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.
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.
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!
New York Rockers, Unwill, are a hard-hitting bunch of rebellious human beings who are proactively taking the steps toward fully living out their Rock ‘N’ Roll dreams. In celebration of their sophomore album release, ‘Can’t Kill Me’, I caught up with the guys to discuss putting their vision to fruition, gratitude for having such a strong support system, fighting through tough times in life and more.
Congrats on the release of your latest album, ‘Can’t Kill Me’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and some key lessons that you learned along the way.
The recording process was definitely something else! We had a blast self producing it and learned a ton about what we want to put out into the world of Unwill!
If you could go back to day one in the studio for ‘Can’t Kill Me’, would you have envisioned that the album would have turned out the way it did?
Yes and No. It’s totally like we had this vision that we put into fruition but to have it out and have people connect to it makes it much more potent. We just rode the wave of what we were feeling at the time.
What does your ideal day off look like to you? What creative activities do you spend time on that serve to inspire your musicianship?
We’re always just going full throttle messing around and writing. On our own and collectively. We try to connect to the spark as often as possible.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
There are a tremendous amount of positives but also many negatives that make certain problems feel amplified. With Unwill we don’t want to feed you bullshit, we just want to hit you with those raw rock n roll feels and give you a place you feel free to be you.
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.
As a collective we all have many hobbies and things we take pride in but ultimately we all just believe in being yourself and putting that out into the world freely. Just doing that with good intention through everything you put out is the most important thing to us inside and outside of the music.
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?
We’re very lucky to have a great support system with each other as well as awesome friends and family. Even when we feel most alone there’s somebody else who could relate. Life’s a journey and we fight through and onward.
How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?
We’re all pretty much overgrown 8 year olds…we just want to have fun.
How does living in New York serve your musicianship?
It’s definitely interesting and unique. We’ve always felt right in the middle of everything so that probably contributes to us being open to a lot of different things. That aligns perfectly with how we feel about music.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?
We just want to open up a world to all of you. Unwill is all about having a blast and just letting it all go. We don’t judge based on opinion or anything else. We’re just open and spiritual people. We just want to create a world where we can all connect and enjoy the energy and love.
South Jersey Singer/Songwriter, TONKS, has taken an emotive and introspective turn into himself to create a record that is worth listening to. In celebration of TONKS first record, ‘Windows Down & Dying’, I caught up with the man to discuss his overall perception of the album, his favorite restaurants in New Jersey, staying physically active to maintain positive mental health and more.
Congrats on the release of your debut album, ‘Windows Down & Dying’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.
This record started with me sitting in my living room recording demos into the mobile garage band on my iPhone 6s. I had over 300 riffs and partial songs recorded in my voice memos and I told myself that I had to put out music in 2018 by whatever means I could. After I organized enough songs, I contacted Eric McNelis from the band Sleep In. and asked if I could record some demos with him at the Gradwell House recording studio in Haddon Heights. After we had finished 5 songs I decided that the process was easy enough, and rather than waste money on nice demos I should just put out a record and take myself seriously. I think I learned a lot about myself, and know now that I’m capable of recording a record on my own if I am self-disciplined and stay focused.
If you could go back to day one in the studio, would you have envisioned that ‘Windows Down & Dying’ would have turned out how it did?
Yes. For the most part it was just like the demos. One of the really great things about working with Eric was that he was down for anything, and I never felt like I was restricted when it came to adding new parts and experimenting with the instruments available in the studio. So going into it I wasn’t sure all the instrumentation I imagined would make it onto the record, but I think I would have been happy to see that all of that came together as I had hoped.
Tell us about the journey of TONKS so far. What inspired you to take your musicianship solo for the project.
It has been an amazing experience. I love every part of music, including the business and promotional aspects. Already I’ve been able to work with new people and I’ve learned new things through those relationships, which is all I can really ask for. I think my biggest inspiration, or driving factor, was reconnecting with a younger version of myself and having the thought of, “I’ve played music, taken lessons, and been on stage my whole life. If I don’t put out my own music it would have all been a waste.” I started taking violin lessons and performing in recitals at age 4, so I’ve always been most comfortable when I’m on a stage playing music, and entertaining people.
If you could recommend three of your favorite restaurants in Jersey to our readers, which three would you choose?
• Sushi Kingdom would be number one. It’s an all you can eat sushi place on Route 73 in Marlton NJ. I love sushi so that is one of my favorite places.
• China 1 is a Chinese food place in Marlton off Route 70 and Maple, where my friends and I eat when we are all home at the same time. Some of my favorite memories from home involve eating food from China 1.
• Hearthside is a newish restaurant in Collingswood NJ on Haddon Ave. They have a lot of great pasta, a wood-fired oven, and they have great oysters (I love oysters).
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 really enjoy running and camping. I don’t get to camp as much as I’d like but it’s something I’m able to do about twice a year as of right now, and I’d eventually like for it to be a larger part of my life. Running is something I’ve done since I was 5. I ran track and cross country in school, and I still race 5ks and 10ks from time to time. This past year I did my first half marathon and I’m proud of that. Hopefully in 2019 I’ll be able to do a marathon.
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 am still trying to figure this one out but in the Dryjacket van I always bring books to read. Adam, Joe, and I have gone on a few runs, if we have time during the day and have access to a shower after. Staying physically active has always been the best way for me to stay on top of my mental health.
How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?
I think I would be much older. I feel like I’ve lived a very long life for such a young person. I’m very lucky to have had a lot of experiences and have traveled to a lot of places because of music.
Any upcoming tour or show plans that you can fill us in about?
I’ll be playing another show in Philly on Dec 22nd to finish up the year then I have a full US planned for March 15- April 10th which will hopefully be announced in a month or so.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
I just want to say thank you to everyone listening. It was amazing to play the release shows and hear people singing along this early on. Hope to see you all in March!
Cosmic Lovechild, Whitney Tai, has an uncanny way of lyrical storytelling in a metaphorically rich way that is captivating to the open soul. Having created a road of her own with her band of brothers that enhance her electric live shows, Whitney and the guys create a space full of Dream Pop wonder. I caught up with Whitney Tai Bassist, Christian Rivera, to discuss his creative collision with Whitney, finding peace in driving while on the road, music being the core of his life and much more.
Tell us about your experience of meeting Whitney and how you two connected to in turn desire to play music together.
It’s actually quite funny: I went and saw a show in Hollywood with a mutual friend. Afterwards, we went to the Burgundy Room for some drinks, and he invited her to meet us, and made the introduction. After talking for awhile, she told me about a dilemma she was facing: she had a show booked in San Francisco, and needed a bass player to fill in. Without even considering the fact that (a) I wasn’t a bass player, and (b) I didn’t even own a bass guitar, I blurted out “I’ll do it!” She sent me some material to learn, and I got myself a bass, and figured it all out. The rest is history. I guess the lesson here is that sometimes unique opportunities come along that you have to say yes to, even if you haven’t got it all figured out just yet. You just never know when or even if a similar opportunity might present itself.
Detailed question, how has your life changed ever since working in the music industry?
I’ve pretty much done music for my entire life. Even when I was in the military, I’d always make time for it. I can’t really say it’s changed my life, because it’s something I’ve always known. I will say that because of this journey, I’ve seen some of the most amazing places and met some of the most amazing people. I couldn’t imagine spending my life any other way.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
It’s actually an ongoing thing. It’s the constant challenge of trying to improve myself as a musician and as a person in general. There’s always some new concept to learn, one more rep, another person to help, and so on. On some days, I don’t feel adequate, so that can be a bit of a struggle at times. I just try to start each day with a positive mindset and focus on improving the things that I do have control over.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
To me, it’s just a fact of life. I think it’s something that can be a very helpful tool if used properly, but on the other hand i do feel that some people take it a little too far, like it can be an addiction. I see some folks who seem to base their entire existence on how many “likes” and followers they can get. Me, I’d rather use it to promote my music and keep in touch with my friends and fans around the world, and just go live my life.
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.
Wow, I never really thought about that. Music really encompasses every aspect of my life. I live and breathe it, so I really don’t put my energy into much else; wanna see my guitar collection?
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?
Honestly, on van tours for instance, I love to drive, especially at night. There’s just something about that endless ribbon of asphalt laid out before me that allows me to really contemplate life’s big questions. Keeping in touch with loved ones back home is another way to stay sane. When I’m not driving, I love to read and handle business. In fact, I’m completing this interview on the I-40, just east of Memphis!
Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour/show plans that you can fill us in about?
We’re taking a little break from that now while Whitney puts the finishing touches on her new album.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Be on the lookout for a new album from WhitneyTai in late Winter/Early Spring 2019! We’re also releasing a holiday album this year, so be on the lookout for that too!
New York Rock Hood Group, Shinobi Ninja, live out their intent of shaping a vibrant state of consciousness that includes and welcomes all throughout their music and artistry. Having ‘Bless Up’ under their belts as an album that speaks for itself, Shinobi Ninja are finding the wealth that comes from embodying their truest selves. I caught up with Vocalist, Duke Sims (D.A), to discuss how growing up in Brooklyn shaped the man that he is today, progress over perfection, becoming more confident in his talents, being a kid in the studio and more.
Congrats on the success of your fourth studio album, ‘Bless Up’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.
‘Bless Up’ was a collection of the songs we were working on right before our studio that we had been creating and working out of for the past 6 years closed. The goal was to complete these songs before the studio closed, so the album had a vibe of closure and also a positive outlook for what is to come for us in the future. The lesson for me on this album is that you may think that this song or that song is gonna be the one but in actuality it’s not that song you think, it’s the song you don’t think too much of that is going to be the song that people find and connect with the most. I had experienced that before with our previous album, but this album cemented that for me; to be open to whatever is gonna happen.
You guys carry the New York swagger so well, so naturally. Tell us about your life in the Big Apple and how living in New York has impacted your life.
I’m born and raised in Brooklyn and have been running around NYC my whole life. It’s all I’ve ever known. When you hear the phrase, “If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck then it’s a duck”, that’s me. Brooklyn formed me. It put me arm and arm with every nationality, age, race, sex, etc. that you could have. I grew up playing in the streets; street basketball, baseball, music, cutting school, getting in trouble, music, good times and bad times. The concrete jungle is the school I graduated from. I’ve seen all kinds of crazy things and I learned from all of it. It’s teachings are with me always.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
Life is a challenge. It just keeps coming. I’m still learning. Fear is something I’ve overcome over time. That’s the biggest challenge. Fear of any kind and choosing not letting it stop you in whatever it is your doing and want to accomplish. Progress over perfection was a key lesson for me. Perfection is perception and it doesn’t exist. Progress is real. You can see it. So I go for progress over perfection. Trying to be perfect used to lock me in. Now I don’t care about that. I keep putting in the work and moving forward. That’s a good feeling. When things reach completion and then you move to the next thing. Keep growing.
How has your experience in the music industry impacted your life? How was the man that is Dave changed every since you began with Shinobi Ninja?
Before Shinobi Ninja, I was still thinking about who I wanted to be and how I could become that person. Shinobi Ninja allowed me an avenue to succeed and to fail. With success, I became stronger and more confident in my talents and what I can offer the world through my art and music and my love for the people and the universe. Failure taught me about changing things that I was not doing well or things that were holding me back. It taught me to let go and to not hold on to expectations. The music industry is made of people. I love people. Shinobi Ninja gave me an avenue to be a Superhero. Now I can fly.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
I think it is awesome. I think there’s quick fix meals out there that is the content we see everyday. There’s levels of substance. You can see something that entertains you for a couple minutes but doesn’t really change you and then you can see or hear things that make you really think. I love the digital age we live in because all the info is out there. Information is power. This is a great time for thinkers and artists. A lot of fuel for the fire.
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 service. When I can be of service to people that is a great thing. However, I can be a positive contribution to the people is what it’s all about for me. Whether it’s a song, or a video, or a piece of art or a text message or a positive word to someone. A life is here and then gone, so for me it’s about being a positive influence and force while I’m here in this journey at this time.
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 don’t watch the news. I don’t watch politics. No murder killing type shows. If the Golden Girls is on then it stays on. I love to have anything that I’m going to hear or see be uplifting for my spirit and mind. Documentary’s are great information. Sitcoms have the laugh track. Laughing is good. Music is good. Hearing new music that will inspire my creativity to new realms. Being around good people. Smoking weed. Eating well.
Tell us about a day in the studio with you making beats. Are you experimental and willing to take major creative risks in your music?
My mom took me to a class when I was little that was a dude in a loft in NYC surrounded by things. He showed how you can make sounds with anything. He put water on a mirror and made noises. Then he took a hose from a vacuum cleaner and whirled it around his head and it made a cool sound; that impacted me huge. When I go into the studio, I’m still that little kid. I’m listening for that unknown. I’m down to try anything. If it sounds good then it’s a go for me. I’m there for the magic. I’m listening to what my body tells me is the hotness. I trust my instincts and I have fun. The most fun. Being in the studio for me is like a fish being in water. It’s who I am. I learned to breathe there. It’s like a bird flying. I could fly forever.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Keep spreading the positive vibes. Move with compassion. Move with love. Take time to breath. Take time for yourself. Check yourself. Check your ego. Think about your goals for life. How will you accomplish them? What have you learned in trying different ways to achieve them? How can you adapt? How can you keep growing? Make the best of today. Keep moving forward. Every step adds up. Even if you only move an inch forward today. Inches add up to feet. Feet add up to Miles. Follow the yellow brick road. Keep dreaming. Keep striving. You’re not perfect. Nobody is. Have compassion for yourself. Your awesome and I want you to know your loved. I believe in you.
Stockholm Rockers, Kerbera, poured forward raw nerve and emotion throughout their latest single release, “Home Is Where I Don’t Belong”, which is sparking conversation and garnering views around the globe. I caught up with Seize and Dave to discuss the reality of touring, treating their fans like family and how Kerbera has grown through it, how your appearance affects your band, social media being a key competent of their success so far and more.
“Home Is Where I Don’t Belong” is a mighty track full of emotion. Tell us about the personal meaning behind the song and what it means to you.
Seike: The song is about the feeling to have built something up and been a huge part of that something, just to get it stolen from you. Robbed of the credit so to say.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
Seike: As the front man you’re always questioned by your surrounding and with a weak appearance you can drag a whole band down. I’ve doubted myself a lot in the past. I’ve asked myself if I was good enough, good looking enough and if I have what it takes. My voice have a lot of personal ID, and I’ve struggled with it in general. To believe in myself as Kerbera’s vocalist has been a huge challenge, but I’ve found faith in my progress and I’m sure I’ve got so much to deliver.
Dave: Touring and such is VERY stressful for both your body and your mind, in the beginning you tend to eat bad and sleep even worse but with time you learn that if you take care of yourself you will perform AND feel better.
If any of our readers have never been to Stockholm, what are some must-see attractions that you recommend to check out?
Seike: Old town. It’s beautiful. There’s so much history to it.
Dave: Even though stockholm is a big city there is a lot of beautiful nature and such, i recommend just going a few minutes out of the actual city and look at the beautiful nature!
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
Seike: Kerbera is a band that would never have the success we’ve had without social media. I believe it might consume people, but when used the right way it’s the most powerful weapon we got to reach far on your own without companies having your back. I’m a social media nerd. I love to be able to reach out to our followers in such a direct and personal way. It gives us the freedom and transparency that makes me love what I to even more.
Dave: Before I joined Kerbera, I didn’t know anything about social media and the impact it has on the world, now (with a lot of help from Seike), I understand how to use it to my own benefit to interact with friends and fans. I think that Seike’s mindset of fans being more of a family than people who just likes your music has made our following really loyal and is one of the biggest reasons for us being where we are today!
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.
Seike: I want to be an author. Writing on a trilogy since a few years back. Also I love photography! That’s a big passion of mine.
Dave: I love video games! On the side, I am a part the management for a Swedish e-Sports organization called Valhalla Vikings. Through that organization I have learned even more about social media and how to talk and connect to people and potential business partners.
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?
Seike: I don’t, and that’s a problem. I have ADHD and I’m bipolar. Being on the road fucks with your medication cycle, especially when you travel between time zones. It’s hard but I’m gonna be all emo about it and say it’s also a part of my artistic persona. When I’m under pressure, I perform better. I wanna be destroyed on stage. Exposed and a total mess. Sounds destructive but I find some sort of cure in that. It’s like a meditation. Facing yourself at your worst. Processing it all on stage. God, this sounds so pretentious but I don’t know how to explain it better.
Dave: Sometimes i just call a friend and talk about something else than music/being on tour. Exposing myself to the “real life” makes me happy and makes me think that life can be very different that what it is right now.
Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way on tours that you have been a part of over the years.
Seike: Sleep as much as possible and try not to kill each other. Don’t skip meals! You never know when you’ll have time to eat again.
Dave: Pretty much what Seike said, sleep and food are the most important thing in any work environment, it doesn’t matter if you are working in construction or if you are on tour performing on stage with a band!
Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour plans that you can fill us in about?
Seike: Europe and US are both in the risk zone. People all over should be prepared. You never know when the modern freak show will arrive.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Seike: Our fans are family. They are everything to us. Many bands say this but our fan group are a living proof of how close we are. You can ask any of them, and they’ll all reply that to be a part of this is something special. I can’t wait to share this journey together with them and all new people out there who’s about to join in. 2018 was a huge year for us. 2019 will be even better.Dave: I don’t think we can say anything that we haven’t said before, we wouldn’t be where we are without you guys. You made Kerbera what it is. You are a part of us.
Memphis Rockers, Devour The Day, have dissected and challenged the commonalties of modern-day society throughout their electrifying new album release, ‘Signals’. I caught up with Bassist, Joey ‘Chicago’ Walser, to discuss the release of ‘Signals’, the pride that he feels from his experience of Fatherhood, pushing forward in moments in the dark, honoring their fans with their ‘Soundtrack To Your Story’ documentary, traveling to respond artistically in different ways and more.
Congrats on the recent release of ‘Signals’. Over a few listens in full, I recognized a lyrical theme of release. Did you approach the songwriting process with the intention to find clarity within a personal experience? Were you experiencing personal pain that led to the in-depth lyrical expression throughout ‘Signals’?
When we were writing the lyrics for ‘Signals’, most of our influence was coming from one central idea we had both attached ourselves to in the year surrounding the process. We felt so connected to the idea that we could not take ownership of our artwork. We were channels and the universe, the cosmos, the collective energy, has purpose for us as artists, far beyond our understanding. Yes, it is hard to let go of your successes when creating with this in mind, but you are also allowing yourself to let go of the failures, which is so incredibly freeing. Personal pain is something neither of us have had the luxury of escaping, even in our short time here on earth. The last five years specifically were by far some of the hardest of my life, and I have been left with many questions, not only about the world around me, but also about myself and how I handle the changing seasons. In the past I used the lyrics as a way to analyze my experiences, I tried to figure it all out and then stand triumphant in my ownership of the art. Now, with a new mindset in place, I feel we allow ourselves to trust in a purpose far greater than ourselves for our music. The lyrics are the breaking through of a chrysalis wall, and we are eager to fly with new wings.
Throughout your documentary, ‘Soundtrack To Your Story’, you guys created the time and space to connect deeply with your fans. Beyond the obvious, what led you toward the desire to do so? How did the experience serve you?
As you step away from the ownership of your artwork, you quickly begin to see that you are not the hero of the story. In fact, you should be honored to hold the place as artist among your community. The egotistical precedence that we are surrounded by in the music industry, specifically, in our genre, is ridiculous and misguided. Social media has only intensified this marketing concept and now, more than ever, artists try to show why they are worth of worship. It’s wrong in our opinion. These human beings that support these artists are not “fans”, they are not here to intensify our flame. They are a part of a community and we should feel so lucky that they have chosen to place us in their lives. They are the heroes, and we are their soundtrack, and we are blessed to be so, for however long it lasts. We had to do something to shine the light in on this concept. What we were able to raise money for and create is the most fulfilling piece of art I’ve ever been a part of. The experienced changed me forever. Please visit soundtracktoyourstory.info to read more about the making and idea of #soundtracktoyourstory as it is almost just to much to explain, you have to watch.
“Faithless” is being featured and making its rounds around the Rock circuit. Tell us what that track means to you.
I feel that word “faith”, in my life, has always been so connected to religion. The idea that if you have faith you believe in, and rely on, a specific deity. That is not what this song is about. Faithless is about pushing forward even when you don’t know you will succeed. It’s about trusting the process and allowing the growth in yourself and in your work to happen, even if you don’t understand how you are getting there. It takes faith to push through when you can’t see the other end of the tunnel, and it takes courage to keep going.
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 am a Father and it is my greatest joy and the most fulfilling part of my life. I take the most pride in that responsibility.
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 believe it is extremely important for me to stay inspired. We go out into the world around the venue and try to take in the life and art that surrounds it. The food, the architecture, the people and culture opens us up to be the channels we desire to be and to respond artistically in a new and unique way.
How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?
I have two halves, the wide eyed creator and the father of two children. The artist is still a teenager, spinning around in a spray painted basement with a joint in his mouth. The father is in his hundreds!
As you do speak of it in a meaningful and eye-opening way throughout “Loudmouth”, what are your thoughts on online culture?
I want to be specific so I don’t ramble, because I think this is a long conversation. “Loudmouth” discusses different kinds of people, but all three I had in mind while writing it, use their digital voice to bully and spread disconnection. Whatever their agenda, whether it political, or business or just plain judgmental and mean, it’s wrong. The song was intended to call these people out and create a discussion about how twisted and destructive this use of the internet can be.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
We are honored to be a part of this community and we are so grateful to still be creating. Please check out ‘SIGNALS’ and #soundtracktoyoustory and spread the word.
Leaving listeners immersed in her mysterious world of elaborate creative thought is just one piece of artistic appeal that draws individuals toward NYC-based Songstress, Mardoll. Throwing herself into the ringer throughout her latest single, “God”, has served to challenge common conversation and influence boundless musings beyond one’s known. I caught up with Mardoll to discuss the intimate detail within her latest single “God”, the blend of rebellion and childlike wonder in her idiosyncratic mind, the joy of watching her 10-year-old little brother grow into a young man, always choosing to love yourself and more.
Tell us about the journey that you have been enduring within that has led you toward bringing your first single, “God”, out and into the world.
From a very young age, I was always curious. I liked asking questions. I grew up in Europe with strong values and conservative traditions . Although I went to an international school and had exposure to many other cultures, all of them seemed to be shaped by something I felt was somewhat rigid… not inquisitive enough for me. Although I have a lot of respect for all cultures and traditions and feel that they are important, I always felt that traditions are not an excuse for not questioning our habits and way of thinking. Maybe it was my rebellious nature or maybe it was my childlike wonder but I was always a very curious to find out why we did something differently than others would. The song “God” is just an extension of that same curious nature. Why is it we shame and make taboo of love of anyone? Religion seems to want to dictate love and hate. And if we accept love as a strong and meaningful human value, why don’t we question the powers to set limits to the definition of love and whom we can love? But it’s not only the judgmental way organized religion views same sex love, but in general all the rules that religion sets for our way of life should be evaluated in the current context of human existence. My mother came from a Jewish family on her father’s side and a highly prestigious European Christian family on her mother’s side. When her parents divorced, her Christian family frowned upon her Jewish background. As a result, although she married a Catholic man and for the sake of his mother in law, went through the motions of Christening us, she decided she would allow us to decide what religion we wanted to follow. I was allowed to believe and worship whoever I wanted. As long as it wasn’t harming myself or anyone else. The “don’t be an asshole” rule was our family motto. In my early years where, on occasion, we would make it to church, or I would hear religious rhetoric, it always fascinated me how blindly humanity can trust in a book. I started asking many questions : What kind of God would allow so much human suffering? What kind of God would create such a chaotic and unfair world? What kind of God would watch his children fight each other, destroy his legacy preaching love and forgiveness, to use his name his name to kill? The fact we are all fighting over whose version of God is right means we’ve missed the point entirely. That is definitely highlighted in the chorus. “Your silence speaks loud and clear….I guess you really left us here.”
Deep question; have you incorporated your own personal experiences and reflections into your music? Have you been able to heal old wounds through your artistic expression?
Music has always been an outlet for me. It is my way in which I process experiences, traumas, escape depression and find solace. It’s a space in which I can process emotion and play around. I feel music often leads me to a new perspective, gives me a fuller picture and elevates me to a higher level. So I can take Catherine out of the equation, and Mardolll can see it objectively. Music does not always heal all wounds. Sometimes music allows me to grieve something I have buried inside. Sometimes I need my music to bring something that hurts up to the surface so I can take a second look, relive it and find new way of dealing with it.
How did the concept of ‘Mardoll’ come about? What does it stand for?
Mardoll is a character I’ve been playing my whole life. She was the woman I always wanted to be. When I was a chubby little outcast who wasn’t allowed to be a part of the aerobic competition team because of my weight, Mardoll was the version of me who would perform. I’ve been playing her my whole life, I just finally gave a name to her later on. The name actually originates from a Nordic goddess who also goes by Freya, or the White Goddess. My roommate at the time, Bryanna and I were thinking of artist names when she pops her head into the room and goes ‘What about Mardoll?’. The name finally felt like a fit after trying out so many others. It was an ‘Aha!’ moment, Suddenly I knew this had to be.
Tell us about a recent train of thought that you have had that can inspire our readers.
The relationship we have with ourselves is the most important relationship. This is where the inner dialogue takes place. I’ve been playing around with this theme and exploring it in a few songs I’m currently working on. It’s led me to start thinking about the stories and lies we tell ourselves as well. We try to explain ourselves, create limits for ourselves all the time without asking deeply who we really are, why do we fear things, are we able to change? What are the reasons for the mistakes we keep making all over again?
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’m fascinated by politics and history. I love not only talking about these subjects but also debating them. I love the challenge of taking a perspective that might not align with my personal beliefs, and arguing for it. Maybe it’s the devil’s advocate in me, maybe it’s my rebellious nature or maybe it’s just the fact my dad’s a lawyer and I grew up listening to that. But beyond how I love to argue, I’m a sister to my big and little brother and I’m a dog mom. My little brother is my absolute favorite person in the world and watching him grow into the young man he is has been the absolute joy of my life. With 10 years between us, ours is one of the most rewarding and meaningful relationships in my life. He’s practically a carbon copy of me, from facial features to strong will. He drives me crazy but I wouldn’t change it for the world. In a weird way, I feel like we’re twins who got the timing wrong and now it’s my duty in this world to show him the way from my mistakes. I’m also a dog mom to my two dogs back home. Ninja and Coco. Ninja is my first-born boy and is me in a dog. All he wants to do is eat, sleep, and be given attention…I relate HEAVILY! Coco is a tiny little dog who bosses everyone around. She runs the show even though she’s 2 KG.
As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health while being in the public eye?
Exercise! Lots of exercise but also Yoga. Yoga helps build mental strength, the ability to focus, or it to stay on track. I have a wild imagination and ADD tendencies, so doing yoga several times a week helps me with that. It also teaches me self-awareness which for someone like me, who has a tendency to slip into depressions, it ensures that I’m not lying to myself and really being honest with everything that is going on. It’s constant work, and not always easy (or interesting for that matter) but it’s important.
How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?
A sassy and sexy 75. Though I have been known to act 9 from time to time. As a little kid, I felt that sometimes I was just kind of waiting to grow up.
What is your personal opinion on how immersed society has become into the social media world?
I don’t think it’s good or bad. It’s just different. Every generation has thought the next one was out of touch. Every generation has looked back with rose-colored lenses. So, yeah, maybe kids don’t play outside as much. And, yeah, maybe today’s kids don’t have the same attention span. But today’s kids are also the most accepting of any generation before. Today’s generation is more informed than ever before . Today’s generation is creative and resourceful. If kids seem out of touch, maybe it’s the adults who are disconnected, but let’s not blame the modern magic of the internet. As many things often do, it has its ups and it has had its downs.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
LOVE YOURSELF! Love yourself enough to hold yourself to a standard that forces you become the person you’ve always wanted to be. Be the person you told yourself you wanted to be growing up. Go out there and be proud of who you are and don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. You never know what life will throw at you so take advantage of every moment you walk this earth. Work hard, try do better, and aim higher!
Texas Rockers, Blacktop Mojo, are rattling the masses with their heavy-hitting bundle of intense songwriting and powerful instrumentals that speak of the emotively rich lives of five guys who are telling a story that is entirely their own. Through molding an electrifying and polished style and sound throughout their two studio albums that are full of howling vocals and soul, Blacktop Mojo is set to make an even bigger splash over the years to come. I caught up with Lead Vocalist, Matt James, to discuss his favorite Tool albums, the incredible support of their fans, the meaningful bond shared amongst the band members of Blacktop Mojo and more.
You guys have a really cool campaign going on on PledgeMusic for your upcoming third album. Tell us about your experience so far and anything that you can about the upcoming release.
We ran a campaign with PledgeMusic to fund our second record, ‘Burn The Ships’, which went really well. We liked how we were able to interact with people on there and how it was sort of like having them with us making the record, so we wanted to do it again for this next album. I’m really glad we did because our fans really got after it and help us hit our minimum goal way faster than we ever thought we could, which helped us to be able to concentrate more on writing songs and have a little less to worry about on the business side of things. We’re very excited to get to work tracking the album. We’ve got what we feel like is a great group of songs, and we’re chomping at the bit to lay them down. I think we’ll make the folks that got behind us for this go-around proud.
What is the most personally meaningful track that you have ever recorded with Blacktop Mojo? Tell us about what it means to you.
I think one of the more meaningful tracks for me was “Where The Wind Blows”, not necessarily because of the content of the song, but because of how we recorded it. We were fortunate enough to be able to record the song at FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, AL with Jimmy Johnson and his engineer Steve Melton who were at the helm of some amazing records from artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Rolling Stones, Bob Seger, and so many other greats that we look up to. Needless to say we were kind of intimidated going into the session and we didn’t lay down the final vocals until toward the end of the day, so I kind of had to just sit and wait with butterflies in my stomach all day until it was my turn to get in the booth and sing. I sang through the song a few times and wasn’t sure if I was hitting it right. We got to the end of the pass and they hit the talkback mic in the control room to say something and before anyone said anything to me, I heard Jimmy say to somebody, “Damn would you listen to that voice? That guy can belt it!” It was the first time I can remember feeling like that was where I belong. We ended up releasing the song as the first radio single from the album and it hit the top 30 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Chart on our first tour. The last show of that tour just happened to be in Muscle Shoals and Jimmy ended up coming out to check out the show. When I walked up to him to shake his hand, he had a big smile on his face and he said, “It feels good doesn’t it?” Then he turned to one of his buddies and said, “These guys have them a hit up on the charts right now.” It really felt cool to have someone I look up to like that be proud of us.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
Very recently, in preparation for this album we’ve been writing a lot of songs and I got to a place where I felt like nothing I was writing was good enough. I thought, “What if I can’t do this? What if we can’t get this done?” Luckily I had the guys in the band to lean on and kind of pull me out of my funk. They helped me remember we started doing this in the first place because we love it and that it’s supposed to be fun. It’s alright to put pressure on yourself, and sometimes it can be good, but you can’t let that overwhelm what you’re doing.
If any of our readers have never been to Texas, tell us about three of your favorite restaurants that you recommended to check out.
Texas has a lot of great food, so it’s hard to choose just three. La Chappara’s in our hometown of Palestine has my favorite breakfast tacos, Stanley’s BBQ in Tyler, TX has some of the best BBQ on the planet earth, and I have to give it up to Salsa Limón in Fort Worth for some of the best Mexican food one can get any time of night.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
I think it’s something we’re all still figuring out as we go along. Overall it’s a great thing. No one has to be alone. There is a group of friends out there for everyone no matter where they come from or how they think. You can immerse yourself in all kinds of different art that you would have never been able to find otherwise. In our case it’s helped a band from the middle of nowhere in Texas connect with people all over the world over our music. By that same token, it lets people group up over negative things and spread hate and shame as well, which is never good. I still don’t think the negatives outweigh all the positives. It is an awesome tool that makes the world smaller every day. It will be interesting to see what the next generation creates with all this awesome power having been immersed in it from birth.
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.
It’s kind of hard to separate music from the rest of my life. All the guys in the band live in the same house, so we’re kind of always doing something for music in one way or another. I think the thing I most take pride in is how close we all are. Any one of these guys would take a bullet for me and I would do the same for them. A lot of bands say they are “like family” and that might be true, but in our case these guys are my brothers through good, bad, and everything in between.
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?
When we’re traveling around, I always like to go on random walks through whatever city we’re in and go explore. Most of the time I will turn my phone off and only use it to find my way back if I get lost. It’s always refreshing to just kind of wander around and see if you can find anything cool. Also, The guys in the band and I are always good at taking care of each other. If someone has something going on, everyone is pretty good at helping them out. It’s hard to hide in the 100 or so square feet of space on a bus.
I’ll throw you a random bone. What is your favorite Tool album and why?
I mean if it’s Tool, I’m a fan. They haven’t made a bad album. I always liked ‘10,000 Days’. “The Pot” and “Right In Two” are some of my favorite songs they’ve done and the sardonic attitude in the lyrics of “Rosetta Stoned” is absolutely incredible. I love reading through that one after I’ve listened to it once and then going back to listen to it again to try to catch everything in there.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Thanks for helping us live the life we always dreamed about. Can’t wait to see all of you again next year!
Iowa Indie Band, The Penny Serfs, maintain an elusive appeal throughout their artistry and musicianship that is appealing to the idiosyncratic mind. Through lyrically translating intricate thought into a work of art within their latest album release, ‘Politics in the Time of Heroin’, The Penny Serfs have relit their fire. I caught up with Mikey Loy to discuss the release of ‘Politics in the Time of Heroin’, creative activities that inspire their musicianship, upcoming show plans and more.
Congrats on the release of ‘Politics in the Time of Heroin’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and some key things that you learned along the way.
Thank you so much. We couldn’t be happier to be sharing this record right now. The politics record is a very important one in the band’s life. It represents our growing stage of the band. We are really diving in and putting as much musical information inside of a pop type of song we can, as well as getting even darker with the lyrics. I usually write a shell of a song and then share with the guys. They put their vibe and style into it and it then becomes what you hear on the record. For me, most of my ideas are sitting in my kitchen, maybe on the counter with an acoustic over a couple drinks experimenting with new sounds. The biggest thing I have learned from the writing process is to let people in and celebrate their ideas. Kyle Stu and Aiden’s ideas are so very crucial to how the record sounds; things I would have never thought of. These guys write equally as much as I do, so I’ve learned to take idea changes and stuff and to understand that it makes for a better tune.
Tell us about the songwriting process. Is there a certain individual that spearheads the writing or is it a mutual thing that you all tackle together?
I am a songwriter by nature. I love to weave dark lyrics and esoteric vibes through chords and counter melodies. It makes me happy. I could lock myself in a room for years just doing so. Mostly musically we all come together and find a vibe collectively to keep us all in the song. So I’d say musically it is mutual, and the lyrics come from me.
What does your ideal day off look like to you? What creative activities do you spend time on that serve to inspire your musicianship?
A day off for us is nothing but rest and family time. We spend so much time on the road working on tour, and playing our own shows that we really try to use our days off as full decompression so we can be fresh and energized for the next go round. A good shower, a comfort food meal, and some creative writing makes for a nice day off; with a lot of naps of course.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
It’s interesting because the 90’s kid in me believes in the internet paradox. Example: How can something that makes us all connected make us feel so alone? But musically I think it is a good thing because it challenges us to constantly be releasing new material and writing better music and really pushing ourselves through the massive overflow of material out there.
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 my family. I love coming home to my wife and kids. My 11-year-old son just designed a concert poster for the National for their Kansas City show a couple months ago. Nothing better than watching them grow into awesome people. I also love to build things. I bought an old Catholic Church in LeClaire IA my hometown and turned it into a recording art space for myself and the band. It took three years of building but it is finally finished. I am very proud of it.
Photo Credit: Harry Walker
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?
For me, I am probably the worst person in the band to ask! I drink too much, I am always feeling a dark cloud over my head. But when I am working and playing I live by a code to force myself to look around and be thankful, that my mental health can just be an inside existential issue. I do not let it affect my family and band. Exercise is the one thing that helps fuel my positivity and energy. It doesn’t happen as often as it should but it really is the wonder drug.
How old would you be if you didn’t know how old that you were?
My body is like 58, but I always joke that I peaked young. I’d soberly say I act like I’m 21, at least I drink like it. But who knows. I wish I were more mature.
Any upcoming tour or show plans that you can fill us in about?
We are planning on a March 2019 US tour. We Are working on getting some confirmations in Europe as well so we will announce hopefully in the next month. We can’t wait.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
I’d love to thank everyone who gives our music a chance, and thank the people who have stuck with us through the few years we have been a band. Our fans our really sweet and we enjoy being able to interact with everyone. It’s nice to know there are people out there. I’m humbled when I hear that anyone in the vastness of the internet has played one of the songs we have written. It’s truly a special moment for the both of us that we will have shared that no one can take away.
