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Interview: Gatherers

New Jersey Rockers, Gatherers, have spent countless hours on developing a concept and album that served as a dose of their Hardcore roots coming forward with heart. I caught up with the guys to discuss ensuring to keep their friendship at the forefront, comparing success and failure on social media, ‘We Are Alive Beyond Repair’, the importance of eating right and sleeping on the road and more.

Congrats on the success and release of ‘We Are Alive Beyond Repair’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned about yourself along the way.

Thank you! We started writing initial ideas for the album around winter of 2015 if I recall correctly. At the time Adam was in the process of moving into a new recording studio and I believe we initially started writing what would later become the opening track “Spill”. We were going through several member changes at the time so we had to explore a lot of ideas between bass, drums and vocals. In hindsight, I think it was a very healthy way to go about writing in a more focused direction. Eventually, Anthony and Rob joined on guitars respectively. They both provided a much needed perspective on the songs we’d been sitting on for months. We finally finished things off as a complete band by writing “Ann Liv Young” and “Starve.  I think writing and recording this record taught us to be more objective for what best served each song and the album as a whole.

Who did you work with on the album cover/photography for ‘We Are Alive Beyond Repair’ and how did you come up with the visual concept?

The album photography was lent to us by Evelyn Bencicova and is part of a series titled “Asymptote”  She’s an award-winning artist based in Berlin and has an extremely original way of building these “worlds” within her photography and filmmaking.  We discovered the photo early on in the writing process and felt that it also existed in the same world as the album we wanted to write. We reached out to her with demos and the album title and she was very receptive to the idea.  

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

To stop comparing our success and failures based on the facade of social media. It is a habit I battle on the daily, but I’m learning that we should only speak when it counts, to only think about our band within the framework of things that excite us, and to not get caught up in the rat race of everyone trying to “make it” overnight. Above all, I’m learning to value my friendship with my bandmates more.  

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

Any “culture” born on social media is very uninspiring to me. I think things now move at such a pace that the baseline for culture has been lowered, which means trends die even quicker with more people attached to them. I would be a hypocrite to not admit how valuable of a tool social media plays in the promotion of our own band, after all it has become this requisite extension of our music and art. However, I have a distaste for the way it herds people into various (very predictable) patterns of behavior. I notice it especially in new bands, touting the same style of content, the same way of speaking and so on. It’s all feels very commodified.  

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.

We all simply try our best to respect our friendship to one another and to be the best versions of ourselves every day.

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?

Eat right. Sleep right. Avoid excessive time on the phone. Take in the sights and make the most of each show. Also, it’s critical to make each other laugh as much as possible.  

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

Stay humble. Study other bands. Also, get your shit on and off the stage as quickly as possible!

What do fans of Gatherers have to look forward to in 2019?

We’ll probably end up touring a bit more and then who knows? We’ve been flirting with some loose ideas for our next album, so that might end up occupying our time towards the end of the year.  

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

Thank you for your support. Listen to Great Grief.  

Gatherers Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Website

Photo Credit: Kelsey Hunter Weinberger

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Interviews

Interview: Morning in May

Ohio Pop Rockers, Morning in May, are consistently subconsciously celebrating their ability  to be on tour and share their music that is created from the heart with the world. I caught up with Lead Vocalist, Jake Bartolic, to discuss the creative process behind ‘Survive The Night’, perceiving social media as either a platform to your benefit to promote your artistry and connect or a battlefield, having a conversation with himself as a senior citizen and much more.

Congrats on the release of your recent EP, ‘Survive The Night’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way. 

The creative process behind ‘Survive The Night’. Josh (Guitar/Backing Vocals) and I wanted to write an EP that encompassed elements of all the music we love and grew up listening to. We wanted break downs and pop punk elements and all of the Feelings we could pack into 6 songs. Josh and I sat down over a couple months and wrote our hearts out trying to formulate perfect songs that people could feel confident, laugh, and just simply feel something to. We write songs for when you’re sitting in your bed at night alone from the world scrolling through your phone and seeing all the stuff you want to be or think youll never have. when you’re completely alone and your friends are gone. We wanted a medium for people to start helping themselves from within. We learned how to write and capture those ideas and really getting our troubles into songs.

If you could sit down and have a conversation with yourself as either a child or a wizened senior citizen, who would you choose and why?

I would sit down with myself as a senior citizen. If I told myself as a child everything was gonna be okay. I wouldn’t be as crazy and passionate about what I do. The fire may be doused and I would of had a safety net. Therefore, I pick my senior self and figure out what I could have done better or faster to help myself actually enjoy things in life instead of always trying to progress.

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

A challenging thought I’ve had to or always have to overcome is the doubt and struggle our whole career. “What is this for?”, “Have I wasted my whole life on something that’ll never be?’, “Am I destined to fail because I’m made for something else in life and just haven’t figured it out?”…..Over time these questions sway back and forth from worse to motivation and our progression and goals we achieve and lives we touch just prove me wrong and I love that.

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

Our perception on the digital world. I believe there’s always a balance in life. With the digital world being more accessible to get your music or whatever you’re creating out there. everyone else is as well. So it’s easier but your competition is stiffer. Figuratively we shouldn’t be looking into our neighbors yard to see what they’re doing or how well, but were forced to on social media. it could be motivation or horribly discouraging. Social Media just like anything else isn’t the problem, it’s people. A platform is only a foundation or a battlefield depending on how its used.

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.

Parts of us beyond being musicians; we’re entrepreneurs. I myself do a little bit of everything. I do woodworking, metal sculptures, skateboard, all of those as hobbies. But what the guys and I share is that we love just being therapists for people, friends/fans whatever it is we all love talking about life to others and just sharing stories. We always wanted to help lives and spread so much beauty. We don’t have a lot of time here so we wanna do as much as we can with the time given.

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 being on the road is our dream come true and with that being said, we also get those questions “Does this matter?”, “Are we close to where we want to be?”….. We love our families and friends of course but we have different lives and none of them really know what’s going on or how far we are or the fact that people all over the world listen to our songs and were out here doing what we do. So the guys and I all share the same separation. We have something to go back to but we really don’t have anything to go back to if that makes sense. So our mental states always swaying. It’s like, ” Cool we can be on the road forever cause no ones checking in on us….oh… no ones really checking in on us.”…..So like i said there’s always a balance. We really have each other so we kinda just write the best story we can with each other.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

Words of wisdom. Always be nice to everyone. No one owes you anything. Smile and be grateful you’re there. Always be on time and make everyone else’s job as easy as you can. Always help. Yes even if they’re not good to you.

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

Find the beauty in all things and create it where there is none. Something I like to say. Life’s not what happens to you, it’s how you react to it. Never see your problems as crutches only lessons.

Morning In May Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

10 And 8 Management:

Website •  Facebook • Twitter  

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Interviews

Interview: Kaleido

Detroit Rockers, Kaleido, are a bundle of Motor City soul, electric energy and fearlessness which has been artistically translated into the inspiration behind the creation of hit tracks such as “My Enemy” and “Open Your Eyes”. I caught up with Lead Vocalist, Christina Chriss, to discuss overcoming anything through knowing within that you are capable of doing so, her choice to end a battle that she has faced for years, upcoming new music and more.

You went all out throughout the release of your single, “My Enemy”, which is accompanied by a beautiful music video. Tell us about your personal experiences that led toward the creation of that track.

Life isn’t all sunshine and rainbows, right? That’s part of what makes it awesome. You need the clouds and storms to appreciate when it’s clear skies & sunny. There are ups, and there are downs, there are friends and, of course, there are enemies. Sometimes there’s a blurry line between, and ultimately a lesson to be learned. Most of us can remember our first experiences with an enemy in the schoolyard… and as life goes on sometimes, we discover a different type of enemy. One that lives inside our head, inescapable and lurking in the shadows, chiming in consciously and unconsciously every day. Sometimes our greatest enemy is ourselves. No matter the type of enemy I’m experiencing, whether physically or psychologically – ultimately, I know I must overcome it. That’s what this song is about. Finding strength, rising above & conquering.

Fellow 313 born and raised here. Tell us about your experience growing up in Detroit. What neighborhood/area did you live in and how has the city of Detroit served to enhance your artistry.

I grew up on the east side in a blue-collar household. I experienced a lot of different situations and people from a young age. Detroit’s been an underdog for a long time and it has inspired me to work hard and persevere. When nothing is handed to you your whole life it makes you appreciate what you have because you work your ass off to get it.

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

I’ve gone through some big changes in my life personally and professionally lately, and it has caused some emotional turmoil. As I mentioned earlier, I understand that life is full of highs and lows, but it’s always a challenge to get back up when you feel down. I believe everything happens for a reason and the biggest challenge is finding the positive in a negative situation… and then turn it into a song.

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

It’s really great to keep everyone connected, but I feel that it’s creating a whole new beast to deal with in the mental health department. A resounding theme throughout my responses here is the good vs bad in life, and finding balance. I feel that social media is an awesome thing, but don’t forget there’s still a whole real world 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 being a compassionate, humble human being who genuinely cares about others and the world. I strive to make the world a better place through spreading light, hope and positivity.

Photo Credit: Evil Robb Photography

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?

It’s easy to get wrapped up in an unhealthy lifestyle in this industry. It takes a lot of self-control and will power, and I can admit that personally I have battled this for years. I don’t drink anymore, and it’s honestly one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself. I’m awesome, and I’m just even more awesome without alcohol. Eliminating that alone has done wonders for my health – emotionally, mentally and physically. Being on the road is very mentally stimulating and I absolutely love it. New sights, cities, and people every day is inspiring and invigorating.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

Hard work, dedication, persistence, authenticity and staying humble are major keys to success. Everyone has an opinion. Don’t let anything or anyone stand in your way. The word “No” serves as a powerful catalyst.

Is there new music coming from Kaleido in 2019?

YES! We’ve just finished recording it and will be releasing it later this year. Stay up with us on social media for release dates!

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

I love you, KaleidoFamily! Thank you for your positivity and support. You inspire me and I can’t wait to give you our new music. It’s the best and most personal yet!

Kaleido Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Website

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Interviews

Interview: The Virginmarys

English Rock Duo, The Virginmarys, have encountered a whirlwind of ups and down over ten years of both Billboard charting tracks and the choice to forge forward and never look back. I caught up with Vocalist, Ally Dickaty, to discuss the recent release of ‘Northern Sun Sessions’, personal growth through sobriety, choosing to be a good human being, the importance of having the right people around you and more.

Congrats on the recent release of ‘Northern Sun Sessions’. Tell us about your experience recording and what lessons that you took away along the way.

This was the first album we’ve self produced. It was one of the greatest, toughest and most empowering experiences i think we’ve had as a band. We were pushed out of our comfort zone accomplishing everything 100% independent. We learned so much new stuff doing this, one of the toughest lessons I learned was to always have your recording backed up onto bullet proof hard drives. Lets just say I learned the hard way on this.

How has the bond between you and Danny strengthened over the years? What have you endured to reach the place that you are in both artistically and personally?

I almost feel like we’ve gone full circle with it, we’ve been through so much together, loads of highs and lows and countless times where we could have have walked away from it all and given up. When you start out you have all these ideals and fixed ideas in your head of how it will be, how it should be and where it’ll take you. From my experience it’s never what you expect. You just keep pushing or you give up. I feel like its gone past a point now where Dan and me expect anything from it, we just do our thing and watch what happens. In many ways we’ve arrived back to the start and just want to play the best music we can. It’s so easy to be swept away with all the bull shit, but when it comes down to it, it’s all about the music and expressing yourself, and that’s all it is. Dan and I are brothers, we have a super strong bond.

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

The greatest obstacle I’ve managed to overcome is being sober for 6 years. Life can be a series of challenging thoughts, it’s whether we face them, or run away from them. I think many of us are brought up with an expectation of what life should be, rather than accepting what it is. There’s this idea that we should all be happy and life should be ‘just’ and fair when this blatantly isn’t always the case. From a child brought up with these ideals to actually seeing how the world of money, relationships and power work, it can be traumatising. My life has felt like a bit of mission, constantly dealing with internal conflict but with some overriding feeling of purpose to which I am extremely grateful for.

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

Good points, bad points. I think we’re still adjusting to such a huge change and one that keeps developing. I completely understand people’s resistance to it and how it’s destroyed and destroying many industries, but at the same time, we aint going back so it’s about working with it best you can and making use of the good aspects. There’s so much great stuff available, its free education if you’re willing to put in the time. I think I want to focus on the best points and work with it rather than resist it.

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 just want to be a good human being, stay real. If, by the end of my life, I can sincerely believe that I’ve done my best and helped others on the way then I’d be happy with that.

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?

That’s a really good question. I don’t think it’s something I’be fully mastered yet. It obviously helps massively that I don’t drink but it’s difficult to eat well and look after yourself when you’re always on the go, you just grab what you can and with being vegetarian subjected to band riders, I often find that it’s been a steady diet of cheese and bread for weeks on end. It’s important to have the right crew around you, I see the crew as family I can rely on and speak to. It’s really important to me. The road can be tough place to be with little sleep and no creature comforts. It’s vital to have good times with the people you’re with. We always try to make sure we have a couple of meals together and get at least some hot food every couple of days.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

There has been great wisdom in hindsight, but I’ve never taken it, you always learn from your own mistakes. I’ve tended to push things as far as they can go before I learn first hand. Drink lots of water whenever you can. At least cover that base.

What does the world have to look forward to from The Virginmarys in 2019?

We’ll be touring our new album, releasing singles, videos, staying in touch with the fans and always writing new music. Would be great to do another form of release later in the year.

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

Thanks for sticking with us, you are the best fans in the world! Know that we’re always pushing to do you proud.

The Virginmarys Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

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Interviews

Interview: Riding With Killers

Fort Wayne Rockers, Riding With Killers, are a bundle of heart that are set to bring their Rock ‘N’ Roll dreams to life. I caught up with Vocalist/Guitarist, Taylor Roberts, to discuss the release of “Fixing You”, taking pride in his love for animals, what the world can expect from Riding With Killers and more.

Congrats on the release of “Fixing You”. Tell us about your intention for the track and what you learned about yourself throughout the creative process.

First off thank you so much for having RWK on board for an interview. It’s exciting to be a part of Life Beyond the Music! We released the song as a thank you for helping us hit Number One on RockFile Radio with our song “Is Anybody Listening”, which is pretty cool considering we are still in our infancy stage. The song for me represents those toxic people in your life that you try your best to help. You want to fix them because you know they can be better, but sometimes at the end of the day you have to realize you can’t fix them and you have to walk away.  While the song isn’t directed at one person in particular, there were multiple events throughout my life that inspired the song and I think it’s a song that people can relate to at the end of the day. I think the biggest thing I learned from the creative process of this is that I am capable of actually doing this. While I’ve always been active in the behind the scenes stuff, in my previous band I was the guitarist and backup vocalist. I always wanted to sing but I was never able to do what I wanted, which was write songs and get what was in my head and heart out. I was worried I wouldn’t be able to hack it, but once I put myself in that position and forced myself in an unfamiliar territory I realized I’m capable.

Through Riding With Killers, do you feel as though you are able to present yourself artistically in the most honest manner possible?

Absolutely, I’m getting to be me and get what is in my head and heart out finally. I’ve had so much that I’ve wanted to say for so long and I was never able to fully realize that in the previous group. With this new venture, I’m getting to put pen to paper finally and I have plenty to write about. I’m getting to tackle things that have bothered me for years. I get to turn something ugly into something beautiful. I get to use those moments to create art. My mission has always been to do for others what music did for me as a kid, say what I never had the courage to say. To let others know they aren’t alone in the world and that someone else understands. It’s incredibly freeing and I haven’t been this happy or excited in a long time.

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

I would say touching back on me being capable of taking on this role as a lead singer/guitarist. I had so many doubts in my head. Can I start over from scratch? Can I play guitar and sing at the same time? Am I truly any good at this? Is it worth pursuing? Am I wasting my time? I had these thoughts surrounding me as I was recording the first 3 tracks for the band. But as I had these doubts in my head, I began to realize, Hey I’m actually doing this, why the fuck have I been doubting myself? Snap the fuck out of it Taylor. I had to beat that into myself over and over until I finally began to believe it. I think a lot of musicians struggle with that because we live in such a critical world. Everyone has an opinion of something even if they have not one single ounce of authority on a subject. It can be grueling, but at the end of the day you have to trust that you are where you’re supposed to be and just go for it.

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

It’s a double edged sword really. On one hand it’s this incredibly useful tool that allows people the ability to connect with others across the world that they might not have made contact with. You’re able to share your art for free essentially and get the word out like you’ve never been able to before. On the OTHER hand, it’s one of the worst things that has happened to this world. While we can be connected like never before I think it’s bred a level of disconnect that’s put a damper on human interaction. People have found a way to be able to say things without consequence. People sincerely say the worst shit to each other online, mostly without consequence, and it’s truly discomforting. A lot of special moments are lost because everyone has a camera on their phone, they video everything, take photos of everything. It’s almost cheapened the experience that you used to be able to get when people weren’t glued to their phones.

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 love for animals. My dog Meg is my absolute favorite. I found her on the side of the road in North Mississippi over 3 years ago. She was probably 20 pounds and near death. Something told me that she had to come with me and I worked with her and helped get her to a healthy weight. I got her fur to grow back through many medicated baths, got her embedded collar taken care of, got rid of all the skin issues and trust issues she had. She’s essentially my child and I love her dearly. How someone could treat a creature like Meg so poorly is just beyond me, I’m so glad our paths crossed. I think she saved me just as much as I saved her. Her name is pretty ironic too, because of her situation, I based her name off Meg from Family Guy. In the show no one wants Meg or pays attention to her, but with showing people my Meg’s story, she’s grown her own little fan base and people are really in to her. She’s a doll.

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?

It helps to go to the gym and exercise. Your physical absolutely affects your mental. You have to take care of yourself in order to be able to function to the best of your ability. I try to eat as best as I possibly can, which can be incredibly hard.  But it goes hand in hand with your physical. It all interconnects at the end of the day. The better you treat your body, the better state of mind you’ll be in which leads to a better overall state of happiness.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

I’ve for sure been incredibly fortunate to get to do some incredible things, and one of the most common themes/pieces of advice was, be cool to EVERYONE. I think that is probably the most important one. The industry isn’t quite as big as a lot of people would have you believe. Everyone knows everyone, someway, somehow. If you’re a dick, people tend to know. Don’t be a dick.  Another one of my favorite things I was told was “Just be badass”. It seems like a no brainer, but really it’s a good piece of advice. Be badass, and watch things start to happen. Hone your craft and be badass. Don’t give up. That’s probably the worst thing you can do. You’re gonna face rejection, criticism, and people will tell you no, constantly. Everyone no is one step closer to a yes. Keep doing what you’re doing and don’t give up. The only way you get better at something is to keep at it. Eventually you’ll strike gold and you’ll get to where you want to be.

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

Thank you all so much for the encouragement and support through all of this. It was an insane leap of faith to get where I’m at now and I truly appreciate everyone who has stuck beside me and given me a reason to keep going. I wouldn’t be here without any of you nor would it really mean anything. So truly from the bottom of my heart, thank you. The best is yet to come!

Riding With Killers Social Links:

Facebook • Website

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Music Reviews

Southern Rockers, Dead Friends 46, Release New Album: ‘Hardcore’

Southern Rockers, Dead Friends 46, are a wild riot of Rock ‘N’ Roll thunder creating music that is both amusing and pleasing to consume. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts of their latest full-length album release, ‘Hardcore’.

Kicking off with a bang with the first track, “The Firm”, the guys of Dead Friends 46 rile up some daunting energy as aggressive Punk guitar playing smashes through the intro and swiftly leads into a dive into a ball of fire by the name of Don Mazda whose vocal style mimics the likes of Judas Priest. The second track, “Rise Up”, can get a crowd of maniacs tossing beer across a venue as the guys of Dead Friends 46 showcase their lyrical prowess with a politically potent spill of how corrupt our Government has come to be. “Whistling in the Dark” is the third track that is a seemingly spiritual ode to regret as lyrics bash living under the rules of society and how much it can destroy your one shot as a human being. The fourth track, “Banned from the Pubs”, is exactly as it states; rowdy, incoherent and balls-to-the-wall as the guys lyrically attempt to flee a frantic scene that they created.

“The Letter” is the fifth track that intentionally sticks it to the man as a blast of instrumental synergy shreds through with ease. The sixth track, “Mass Hysteria”, puts the cherry on top of the madness that has already come memories of the lack of trust in those who have f**ked the guys of Dead Friends 46 in the past are coming back out of the closet to lyrically confront with no remorse. “Blood Cot” is the seventh track that lyrically highlights a lack of self-discipline and control which is destroying the lives of an individual who is immersed within their own self-doubt. The eighth track, “Lady Doom”, is a lyrical shot at a lady who tried to run the guys of Dead Friends 46 for what they’re worth yet was found guilty in hindsight. “Devil and Don” is the ninth track that reeks of lyrically knowing that it is time to throw in the towel on relationships that aren’t going anywhere. The tenth track, “Black Eyeliner (April Harvey), starts off with streamlined instrumentals that leads into a dose of lyrical anger as the guys metaphorically travel through a chapter of sleeping with the devil. Closing out with “Dead Friends”, the guys pour one out for the ones that have come and gone in a classic Punk Rock way.

Mastered with precision by a group of guys who live and die by and with music, ‘Hardcore’ by Dead Friends 46 is an album that can kickstart your new year the right way. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Anti-Flag, Bad Religion and Authority Zero, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Dead Friends 46 on Soundcloud.

Dead Friends 46 Social Links:

Facebook • Bandcamp • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Beyond Unbroken

LA Rockers, Beyond Unbroken, are a group of rebellious minds that are twisting and turning through their life experiences to lay all of their pain on the line throughout their artistry. I caught up with Vocalist/Bassist, Daimen Horrell, to discuss ‘Don’t Wake The Dead’, the importance of patience, staying creative while on the road and more.

Congrats on the success of ‘Don’t Wake The Dead’. Tell us about the creative and recording process. Did you expect the album to turn out how it did?

Thank you very much. The creative process for that record was very different and adventurous. At the time we were essentially a combination of two different families that didn’t know each other ,and seeing if we could write music together. All of us experienced in our own ways ,but we had no idea who we were as a band. Let alone what we would sound like. I knew personally though that it was gonna be great because we all just had a natural chemistry. It was really strange walking up to these two strangers, and after an hour of hanging out feeling like we knew each other for years. That said it came out great only a few things I’d change ,but that’s just me being a perfectionist.

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

I think for me it would just be to work on your patience.

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

I love social media I think if used right it’s the perfect tool for an artist. Part of me does miss the mystery of not knowing anything about artist other than their art. That being said though I’m a huge attention whore so it’s awesome.

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.

My biggest pride and joy is my son. I have a 9-year-old, and he’s just my whole world.

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 it’s all about just keeping busy and staying creative. Of course there’s parties and fun times, but I always find staying creative is really the best thing. I love to draw, write songs on my iPhone, write screenplays for movies, anything to just keep my mind going.

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

We love and appreciate all of you. Every single one of you makes it all worth it.

Beyond Unbroken Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

Categories
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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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!

A War Within Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website

Categories
Music Reviews

Austin-Based Rockers, The Stone MG’s, Release New Single – “I Need You”

Austin-Based Rockers, The Stone MG’s, leave it all out on the line throughout their dynamic new single, “I Need You”. Ensuring to make it known that there is a lack of satisfaction felt within Lead Vocalist, Rodney James, The Stone MG’s are close to throwing in the towel on a deeply entwined interpersonal connection or addiction that is now beginning to cause mental friction. Metaphorically rich and full of cool undertones that match the mood of unease, The Stone MG’s lyrically pick at a scab that they know in the back of their head is bound to form into a scar.

Smokey, rich and seasoned vocals of Rodney James add an invigorating touch to the track that flows seamlessly with songwriting that is abysmally deep and unafraid to dive beyond the surface. As the track flows, the pace gets picked up as the rose-covered glasses that once served to cover-up reality begin to be removed. Growing up in a family whose central core was centered around the love of music, the passion seeped into the veins of Rodney who is a natural when it comes to being an artist. 

The Stone MG’s are a bundle of Rock ‘N’ Roll soul and we recommend to add “I Need You” to your weekend playlist. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Kings of Leon, Arcade Fire and Arctic Monkeys, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for The Stone MG’s on Soundcloud.

The Stone MG’s Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Bandcamp • Instagram