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.
Minnesota Rockers, City of the Weak, have been giving their blood, sweat, tears and energy to music ever since the release of the ‘White Fire Alarm’ EP in 2013. Having recently delivered throughout ‘Pulling Teeth’, City of the Weak continues to forge forward with renewed vigor and creative inspiration. I caught up with Bassist, Cody Hoffman, to discuss ‘Pulling Teeth’, the synergy amongst the band, coming out stronger from a rock bottom experience, finding peace in late night drives and much more.
Congrats on the recent release of ‘Pulling Teeth’. Tell us about the creative and recording process for this release and what you learned along the way.
Thank you! To be honest it was quite a grueling process all around, and that’s where the title came from because it felt like we were pulling teeth to make the record we wanted to make. After we released the Disclosure EP in 2014 we started touring really hard for the following few years. We would be out for up to 7 weeks at a time trying to just get out there and get in front of people. Eventually the band had started to draw some attention from people in the industry and everyone had their own opinion on what they thought we needed to do to “blow up” and be successful. At first we were really open to suggestions, but after a year a so it was like someone had slipped a blindfold on us and spun us around a hundred times. We got so twisted up in trying to please people that we kind of forgot what we were even trying to do artistically, and it was definitely showing in the music. The songs weren’t good, the morale wasn’t there, and we felt like we were blowing it. Eventually it hit a breaking point and we said “Fuck It” and decided to make the music we wanted to make and do what we want to do.
When It came down to recording the album we connected with Craig Owens to produce the album. We were actually supposed to go with someone else to do the album, but when a mutual friend brought his name up as a suggestion we knew we had to try for it. The album was actually recorded in two separate sessions. We recorded Censor This, Ungrateful, and Glad You Could Make It the first round to make sure it was going to be a good fit. Stef and I went to Detroit and we spent a few days with him tearing down each song. Some songs were almost completely scrapped aside from a couple parts and were re-written right on the spot. In the studio we had a lot of great discussions about what it means to make art that matters to you and to not sacrifice that for anything or anyone. Craig has such a trained ear for not only how a song sounds, but how it feels.After that first session we came home and the rest of the record just poured out of us. All those songs that we came back with the second time even now still resonate as strongly as they did when we first wrote them.
How has touring and being in the band with the balance of Male/Female, Stef and Brent, served to enhance your artistry?
I will say it is definitely a completely different dynamic touring and performing with women as opposed to a group of all males. I can’t really put my finger on what it is but there’s something about it that I’d take over an all male group any day of the week. I think by nature men and women have different instincts and pickup on different social cues and aspects of a situation in a completely different way. The balance of both really rounds out our group and I think in a lot of ways keeps us all with an open and objective mind. I guess a lot of that comes down to the individual personalities but I’m extremely lucky to work, relax, and play with both of my best friends. Stef, Brent, and I all live within a few blocks from each other in St. Paul, MN so we spend most of our time together one way or another on pretty much a daily basis. I think we bring a lot of the best aspects out of each other and in the end I think that trickles down into the things we create together.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
This is a difficult one to admit, but I’ll share because I’m now starting to feel that I’m starting to push through and get on the other side of it after struggling with it for a couple of years. There have been a handful of really dark moments that this lifestyle has brought me, this year especially, where I’ve questioned what the hell am I doing with my life. I started to live with this nagging thought that I had chosen the wrong path with in life and that the universe was sending me every possible sign that I needed to walk away. I felt this way for so long and built up resentment towards the things and the people that bring light to my life. Eventually after hitting rock bottom with the help of people close to me I was able to flip my perspective to realize that I have spent my lifetime doing this. That I have over 20 years of experience and lessons and that I need to hold myself up to that standard. I want my work to speak to that. The greatests artists of our time spent their entire lives devoted to their crafts and pushing themselves farther.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
That’s a really interesting question. I see that a lot of people have negative views on technology, but I think in a lot of ways these apps and social platforms are tools and we have the choice as to what kind of rabbit holes we are want to go down. It’s like you can spend your time subscribing to news sites and social media to convince yourself that the world sucks, or that it is coming to an end, or that everything we’ve been taught is a lie. On the flip side you can spend your time on sites like creativelive and skillshare, or listening to podcasts to teach yourself new things and open yourself up to new ideas. I’ve definitely found myself on both sides of it but in the last few years I just block or unfollow things that rub me wrong even in the slightest possible way. We are so delicate to influence so I try to subscribe to things that lift me up and empower the type of person I want to be.
No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.
So on top of all the things that keep me busy with City of the Weak, I also run my own business called C. Evan Media where I create art and promo materials for other bands and businesses. It gives me a chance to empower other artists across the country by helping them bring their visions to a new level. I’m very grateful to be able to collaborate with so many artists over so many different mediums!
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 can be challenging sometimes. Everyday is like it’s own adventure and you kind of find yourself in this state of just constantly reacting to your surroundings. I spend a lot of time reading on the road. I try to find moments everyday where I can take a walk and get my own personal space every once in a while. Other than that I also find a lot of peace in late night drives listening to music and podcasts.
You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. I remember seeing you at the first year of Chicago Open Air in 2016. Tell us some words of wisdom that you have collected along the way.
First off, that’s so cool you saw us there! That entire weekend was such a magical time and I think will forever be a lifelong highlight for me. I have no idea how we tricked them into that. I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is having the right attitude and being present with the people you are with. This lifestyle can be tough for everyone involved, whether it’s the bands on tour, the crew, the promoters or venue staff. I can’t think of a single part of this industry where it’s not some sort of challenge to do what it is we do, plus we can’t survive without each other so why not try to enjoy it? It’s a team effort whether you like it or not. Clear communication is key!
What’s coming in 2019 for City of the Weak?
Even though we just put out ‘Pulling Teeth’ we are already writing towards our next album. Aside from that we are getting ready to announce the next round of tour dates which we are super excited about as well as a couple of surprises throughout the year!
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Thank you all so much for your support over the best and worst of times!! I honestly think our fans are some of the coolest people in the world and I feel fortunate that we are on a daily basis are surrounded with like minded people all across the country. There’s no way it is a coincidence and I am grateful to know you guys. Always keep doing you, follow your vision and don’t compromise for anyone!
Family Friendly Rockers, Imagination Movers, have put their unique modern-day stamp on the world of Rock ‘N’ Roll with the intent to incorporate all walks of life and all ages into the mix. Here’s our track-to-track thoughts of their latest album release, ‘10-4’.
Kicking off with the first track, “Socks”, the guys create an atmosphere similar to the musical style of Barenaked Ladies get down to the bare bones with simple lyricism that will create an opportunity for fun and unity between parents and their children. The second track, “So Glad You’re Here”, slows it down into a showcase of vocal talent and lyricism that subconsciously serves to teach children the importance of connection and building healthy friendships. “Talking to the Baby” is the third track that has fluid instrumental synergy that creates a lively vibe while lyrics that travel through the experience of being a golden human prize that gets loved and passed around and is practically swiped from the memory of a human being. The fourth track, “Mad Hatter’s Tea Party”, is an album highlight that morphs into a experimental dose of awe as the guys of Imagination Movers create a kaleidoscopic journey into a world that was brought to life by their eclectic and innovative minds.
“Butterfly Wings (featuring Lisa Loeb)” is the fifth track that slows it down with a soft and gentle opening by Lisa in which metaphorically rich lyrics speak of the days of the chrysalis that are abounding with lessons leading to the emergence of a butterfly. The sixth track, “Is That Wrong”, instantly mimics the instrumental style of Jet and sticks out with an edgy groove that is full of rebellion and style. “Stacking Game” is the seventh track that energetically manifests along the way as instrumentals swiftly dabble between Blink 182 in their ‘Enema of the State’ days to Hoobastank in their self-titled days.The eighth track, “Sunday Morning Song”, lyrically leads listeners into cherishing the slow and easy Sundays that are meant for relaxation and being with yours loved ones. “Tow Truck (featuring The Durbulence)” is the ninth track that showcases the abilities of the guys of Imagination Movers as they take a turn down the Hip-Hop road and believe it or not, make it happen. The twelfth track, “The Hiking Song”, begins with an opening of children making everyday sounds and noises in the studio and then leads into a lyrical ode toward the great outdoors and the therapeutic benefits of staying active. Closing out cleverly with “#Fuzzylittlecat”, the guys end with a quick and short dose of Folk as lyrics that speak of their undying love for their cat charms the hearts of both children and their parents.
The guys of Imagination Movers awaken the childlike qualities that tend to run astray in adulthood within listeners throughout every listen. Having performed on Good Morning America and having had their music being featured on The Ellen Degeneres Show, Imagination Movers have soared through awakening wonder, creativity and freedom of expression. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Barenaked Ladies and Sum 41, then start your New Year off right with the Alt-Rock band, Imagination Movers, that is here to further unite you with your kids on Soundcloud.
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.
Brooklyn Rocker, Lord Sonny the Unifier, may be the new kid on the block, but his upcoming full-length release, “Final Notice!”, is set to be dynamically rich way to introduce himself to the world of music and beyond. Having released his first single from the album, “Right in Your I”, Lord Sonny the Unifier refuses to be confined to societies ways and sticks it to the man and those who treat others poorly due to their own insecurities unabashedly throughout the track.
Incorporating the sound of the late 1970’s when the world of Rock ‘N’ Roll was full of human beings who refused to be controlled, the rebellious edge in which Lord Sonny the Unifier approaches his artistry is refreshing to independent thinkers. Through tying in instrumentals that don’t overpower the message and intent of the lyrical trajectory, Lord Sonny the Unifier is ahead of the game and understands that his future is in his hands.
We live in a world full of billions of human beings who are actively living out their own individual lives that have nothing to do with you unless you choose to personalize it. Lord Sonny the Unifier is a newcomer to the music scene that is all about equality and ensuring that those who are treating others well get the same treatment in return. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as The Clash, Dead Kennedys and Queens of the Stone Age, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for Lord Sonny the Unifier on Bandcamp.
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.
California Psych Rockers, Crooked Flower, are awakening energy within and bringing forward a world of kaleidoscopic light throughout their latest full-length album release, ‘Into the Light’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.
Kicking off with the first track, “Dancing”, Angelina Dang’s vocals swiftly creep into the hearts of listeners as a simple lyrical journey speaking of swinging the night away mimics the likes of Eurythmics in their 1983 ‘Touch’ days. The second track, “Search Warrant”, slows it down to lyrically speak of tragedy that may be a therapeutic ode to closure when it comes to a personal experience or a dose of fiction that keeps listeners minds’ stimulated over Indie instrumentals that are smooth and welcoming to the spirit. “Freedom” is the third track that blasts right off with an edge as the California Rockers bring forward their mutual yearning for peace over toned-down instrumentals that match the lyrical intention of reaching a place of clarity. The fourth track, “Let You Go”, begins with a Groove inspired instrumental that gently takes listeners by the hand toward release of what no longer aligns with the life that the members of Crooked Flower are beginning to create.
“Around and Around” is the fifth track that begins by instrumentally mimicking the likes of Yes and swiftly shifts into a place of acceptance when it comes to no longer giving one’s energy and time to a person, place or thing that doesn’t serve the positive growth of oneself. The sixth track, “10 Million Seeds”, lyrically takes listeners through a psychedelic tunnel of thought as the members of Crooked Flower recognize their small place in this massive world which is one of the most liberating inner revelations to discover. “Falling” is the seventh track that begins with the instrumental feel of a song by Santana and then grooves into a lyrical deep dive into the life of a soul sporting rose-colored glasses that are blocking their reality and truth. Closing out with “Own World”, Crooked Flower subconsciously inspires listeners to create their own rules and choose not to succumb to society’s common ways of being.
It is evident and felt that Crooked Flower is a band that creates music for one of the right reasons; for the love of making music. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as No Doubt, Ramones and The Jam, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Crooked Flower on Soundcloud.
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.
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.
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!
Detroit Rockers, A War Within, are a bundle of musical soldiers that continue to fight the good fight and stand up for what they believe in. As one of the most passionate, dedicated and human independent bands in the music industry who are unashamed to put every ounce of themselves out there, A War Within continues to change the independent landscape. I caught up with Spencer to discuss the bands journey as independent musicians, life in Michigan, the wonders of social media and much more.
Your latest track, “Solace”, is packed with fury and raw lyricism. Tell us about your life experiences that have led you toward releasing such hefty and potent emotion throughout the track.
It’s the heaviest song we’ve ever written. It’s very much a tale of insecurity and anguish. The frustration in a world of today. It’s also quite ironic because as a band we’ve made peace with what we can’t chance so we really just try to find a way to work out the issues ahead of us. For me solace is where i find connecting in our humanity and the people we come across on a daily basis.
Tell us about your life in Michigan. How was it enhanced your artistry?
Michigan is such a tough place. Music has an elite art form and crowd. There are tons of great artists historically and currently from the area. So it’s a high standard to live up to. The fans from the area are supportive yet demanding. I think that’s why so many great bands come from the area. We as michiganders demand such a talent from those within the state the strong artists are forged from its turmoil.
Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?
The strength to continue on and survive is always a constant challenge we face. I can’t completely speak on everyone’s behalf but i think all artists fight society in a way to be recognized and find a way to reach the masses on some level. Whether it’s simply creating art that ourselves and others well enjoy for years to come or to being able to live comfortably off of their craft. With the growth of technology it’s made the ever changing path more difficult to keep up with. A moment that we seem to chase being an unsigned band is to be signed. A band that does world tours. A band that releases platinum albums. As us humans, it’s to just be able to survive oneself. To conquer every defeat and trudge on back into the harsh wilderness.
What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?
I love it. I enjoy so much being able to reach out to our fans and friends. I wouldn’t say we have the largest fan base but though she be little, she be fierce. I pride on the support that we have and will strive to be the best that they wish us to be.
No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.
There is no greater feeling to me than to touch another’s soul. Without seeing my face or body language it’s an unbelievable wonder how people, when taking the time to really look, can see the person inside the job or the social media profile. There’s also other tasks that hold concrete reactions. There’s the ability to set a goal and achieve it even if it’s not as complete as we like. The little victories that we can control. Such as putting together a full album or a music video. We’re an independent band like most so 100% of the work is done by the strength of our backs. The leg work of the old days transformed into a new style is still work to be done. A very satisfying event, although not as tangible, still the humanity shines thru is the reaction of our music. Both good and bad it’s the art that we aim to make people feel through.
As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?
This business is definitely not for the weak-willed. A path of a career making musician is filled with destruction and despair most of the time. I find that the again, the small victories are what’s worth fighting for. We just love to tour so much and make music that a sacrifice of our health is just required. I feel like it helps the process. Its part of the Detroit strength that i’ve used time and time again to crush my obstacles
If you could recommend three of your favorite restaurants to check out in Detroit, which three would you choose and why?
Imperial, Johnny Noodle King, and either Lafayette or American Coney Island. I love mexican food and drinking margaritas. In Detroit, I have found no better combination of the two than Imperial. Although in Ferndale, north of Detroit it is by far one of my favorite restaurants for those reasons. Johnny Noodle King is this tiny hole-in-the-wall Pho/Ramen Bar that has the best noodles. I love pasta and asian cuisine so much. The place is always packed to the brim and it’s always busy AF. I feel if you had to decide what’s an iconic food about Detroit it would be our coneys. They’re basically diners that for some reason only we have them in this certain fashion in Detroit. For me, these are the most iconic two.
Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour/show plans that you can fill us in about?
Since we’re an unsigned band finding tours that make sense to us is harder than it looks. We’ve also toured a lot over the past couple of years and are using 2019 to help focusing our efforts into single shows while working on gained label support once and for all. Right now, we have Detroit, Chicago and Indianapolis headliners on the horizon. These are unlike tours because we will be using brand new stage production and new methods of advertising. Our plan is to sell out all these shows and help grow the fan base in this manor.
Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!
Our fans know what’s up. We’re a family. We’ve developed quite a relationship with many of them. If you haven’t heard of us, go check us out. If you like a few songs come and meet us. We’re super personable and loveable people. We take care to show the quality of support for those that do the same for us. We are a developed community and would love to welcome you with comradery and love. Thanks for taking the time!
Baltimore Multi-Genre Musician, DannyDosha, has taken his artistry for a turn through diving into his currently painful inner world throughout his beautifully mastered new single, “Kelsey 2”. In dedication and admiration of Cello player, Kelsey Lu, DannyDosha lyrically travels through a seemingly light lyrical tale that takes listeners through an emotive spin through a troubled personal predicament that ends with an abrupt and unexpected end to the track which solidifies his intention of final and total release. Slow and serene instrumentals compliment the earnest effort to overcome as they sound as though they were mixed to train the listener to take the time to absorb their own personal hardships and in due time, heal.
Having began to get his feet wet in the world of music at the ripe age of 9-years-old, DannyDosha stands out from the pact through his ability to cross between genres fluidly and tackle any battle that he is facing within throughout the process. Through a wide range of musical influences within his intermediate family, DannyDosha was able to expand his horizons and challenge himself to create a niche and sound that speaks for his unique spirit. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Frank Ocean, Kid Cudi and MGMT, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for DannyDosha on Soundcloud or Spotify.
