Tag: USA Rock

EMQ’s With The Bind

The Bind Logo

EMQ’s With The Bind

Hi everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with USA Rock band, The Bind. Huge thanks to their Guitarist and Vocalist, Ryan, 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?

Hi, I am Ryan. Guitar and half the vocals for the band the Bind. We are a hard-working band from the little mill city of Taunton, Massachusetts. Conceived out of a high school five-piece, The Bind was the rhythm section of a working band. Playing covers and originals back when we still had a local scene.

How did you come up with your band name?

I opened a book in my parent’s basement, where we practiced at the time. I just randomly pointed and landed on The Bind in the middle of a sentence. So, it actually did work at least once!

What Country / Region are you from and what is the Metal / Rock scene like there?

We are from south of Boston, Massachusetts. Though there is a thriving music nightlife, there are almost no homes for original bands and music. As a rock band we are driving 30-45 minutes to play a set, unless we book a room ourselves and do that whole bag. There is a better scene for metal in our area. The majority of my musician friends would be “metal”.

What is your latest release?

Our very latest and so far, greatest is Swells through SODEH records. An upbeat quick moving single. Though I’ll toss a nod to a song called Treachery from our prior release.

Who has been your greatest influences?

Among the top would be, the Police, Hendrix, Phish, Pink Floyd and James Gang to name just a handful.

What first got you into music?

Personally, I grew up with music all around me and a few instruments scattered about. Really though, it is the feeling of losing yourself inside of something. Something so intangible but everyone knows the feeling somehow. When you realize music can do that over and over, how can someone resist. 

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?

I think right now, if we could be someone’s backing band it would do us wonders as an outfit. A Jack White all the way to Josh Homme.

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

Do they still have the PinkPop festival? So many of my favourite bands have played that one. 

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

A happy rock or a glass drop bead with a smile painted on it.

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

If you like it, you like it. Don’t be a music prude.

If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

Zombie Elvis would kick ass and be scary as hell on earth……because………hell on earth would be zombies, right?

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?

I spend a lot of money, I don’t make a lot of money… but if I hated it, I wouldn’t still be doing it. So, I guess I hate Tribute acts.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

The current gatekeepers.

Name one of your all-time favourite albums?

Queens Of The Stone-Age.

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s or Downloads?

I’m going to check the nerd in me at the door. Vinyl is a romantic ritual; cassettes were for four-track recorders and a pain in the ass. Having grown up with CD’s and transitioned to downloads I can tell you this. Not having the tangible art and physical thing to hold… that’s where the experience changed the most. It’s like Cereal without a cereal box to read, misquoting someone I can’t remember.

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?

Our first time back out as a band after a year’s long break was in a nice new venue, playing only original music with another band to around 150 people. Reminded us we should keep on.

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

Probably be living my dream at arm’s length either as a touring sound engineer or instrument tech.

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Ken Kesey, Julia Child, Greg from How2Drink, Rex and Daniel from Whiskey Tribe.

What’s next for the band?

Finishing our current recording project, then hammering out a three-hour set… a three-hour set.

What Social Media / Website links do you use to get your music out to people?

The Bind | Sodeh
Swells – The Bind |Official Video – YouTube 
TheBind | Facebook  
The Bind (@thebindrocks) • Instagram photos and videos

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?

Gah!? … A … Muffin …?

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?

We would like to thank you for your time, it is important to us. If you would like to air any grievances or log a formal complaint you can email or call your local radio station and tell them Fuck The Bind.

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

EMQ’s With exPorter

exPorter Logo

EMQ’s With exPorter

Hi everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with USA based Rock trio, exPorter. huge thanks to them all 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?

Henry: Hello, my name is Henry Kish and I play drums.

Destin: Hey there, I am Destin Cavazos and I sing and play bass in the band.

Alec: And I am Alec Cavazos (yes, Destin and I are related) and I play guitar and sing in exPorter.

So exPorter as a band really got started in 2018 when Henry joined, but Destin and I have been playing in bands for a long time. We started as a three piece in 2015 consisting of us two, Alec and Destin, joined by our friend Jess on drums. That band was called Adjective (adj.),it was our first band that started this and it remained that way until mid 2017, when Jess got into school. We had our friend Owen play drums for a bit and changed the band name to “Porter” since “adj” used the first initials of our first group. 

Destin: Yeah, Alec and I have been playing music for more than 10 years, even longer if you count messing around on Rock Band. That’s some real exPorter trivia for you about our history and how we got started. Our dad came into the mancave and saw us rocking out on the Wii and said if you want to be real rock stars you better learn how to really play instruments. But exPorter was born when Henry joined. We had a show that we needed a drummer for, so we asked Henry to play, and you could tell this was a good line-up at that show. It was his first time ever playing in front of people, but he killed it and we decided to really pursue this music thing. 

How did you come up with your band name?

Alec: So after adj, we went to Porter based off of this college that Destin got kicked out of and off of John Porter who was one of the Smith’s first producers. Our dad is a huge Smiths fan, saw this documentary of the band and asked what we thought. It was pretty coincidental that those happened at the same time, but we really liked the name Porter. 

Destin: We had some cool marketing materials made up including our mascot “Porty” and everything. And, for the record, my getting kicked out of that school was total B.S. When Henry joined and we knew we wanted to started recording more of our own stuff, we found out there was already a band named Porter out of Mexico – so we had to change it again. We’re pretty big fans of Blink-182 and knew about their legal hassles with their name so why not change ours before we got sued? We talked about a couple of names, we thought about Porter-123 and then settled on “exPorter” … and we got to keep “Porty” which was cool.

What Country / Region are you from and what is the Metal / Rock scene like there?

Alec: All of us live in the U.S., though we’re in different states right now. We all grew up in Santa Barbara, CA and that’s where we started playing. SoCal obviously has a HUGE music scene in general and Santa Barbara actually has a pretty cool scene going on at the moment. There seems to be a cycle that happens with bands here with a lot of bands coming out of here like Toad The Wet Sprocket, you have reggae like Iration or Rebelution, Lagwagon… they were all like 90’s and early 2000’s and we’re hoping the next cycle is starting with exPorter. A lot of cool bands right now that we’re playing with… Loc Dawgs, Trout Club, Lizard’s Mouth. We’ve played shows with them and others and there’s just a good vibe with all these bands. 

What is your latest release? (Album, EP, Single, Video)

Destin: We’ve got our debut album “NoBrakesNoBrakesNoBrakes” that just came out in May so we’re really working to promote that – hopefully people are listening to it already! If not, hop on over to your favorite streaming type site and give it a try. 

The feature single we went with is called “Your Boyfriend” and it did really well on radio getting up to #24 on the specialty charts. We’re figuring out the next single to feature but we think it’s going to be ‘Lusitania’. We did some low-key release with it and it got good response, so I think it’s time to get that one out there for you all. 

Who have been your greatest influences?

Henry: For me, The Who was one of the first bands I ever heard and they’re a pretty big influence on me today. I’m also really into Turnstile these days.

Alec: Tom DeLonge has probably been the greatest influence on me for sure. He’s why I play guitar and I love his stuff from Blink to AVA to Boxcar. Not a lot that guy does that doesn’t make an impact on me. 

Destin: I think it’s classic that Blink gets back together and now they’re doing probably the biggest tour next year with Turnstile. Two bands that easily influence us so how do we get exPorter on that show???

I actually have a ton of bands that have influenced me. Like how can I not pick all the Pop-Punk and Emo bands that I grew up listening to? Blink, early Green Day, Fall Out Boy, MCR, Panic!… I also grew up listening to a lot of 80’s bands too, because that’s what our parents listened to, so you’ll have a band like Crowded House in there. And I’m talking deep cuts and Neil Finn’s catalogue so there’s a ton of great music just from him that’s gotten into my brain. 

Finally, you have the Riot Girl era of female-led 90’s Rock bands also had a significant impact on me; bands like Garbage, The Cranberries, and Lush, they put out such a punchy, pithy brand of Rock music, I don’t think there’s a lot that really holds up to that genre in terms of energy. You see some of that flavour coming back these days too, with artists like Snail Mail, Cherry Glazerr, etc. and I think it’s exciting to see that fiery feminine energy becoming more mainstream again.

What first got you into music?

Alec: As Destin said it really does go back to the Wii for us. Once we started with lessons it wasn’t that long till we were writing songs together. Destin really picked up the bass easily, but it took me a while to figure it out with the guitar – but once I did I don’t think I’ve stopped playing. 

Henry: For me it was my parents that got me into music. I got my dad’s old drum kit as a way I think to keep me busy, but I loved it from the start.

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?

Henry: I think exPorter would and should collaborate with just about anyone. We’re just starting out so we can’t be picky. 

Alec: Yeah that would have to be Tom DeLonge for me. Like maybe helping us produce our next album.

Destin: Man, so many bands to choose from here but I think my answer would have to be Danny Elfman, with or without Oingo Boingo. 

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

Alec: Riot Fest would be a cool one. It always has such a banger line up full of bands from various genres that I love including some of our idols so sharing a stage with them would be awesome!

Henry: Maybe the craziest festival that I know of is Woodstock 99. Though there were tons of absurdities going on, I can’t deny that the videos of those concerts are pretty awesome. Plus who wouldn’t want to share the stage with Kid Rock?

Destin: When We Were Young fest, it’s definitely our vibe. Those are ALL the bands we grew up listening to. I think that since Warped Tour is gone that would be the next best thing.

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

Alec: If you count words as a gift, I’d say a guy saying we sound like Green Day and the Sex Pistols is definitely weird. He came up to us after our last show this Summer at the Milk Bar (San Francisco) We don’t get Green Day all the time, but we will hear that every now and then and never have we gotten Sex Pistols, but hey San Francisco people know best! 

Henry: Maybe if I ever receive a gift, I’ll let you guys know, but as of now I’m just happy to see us play. That’s the greatest gift.

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

Henry: I think we really just want people to know that this is a real band, and we love playing together. Having anyone listen to our music really means a lot.

Destin: It’s very surreal and humbling to have someone listen to our music and say they like it. We’re not a manufactured band just putting out something cause it’s what’s cool at the moment. We’re three guys playing music that we love and to have you like it is more special to us than you would ever know. 

If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

Alec: To me Kurt Cobain is the obvious answer. It would’ve just been interesting to see where Nirvana would have gone as the 2000’s came and now into 2020’s. I would imagine a giant reunion tour, like Blink and MCR.

Henry: I’d be really interested to see what Kurt would be up to nowadays.

Destin: David Bowie. The man is such an icon.

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?

Destin: Well like I said before, we love playing. I love writing and playing music with these guys and getting to run around to different towns and rock out at different venues. Right now, I think the worst part is having to lug all of our equipment around to shows.

Henry: I love improving and learning from others and I absolutely hate making mistakes on stage (even if nobody notices).

Alec: I love performing most of all for sure and I definitely hate like writers block when I really am in the mood to write which is like always. I can’t stand when I have an idea and I know what I want to say but can’t say it.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

Henry: I would love there to be less blah pop music and a way to make us somewhat more popular.

Alec: It would be great to have easier access to radio and streaming programs, it’s all very political and easily bought nowadays. We’ve been pretty lucky to have stations all over the country play us and we’re grateful for that, but getting on regular rotation is not easy. Same with playlists, super grateful for the ones that have us on but when you look at some you know it’s just paid for crap. 

Name one of your all-time favourite albums?

Destin: Ah man, these questions aren’t fair…how can I choose when there are SOOOO many great ones. But since you just want “one” of my favorites, Everything in Transit by Jack’s Mannequin.

Henry: “Songs for the Deaf” (Queens of the Stone Age) just came to mind.

Alec: Blink-182 “Untitled”. There are definitely others that I think sometimes challenge it, but it remains in top because with every listen it gets better!

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CDs or Downloads?

Alec: I personally love CDs, I have so many now it’s crazy. I think physical copies of an album is so much more fun to show-off and enjoy owning it, but streaming makes it so easy.

Destin: Cassettes look cooler, but nothing really plays them anymore, so I’d go with CDs.

Henry: Vinyl for sure, no question!

Destin: Yeah, we’d love to put our stuff out on vinyl, but it was crazy expensive. Maybe we can add that to things we’d like to change in the industry – cheaper ways for small bands to produce actual records. 

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?
Alec: I’m kind of hoping that we haven’t had our best gig yet 😊 One thing we try to do as a band is to try and make each next thing better than the last thing. It can be a show or an album or even T-shirts so hopefully our best show is still out there. But if I had to pick one so far, I’ll go with one of the first shows we did with Henry. We got asked to do this Halloween show and it was for like 3 hours. We didn’t have a drummer and we’re supposed to fill 3 hours? But we pulled it off. We had people yelling for more and we’re like, “we don’t have anything else”.

Henry: I think the shows we’ve done at the Milk Bar have been great. It’s been the last stop on our last tour, and I think they’ve just been really high energy.

Destin: The Hinds show is a personal highlight for me just cause it was soooo cool opening for them. They’re a favourite band of mine and we got asked to open like a week before the show, but we were in for sure. Henry was in Colorado, so we flew him in, we had an hour to practice and then it was show time. There was another band called Hearty Har which is John Fogerty’s son’s so he was in the audience. It was pretty surreal, and I think we had an awesome set. All of the bands had great sets and all of them were so cool to us the whole time. A highlight for sure.

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

Alec: This question has come up before and I think it’s awesome that we all said we’d probably be teachers. Henry did this archaeology dig as part of school so he’s an archaeology professor. I have always loved history, so I’ll be a history teacher. And Destin was an English major, so he’d be an English teacher. We could all work at the same school and do the band thing on weekends. 

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Alec: Well for me it has to be every member that has ever been a member of Blink-182, I’ve always been curious as to how that would all turn out. I’d imagine it’d be awkward at first but at the end we’d all be hugging.

Destin: Jordan Peele, Chris Hemsworth, Woody Harrelson, Gerard Way and our friend and first drummer, Jess Lord.

Henry: Samwise Gamgee, Arragorn, Frodo, Gandolf, and Gimli.

What’s next for the band?

Alec: Right now our main focus as a band is to get out and keep promoting the debut album. Remember, we just released “NoBrakesNoBrakesNoBrakes” in May and we’re trying to get as many people to check it out. It’s about a year out of our lives so we’d love to have you take a listen. So far, the reception has been great from what we know, but we want more and more people to listen and let us know what they think. Then it’s figure out the next single to feature, probably ‘Lusitania’, just sayin’. And then it’s plan out some Winter and Spring shows. Hopefully get a nice little tour for Summer ’23. And writing, Destin and I have a bunch of new songs we need to go through. 

What Social Media / Website links do you use to get your music out to people? Please include any links

Destin: Instagram is probably the easiest way to see what we’re up to, we’re pretty active there – 
https://www.instagram.com/exporter.band/

For streaming, check us on Spotify – 
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3jfTdDZQ7SrLeQD9t9z8IZ

And to see us messing around, you can check out our YouTube channel –
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvx6hOKk578Wzau8PSNWkew

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?

Destin: Awesome…as a 3 piece maybe we can get this right 😊 I’m going to go with – Bap.

Alec: Muffin? Maybe? My instinct to what I would say goes to roll, but I’m going to go with muffin.

Henry: I have absolutely no idea, I think this falls into the French fry debacle. In the US they’re called English muffins, but I hear that’s very wrong. I’ll go with crumpet because it sounds the funniest with a British accent.

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?

Alec: Just to say thanks for having us here. Like we said, it’s pretty cool to have someone listen to our stuff and hopefully like it. Having people take any interest in our band is awesome and you should know how much we appreciate it.

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

Pistols at Dawn – Ascension

Ascension Album Cover Art

Pistols at Dawn – Ascension
Megaforce Records
Release Date: 19/08/22
Running Time: 33:00 
Review by Paul Hutchings
7/10

Formed in Atlanta, Pistols at Dawn are something of an internet sensation. Read any report about them and you’ll see an astonishing number of hits on their songs via streaming services. More than six million apparently. I recalled reviewing their EP “Nocturnal Youth” for another site just over 12 months ago, noting that the band combined a swagger and enthusiasm which made their music enjoyable. 

Their debut full-length continues in the same vein, with big chunky riffs and singalong anthems making it easy to see how they have achieved popularity, despite bringing little new to the table. That’s not to say this isn’t good stuff, for the musical performance is slick and confident, the songs catchy, and the performances all round of the stellar quality. Vocalist Cris Hodges channels his inner Myles Kennedy, at times echoing the Alter Bridge frontman, in a fine performance. 

The songs have their roots in the classic rock vibe, but with a powerful contemporary style that allows them to linger in the mind. ‘Keep Me Guessing’ for example, has a chorus that will refuse to leave when asked, whilst the opening song ‘Under the Surface’ brings a powerful opening to the album. This song  echoes a slightly slowed down Linkin’ Park feel, with emotional lyrics and a slightly nu-metal flavour. These are songs designed for arenas and big tour packages, and it’ll be interesting to see where they go from here.

The songs are short and snappy, instant enough to make an impression first time around, but also worth revisiting several times to enjoy again and again. The closing duo of ‘Get Away’ and ‘The Dictator’ certainly have a jump to them, both varying in tempo and intensity. With plenty of hooks, delicious melodies, and songs that will get people moving, Pistols at Dawn’s debut has plenty to recommend it.

‘Voices’ Official Video 

TRACKLISTING:
01. Under the Surface
02. Fly
03.Keep Me Guessing
04. For You
05. The Truth
06. Gravity
07. Get Away
08. Dictator

LINE-UP:
Adam Jaffe – Drums
Denis White – Guitar
Billy Sullivan – Bass
Tony Richardson – Guitar
Cris Hodges – Vocals

LINKS:

Disclaimer: This review is solely the property of Paul Hutchings and Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this review, unless you have the strict permission of both parties. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

EMQ’s With FORTUNE CHILD

Fortune Child Logo

EMQ’s With FORTUNE CHILD

Hello everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with USA Rockers, Fortune Child. Huge thanks to their bassist, Jon Ward, 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?

My name is Jon Ward. I am the bassist of the band. Our drummer Mel and our guitarist Buddy originally got this project started between the two of them. They spent a while jamming and working out riffs together. When they decided to expand to a four piece, they met Christian (vocals) and myself through the Jacksonville, FL music scene and brought us in to round out the group. Things clicked and we went from there.

How did you come up with your band name?

The name Fortune Child started as kind of a joke, poking fun at people who got whatever they wanted without having to work for it. But one day we saw the phrase a bit differently – it seemed to have more of a spiritual meaning to us, and referred to a kind of universal “fortune” that everyone had access to as a soul in the world. After that, the original joke meaning kind of fell away and we don’t think of it like that anymore. It took on that more spiritual meaning and that’s when we decided to use it as the band’s name.

What country are you from and what is the Metal/Rock scene like there?

We live in Jacksonville, FL. The rock scene is alive and well around here. The southern half of Florida (especially Orlando and Tampa) are somewhat bigger for Metal, while north Florida, being close to Georgia, has a bigger scene for Southern Rock, Blues, and jam music. But throughout Florida there is kind of a cross pollination of those two threads.

What is your latest release? (Album, EP, Single or Video)

Our newest single, ‘Tie The Line,’ came out on Feb 18, and is the third single from our album “Close To The Sun,” which came out in full on March 1st. We are very excited to share that the song is available in Dolby Atmos on Apple Music and Tidal, in addition to the standard version, available on all streaming platforms. The first two singles, ‘Far’ and ‘Slow Down’ are available now.

Who have been your greatest influences?

I think all of us in Fortune Child grew up with two big musical influences in common – the vintage, classic rock of Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Free, and so on, and the beloved 90’s and 2000’s rock that was big when we were growing up – Soundgarden, Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave, Tool, The Mars Volta, etc. Those two threads guided all of us coming up, and merge in a unique way in the Fortune Child sound.

What first got you into music?

I can’t speak for the whole group, but as for me personally, I was put in piano lessons at a very young age (four or five) and took up guitar a couple years after that. It was pretty clear to me even since then that music was the only future career I had much interest in. As I grew up and learned more, my dedication to music grew simultaneously.

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?

As a group, we are fans of some of the modern-vintage Rock bands out there right now, like Rival Sons or Dirty Honey. We also are big fans of modern Blues artists like Gary Clark, Jr.

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

Welcome To Rockville in Florida. It’s one of the biggest rock festivals in America and happens every year right here in our backyard. We’d love to get an inside perspective on the event and play to a great crowd alongside some of our own favorite bands in the business.

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

Rock fans in Florida tend to be pretty reasonable. Can’t say I’ve received anything too weird. Some cash tips or a round of drinks usually does the trick around here!

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

We want to recapture the spirit of a time when rock and roll (and music in general) was more straightforward and punchy and music wasn’t filled with production, electronics, overdubs and synths. Not that there’s anything wrong with that (I personally like to make electronic music as a side hobby), but as a band we really resonate with the simplicity of pure walls of sound coming straight out of the amps and drums. So our message might be to remind people to experience music viscerally in the present moment. To feel the physical sound waves move through them instead of overthinking and over-digitalizing things.

If you could bring one metal/rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

To sneak my own individual answer in there – Jerry Garcia! But as a group, we’d have to say maybe Jimi Hendrix or John Bonham.

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? What do you hate?

We all really enjoy the expression and catharsis of what we get to do together every day. Playing music for a living ensures you always have a way to express yourself and get in touch with your center. We also love the community we are in and all the friends we get to make through playing and recording. What I do hate sometimes are the long drives and weird hours the job sometimes requires – lots of nights driving between cities between midnight and 4am! But it’s always worth it.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

I would love to see an environment in which artists received a lot more revenue from streaming. In the current climate, even huge artists with millions of streams still get pretty insignificant amounts of revenue from it. I’m not an economist, and I’m sure it’s complicated. But we feel like there must be a way to balance out the scales a bit – maybe it will happen in the future.

Name one of your all-time favorite albums?

Two of my personal favorites are “Lateralus” by Tool and Deloused “In The Comatorium” by The Mars Volta. If we had a collective favorite album as a group, it’s hard to pick anything besides “Led Zeppelin IV”.

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CDs, or Downloads?

I’m a huge fan of vinyl. I think vinyl offers the most lifelike sound and fullest experience, while downloads offer the most flexibility and convenience. Cassettes and CDs fall somewhere in the middle on that spectrum, but they all have their place.

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?

The first time we played in Orlando last year turned into a really magical experience. We opened for Blacktop Mojo at Soundbar (formerly called Backbooth). It’s not an enormous venue, but there was a full crowd and great energy. We’ve all been in a lot of bands and played a lot of enjoyable shows, but this one was the first show with Fortune Child where everything REALLY clicked. We were revved up to show a new out of town crowd what we could do, and caught some kind of wave that gave us a special, electrifying energy. I think ever since that show we’ve known that we could do something special with this band if we work hard and play our cards right.

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

Personally I’d love to be a graphic designer, or maybe a video game developer. I can’t speak for the rest of the group – I think we all see music as our only path!

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Jimmy Page, Jimi Hendrix, Jerry Garcia, Chris Cornell, Justin Chancellor.

What’s next for the band?

We have several shows and festivals coming up in the next couple months. Our main goals at this time are growing our following in the southeast and worldwide, performing as much as we can, and getting the album to as many ears as we can. We’d like to work towards doing more extensive tours in the next year or two, and have plans for another album down the road.

What Social Media/Website links do you use to get your music out to people?

You can find Fortune Child on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Tiktok, Spotify, Apple Music, all other streaming platforms, and at our own official website: 
http://www.fortunechildmusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/fortunechildmusic
https://twitter.com/fortunechild
https://www.instagram.com/fortunechildmusic/

Jaffa Cakes? Are they a cake or a biscuit?

I’m ashamed to admit that I had to look them up… They look more biscuit-like to me though!

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?

We want to mention how excited we are to have the new album mixed and produced by Kevin Elson, former producer for Lynyrd Skynyrd, Journey, Europe, Mr. Big, and a whole host of other amazing bands. Having him on board has been a huge honor and helped us get a great sound on the record. We also had a team of other great engineers working on it – Jim DeVito at Retrophonics Studios in St. Augustine, FL (where we recorded the record), David Frangioni (CEO of Modern Drummer magazine), and Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya all had a hand in bringing the tracks to life, and the record was mastered by the legendary Rodney Mills. We want to say thank you to all of these world class engineers for putting their stamp on the album, and thank you to everyone that has supported us so far along the way! We are just getting started and are excited to create a lot more music going forward into the future. Please follow us on whatever social media platforms you prefer, listen to the singles and the new album, and share it with your friends! Your support means the world to us.

Fortune Child Promo Pic

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

EMQ’s With PHARMACOSE

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EMQ’s With PHARMACOSE

Hello everyone! Welcome to another EMQs interview, this time with USA Hard Rock project, Pharmacies. Huge thanks to main man Wes Jones 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?

I’m Wes Jones, and I am the singer/guitarist for Pharmacose. It’s a project that was born in 2017 after I met producer Lu Rubino through a mutual friend. I had some songs I wanted to record, and my friend recommended Lu Rubino to me. We recorded those songs under the name Digital Array. We ended up pulling that record and reworking the songs, as well as writing new ones. I thought we could use a name change, so Pharmacose was officially born. At this point, it’s become more of a collaborative project since COVID hit. We haven’t been playing any shows and while we’re all still working together, I’ve become the primary producer. It was necessary due to the lockdowns, but I’ve really fallen in love with it. I’d love for us to start playing live again at some point, but that might not be possible for the time being due to another related project I’m working on, but more on that later.

How did you come up with your band name?

Pharmacose is a combination of the words “pharmaceutical” and “comatose.” When I came up with the name, I had been thinking about antidepressants and mood stabilizers and how they affect those of us with mental illness.

What country are you from and what is the Metal/Rock scene like there?

We are in the US. I think people always say that Rock is dead, but they’ve been saying that for decades now. There is still plenty of great new Rock and Metal. Pop and Hip Hop are dominant right now, and I have absolutely no problem with that, but music is a cycle. Rock and Metal will be on top again at some point.

What is your latest release? (Album, EP, Single or Video)

We just released a single called ‘Smash’ and our album called “Prescription Fiction”, which came out 18th February. 

Who have been your greatest influences?

I listened to mostly Alternative and Hard Rock growing up, so that’s probably my biggest influence. Bands like Alice in Chains, TOOL, Queens of the Stone Age, Failure, At the Drive-In and The Mars Volta. Nine Inch Nails might be the biggest, though, because I love the combination of synths and rock.

What first got you into music?

I started playing the violin when I was about 6, and played it up through college. I kind of let it lapse, though, in favour of guitar. I taught myself to play guitar when I was 17 or so, and have been playing and writing music ever since.

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?

Jerry Cantrell. The guy can do it all. I love the vocal harmonies he used to create with Layne Staley.

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

I lived in New Orleans for a few years and always had a blast at Voodoo, so probably that one.

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

I haven’t gotten any gifts from fans!

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

“Prescription Fiction” is sort of a timeline of my mental health over almost a decade. I went through some pretty bad times, and the one thing I wish I had done sooner was ask for help. I think that’s the message. We’re never alone, even though it feels that way at times. Depression and other forms of mental illness have a way of warping our sense of reality. Please reach out. We lose too many people to suicide.

If you could bring one Metal / Rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

Layne Staley

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?

I love writing, producing, and recording, but I hate the self-doubt that comes with it.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

Streaming needs to pay more. I understand that companies want to keep subscription costs down.

Name one of your all-time favourite albums?

“De-Loused in the Comatorium” by The Mars Volta

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CDs, or Downloads?

I listen to music on the go, so downloads. Vinyl, cassettes and CDs take up a lot of space, and I need that space to produce! 

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?

A couple years ago we played a benefit in St. Augustine, FL, for a local musician that died a few years prior. It was to benefit his family. It felt good to do our part.

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

Well, I am still a practicing medical doctor, so I would be doing that!

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Ricky Gervais, Trent Reznor, Bill Burr, Dave Chapelle & John Danaher.

What’s next for the band?

We’re releasing Prescription Fiction on 18th February. After that I have a related project that I’m going to talk more about in March. It’s probably my biggest undertaking yet, and I can’t wait to talk about it more. 

What Social Media/Website links do you use to get your music out to people?

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pharmacose_band/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Pharmacoseband/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Pharmacose_Band
website: www.pharmacose.com

Jaffa Cakes? Are they a cake or a biscuit?

Biscuits!

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?

Nothing that hasn’t been covered.

Pharmacose Promo Pic

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

Interview with Robby J. Fonts of SICKSENSE

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Interview with Robby J. Fonts of SICKSENSE
By Stephanie Stevens

I have followed Robby J Fonts career in the music industry. He took to some of the biggest stages with his band Stuck Mojo, he has had numerous projects that have helped him grow and showcase some of his vocal capacities from one spectrum to another. He has followed his dreams in the wrestling world and married one of the baddest women in the metal scene, Vicky Psarakis of the band “The Agonist”! Now this duo is forging into the latter half of 2021 with a brand new band called SICKSENSE. A band that is ready to break down barriers with their touch of pissed off groove, hard hitting and melodic tones and a raw sense of reality given to you in the lyrics. The band’s first single, ‘MAKE BELIEVE’ is catchy as fuck, brutal in parts and an all-out addicting song that you will have on repeat for days to come.

The band is based out of Chicago, IL & Montreal, QC, and consist of Vicky Psarakis aka “Killer V” (Vocals/Synths), Robby J. Fonts aka “Rob The Ripper” (Vocals), Branislav Panic aka “Breakdown Bran” (Guitars), Samuel Bedard aka “Spot-On Sam/SOS” (Bass) and Cody Taylor aka “The Trve Cody Taylor” (Drums). Knowing the background of Robby and Vicky the rest of the band have had some quality time in the world of music as bassist, Sam is also in the metalcore band, “Day Of Change” and guitarist Bran is from the black metal band, “Bane [Serbia]”. Both Bran and drummer Cody are formerly from the rap rock band, “Keychain”.

So, this band has an alluring diversity in the music community which brings to life a whole new refreshing, exciting and vibrant atmosphere when you hit play to a SICKSENSE track. I can’t wait to hear more of what this band has to offer. But for now, get your ears all up into the newest single ‘MAKE BELIEV’. It is a very solid and intriguing Platform track and I think it’s going to solidify that this band is here to break the mould and show that diversity is something we all need in our music lives.

I had the pleasure chatting with Robby to find out about the new band, creating music from a distance with his bandmates, and what the future holds for SICKSENSE with touring and releases! Plus, a look into his life with Stuck Mojo and his love for wrestling.

Q: Since you guys are very new to the scene how can you describe the style you have put together for SICKSENSE?

A: I’d say we are a hard rock band, with hip-hop, R&B, heavy metal & hardcore influences. There’s something for everybody.

Q: I got to check out the song ‘MAKE BELIEVE’ and the first thing that came to mind is the diversity in the song, it seems like all your past chapters have been intertwined into this band. When you were putting this band together was that a goal you had for the music?

A: I think because I was always “joining” other bands, only after the music was already written and the instrumental songwriters already had their ideas and “vision” in mind,  including what they wanted the vocals to do and be. I was only able to add parts of what I was capable of doing vocally, but when I began working with Bran and Sicksense, we came up with all of our ideas from the “ground up”. I finally felt like I was actually part of the group and making the exact kind of music that I want to be doing.

Q: How are you guys taking the lyrical content, are you focusing on certain themes & elements or are you trying to diversify the topics like you are with the music?

A: Just as Sicksense creates the kind of music I want to be creating, I’m also free to write lyrics as I please as well. Topics may range from societal critiques and personal issues. Nothing is off the table here. Our lyrics are just as diverse as our music itself. In previous bands, I either had to write with certain guidelines in place or had to write about specific topics in mind. With Sicksense, I’m truly free to simply write as myself and how I see fit. I don’t feel like I’m being put into a box with this band.

Q: You’re working with your wife Vicky Psarakis, how is that going? Is it easier to work with a partner in that capacity and what are the struggles?

A: Working alongside my wife is awesome. I’ve been helping her behind the scenes with her work in other projects, including her features for other bands. When we work on her stuff, she takes charge of the lyrics and I simply provide suggestions or place minor input, at the end. In Sicksense however, I tend to take the lead for the majority of the lyrical direction on our songs. In general, I don’t mind working alongside other vocalists or lyricists though. I had a great time collaborating with Rich Ward for the record I did with Stuck Mojo as well.

Q: Other than Vicky, who else is working with you on SICKSENSE and why did you choose these particular people to take part in this project?

A: Sicksense is actually the successor band to our guitarist, Bran and our drummer, Cody’s previous project, “Keychain”. The duo were holding auditions online to find a new “singer” for their band back in late 2017. I hit them up and worked on three demos (one of those three ended up becoming ‘Make Believe’) for them. Bran liked what he heard from them and he introduced the idea of possibly working with a second “frontman”. Since Vicky had worked on the backing vocals for the demos I sent him, I suggested we get Vicky to join the band as this second “front-person” and we adjusted the demo songs to include what ended up becoming her main vocal parts for those songs. We wrote the remainder of our songs with both of our vocal abilities in mind. So, the band was started by Bran and Cody, Vicky and I ended up joining them, then Bran discovered our bassist, Sam from the local Quebec metal scene. Bran “tried him out” with his other band, “Bane”, got good vibes from him and asked him to join Sicksense, completing our line-up.

Q: For people who may be living under a rock Vicky is the front woman for “The Agonist”! Once this band gets off the ground have you thought ahead about touring and how will that unfold with her having that commitment also? And will other band members be in the same boat?

A: When touring and live show opportunities present themselves, we’ll fit in dates to work with everyone’s schedules and prior engagements. Every member in this band has something else going on outside of Sicksense, be it other bands, businesses or endeavours. Vicky’s in “The Agonist” and she does a bunch of solo work including her weekly Twitch stream segments. I’m in “Stuck Mojo” and I also do professional wrestling on the indie scene. Bran is in a black metal band called, “Bane”. Sam is in the metalcore band, “Day Of Change” and he’s also in “Bane” alongside Bran. When he’s not drumming for us, Cody does heating & cooling system repair work in his hometown. If things start picking up for the band, it might end up being the top priority for all involved, but we can’t compete against existing projects that have so much tenure over us. We’re still young and fresh as a project. Only time will tell where we end up.

Q: I’m sure it’s normal now to create and make music via the internet and I see your other band’s members live in other areas than you. What are the main struggles when putting music together and what is the positive about being able to create over internet world?

A:The biggest struggle is probably just the traveling distance and money spent in order to get everyone in the same place at the same time. But other than that, it’s awesome being able to create music over the internet. I personally prefer to receive tracks/demos online from the instrumental songwriters that I work with. It allows me to sit down on my own time and focus in my own world on what to write about and how to present my vocals. Long distance songwriting is no trouble at all. As long as everyone’s practicing their instruments and know their parts, we’d just need a few days of rehearsals and we would be good to start playing live shows. That’s how I’d do things with Stuck Mojo and it’s how Vicky does things with The Agonist.

However, we actually suffered delay after delay with this band. I’m actually an immigrant from Canada. Early during my immigration process is when I first joined Sicksense in late 2017. It took me until the end of 2018/early 2019 to actually get my Permanent Residency here in the States, allowing me to be able to travel outside of the country again and return to Canada (where the rest of our bandmates live). So, Vicky and I ended up going back to Canada to finally meet the rest of our band mates in person and we jammed our songs in person, fine-tuning the little details together, before we entered the studio with our producer, Christian Donaldson (who also works with The Agonist on their records). We recorded a full-album’s worth of material in early 2020, right before the pandemic happened…but because of the pandemic, that again delayed us once more by yet another year! We hadn’t had the easiest time putting ourselves out there, but here we are. Finally!

Q: You put together a very unique video for the song ‘MAKE BELIEVE’! In your own words what does the vibe of the video mean to you?

A: The concept of the video was to partly pay homage to Limp Bizkit’s ‘Break Stuff’ video (during our verses), but to also add our own spin to it, by including the two dancers who represented our clashing styles of sound that is found present in our music. There’s elements of calmness and serenity in our music, but then there’s also this “in-your-face”, loud and pissed off element to our sound as well. We wanted to portray an obvious clashing of styles through not only our sound, but with our visuals as well. It kind of symbolizes what we’re living through here in the States as well. I feel like there’s just so much division and a lack of understanding between different groups of people, so we’re trying to open up that discussion and bring people together here through our music. I’m not concerned about what people believe in or how they live their lives. I personally judge people by the content of their characters, after I’ve actually met them. Music’s an excellent way of bringing people together: 1) you find others who have the same tastes in music as you. 2) going to live concerts and festivals is one of the best social experiences you can have with others. It truly brings people together and allows everyone to forget about their troubles and just have an awesome time.

Q: Are you working on an album or EP to come out and if so when and, as of now, how many songs have you finished or are in the process of finishing off?

A: We actually recorded a full-length album’s worth of material back in early 2020. Because of the pandemic, all these delays and being completely independent with no record label, we have decided to split the recorded songs into two separate EP’s. So, we’ve launched the band with our ‘Make Believe’ single and we’re planning on releasing our debut EP in early 2022. We have plans to release the follow-up EP later in 2022 (around autumn time). We’ve noticed that people have such short attention spans and lack enough patience to pay attention for much time nowadays. So, we decided we’re going to slowly release music over time to help us maintain our hype and relevance. We’ll see how successful this release plan ends up being for us, and that will help us decide how to release more music in the future.

Q: Also, do you feel the way to go in the music world these days is the single release, what is your opinion on album releases vs going with numerous single releases?

A: To break into music nowadays, I believe it’s best to start off with a single release first. We’re going to try the EP release route for Sicksense, but new artists should definitely start off with a single to “test the waters”. Like I mentioned earlier, I just think fans of today are living through this “immediate gratification culture”, where they are swiping up and down so quickly, it’s becoming so difficult to catch people’s attention long enough for them to focus or actually sit down and listen through an entire 40+ minute album. I think more and more bands will stick to releasing singles or at the most EPs moving forward. I LOVE listening to full-length albums, but they’ve become somewhat archaic during today’s times and aren’t really getting the attention that they truly deserve.

Q: I think, way back in the day, the EAST COAST ROMPER interviewed you in the band STUCK MOJO! Now that we can look back on that era, what did it mean to be in a band like that and what is your best memory of those days?

A: Working with Stuck Mojo was awesome. Rich’s bands Fozzy and Stuck Mojo are two of the early bands that really got me into “my own music” and helped me figure out the kind of bands that I liked as a kid/teenager. My favourite memories were recording the “Here Come The Infidels” album at Rich’s buddy’s Chris Chandler’s farm, with legendary producer, Andy Sneap. Chris is unfortunately no longer with us as he passed away, due to cancer, in June 2016. I had a great time recording there. Chris was an amazing and humble human being who offered us his beautiful studio to record in with Andy. It was great taking breaks and hanging with the animals out in the fresh air in between song recordings. Chilling with cows and horses was sweet.

Most people don’t know this, but pretty much all my first ever live shows were with Stuck Mojo too. Most people’s first shows are at their high school talent shows, mine were headliner sets and international main stage festival appearances, doing vocals for one of my favourite bands! It was wild. I played on stage only twice prior to joining Stuck Mojo. I had truly been “thrown in the deep end” when I joined the band with such little live experience. No better way to learn than to open up on the main stage for “Twisted Sister” during your first time in the UK, right?!?

Q: What has it meant to you being able to perform, inspire, influence and really create your passions for the world to hear?

A: I believe that life is supposed to be about giving back and creating things for others to enjoy and appreciate. I’m just playing my part and it’s my pleasure to know that I’ve entertained someone or somehow got them thinking in a different way, thanks to my music. The work I’ve done so far in music hasn’t gotten too much attention or exposure, so I’m always humbled to hear someone else has heard and appreciates any of my work-past or present.

Q: I see you are also into wrestling, what is your background with that and will SICKSENSE dabble in possible projects with wrestling organizations?

A: I got trained by WWE Superstar Seth Rollins, Marek Brave and Krotch at Black & Brave Wrestling Academy in Davenport, Iowa back in early 2019. I made my in-ring debut and had my first match in August of that year and have been wrestling regularly on the independent circuit ever since. I mostly wrestle under my “Renegade” gimmick alongside my tag team partner, “Sabotage”, as the team, “Collateral Damage”.

I think our music fits really well for the wrestling world. I’d love for one of our songs to end up becoming the theme song for a major professional wrestling company’s PPV or have something featured in a video game or used as another wrestler’s theme song. You never know what can happen, so if an opportunity presents itself, I’d be open to weighing our options.

Q: Other than music, what is one thing that inspires you in this world to keep creating and why does that impact you so much?

A: I’m motivated to do my part and help out as much as I possibly can. I believe people should do what they can to keep themselves healthy and take care of themselves first, then work on getting the means to take care of the rest of their family, and if they’re lucky, put themselves in a position where they can comfortably help out others. You can’t truly help anyone if you keep yourself in the same boat that everyone else is in. I strive to be a person who creates opportunities for myself and the people around me. Simply being the best I can be and helping to build up my communities each day. These are the things that inspire me the most.

Q: If you could collaborate with anyone alive or dead, who would it be and what kind of song would you want to do with them or maybe even remake with them?

I would love to work on a straight-up hip-hop song alongside rapper, “Yelawolf”. To me he’s one of the mainstream rappers who has consistently released great songs over the years that are “true” to hop-hop as an artform and I respect him. There are so many great artists, groups and bands out there killing it though. I’d love to work with plenty of people out there. So many creative possibilities that can potentially come to life. We’re living through incredible times. So, we’ll see what happens.

Q: How long has it been since you fully toured and, with this band, are you looking into touring or waiting till you have a secured EP out? And what do you miss most about the road life?

A: I actually have yet to do a “proper” tour! Unfortunately, none of my prior projects ever picked up enough momentum for us to hit the road for a proper month-long tour.

The last time I had a “string of shows” in a row was over a period of 2 weeks, doing 4 shows with “Stuck Mojo”, shortly after our album release in the summer of 2016. We did 2 headline club shows in Georgia and North Carolina, respectively. Then the following week we had 2 festival dates on the main stages at “Bloodstock” in Derbyshire, UK and “Brutal Assault” in Czech Republic.

The last time I played music live, was with my former band, “Repentance” .We played an outdoor festival show, playing right before “Product Of Hate”, hit the stage at R’Noggin Fest in Kenosha, Wisconsin in August 2020.

Once our Sicksense EP comes out in early 2022, we’ll definitely start looking to play live shows.

Realistically, with all these prior tours from other bands being postponed and happening in 2022 instead, I can only see Sicksense playing live shows in the fall time of 2022, the earliest.

I do enjoy and appreciate my time at home, so the only thing I really miss most about playing live shows is the opportunity to meet and hang with fans/friends who enjoy my music. Aside from that, traveling can be rough: we don’t get much sleep, food options aren’t the greatest and everything is constantly “go, go, go ” while we’re on the road.

Q: Anything I missed you want to let fans know and any parting words to the music world?

A: I’m super stoked for the future with Sicksense! Truly feels like I found my “home” here and it’s nice to be creating music alongside a group of people who are all 110% on the same page. We’re all friends and the band feels like a family. Can’t wait for our new music to come out. We’ll be working hard in the meanwhile and I promise it’ll be worth the wait for anyone excited to hear more.

Thanks for having me, Stephanie! Cheers.

CONNECT WITH THE BAND:

‘Make Believe’ (Official Video)

Sicksense Promo Pic (Credit Eric Sanchez Photography)
Photo by Eric Sanchez Photography

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Stephanie Stevens and East Coast Romper, and has been released to Ever Metal on this basis. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

EMQ’s with BRIAN DALTON

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EMQ’s with BRIAN DALTON

Hi everyone! Welcome to our new EMQ’s interview, with Missouri, US based Rock Singer/Songwriter Brian Dalton. Huge thanks to Brian 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?

My name is Brian Dalton. I’m a singer/songwriter. I play a little rhythm guitar as well, usually when I do acoustic sets. I’ve been singing/playing for about 20 years but it wasn’t until about 7 years ago that I started to take it seriously and start my solo career.

How did you come up with your band name?

My mother and father gave it to me when I was born. They named me after Harrison (my middle name) Ford as well and were supposedly sober when they decided this. I have my doubts.

What Country/Region are you from and what is the Metal/Rock scene like there?

I’m from Missouri. The metal/rock scene is actually pretty poppin’ around here. There are some really talented bands where I’m from with a variety of styles.

What is your latest release? (Album, EP, Single, Video)

My latest release is a stripped version of my song ‘Love These Scars’ written about anxiety and mental health.

‘Love These Scars’ Stripped (Official Video)

‘The Follower’ (Official Video)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mpregq7uk-A-

Who have been your greatest influences?

Over the years that list has changed quite a bit. It started out being bands like Metallica, KoRn, Breaking Benjamin, Trivium and has grown to include groups like Architects all the way to synth pop groups like Gunship.

What first got you into music?

My family first got me into music. They’re very gifted on my mom’s side and she has been singing locally for the majority of my life. She bought me my first guitar and her and my dad both have been very supportive along the way.

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician, who would it be?

That’s tough. I write in several different genres but speaking Metal/Rock? I’d have to say Architects. I love the way they blend metal with electronic elements.

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

Austin City Limits. I was there a few years back watching some amazing acts play live and just thought it would be a really fun festival to play.

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

I’ve been fortunate to not receive a weird gift. I’ve been told some weird things. Scary enough for me.

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

Get back up. No matter how hard you’re hit in life, always get back up. They help me do that on a daily basis and I’m forever grateful for every single one of them.

If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

My Stepfather. He was a rockstar to me.

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?

I love being able to create something beautiful (hopefully) out of nothing. It’s as healing as going to the gym for me. I don’t know that I hate any part of it but I don’t like how it’s so easy to be labelled one style or another.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

Artist royalties. Without a doubt.

Name one of your all-time favourite albums?

Metallica – “…And Justice For All”

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s or Downloads?

I love the passion involved with vinyl the most.

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?

Little Eddie’s bat mitzvah. It was liiiiiit.

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

If I weren’t a musician, I would probably be flying planes or fighting pirates.

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Hmm. That’s a good question. I’d say James Hetfield, Matt Heafy, Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, and Betty White.

What’s next for the band?

I have a music documentary coming out this summer and will be back in the studio very soon recording my next EP.

What Social Media/Website links do you use to get your music out to people?

I have my website, my YouTube Channel, my Facebook music page and I have my Instagram. Outside of these, my music is available on every major streaming platform.
www.briandaltonmusic.com/
www.facebook.com/briandaltonmusic
www.instagram.com/brian_dalton_music/
www.soundcloud.com/user-410493292
www.open.spotify.com/artist/04zBcnoPvgI18ke2VEoFqr
www.youtube.com/channel/UCnmhlL933_1YE1uDcHt5gMg

Jaffa Cakes! Are they a cake or a biscuit?

Using sound scientific reasoning, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ve never heard of a Jaffa Cake. But it sure does look like a biscuit…

Thank you for your time. Is there anything else that you would like to add?

I appreciate your time as well. Thank you so much for allowing me your platform and audience. It means a great deal to me. Keep rocking my friends and may it be Ever Metal!

Brian Dalton Pic

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

INTERVIEW WITH RAESHWAN GREENE aka ‘AWESOME RAY RAY’

Awesome Ray Ray Promo Pic 1

INTERVIEW WITH RAESHWAN GREENE aka ‘AWESOME RAY RAY’
BY STEPHANIE STEVENS

Raeshwan Greene is an artist and a drummer I met years ago when he was drumming for a band called YEAR OF THE LOCUST. I was honoured and able to meet this gentleman and his band when they toured with Starset. A rock n roll band that captured and moved you on record and onstage. Greene’s drumming was so fun to watch and his humbleness to his craft was noteworthy when meeting the band.

As our friendship grew throughout the years and I learnt he was more than an artist, he was a father, a goal setter, he ran with his passions and he was so diverse in the music world as the world is finding out in 2021 as he is bringing forth his solo work as ‘AWESOME RAY RAY’. Not just a drummer he is a songwriter, a singer, a spoken word and rap influencer. He is bringing raw truth about himself and the world to the forefront of his new music. So many avenues in the music world that he has a talent in and that, right there, is going to bring a special diversity to his solo work! If I could sum up in one word what this new chapter of his life will bring it would be the word adventure: for the listeners and for himself.

Just go listen to a track like ‘ON THE RUN’ and then skip to a track like ‘THERAPY’ so different but such epicness in their own genres; and that is where he stands out! He is giving you all that is in his heart n soul and he is portraying it in music, in a raw authentic way which leads to him traveling down different genres. That just shows that he is a lover of music, he is not fearful of change and putting himself out there in a variety of elements to do the best he can and right now from what I have heard he is killing it! Right there is RESPECT for anyone that is giving their all for the passion they have!

I finally got to chat with Ray, one on one, to find out more about his chapter in Year Of The Locust, his background in music and what he hopes to do with the music he is making now.

Q: I met you when you were in a band called Year Of the Locust, can you talk about how being in that band made you grow as a musician, how being able to tour changed your life for the better or worse and what being in a band meant to you?

A: I love those guys so much. Being in Year Of The Locust taught me so much. They taught me the true grind and hustle of the music industry especially in the rock world as it relates to being in bands. I learned so much about being on the road; how to work on a bus, and how to make the best out of even the worst of situations. It Definitely made me a better musician and It took me from drumming in the gospel, hip-hop/ R&B world, to the rock world as a drummer. Which was a totally different world then I was accustomed to. So, all in all it really helped sharpen all of my skills musically and as a person in all areas. What it meant to me was a level of brotherhood and friendship, Unlike I’ve ever experienced before. Those fellas are still my brothers and we definitely still keep in touch and still work on music together.

Q: How did you get into drumming and do you still play?

A: I’ve always been a drummer. I started banging on pots and pans around three years old. Then joined bands in elementary school, middle school and then went on to be the drum major of my marching band in high school. I’ve also played for multiple churches and other community entities and functions. I absolutely still play drums. I did the drums on my songs ‘My Way Home’, ‘No Regrets’, and a new song that I’ll be releasing here shortly in about a month.

Q: If you could take one song you wrote with YOTL that means the most to you which one would it be and why?

A: I would definitely have to say ‘Movin On’. It’s such an amazing song and it means so much for so many different reasons. Things are always moving and changing in life. In fact, that’s the only constant, and it’s sad that focus on the song but it is life and it does move on. Be it relationships, friendships, bands or anything else, everything has a season. I also directed and filmed that music video so there’s really a special place there for me with that song. And I absolutely have to give credit to Scot when it comes down to his delivery in the vocals it just touches your soul in such an amazing way.

Q: You have taken vocal duties in a diverse way so when did you decide you wanted to make your voice known and tell the stories you have created?

A: Before Year Of The Locust, I actually rapped for a pop punk band out of Virginia called “Escape The Armada”. So, I had a little bit of experience with being on the microphone and upfront for sure. But honestly, I’ve always been writing songs and producing/writing my own stuff with all the bands I’ve been in. Ultimately, I knew there was going to come a point where I had to do something with it on a solo front. I just had to figure out my identity. It’s always been building in me even since I was a little kid.

Q: Earlier this year you went through a real hard time mentally and emotionally and tracked a song about it, I felt everything you wrote about and your story you told because I have the same thoughts, for people struggling how did you get through it and how do you deal with it on the daily and what would be your best advice?

A: My faith, music, and my daughters. I would definitely advise others to lean on your close inner circle and find your faith if you already don’t have it. There’s no possible way any of us can get through some of the worst times of our life alone. Even though I wanted to be alone, I had to recognize that I was not alone.

Q: Do you feel you found god then? I have come into contact with a lot of people who have had breakdowns and god came to them in the past year, do you feel this was what happened to you or have you been with him for a bit?

A: I wouldn’t say that I’ve been with him. He’s been with me. I’ve always had faith and God in my heart and life, but there are times where we all stray away and I believe during the last year and a half I was made heavily aware of that. I was reminded that he is the ultimate healer, and comforter no matter what we face. And that is the storms as I like to call them, or dark times calm, they don’t last forever and the sun will absolutely shine again.

Q: One of my favourites is ‘NO REGRETS’, did you do all the music and the lyrics etc and how is it being in control of everything these days?

A: I wrote the concept for ‘No Regrets’, and some of the generic guitar sounds then with help from my buddy Scot from Year Of The Locust he took the guitar sound to the next level and I’m so appreciative of his help. He also helped out on the vocals on the choruses and throws on some screams. I did pretty much everything else 😊. It’s a double edge sword being in control of everything as a solo artist because you get to reap all the benefits when things are going great, but when things aren’t going so great and you realize you’re responsible for everything it can be a little bit over bearing but I do love it. I trust the process.

Q: ‘ON THE RUN’ is totally a 180 of other stuff you write. How was putting this track together and did you have any help in getting the right vibe for this track and how do you feel about the overall finished product of this song?

A: ‘On The Run’ came out first. That is the first solo song that I’ve ever done as Awesome Ray Ray. But yes, it is totally different from most of my other stuff. Just like my other tracks, I wrote it and made demos then took it to a studio out in LA and had professionals clean it up for me a little bit. You know things that I’m not too great with, guitars and other production. I also took it down to Nashville and had a very good friend of mine Brian Bonds who is in the video, (formally of Florida Georgia Line and Tantric) help me out with additional production and sweet guitar riffs layered on top. I’m so in love with the final product. That song and video will always have a special place in my heart for more reasons than I have time to explain right now.

Q: What are your plans now with your music and the songs you have been promoting and tracking? do you want to take this on the road?

A: I absolutely want to take those songs on the road for sure. I did an audit the other day, I have 29 unfinished songs. Things are about to get real LOL.

Q: A lot of people are going the route of self-employment in the music world and no labels. Are you one of them also and what are your views about it and the near future?

A: I totally understand that. For right now I’m independent and unsigned and definitely respect all the other underdogs out there. I also understand the function of a label and how it could absolutely be beneficial. For me? We will have to see. I’m not knocking it but I’m not exactly gunning for it. There’s a purpose and a plan for my music career even if I don’t know what all of it entails. I can say whatever happens I’m excited, thankful and blessed to be a part of the ride.

Q: Where do you find inspiration to write, it seems you look inside of yourself but there has to be more to this creativeness then just that?

A: I absolutely do look inward for inspiration. But I also look outward. I have a very overactive imagination, and I also have the ability to be able to listen to somebody else’s story and tell that story. So, I gather a bunch of different things when it comes down to songwriting, production and music videos.

Q: Who inspires you in the spoken word community and why do they, if you have someone that does?

A: There’s a lot of folks that inspire me. I would definitely say a lot of the southern hip-hop artist, and a few from out west. Rappers, singers and bands that I grew up on. To name a few, Kendrick Lamar, Lil Wayne, YelaWolf, jelly roll, Lecrae, Timbaland, Common, Jurassic 5, Cypress Hill, Black Thought (from the roots),Drake, Gary Clark Jr. Jill Scott, The entire Dc go-go scene. This list could go on for about another 20 or 30 pages.

Q: Vocally, what do you hope to improve on or learn throughout this new chapter in your life?

A: I hope to get better at my actual singing, and be able to increase my range, and harmonize better. I truly believe this is a journey not a destination, so there’s always room to improve and get better.

Q: Would you consider ever getting a band back into the works if the music called for it?

A: Absolutely. I have a very short tour and a major music festival coming up in the fall, and I definitely have a backing band for it.

Q: I feel like you’re a reader of books, if you are, do you have a go to book that you love if so, what is it and why do you love it?

A: Believe it or not, I’m actually not a big book person. I am intrigued though and would like to dive into some books. I’m more of a writer and watcher.

Q: What or who has inspired you to keep the passion you have for music and for people who give up on their dreams what would you want to tell them to stay the course and if they have given up do you feel they can get back on it and re build and re start?

A: My circle, my kids, my true friends, and the Fanbase that I’m building up. They love me and support me even on my darker days. I absolutely would encourage those who have quit to jump back into it. My biggest thing is following dreams. I whole heartedly believe when you give up on your dreams, you give up on life. it’s definitely not easy, but you got a hang in there. You have to keep pushing and believing. So, I wanna encourage others to follow their dreams, much as I can. Rather it be through my music or anything else that I can contribute.

Q:What does it mean to have people supporting you through all your music career paths and how it feels to know you have a special effect on people’s lives?

A: For me it means the absolute world. It’s the reason why I started, and why I keep going. Rather it be people in my DM‘s, telling me about their day, or people commenting about how cool my mohawk looks, or about how my music help them through a tough time. I’m thankful and grateful that I’m in a position to affect people’s lives in a positive way. I wasn’t always a positive person, and still have some negative moments of days. But I recognize that and I am ever trying to improve to be better today than I was yesterday, and hopefully that spreads.

Q: Anything else you want to add or I missed that you’re currently working on? Also, how people can keep up to date with your music?

A: I think you covered at all. I want to thank you and East Coast Romper so much for taking the time. I’m super thankful and grateful. I’m on all socials, and streaming on all music platforms, Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, Tidal and, most recently, I am now on iHeartRadio.

STAY CONNECTED:

‘On The Run’ (Official Video)

‘Therapy’ (Lyric Video)

Awesome Ray Ray Promo Pic 2

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Stephanie Stevens and East Coast Romper, and has been released to Ever Metal on this basis. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

INTERVIEW WITH ZEBRAHEAD

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INTERVIEW WITH ZEBRAHEAD
The New Chapter!!
By Stephanie Stevens

I am going to make this introduction a little personal because I feel like I have grown up and watched this Southern California band blossom and create so much insanely fun, quirky and amazing music since the bands start! ZEBRAHEAD started as a band when the explosion in the Orange County punk scene infected the music world. Signing with Columbia Records the band brought the world a piece of heaven with the debut album “WASTE OF MIND”, and the introduction that was given to me into the world that was ZEBRAHEAD. One listen to this album and I was hooked. The energy, the character in the music and just the overall fun & creative atmosphere made this disc an instant classic. It’s been 23 years and this album is still a go to listen when I am having an off day and need a bit of a pick me up. The bands whole discography could be used for that, who am I fooling, these guys just bring a light hearted, happy ambiance to the world of music.

With 2 million records sold to date, Grammy nominated and the survival of label and member changes the force that is ZEBRAHEAD is stronger than ever, which brings me to that next chapter of the band or as they love to call it ZEBRAHEAD 3.0! With new found excitement the guys, just recently, told the world about a new addition to the band in the name of Adrian Estrella. It took the guys not even a minute to realize who they needed when vocalist/guitarist Matty Lewis left the band. Estrella is no new comer when it comes to touring and recording and the band have known him for some time. Knowing how passionate and energized he was about music was a no brainer, but the inspiration infused into the atmosphere is what re ignited the band to create some of the best work in their arsenal to date, and that is going to be one gigantic amount of happiness all rolled up in one. Releasing a new single and Video at the end of the month the guys are ready to stimulate the diehard ZEBRAHEAD fans and make a ton of new ones throughout 2021.

I am honoured and so excited to watch these guys take the next chapter into this crazy and fun world they have created. I was able to catch up with Ben Ozz, bass player of the band, to ask him about his take on newest member Adrian, did he ever think in 1998 that the debut album would lead to the life they have, tour plans and if the live show will stay as fun and chaotic as ever?

Q: Tell The Zebrahead fans and the world what chapter 3 of the story of Zebrahead looks like from your vision and ideas that you have been making with the new music?

Ben: So far Chapter 3 has been really exciting. It has been kind of a whirlwind. We were caught a little off guard when Matty left but decided to try and pick ourselves up rather quickly once we had a band meeting about the future. Our first pick and only pick we came up with was Adrian. So, Dan reached out to him, and it is all history…a blurry one.

Q: Introduce us to your newest addition Mr. Adrian Estrella and how did you guys meet?

Ben: I met Adrian about 15 years ago when we were finishing up recording “Broadcast to the World”. At the time he was in a pop punk band and his voice blew me away…So, I introduced him to our management. They already had a manager but, Adrian was the kind of guy you just wanted to help out. Basically, wanted him to know if he ever needed anything we would try to help him out.

Q: What does he bring into the camp that you think had been missing or was never represented as much as it does now?

Ben: His excitement is completely infectious. When he walks into the studio, we could be recording any instrument and Adrian lights up with ideas. You see this excitement and it pulls everyone in…and reminds us how lucky we are to be doing this as a job…beyond lucky. And honestly his ideas are so new and fresh to us…such a different outlook on everything and it feels great.

Q: I’m sure when you are making new music with someone new, you learn things you never knew about each other! What do you feel you learned that surprised you about Adrian and also the rest of the members? What did Adrian learn about you?

Ben: Well, I can’t speak for him…but I know I have learned tons from him in the few short months we have been working together. He reminds me a lot of Dan with his ability to just keep throwing ideas out there. There aren’t many people that can spit out quality ideas that quickly and it is amazing.

Q: Can you describe what the new single is bringing to the latest chapter of Zebrahead and whether you could compare it to an older song in your arsenal? Also, when is it officially dropping and will there be an accompanying video?

Ben: The plan is for the single and the video to both drop on July 30th. We just finished mixing the song, so the next move is to start working on the video. This might be the first song in a really long time that kind of captures all sides of the band. It would be tough to classify it…it kind of goes all over the place and I love that about it.

Q: Who are you working with in regard to the production for the new full-length and when do you think that might be released?

Ben: We have been working with Paul Miner at Buzz Bomb studios for a while now. I have nothing but great things to say about him. He is very talented. His production work just keeps getting better and better.

Q: 23 years making music as Zebrahead (2 million records sold, Grammy nominated, survived label and band member changes)! Take a minute, if you can, to put into words how it feels to have been able to do this for so long?

Ben: Suprising! Honestly when we started it was a chance to see the world for a few years. None of us ever thought we would be lucky enough to still be doing this after all these years.

Q: I was introduced to the band way back in ’98 with your album “Waste Of Mind”, an album that, still to this day, is on regular rotation in my playlist! Looking back on that album, what are your thoughts about it now and, when you first finished it, did you think it would be the start of the special years to come?

Ben: To be honest, we didn’t know what to think. It was our first experience in a huge studio, our first experience with a giant record label. We were a little intimidated to say the least. The hope was people would like the album as much as we did…and we could travel the world for a few years and see what was out there. We were super proud of even making it that far…

Q: Your stage show was always so energetic and fun. Do you feel it will always be that way, even thought we are all getting older and we cannot do all the crazy things like we used to 20 years ago?

Ben: Well, the live show is still the best part of being in a band. So, there is no plan to change the chaos. The idea is to make sure everyone gets to escape a bit from the realities of the world and just smile for a bit. Being part of the show, it definitely works for us…hopefully it translates over to the crowd.

Q: Do you have any tour plans, once the new single drops and if so, is there anything you can tell us now about that?

Ben: Once the single comes out, so far, the plan is to keep writing and keep trying to record new songs. Our real big tour plans start in the summer of 2022. I know we are trying to push a few things along before that, like Slam Dunk this September in England…but so is everyone else…all bands have been home so long, people are frantically trying to book up every available room in every town. We are kind of sitting back and deciding to work on music…the rest will fall into place.

Q: Is there anything else you want to add that I didn’t hit on in this interview or anything you want to tell your fans?

Ben: Thanks for coming along on the ride for Chapter 3. We are excited to see you all out on tour soon and thank you for all your support throughout the years!

CONNECT WITH THE BAND:

‘Chapter 3 – Welcome to the MFZB family!’

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Stephanie Stevens and East Coast Romper, and has been released to Ever Metal on this basis. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.

EMQ’s with DAYEATER

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EMQ’s with DAYEATER

Hi everyone! Welcome to our new EMQ’s interview with Austin, Texas based Heavy Psychedelic Rock band, Dayeater. Huge thanks to guitarist, Jesse Lee, 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?

Jesse Lee, Best One Handed Guitarist.

DAYEATER formed in 2015 and have been bringing heavy psych riffs and 3 part harmony to Texas ever since.

How did you come up with your band name?

Our drummer Landry thought of the name after Jesse Lee played the riff to ‘Day Tripper’ by the Beatles and “Beat It” by Michael Jackson together at a jam…

What country/region are you from and what is the metal/rock scene like there?

DAYEATER is from Austin Texas USA and the metal scene is huge, open and inviting….eager to mix metal with different genres to create something completely new.

What is your latest release (Album, EP, Single, Video)

In early March DAYEATER released our new single titled ‘Sweet Earth’…a powerful commentary on the perception of the damage we, as society, have caused on our precious, sweet earth.

Who have been your greatest influences?

Aside from the power house bands like Black Sabbath and Jimi Hendrix DAYEATER finds influence in our community of local musicians pushing each other to be better than we were.

What first got you into music?

I remember being a little child in the back seat of the family car and my dad was playing “Ride The Lightning” by Metallica everywhere we went…and I thought it was the heaviest, biggest thing I’d ever heard in my entire life…I wanted to be just like Kirk Hammett!

If you could collaborate with a current band or musician who would it be?

We really like what the band Fuzz has been doing these days also we are fans of Jack White and Duel from Atx.

If you could play any festival in the world, which would you choose and why?

Ya know…I feel like there will be another LIVE AID soon seeing as the world might be falling apart sooner than we thought….a gig to help the would keep going would be top of the list.

What’s the weirdest gift you have ever received from a fan?

In the early day I received an Epiphone goth SG from someone who saw us play a back yard party…He went home grabbed the guitar and came back to the party to give it me.

If you had one message for your fans, what would it be?

Thanks for hanging out with us so far and remember always eat your veggies and NEVER believe a word Eric Clapton tells you!

If you could bring one rock star back from the dead, who would it be?

Oh, please give me back Dave Brockie. The world needs ODERUS URUNGUS now more than ever!

What do you enjoy the most about being a musician? And what do you hate?

I really love the sense of accomplishment from learning a new piece or even understanding a new skill like marketing for social media advertising…at the same time sometimes all that work can be frustrating and seem like it’s not leading anywhere but in the long run it’s all worth it.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

Well, that’s an easy one…Fair compensation for the artist, it’s too old of the story how the music industry takes advantage of artists and it needs to change…

Name one of your all-time favourite albums?

One of my all-time go to albums is “Diary Of A Madman”, I can’t get enough of Randy Rhoads.

What’s best? Vinyl, Cassettes, CD’s or Downloads?

Ya know each one serves its purpose in a particular setting but for some reason I got to give it up to CD’s. I saw the transition from tapes to CD’s and they kind of stuck with me.

What’s the best gig that you have played to date?

I think collectively the three of us agree that Eyores birthday in Austin, Texas summer of 2017 is probably one of our most fun gigs to date…

If you weren’t a musician, what else would you be doing?

We talked about that amongst the three of us. We really can’t see ourselves doing anything different. Music would probably end up in our lives one way or another!

Which five people would you invite to a dinner party?

Let’s get Aleister Crowley, Kurt Vonnegut, King Buzzo, Ronnie James Dio and Abbie Hoffman…seems like we have plenty to talk about!

What’s next for the band?

Well, we’ve released our next single titled ‘Sweet Earth’ and we really hope to come out of this pandemic stronger and smarter… We’re hungrier than we have ever been to get in front of as many people as we can and put on a high energy rock show full of what the people have been wanting for longer than they know…

What Social Media/Website links do you use to get your music out to people?

DAYEATER is all over the place. You can find us at.
www.dayeaterband.com/

Or on FB, IG, Twitter and Tick tock by simply searching for “dayeaterband”!

Jaffa Cakes? Are they a cake or a biscuit?

So, I’ve never heard of Jaffa Cakes till now but I’m gonna have to say…after checking them out online it looks like a biscuit… but that might change if I ever try one here in Texas.

Disclaimer: This interview is solely the property of Ever Metal. It is strictly forbidden to copy any part of this interview, unless you have the strict permission of said party. Failure to adhere to this will be treated as plagiarism and will be reported to the relevant authorities.