trickling into her smokey and deep vocals, Arden & The Wolves travel to wondrous depths to capture an enigmatic and darkened portrayal of the holiday spirit. Having dabbled into the traditional means of going about the holidays within the ripe days of her youth, Arden made the decision to artistically splatter a layer of obscure energy onto a classic holiday hit which is both welcoming and comforting to an idiosyncratic mind and listener. Manifesting an alternative point of view through the traditional holiday lover, Arden & The Wolves cover of “Mary Did You Know” purposely breaks the rule to open chambers of thought.

Reborn and alive in new light, Arden Leigh has restored vulnerability and meaning both within herself and the world around her. Having experienced both sides of the coin, Arden has risen from the ashes with a new awareness and clean emotional slate which has allowed her to selflessly feel compassion and deeply connect with others. Unearthing transformation through choosing not to succumb to the illusions that one can paint through mental hypothesizing, Arden has undergone intense psychological and somatic processing to become an independent and fearless thought leader. Portrayed through her artistry with ease, Arden’s alternative perspectives that sprout through her candid investigations of her subconscious aid in the reorganization of the emotions, the minds and the spirits of listeners. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Evanescence, The Pretty Reckless and Poe, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Arden & The Wolves on YouTube.

Arden & The Wolves Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

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Music Reviews

Melbourne Songstress, Monique Angele, Releases New Album: ‘Alive’

Melbourne Songstress, Monique Angele, is poised in depth and has curated a reflective work of musical art from the heart throughout her latest EP, ‘Alive’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Pink Coloured Sky”, Monique’s angelic vocals elevate the lighthearted touch of elegance that is laced throughout the serene instrumentals which clash fluidly after the first verse to break into a colorful sky from a place where clouds had become darkened. The second track, “Our Paradise”, begins with an airy piano that trickles its way into a lyrical journey into Monique’s intention to create a special heaven on earth that is entirely their own with a special human being who has moved her down to the soul. “Forever Strong” is the third track in which Monique lyrically yearns for peace of mind and a sense of clarity as she dives into the deep end of herself to uncover reservoirs of strength that have been uncovered through loss.  

The fourth track, “Rare Girl”, stands out as Monique lyrically embodies her worth and stands tall as a shining example for all of the individuals who are settling for less than what they desire or deserve in this lifetime. “Hold On” is the fifth track in which Monique lyrically dances with her devils in attempts to overcome her own fear of not being able to move forward from a situation or experience that was stifling everything that she had worked so hard to become and be. Closing out with “I Want A World”, the young and vulnerable remnants of Monique come to light as she lyrically proclaims her desire to aid in creating a brighter and kinder world for all.

Monique Angele emits a gracefulness throughout her artistry that mimics prestigious divas of the past. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Vanessa Carlton, Skylar Grey and Sara Bareilles, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Monique Angele on Soundcloud.

Monique Angele Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • YouTube Channel

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Interviews

Interview: Tetrarch

Independent Rockers, Tetrarch, are leading from the heart and giving every ounce of their blood, sweat and tears to the music and bigger picture over the years. Having released their monster debut album, ‘FREAK’, it is evident that the band has started their engines and are ready for exciting years to come. I caught up with one of the most human and genuine shredders of our days, Diamond Rowe, to discuss the wild ride that Tetrarch has been on, perseverance as an independent artist, being happy on tour and much more.

Photo Credit: Samantha Madnick Photography

Congrats on the success of your debut record, ‘Freak’. Tell us about the whirlwind of experiences that you have encountered through the release and what the record means to you.

Thank you! Honestly, this record has been so amazing for this band. Even more so than we initially anticipated. Everytime we thought the record had reached a satisfactory point for us something bigger and better would happen. From all of the radio play to all of the press and magazines the support was amazing and the fans we’ve made on this album cycle have been the best! Not to mention, the album is so descriptive of the type of band we are. In a way, we are outcasts. Always have been – but were respected and we are gaining some crazy opportunities from always being ourselves and knowing where we want to go. That’s what being a FREAK is all about.

You do a lot of “the work” of being a musician independently. I witness the extra effort that you put in with your fans and promo and it’s incredible. Tell us about your persistence with Tetrarch.  

Tetrarch is our life. Our goal is to be one of the biggest Hard Rock/Metal bands in the entire world and that doesn’t come easy. That’s going to take a lot of hard work for a very long time and I am fully committed and ready for that. Tetrarch is the first thing I think about when I wake up in the morning and the last when I fall asleep at night and I love every up and down of this journey. I also have so much faith in what we are doing. The plans we have for the near future are pretty insane and things that I only dreamed of so it’s easy to stay motivated when you see results like that.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

That’s a tough one because any discouraging thought I have is pretty quickly fleeting. I know where we want to go and I’m pretty confident that we are going to get there so if I do have a moment of discouragement, I snap out of it pretty quickly. Sometimes things may not happen at the exact moment that I want them to, but over time I’ve seen that even in those cases they usually end up happening at some point and it all ends up being worth it if I just continue on and don’t let it get to me. Having said all of that, I definitely am not perfect.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I think it has its goods and bads for sure. It’s amazing how easy we can all connect with each other and get our content out there for everyone to see. Especially when you’re in a band or an artist of some sort. You can reach an incredible amount of people – I have met so many people in my industry through social media who I am now extremely close with. It’s great in that sense. It can also be negative because there are a lot of fakes out there that can create a perception of who they are or the talent that they have and sometimes it turns out to not be real which is disappointing!

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

Honestly, I’m super proud of my tenacity with things that I really want. I have been that way my entire life – If theres something that I really want, I always go and get it. Now, there’s a negative effect to that as well – If it’s something I don’t care about, I DON’T CARE and nothing can make me do it. It’s a pretty interesting dynamic but I am proud of my record of being able to become the best at anything I set my mind to.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I LOVE being on the road! Traveling to new cities and meeting new people that love Tetrarch brings me immense joy. I think me and the guys in the band are genuinely lucky in that sense. We all really enjoy being on the road. Van, bus, plane, it doesn’t matter. We’re best friends and we always have a blast. We were lucky enough to have started touring when we were younger so we learned all of the do’s and don’ts early so everything is pretty smooth sailing for us now. For me personally, I usually just need a second alone sometimes to just have some quiet time. Even if that’s for 10 minutes once a week – It’s usually more beneficial than I even thought it would be. Staying connected with loved ones is pretty crucial too. Helps you stay grounded and know that you do have a support circle out there that really believes in what your doing and is proud of you. At Least – that helps me a lot and has kept me strong.

Photo Credit: Samantha Madnick Photography

You have toured with some of your favorite musicians over the past few years. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

I wouldn’t say that we have necessarily gained any words of wisdom per say but I will say that a lot of the bands that we have toured with these last few years have reaffirmed what we already believed in doing. We’ve always tried to be professional on the road – show up to venues on time (early), be respectful of the bands and crew, and play our hearts out every single night and a lot of the bands that we have toured with have taken notice of that and made mention of it which feels really good. As an up and coming band it feels great to know when you’re doing things right and up to par.

Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour plans that you can fill us in about?

We are definitely going to be doing a lot of touring in 2019. That’s actually what a lot of our focus is on now with planning for the year and it’s so exciting. I can’t wait to be able to announce it all!

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

I just want to say thank you for the support over the last year. Everything has truly been amazing for this band and we see the benefits of it everyday. Also – keep your eyes peeled on our socials and website etc for all of the announcements that we are about to drop. We’re about to take things to the next level for sure!

Tetrarch Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

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Music Reviews

San Francisco Rockers, Revolushn, Release New Single – “Little Red Dolls”

San Francisco Psych Rockers, Revolushn, are back in action with their last single of 2018 entitled “Little Red Dolls”. Mixing a hefty dose of instrumental prowess with a psychedelic lyrical journey into grandiose creative thought, Revolushn have brought out their wild and darker side of thought which has translated into a rousing hit that stirs the senses. Accompanied by trippy visual artwork that depicts a lost soul whose life has spun out of control, the yearning to get back in touch with ones younger self is alive and well throughout “Little Red Dolls”.

Having dabbled into the world of music in the ripe days of his youth, NO is able to see and create from the scope of ensuring that the authenticity of the music is in tact while meeting the expectations and demands of our modern and digital age. Rather than licking honey off of a knife, Revolushn is a band that strives to be the knife that gently slices the truth into the hearts and conscious minds of global listeners worldwide. Being the first single after the release of their full-length album, ‘Further’ in 2017, Revolushn are twisting and turning through their own life experiences to bring their insides outward and share their universal perspective of liberation for all. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Rush, Yes and Sting and The Police, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Revolushn on Soundcloud.

Revolushn Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Kore Rozzik

New York Rockers, Kore Rozzik, are aware of the reality of the music industry and are navigating it from a place of ensuring that their truth is at the forefront. Having recently released their new album, ‘Vengeance Overdrive’, I caught up with the gang to discuss responsibility as an artist, being your own worst critic as an artist, social media being a tool they haven’t fully learned how to crack and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Vengeance Overdrive’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

I really wanted to create a fun interesting story. Make Kore an iconic figure with a story and a goal in mind. A big motivation for the record was the fact that I had experienced so much prejudice and judgement from the local scene. I truly had a lot of hardships and the art truly imitates life. Vengeance is a record based in NYC and Kore’s desire to not just become a successful musician but to silence the haters and in some cases literally. It’s a fantasy horror story in many ways. The songs slowly started to organically create the vision that I had. I learned that sometimes the songs will show you the way and can further inspire more songs. Especially once you know that you are doing a concept album. The recording process was pretty smooth with our team. They knew how to showcase our talents and bring life to what we wanted to display.

If you could sit down with your younger self and give him one small dose of advice, what would you say to him?

Save your money because you’re gonna need it. Half of the stuff you are worried about right now won’t matter in a few years.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

I think as artists we are our own worst critics. Doubt is constantly coming into our minds. We can be our own worst enemy. But you have to see this is a blessing. Even though at times it is a curse. We have the ability to create and inspire. Experience things in a way most other people won’t or could ever understand. Being in a rock band big or small is a unique thing.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I think that in a way it’s a great tool but it is still a code I haven’t fully learn to crack. I think sadly a lot of quality music is lost in the shuffle due to over saturation online. Many things are cherry picked to the top of the line.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

I take pride in the fact that I’m a very gray person. Open-minded. We are all influenced at times but I see things in my own way. I can see through the media and political agendas. At Least I think I do. I just don’t let certain things affect me the way I see others. EIther people swayed so extremely or just feeling so strongly about something in an anger driven way.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I do my best to get sleep. Many bands don’t do hotels at our level for cost purposes. I however need the rest. It’s the only way to maintain my voice and my sanity. I also bring on the road what I call my “medicine bag”. It contains many vitamins and supplements for immunity and anxiety. I do my best to socialize with fans that are positive and loving. Have a few shots of crown to take the edge off but within reason.

Life in New York must be so creatively inspiring. Tell us about your experience in NYC and how it has enhanced your artistry.

NYC has been a mixed bag for me honestly. Hence the moniker” The bastard child of NYC”. I think it motivated me to be the person I am today. Fueled by frustration and competition. I never felt truly supported by my peers. But I think that drove me to be harder and stronger. That’s why the first record is so aggressive. I had to prove a point and surpass many others that doubted me. What NYC has taught me the most is this: Be aggressive, hustle but be humble. If you do that then people outside your circle will like you and want to help you. I think that’s something that a lot of NYC lacks.

Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour plans that you can fill us in about?

Right now we are working on booking some of our headlining tours and also looking out for some solid supporting slots as well. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Keep spreading the word for us. It means more than dollars. YouTube, Spotify, Facebook,  Instagram; everywhere and anywhere. Thank you to everyone that has done the right thing in 2018. Kore Locos are the best. See you next year! Don’t be a bozo.

Kore Rozzik Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Alexa Melo

California Songstress, Alexa Melo, lets down her guard in a empowering manner that showcases the personal growth and assurance that she continues to cultivate within as a human being. In celebration of the release of her latest EP, ‘MUTE’, I caught up with Alexa to discuss what she learned throughout the recording process, choosing not to damage your identity through the criticism of others, living in California and more.

Congrats on the recent release of the ‘Mute’ EP. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

Thank you! Well, the first song I recorded on ‘MUTE’ is called “Loyalty”. This was 6 months after a vocal cord surgery I underwent, and being mostly mute for months. So, I sang these songs in a much more timid and raw tone than anything else I’d ever done – my voice was still healing and I was not feeling myself. “Loyalty”, along with the rest of the songs featured on this EP, I recorded and produced alone in my bedroom. I was able to take my time and be patient with my voice, but also become more honest with my lyrics without feeling the judgement of others. I learned that being patient with myself and my writing is super important no matter how long it takes.

Share some words of wisdom that you have received along your journey as a musician that can serve to inspire others.

Never allow others to change your creative direction through scrutiny or criticism. It’s great to take constructive critiques and apply where it resonates with you, but never allow others to bully you into becoming something you’re not. This happens a lot in the industry and it’s never worth the damage it can ultimately do to your identity.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

The way that people make you feel about yourself is ultimately how you feel about yourself with or without them. I’ve had to learn to validate myself and not turn to others to provide that for me.

You’re currently based in California. Tell us about how living on the West Coast has served to influence your artistry.

Having lived in LA for 12 years and recently moving to the Bay Area, I’ve noticed that even between LA and the Bay, the artistic scenes and influence vary. Living in California means that motivated and talented artists are seemingly always around you – because they all seem to flock here to be in the industry. So, inspiration is on tap here and I love it.

Thinking back to day one in the studio for the ‘Mute’ EP, did you think that the release would have turned out anything like it did?

No. I had no idea it would be so dark, and that the visual aesthetic would be so dark as well. On day one, I didn’t know what would occur in the year to come. So many more unexpected hardships came my way, but at the end of the day I’m so pleased with the result of this EP.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

No drugs and lots of sleep. I’m pretty boring!

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I could go on and on about this, but I’ll spare you. There are so many pros and cons to discuss, especially when referring to the music industry and all the ways this digital era has affected it. My perspective is constantly shifting about this. Some days i feel like an old man cursing the “new way”! On other days i feel blessed being apart of this surreal, futuristic reality. What I am sure of though, is that I think there’s a balance we desperately need to all achieve to be a healthier, happier species. We have fallen way too deep into a technological world and I’m fairly certain it’s taking an unforgiving toll in how our minds work and how our brains are developing. Just in my lifetime, I’ve seen the way people interact with each other and the world change drastically in ways that are not positive. I think the internet is creating a false sense of connection while it’s actually creating distance between us. Not only that, I think it could also be turning us against each other in a sense. Not to mention the fact that vanity and narcissistic behavior is accepted and even encouraged now, especially in the younger generations. I’m concerned about how this will all affect us mentally as we age.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

Despite what you may believe upon looking at and listening to my art, I love to laugh and make people laugh. I’m a goofball; any darkness I may feel gets immediately filtered with art. I’m actually quite light-hearted.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Thank you for listening and supporting!

Alexo Melo Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website

Categories
Music Reviews

UK Songstress, LeeSun, Releases New Album: ‘Singing You This Song’

UK Songstress, LeeSun, emits an elegance throughout her artistry that is captivating to both the aching and alive soul. Having released her latest album, ‘Singing You This Song’, LeeSun is vulnerable in the most precious and enlightening way. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Wishing”, LeeSun softly strokes the aching cells of listeners going through heartbreak as she lyrically processes her heartache with the recognition of her endless yearning to connect with another that she deeply loves. The second track, “My Life”, abruptly showcases the manic highs and lows that stem from heartache as an instrumental and vocal element that mimics Lily Allen captures the spirit of a wandering mind and soul. “Mother Dear” is the third track that is beautifully composed and arranged to showcase the pain that LeeSun has carried within herself from experiences in her childhood that are difficult to let go of and process. The fourth track, “Dry Your Tears”, lyrically reassures listeners that newfound strength is on the way although at times experiences can feel so heavy that it feels as though the end of the world is impeding when in all reality, the end of a world that one once lived in is simply coming to a close.

“Want To Be” is the fifth track that is abounding with vulnerability as LeeSun has lyrically come out on the other side of processing and is present and grounded in her current reality which is the realization that her heart is connected to her twin flame for life. The sixth track, “The Week You Loved Me”, is titled with charm as LeeSun slowly reminisces about the seven days that love felt so alive while cunningly still keeping the fact that it was fleeting alive in the back of her mind. “This IS the Way” is the seventh track that lyrically pours forward from the soul as LeeSun is unsure as to where the next chapter with another will lead. The eighth track, “It Is What It Is”, feels like a load of bricks upon the listeners chest as LeeSun lyrically attempts to accept the loosening of an ancient grip that is no longer serving her personal growth. “Singing You This Song” is the ninth and title track that is full of lyrical contemplation and the replaying of past memories in LeeSun’s head over bouncy instrumentals that aid in the certainty of the indecision that she is feeling within. The tenth track, “Oh My Love”, lyrically opens up a relational casket that LeeSun knows she should forbid herself from yet her ego finds tempting to revisit. “Everything Dies” is the eleventh track lyrically tackles denial in a soul-tugging manner as LeeSun waxes and wanes between whether to push another away or pull them closer. “I’m Coming Home” is the twelfth track in which LeeSun lyrically lets go of the weight that she had previously carried and finds a place within herself in which she is ready to return home to both herself and another. Closing out with “We’re All Made Of Stars” (Guitar Version), LeeSun reminds listeners that we are all made of unique elements that make us exactly what we are and it’s okay to feel proud of who you have become.

‘Singing You This Song’ is an album that naturally brings tears to an individual’s eyes in the most welcoming way. LeeSun has created a breakup album for the ages. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Lily Allen, PJ Harvey and Norah Jones, then keep an eye out on the ride ahead for LeeSun on Soundcloud.

LeeSun Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Bandcamp

Categories
Interviews

Interview: A War Within

Detroit Rockers, A War Within, are a bundle of musical soldiers that continue to fight the good fight and stand up for what they believe in. As one of the most passionate, dedicated and human independent bands in the music industry who are unashamed to put every ounce of themselves out there, A War Within continues to change the independent landscape. I caught up with Spencer to discuss the bands journey as independent musicians, life in Michigan, the wonders of social media and much more.

Photo Credit: Alyssa Bardol

Your latest track, “Solace”, is packed with fury and raw lyricism. Tell us about your life experiences that have led you toward releasing such hefty and potent emotion throughout the track.

It’s the heaviest song we’ve ever written. It’s very much a tale of insecurity and anguish. The frustration in a world of today. It’s also quite ironic because as a band we’ve made peace with what we can’t chance so we really just try to find a way to work out the issues ahead of us. For me solace is where i find connecting in our humanity and the people we come across on a daily basis.

Tell us about your life in Michigan. How was it enhanced your artistry?

Michigan is such a tough place. Music has an elite art form and crowd. There are tons of great artists historically and currently from the area. So it’s a high standard to live up to. The fans from the area are supportive yet demanding. I think that’s why so many great bands come from the area. We as michiganders demand such a talent from those within the state the strong artists are forged from its turmoil.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

The strength to continue on and survive is always a constant challenge we face. I can’t completely speak on everyone’s behalf but i think all artists fight society in a way to be recognized and find a way to reach the masses on some level. Whether it’s simply creating art that ourselves and others well enjoy for years to come or to being able to live comfortably off of their craft. With the growth of technology it’s made the ever changing path more difficult to keep up with. A moment that we seem to chase being an unsigned band is to be signed. A band that does world tours. A band that releases platinum albums. As us humans, it’s to just be able to survive oneself. To conquer every defeat and trudge on back into the harsh wilderness.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I love it. I enjoy so much being able to reach out to our fans and friends. I wouldn’t say we have the largest fan base but though she be little, she be fierce. I pride on the support that we have and will strive to be the best that they wish us to be.

Photo Credit: Rachel Lynn Craig

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

There is no greater feeling to me than to touch another’s soul. Without seeing my face or body language it’s an unbelievable wonder how people, when taking the time to really look, can see the person inside the job or the social media profile. There’s also other tasks that hold concrete reactions. There’s the ability to set a goal and achieve it even if it’s not as complete as we like. The little victories that we can control. Such as putting together a full album or a music video. We’re an independent band like most so 100% of the work is done by the strength of our backs. The leg work of the old days transformed into a new style is still work to be done. A very satisfying event, although not as tangible, still the humanity shines thru is the reaction of our music. Both good and bad it’s the art that we aim to make people feel through.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

This business is definitely not for the weak-willed. A path of a career making musician is filled with destruction and despair most of the time. I find that the again, the small victories are what’s worth fighting for. We just love to tour so much and make music that a sacrifice of our health is just required. I feel like it helps the process. Its part of the Detroit strength that i’ve used time and time again to crush my obstacles

If you could recommend three of your favorite restaurants to check out in Detroit, which three would you choose and why?

Imperial, Johnny Noodle King, and either Lafayette or American Coney Island. I love mexican food and drinking margaritas. In Detroit, I have found no better combination of the two than Imperial. Although in Ferndale, north of Detroit it is by far one of my favorite restaurants for those reasons. Johnny Noodle King is this tiny hole-in-the-wall Pho/Ramen Bar that has the best noodles. I love pasta and asian cuisine so much. The place is always packed to the brim and it’s always busy AF. I feel if you had to decide what’s an iconic food about Detroit it would be our coneys. They’re basically diners that for some reason only we have them in this certain fashion in Detroit. For me, these are the most iconic two.

Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour/show plans that you can fill us in about?

Since we’re an unsigned band finding tours that make sense to us is harder than it looks. We’ve also toured a lot over the past couple of years and are using 2019 to help focusing our efforts into single shows while working on gained label support once and for all. Right now, we have Detroit, Chicago and Indianapolis headliners on the horizon. These are unlike tours because we will be using brand new stage production and new methods of advertising. Our plan is to sell out all these shows and help grow the fan base in this manor.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Our fans know what’s up. We’re a family. We’ve developed quite a relationship with many of them. If you haven’t heard of us, go check us out. If you like a few songs come and meet us. We’re super personable and loveable people. We take care to show the quality of support for those that do the same for us. We are a developed community and would love to welcome you with comradery and love. Thanks for taking the time!

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