EMQs with TALLBOY
EMQs with TALLBOY
Hi everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with UK Modern Rock/ Alt Metal band, TALLBOY. Huge thanks to their Bassist/ Producer, Arron, for taking part.
What is your name, what do you play and can you tell us a little bit about the history of the band?
Greetings, my name is Arron, and I’m a bassist and producer. It was nearly a year ago when I first shared a few of my recorded ideas with Jordan. That moment sparked something special, and before long, we were joined by Brad and Adam, beginning the process of writing together. The chemistry was immediate, and over the summer, we found ourselves tracking nearly twelve songs, now nearing their final stages of production.
How did you come up with your band name?
Our name originates from a playful nickname we gave our singer—standing at an impressive 6’8″, he’s quite literally a “Tallboy.” Combined with a nod to our bassist’s beloved sausage dogs, the name took on a life of its own. We love its ambiguity; it doesn’t immediately scream “Metal band,” which perfectly reflects our diverse sound. Rather than being confined to a single genre, we draw inspiration from wherever our creativity takes us, allowing our music to evolve organically. Whether it’s crushingly heavy, melodic, or something entirely unexpected, our name represents that freedom to explore and experiment.
What Country / Region are you from and what is the Metal / Rock scene like there?
We’re from Barrow-In-Furness, Cumbria – or as we like to call it, Barrowdise, when the sun’s shining! Our hometown boasts an incredible music scene, thanks to Rob at RW Events, who has spent nearly a decade cultivating it. The result is a thriving community filled with talented bands and musicians.
What is your latest release? (Album, EP, Single, Video)
On the 23rd of February, we’re excited to unveil our next single, Name & Shame. This track is one of our favourites to date, and we can’t wait for everyone to hear it.
Who have been your greatest influences?
Our influences span a vast spectrum, from the usual heavy-hitters of Metal and Hardcore to the infectious melodies of Pop—and just about everything in between. We believe great music isn’t confined to a single genre, and we take inspiration from anything that sparks creativity, whether it’s crushing riffs, soaring vocal hooks, or unexpected grooves.
Adding to this melting pot of influences, Arron and Jordan both work in music retail, which means they’re constantly surrounded by musicians of all backgrounds and styles. Every day brings exposure to new sounds, fresh perspectives, and conversations with artists across different genres, all of which naturally seep into our songwriting. Whether it’s Metal, Punk, Hip-Hop, Indie, or something completely out of left field, we keep our ears open—because inspiration can come from anywhere.
What first got you into music?
The moment I first heard Metallica’s ”Black Album”, I was instantly hooked – like a kid in a candy store, except the candy was heavy riffs and intense energy. That initial taste sent me spiralling into a full-on Metallica deep dive, where I stumbled upon the legendary world of Cliff Burton. And that, my friends, was the moment I found my true calling: picking up my first bass guitar, probably with a face full of awe and a slight air of delusion that I could ever play like him.
If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?
Collaborating with Brian Eno would be nothing short of a dream come true. His ability to blend innovation with artistry is unparalleled, and his unique approach to sound and creativity would elevate any project. The way he transforms music into an immersive experience is something truly special, and working alongside him would be an opportunity to tap into a wealth of knowledge and groundbreaking ideas. It’s not just about the collaboration itself, but the chance to explore new creative dimensions with a true pioneer of modern music.
If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?
Download Festival – now that’s definitely a bucket list gig! It’s the ultimate stage to showcase your sound, surrounded by a crowd of passionate fans who live and breathe Rock. The energy, the history, the scale of it all—it’s an experience like no other. To perform there would be an incredible milestone, bringing together everything we love about music and giving it to an audience that truly appreciates it.
What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?
TBC!!
If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?
Thank you so much – without the support of our fans, bands would be performing to nothing but a brick wall or their own reflection in a practice room. Your support means everything to us.
If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?
If I could bring any rock star back, it would be Cliff Burton. He’s my ultimate inspiration and the driving force behind my passion for music. He’s the reason I’ve invested so much time, energy, and money into my gear—his influence runs deep in everything I do musically.
What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?
Being a musician is everything to me—it’s my life, my passion, my constant. I live and breathe it every day. When I’m not at home practicing or recording, you’ll find me working, selling guitars, and teaching bass. As for what I don’t enjoy, I’d say the business side of things can be a bit of a drag at times—it’s not always about the music, and that can feel like a disconnect. But it’s all part of the journey.
If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?
If I could change something about the music industry, it would be the way it values artists. There’s a lot of focus on quick hits and trends, rather than the long-term development of musicians and their art. I’d love to see more emphasis placed on nurturing creativity and allowing artists to grow at their own pace without the pressure of conforming to fleeting industry expectations. Artists should have more control over their work, their careers, and the way they connect with their fans. Ultimately, it should be about the music and the passion behind it, not just the business side of things.
Name one of your all-time favourite albums?
“Kill ‘Em All” – Metallica / “Big Things Do Remarkable” – And So I Watch You From Afar /
“I Let It In And It Took Everything” – Loathe / “Frizzle Fry” – Primus
What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s or Downloads?
For me, in today’s world, downloads are the best. The ability to access pretty much any music with just the click of a button is incredible. That said, I do miss the days of collecting CDs—there was something special about owning a physical copy and having that tangible connection to the music.
What’s the best gig that you have played to date?
Tallboy hasn’t played our first live show yet, but personally, I’d say Kendal Calling holds a special place for me. It’s a festival that’s relatively local to us, and getting the chance to perform there was truly an honour.
If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?
Honestly, I’m not sure. Music has literally saved my life. I truly believe in the power of “Music is Medicine.”
Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?
If I could invite five people to a dinner party, it would definitely include my wife (naturally), and Brad’s mum, who’s our biggest fan. I’d also love to have Brian Cox, Louis Theroux, and David Attenborough for their incredible insights into science, storytelling, and nature. And to add a little extra charm, Jeff Goldblum would make an appearance—his unique perspective and infectious energy would be the perfect conversation starter. Of course, I’d invite a few close friends too, for some great laughs and unforgettable moments. It would be an epic mix of talent, wisdom, and pure fun!
What’s next for the band?
This year, we’re focused on releasing as much music as possible and hitting the road hard. We’re all about getting those miles on the van and sharing our sound with as many people as we can. We’re also hoping to land some festival slots this summer—there’s nothing like the energy of a live crowd and the buzz of performing at a major event. It’s all about pushing ourselves creatively and making unforgettable memories along the way. Here’s to a year of music, touring, and chasing those big opportunities!
What Social Media / Website links do you use to get your music out to people?
Our website is tallboy.uk and you can find us on all social media at @tallboy.uk Thanks!
Time for a very British question now. As an alternative to the humble sandwich, is the correct name for a round piece of bread common in the UK either a Bap, a Barm (or Barm Cake), a Batch, a Bun, a Cob, a Muffin, a Roll, or a Tea Cake?
Ah, the classic British debate! As far as I’m concerned, the correct name for a round piece of bread is definitely a bun—and anyone who calls it anything else is just wrong, plain and simple. Sure, you’ve got your baps, barm cakes, batches, cobs, muffins, rolls, and tea cakes floating around, but nothing beats the simplicity and charm of a good old-fashioned bun. It’s the only way to go, and that’s the hill I’m willing to die on!
Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?
Thanks so much for having us! We really appreciate the time and the chance to chat. Just a heads-up, our new single Name & Shame will be available to stream on all platforms starting February 23rd. We can’t wait for you all to hear it, and we’re excited to share more of what’s coming your way. We hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed making it! Stay tuned!
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