Tag: Rock

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Interviews

Interview: Set It Off

Tampa Band, Set It Off, have maximized their creative synergy to bring to life their own Pop and Electronic infused niche that is idiosyncratic and abounding with heart. Gearing up for the upcoming release of ‘MIDNIGHT’, I caught up with Lead Vocalist, Cody Carson, to discuss the paradoxes of facing rejection, the power within realizing your worth, being proactive and aware of anxiety triggers stemming from social media, choosing not to sacrifice your moral compass for success and more. 

Congrats on the upcoming release of ‘MIDNIGHT’. Tell us about the creative and recording process so far and what you have learned along the way.

Thank you so much! It is been an absolutely amazing process filled with growth, vulnerability, and experimentation. Once we had our start date to begin the record, it wasn’t an endless grind every day to try to produce what we consider to be our best songs yet. We came in with around 60 ideas and wrote as many songs as we could to end up tasking ourselves with narrowing it down to just 15. This will be our longest release yet, and we’re happy to say that we feel this is the best we’ve been.

What new techniques or skills did you acquire during the process of record ‘MIDNIGHT’?

For me personally, three skills that I honed in on the most were learning when to subtract rather than add, fighting for the best possible metaphor (that I have never heard before) whether it be one line or the concept of the song itself, and how to come up with better titles for the songs overall.

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

Rejection within my career. It is one of the most difficult things I’ve had to personally face because in all honesty, we are talking about our dreams. For someone to make you feel like your dream doesn’t count or that you’re not wanted is a hard pill to swallow. That’s how I felt in November of 2017, right before we started creating this album due to being dropped by people we were working with in the past. But we needed that feeling, it’s good to feel low sometimes, because if we never did, we would never know exactly what we have to fight for. It gives you time to realize your own worth and refuel that fire to succeed.

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

I think like anything in the world it has it’s pros and cons. It is incredibly convenient that we can access any song we want to whenever we want to because of the digital world. It is also incredibly hard for musicians to sell the albums they create now due to the format of digital streaming. But then you factor in that anyone can access your music with incredible ease and you can’t really complain. Another example is that we are simultaneously the most connected and disconnected we have ever been. Random phone calls or knocks at the door used to be an exciting thing with a positive connotation and now it triggers anxiety. But we also have the ability to talk to whoever we want to whenever we want to on a device just bigger than our hand. Just like anything in life there are positive sides and there are negative sides. For me personally, I think we’re extremely lucky to have the technology that we do.

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

I take pride in the fact that each member of this band will never sacrifice their integrity or their moral compass to gain success. I pride myself in the fact that I will always be real with all of you, If I’m happy you will know it, if I am sad you will know it, and you will know my flaws. I don’t want there to be a separation between who we are supports us. I want Set It Off to be a home where people can go to cope with everything that they are going through or have been 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?

Funny enough, but by feeding it more stimulus. I am a big believer in positive distractions. I deal with my problems, but if they are too hard to face in that moment, then I will just turn to video games, music, or movies. It is okay to take your brain away from stressful situations sometimes. Personally, video games are my escape from the real world.

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 is something that can be learned from every artist no matter if they’re outside of your genre or a spitting image of yourself. You can learn what you should be doing and what you shouldn’t be doing. You should constantly be evaluating how you can better yourself. I’m happy with the fact I will never feel secure in my level of success because that means I will always feel that I have room to grow. Playing shows alongside people who have the same passion as you is the perfect place to learn.

If any of our readers have never been to Tampa, what are three of your favorite restaurants that you recommend to visit?

This may not be a restaurant, but if you go to Florida in general and don’t go to Publix and get a Publix sub from their deli then you’ve wasted your trip! You can customize whatever you want and they will do it with a smile. I miss it so much! Also, my favorite date spot in Tampa is definitely Ciro’s Speakeasy & Supper Club, it’s a real intimate vibe with craft cocktails and amazing food. Right up my alley!

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

Yes! We are lucky to have you. We are also very lucky that you’re so kind to each other and also some of the funniest people we’ve ever seen online. Thank you for being a part of our lives and for letting us be a part of yours. Here’s to the new era of Set It Off!

Set It Off Social Links:

Facebook• Website• Spotify

PRE-ORDER your copy of ‘MIDNIGHT’ HERE. Out on February 1st, 2019 via Fearless Records

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Music Reviews

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, Release New Single – “Tiny Love”

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, lead listeners to flow fluidly into a state of ease throughout the release of their soul-infused new single, “Tiny Love”. Lacing feelings of lust throughout instrumentals that are abounding with spunk, Apache Rose is a band that is full of talented musicians that have come together for their genuine love for making music. Stemming from Moscow, “Tiny Love” is a track that is full of high energy that stems from their underground movement yet their lyricism focuses on utilizing the English language to attract further listeners in North America. The songwriting style by Lead Vocalist, Ilya Novokhatskiy, is simple yet precise and hits the nail on the head for the overall Rock niche that the band fits into.

Embodying the energetic and loose energy that the world of Rock needs, Apache Rose is a promising act that is bound to make their music spread far and wide throughout 2020. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Cage The Elephant, The Black Keys and Foster the People then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Apache Rose on SoundCloud.

Apache Rose Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • YouTube

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Interviews

Interview: Like A Storm

New Zealand Rockers, Like A Storm, continue to make their mark in the world of music through exploring thoughtful and interactive ways to meaningfully connect with their loyal global fanbase. Having released their third studio album, ‘Catacombs’, in 2018, the guys of Like A Storm are living out their dream and setting a positive example for all. I caught up with Drummer, Zach Wood, to discuss the success of ‘Catacombs’, choosing to do the right thing, being a huge car fan, exploring while on the road and more.

Congrats on the ongoing success that has come with Like A Storm. ‘Catacombs’ was one of the best albums of the year. Tell us about the creative and recording process behind the release.

Thank you so much! That means a lot. We definitely pushed ourselves musically very hard for this new album. It’s unlike anything we’ve ever done. It a lot heavier and musically challenging. The recording process for us is very interesting because all three brothers in the band  wright music. So the album is very evenly spread between who wrote what song. It’s not just all the singer all OR the guitar player. It’s basically every three songs on the album is done by someone else. They all play every instrument as well so the whole structure of every song is done by one of them.

How has the steady climb that has come with Like A Storm affected and enhanced your personal life and relationships?

I’m actually quite an introverted person. So I wouldn’t say it has enhanced my personal life very much. I know some people use the whole “I’m in a band” thing to their advantage but I don’t really go out much or do anything crazy to where I ever feel the need to do that. I actually met my girlfriend on tour at a show.  We’ve been dating for two years, so she knew what she was getting into, and she handles me being away very well and I admire her for that. Not many girls would be trusting or ok with someone being gone months at a time.

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

I’m actually a really easy-going, laid-back, relaxed person. I don’t get stressed easily and I always do the right thing. So thankfully I haven’t had one of these issues in a really long time. It sounds stupid but I’d say the last thing I really felt challenged about was recording our album. It sounds so cliché but I wanted it to be perfect. I wanted people to listen to it and when they hear the drums they were impressed. It wasn’t just something typical that you’d hear on any song and we really strive to make it challenging and make it different.

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

I personally love it. I love social media. I love Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, etc; I grew up with it! I had Instagram and all those apps basically when they first came out. I’m only 23, so I imagine like most people my age I’m always on my phone and I’m always doing something on those apps. I’ve been lucky enough in life to have a job where people are really interested in what I do and I’m able to share really interesting things, so I think I enjoy it more than the average person because I’m able to share unique experiences with people.

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 a huge car person! Doesn’t matter what make, what model, what year it is, I just love cars!  I go to car shows, rally’s, you name it ! I’m also a huge shoe guy I love shoes as well! I think I have 20-something pairs at the moment and I plan on it growing!!

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 important to have days off on tour and luckily our crew are really keen on going out and doing stuff, we are huge explorers. Doesn’t matter what town or country you’re in, we will always go out of the bus walk around for hours and hours, go to popular restaurants, or see a movie or do something. It’s important to do this because otherwise you’re just always trapped in a venue or a bus and you do kind of get a little bit of cabin fever.

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.

I can’t remember who told me this but it’s so true. The people that came to see you and paid money to see you, believe in you and they want to see a rock show. So it doesn’t matter if there’s 10 people or 10,000 people you always give them the 10,000 people performance. People like to be entertained and that’s how you’re going to get ahead in this business. you have a really entertaining show whether that’s your production, or your performance. For us we try to make both of those as nuts as possible ! It’s all about entertainment ! And trust me we’ve played plenty of both shows for small amounts of people and huge amounts on our journey.

What are some necessities that you always have with you while on tour which make your life easier?

I’m simple. The one thing I need to make my day work is a Redbull. I need at least one can a day!

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

As always, without you guys we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and it honestly means the world to us. I know every band says this but it’s because it’s so true. Without people who are paying for your merchandise, your CD, or the ticket to see you play, there wouldn’t be this opportunity for us. Siri speaking for all four of us in Like A Storm; we want to thank you, each and all of you.

Like A Storm Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

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Interviews

Interview: Fire From the Gods

Austin natives, Fire From The Gods, are the full forced musical embodiment of empowerment. Blending a variety of genres including Hip-Hop, Metal and Hardcore, the Lone Star State gang has a lot to deliver and a lot in store. I caught up with the guys to further discuss being a part of Rise Records, not taking shit from anyone, how social media has expanded their artistry and more. 

Photo Credit: Zizi Friesen

First and foremost, introduce yourself to our readers. How did Fire From The Gods come to life?

My name is AJ and I am the vocalist for Fire From the Gods. FFTG has existed since 2007. FFTG under its current guise has been together for about 2 years. After various lineup changes over the years we now have a solid 5 member setup that we are very pleased with. 

Your Rise Records debut, ‘Narrative’, was a total hit with fans. Tell us about the creative process behind the album.

We wrote this record in about three parts. A majority of the pre-production was written and recorded in Texas with our co-writer and producer Robby Joyner of Black Book sound. The vocals and lyrics which took the most time were written by me in NYC where I lived at the time and the final product was recorded with David Bendeth at the house of loud in NJ. There is a lot lost in translation when sharing files back and forth. The plan was to record in Texas then have the record mixed somewhere else. Fortunate for us a window of opportunity was opened and we got the chance to record with David Bendeth in New Jersey. That move took the record and creative process to a whole other level.  Over about 30 days during the holidays we knocked it out. The end result was ‘Narrative’. 

Did you have any goals or intentions going into the studio before the recording process began? 

We went into the situation with D. Bendeth and The House of Loud knowing that we were going to have to step our game up. Many great records have come out of that place. The only real intention was to take full advantage of the opportunity. We had some prepro but we were unsure of what we were going to produce.  The label was very chill and very supportive. The folks at Rise were like give it your best shot. Everything we sent they loved so we kept going without hesitation. 

Have you been on the road testing any of the new material? If so, how have your fans been reacting to it? 

The last two tours we’ve played all new music from ‘Narrative’. The response has been mega! We played two very different tours. The Browning tour was closer to the metalcore “scene”  that FFTG comes from. There wasn’t much of a surprise that the fans of The Browning were into the music. The Otep tour was a very different landscape. Her fans are very dedicated to her and they embraced us. Many had checked out “excuse me” prior to the show. They came prepared to see us. We had great time.  

Is there another band that is signed to Rise Records that you would like to recognize for their musicality?

For sure. Rise has such a diverse roster at the moment. It’s very easy to find something for everyone. I really dig Of Mice and Men’s transformation over the years. Their last two releases are a testimony to the band’s maturity and experience. Tiger Army is an awesome band I grew up listening to. Their current Rise release is just as good as anything they’ve put out in the past. The new Crown the Empire is great another band that is changing and maturing. Cane Hill is the very embodiment of the best aspects of 90’s and early 2000’s Nu metal. Rise is a pretty cool place to be right now.

What bands or artists influenced the sound and playing style of Fire From The Gods?

So many. We talk about our diversity in the band a lot. Because we have such contrasting backgrounds. But we all share a common love for heavy music which ultimately influenced our record. There’s a bit of The Deftones, Poison the Well, Slipknot, Metallica, Rage against the machine, Sevendust, Sick of All, Hatebreed, Norma Jean, The Bled, The Used, Meshuggah, 90’s hip hop, NYHC, pop punk the list goes on. We could chat for days about the bands that influence us.

Have social networks been a key asset of creating your audience?  

FFTG had a pretty solid social media before our signing. Due to the band having an already extensive history. Each release prior to Narrative had a distinct sound with attracted fans from all over. So ppl have been talking about the band for a long time. It definitely helps. I don’t think it’s the end all be all for a band’s career. But it is certainly a fantastic tool to help build a career. I believe in the old school formula, you write a record you tour the record and you sell the record. Too many bands live and die on social media these days. There’s no substance especially if that’s your only method of reaching fans.  You have to play shows compounded with a solid social media presence to survive these days.  

You guys have a fierce amount of energy which is highlighted on your album but as well as in your live performances, Do you guys have any pre-show rituals to harness that energy?

Besides the usual stretching, warming up stuff we all just kind of do our own thing before the set. Bonner jams super high energy bands before showtime to The Bled, Every Time I Die, etc. Rich does as well sometimes. Jameson, Drew and I kind of zone out and get our minds right. FFTG shows are very high energy. We try to be relentless on stage.  

Last but certainly not least, do you have anything that you would like to share with your fans? 

Again, thank you all for taking your time to speak to us. Keep your head up and don’t take shit from anyone. Peace.

Fire From The Gods Social Links: 

Facebook • Instagram • Website 

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Interviews

Interview: Biffy Clyro

Scottish Trio, Biffy Clyro, have topped the album charts all over the world and are finding their way into the hearts of US listeners along the way. The gentlemen that are deemed Rock and Roll royalty in the UK are dreaming of more and bringing forward their highest selves throughout their artistry. I caught up with Drummer, Ben Johnston, and here’s what we have gathered along the way. 

Your songs such as “People” and “Medicine” carry a hefty energy to them; what sparked the bold message behind them?

“Medicine” is about trying to get to a place where you don’t have to rely on your medication to get through your day to day life. They are reflective offerings pertaining to the reality of everyday life.

Did the band go into the studio with a plan as to how the album was going to turn out, or did it evolve along the way?

It evolved along the way. We had a rough idea with a bunch of great songs, but we really leaked our frustrations into the lyrics and the overall album. It is different from previous material in a positive way.

How did Neil’s episode of writer’s block affect the chemistry of the band after the success of ‘Opposites’?

We just had to move forward and evolve as a band. It is very difficult when an individual loses faith in themselves entirely. But, we moved forward and through it.

How have all three of you managed to stick together for over 15 years of emotions, life-change, touring, etc? Did you perceive that you would be playing together for so long when you first started?

We were friends before we were a band. We have been hanging out and having fun since we were children. Cracking jokes. Being in a band became a hobby and transferred into a lot of fun. Being friends is certainly the recipe for longevity.

Photo Credit: Francesca Pieroni Neil

If you had the chance to create your own festival lineup, what three other bands would you add to the bill other than Biffy Clryo?

Nirvana, Ben Folds Five and a metal band by the name of Karate that was formed in Boston, Massachusetts.

From when you first started playing and throughout your career, who has been your biggest music inspiration?

Nirvana. They are the band that made us a band. Their song structures are incredible. When you talk about music, you talk about Nirvana. Also, another rock band by the name of Burning Airlines. 

Last but certainly not least, Is there anything that you would like to share with your fans before we go?

We’re sorry. We are sorry that America is such a f*****g nasty place. We are aiming to cover all over the ground. Be patient for when we come over. We will create great shows.

Biffy Clyro Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Concert Reviews

Tool Packs Little Caesars Arena With Their Virtual Rock World in Detroit

Formed in 1990, Los Angeles Rock band, Tool, brought their virtual Rock reality to Little Caesars Arena in Detroit for a packed show abounding with metaphorical riches and spiritual jewels.

The three-time Grammy Award winners who are passionately revered by fans worldwide have incorporated an evasive, secretive and unmitigatingly cryptic aura reflecting abysmal depth within each and every one of their lyrically and visually hypnotic concepts. The band created an edge throughout the release of their first full-length studio album, ‘Undertow’, in 1993 on Zoo Entertainment which was dropped in the midst of the era of grunge shelling out apathetic lyrics over distorted guitars. Traveling to date to celebrate the release of their latest full-length album, ‘Fear Inoculum’, it is evident that through their live set, intricate drums, powerful bass tones and hauntingly furious vocals, listeners dive into an explosive journey full of agony and melancholia that articulates the inner workings of a human being traversing tortuous and spiritually enlightening paths at dizzying speeds. Throughout the live show, Tool strung together a perfect frenzy of musical bliss playing tracks such as “The Pot”, “Forty Six & 2”, “Parabola”, “Jambi”, and “Vicarious” which kept concertgoers at Little Caesars Arena in a naturally sedative trance.

Abounding with the cold-hard facts and brass tacks, listeners are sent down an entrancing expedition through insane shred solos and lyrical extremes within Tool’s latest release, ‘Fear Inoculum’, which sends listeners down a virtuosic, maniacal and addictive mind confronting the power of denial tendencies and irrational rationalizations that sweep through our nation. The immaculately curated musical exploration of consciousness pushes the envelope of what Maynard perceives that he knows while reminding listeners to live in the now and accept their fate as mortal human beings. The lyrical level truly parallels the instrumental state of euphoria delivered through a lengthy and explosive blend of personal power and personal confrontation that leads listeners toward belief within themselves beyond the self-conceived interpretations of power from oppressive forces stifling their abilities and sense of tranquility. ‘Fear Inoculum’ serves as a healthy retreat away from the bullshit that floods the lives of the deprived and inauthentic values of society. 

Tool’s live performances defy all conventions. Singer, Maynard James Keenan, has been known to face away from the audience to psychologically influence fans to pay keener attention to their screens full of psychedelic and internally enriching visuals that serve as Maynard’s reflection of his personal journey while residing comfortably in the shadows. Abounding with light shows and varied stage settings by revered artist and long-time art partner, Alex Grey, Tool’s live performances attest to the emotive power of their music and artistry. 

ALL PHOTO CREDIT: Jessica Golich

Tool’s discography and musical entity betrays commercial ambitions while influencing listeners to dive deeper into their personal emotional crescendos and the neurotic workings of the mind. Tool is one of the few existing acts today that send a message through their music and inherent eccentricity that stands the test of time while being full of unvarnished truth and dignity. Grab your tickets HERE for the remainder of Tool’s 2019 Tour while you still can.

Tool Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Flawes

London Alternative Pop Band, Flawes, are in the midst of a whirlwind of excitement as they continue to spread their wings and challenge themselves to become the best that they can be as musicians and human beings. I caught up with the guys to discuss the upcoming release of their debut album, ‘Highlights’, always having someone to talk to while on the road, the importance of taking time away from your phone, learning to enjoy the moment and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your debut album, ‘HIGHLIGHTS’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new album.

Thank you, ‘Highlights’ represents the journey we’ve taken as a band over the last three years. Our sound has naturally evolved and we couldn’t be happier with where it has ended up. These 12 songs are quite literally the highlights from the writing process.

JC: The album features a series of open letters to myself as well as a few songs about love and heartbreak. I like to let the listener attach their own sentiment to the music so a lot of the lyrics are fairly ambiguous.’

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

JC : I always struggle to enjoy the moment, i’m always concentrating on the next thing. One of the songs on the album ‘Take This Slow’ is all about telling myself to slow down. It’s a work in progress!

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

JC: Another song on the album ‘Don’t Count Me Out’ was all about a time where I was unfairly written off. Instead of giving in, I decided to fight back and prove them wrong. Everytime we play the song live I take myself to that time and place. Sometimes I get a little carried away! 

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

FE: I think it’s easy to live your life through your phone, reaching to your pocket when you’re at a gig instead of appreciating it in the moment. I’m always trying to use mine less but it’s super hard to do so, especially when you’re on a tour bus for hours and hours! I’m definitely an advocate of using phones less. 

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.

FE: I’ve recently fallen in love with cooking – I never thought I’d enjoy it as much as I do! There is something very satisfying about cooking for friends or family, especially when the food goes down well. I also love keeping fit and reading, I’m clearly the old man of the band.

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?

FE: One of the benefits of being in a band (as opposed to being a solo artist), is that you have friends around to talk with. Hearing different perspectives is a really helpful way of getting out of repetitive negative thought patterns. 

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. 

HUSS: Treat people how you’d like to be treated, be polite & friendly to everyone you meet and most importantly, enjoy doing what you love. 

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

HUSS: Thank you for having such great taste in music, this is only the beginning. 

Flawes Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Bent Knee

Boston Band, Bent Knee, are stepping into a new realm of musical creativity that pours forward an atmospheric touch that leaves listeners swooning in an electric rush. On the verge of the release of their new album, ‘You Know What They Mean’, I caught up with Courtney to discuss growing into a better team player, the dream of taking a yoga training course in the future, the importance of cultivating your sense of self and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your new album, ‘You Know What They Mean’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new release.

Like most of our albums, I don’t think there’s a definitive message behind YKWTM as much as the hope that folks enjoy listening to it. When we were writing the songs we were focused on finding infectious grooves that make you want to move. In the studio we worked on capturing sounds and performances with a lot of attitude. It’s simultaneously our most accessible and more experimental album to date, and we’re all enthralled with how it turned out. 

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

It’s important to cultivate your sense of self. I think it’s easy to get thrown around if you’re trying to read other people’s expressions or parse through different pieces of advice. It’s a volatile industry where just because something worked once for somebody is no assurance that it will be a good thing for you. It helps to be at peace with yourself and the decisions you make, rather than feeling pushed around. At a micro level, being on the road or at shows can be challenging or fun, depending on how much you can meet your own needs in a graceful way. I was always somebody who tried to take the temp of the situation before deciding on what I want. Over the years I think I’ve become better about understanding and articulating what I need, which has counterintuitively made me a better team player.

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

For a long time I felt like I was a bad person, and I had a wicked confirmation bias that ensnared me in some sad basement corner of my life. Some of my bandmates and friends started seeing therapists for various different reasons, and I decided to start working with one myself. With their help, personal work, and time, I’ve dug myself out of that sad pit. I feel good about myself, and I feel more vividly alive than ever have. On sunny days I find myself looking at the sky and getting emotional about the bright blue and the energy radiating in the atmosphere. 

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

It’s a lot to take in! I love Instagram and I get a lot of inspiration and encouragement from it. Still, I don’t like how much of my time it tends to eat, and how quickly my phone becomes a Instagram machine rather than a telephone. When I come off tour, I often try to delete social media off my phone to get back into a rhythm of life. If I’m in line for something I actively try to stare at the wall or look around, and avoid tuning into social media.

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.

Lately I’ve been really focused on yoga. One of my life goals is to take a teacher training course by the time I’m 35, but for now I’ve been trying to practice every day. I’m proud that I vary between hot sweaty yoga and restorative yoga, so I’m not just going to sweat or exercise so much as for my mind. In the last year I ran a half marathon and a 10k, which made me feel really great. I was never super athletic growing up, so I felt really empowered knowing I could run long distances like that. Cooking and baking are also big passions for me, and I’ve been really interested in photography, drawing, and watercolors, too. 

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?

Being on the road is not a big chore for me (I’m lucky). Usually if I’m feeling rough, I just need to listen to myself and do whatever I’m aching to do. It’s always refreshing to walk somewhere alone, or even hop in a ride share to go do something I really want to. Sometimes taking a nap, reading a book with my nice headphones on, or drawing can really make me feel better. On most days I do yoga while we’re waiting for soundcheck, and that helps ground me a lot. I think the toughest aspect of tour is the waiting. Waiting for people to go eat, waiting for lines to be run, waiting for loadout, etc. etc. It’s good to find ways to make that time active and engaging, and avoid being  bummed out staring at my phone. 

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.

I can’t think of anything anyone specifically said to me, but we’ve certainly toured with a lot of kind and thoughtful people. For some reason I thought that people got meaner or more entitled towards the top of the food chain, fighting for the limited space available of being a “big band”. What I’ve learned is that it seems there’s plenty of room for kind and hardworking people, and most folks try to help each other out whenever they can. 

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

So grateful that there are folks out there listening and enjoying our music. We hear you and we see you, and we’re very grateful for your support and your positivity! 

Bent Knee Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

Categories
Interviews

Interview: American Grim

New Jersey Rockers, American Grim, are steadily making their way into the hearts of Rock lovers around the globe with their infectious riffs and stage presence. On the brink of the upcoming release of ‘Ultra Black’, I caught up with the guys to discuss the discomfort of losing a loved one, learning the value of defeat through martial arts, learning through observing fellow touring bands and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of ‘Ultra Black’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the new album.

In a world where nothing is given and your trying to find your purpose, “Ultra Black” did just that for us. We wrote Ultra Black in a very dark time in our life as a band. This is an album about overcoming your weaknesses and gaining control of your demons.

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working in the music industry.

Patience is the key, stay humble, and your nothing without a vision. 

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

Losing a loved one. Seeing first–hand how life can end so quickly. The discomfort may never end, but through that hardship it is made clearer that life is an incredible give and needs to be lived to its full potential. When you realize how fast it can all end, the little problems in life can fade away and allow you see things clearer. 

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

I think as much as it gives a chance to create, it gives a chance for everything to be less genuine. We will continue to embrace whatever form a media we can to tell our message, but nothing will ever compare to seeing us perform in a live environment. 

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. 

Being primarily a musician and martial artist. I have learned the values of defeat. Over and over again. You must live balanced. I constantly put myself in bad positions while fighting, just to work–out of them. When training is over, it’s like I’m recharged to take on life and all the crazy things it throws at me. This translates to staying composed in high pressure situations with the band, on stage or just in life in general. 

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 try to eat the same way I would eat at home, focused around a high protein diet. I work–out when I can, and just tell myself ” You are doing what you always wanted to do, play music”. 

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. 

I think being around bigger and more established bands makes you level up. It’s not easy to tour, especially for a long time. So you pay attention to what these older bands are doing, watch how there production and crew operate and how they work as a team. 

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

Our Latest single “Nightmare” has reached just under 1 million views on Youtube. We just want to thank everyone for the support of our new album ‘Ultra Black’. We are truly looking forward to getting a chance to meet you all on the road! 

American Grim Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Joyous Wolf

California Rockers, Joyous Wolf, are steadily rising and making a name for themselves while ensuring to remain grounded along the way. Through the success of ‘Place in Time’, the guys have been able to tour with some of the greats and are gearing up to join Deep Purple on a North American run. I caught up with Lead Vocalist, Nick Reese, to discuss finding balance in the digital age, words of wisdom from Myles Kennedy, keeping your ego in check on the road and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Place in Time’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the EP.

Lyrically it all sort of fell together into a theme of writing about my generation and the current one coming up. The way the norm has changed so drastically so quickly and how that effects young people coming up. It’s my interpretation of that.

What have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through bringing Joyous Wolf to life back in 2014.

That’s a long list of things… The music business is definitely a hurricane and through all of our travels we’ve really have adapted to just about any challenge thrown our way. You name it we’ve probably experienced it.

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

Every day is a development, a chance to build on your flaws. I’ve spent a great deal of time and energy working on mine. The one I battle with the most is always feeling responsible for any issue that happens around me. I take it personally and want nothing more than to fix it. I’m learning to overcome that.

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

Like anything else there are pros and cons to social media. It’s been said over and over that these things are meant to bring us together, but they can drive us further apart. My only idea to counter this, is how I would go about countering any addiction, by living in moderation. Finding balance in life in all forms. If you fall too far to one side, you will fall over.

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 writing. I’m always penning something, whether it’s a few words or an essay worth it helps me sort out my thoughts. I take pride in being physically fit because it has been a matter of mastering parts of my self discipline. I take pride in all of the wonderful friendships I have made these last four years, unforgettable human kindness and binding community. At the end of the day, all I ever wanted was a lot of real friends. I was a lonely kid so that really does bring me happiness.

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’m definitely self deprecating to an extent I try my hardest to keep my ego in check and I always remind myself of every challenge and obstacle that I cleared along the way. I remember all of the people who have helped me and I work hard to do right by them. On the road I write and performing on stage really helps me sort out my demons. There are bad days, but that’s just life. All about keeping the momentum forward from today to tomorrow.

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. 

My personal favorite was a small talk I had with Myles Kennedy earlier this year. He said to me “You bleed for the audience and don’t give a fuck, never change that”. So I won’t. I’ll cherish that moment always. I hope he knows how much that meant to me.

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

Thank you for all of the support for the boys and I. The fact that so many people have hopped on this train with us is unbelievably humbling. I love you all!  

Joyous Wolf Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Twitter