VENTS Magazine 155th issue

Brady Ryan

We’re very excited to have some time today with acclaimed actor Brady M. Ryan; greetings and salutations Brady and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we charge into the proverbial Q&A celluloid rabbit hole, how is 2024 treating you and yours?

It has been a fun year so far for me and my entire family, thank you. It is my Senior Year of high school, and I am making the most of it.

Major kudos and accolades on your bravura turn in director Carlos Saldanha’s Harold and the Purple Crayon! For anyone not in the know, can you explain what the film is about and how your character figures into the proceedings?

Sure, the film is a live animation version of the children’s book by Crockett Johnson which has been a favorite of children and adults since 1955, including my mom! It is the story of a child, Harold, who has a magic purple crayon that brings anything he draws to life. His whole life is narrated until one day the voice that guides him goes silent, so he draws a door to the real world where Harold and his friends search for his narrator, the “old man.” My character is a prankster who calls Zooey Deschanel’s character pretending to be the old man. It is always fun to play a troublemaker!

What was it like working alongside director Carlos Saldanha? Is he what some actors might call ‘an actor’s director’?

To be a contributor to a Carlos Saldanha project is a pinch yourself moment. I have been a fan of everything he has done. He is an everything director and a great visionary.

How did you land upon the acting pathway?

Is there an E! True Hollywood origin story you could share with readers about how you decided to become an actor? HaHa yes something along those lines. I happened into acting. In middle school we had to choose between band, choir, and drama. The first year I chose band and learned to play 3 more instruments and though I left with new skills, it was not where I wanted to focus. The next year I chose choir. Again, I learned a lot, but it was not for me at all. So, year 3 all that was left was drama. I instantly loved it. I got the lead of Robbin Hood in our first stage performance. I knew immediately that I would never look back. Coincidentally, there was a fantastic studio in our town square run by a talented couple, Steve and Kelly Alderfer. They had a group of experienced teachers including Krystal Monique Harris, another super talented actor that I still work with. So, I started taking classes and after studying for a brief perioddecided to start auditioning. At the time, I did not have representation as a brand-new actor, so I selfsubmitted to a few projects. Amazingly, right off the bat, I got a lead in a short film and the role of Matt in The Black Phone. My first time on set was filming The Black Phone. I am forever grateful to Scott Derrickson, Erica Arvold and anyone else who had a hand in selecting me for this role. I learned so much from this experience and formed strong

bonds with my cast mates. Everyone was so inclusive, supportive, and clicked so well that I left there with so many incredible memories, friendships, and confirmation of what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

You hit the ground running and made a huge impression in the 2021 horror movie hit The Black Phone. Were you surprised by how well-received director Scott Derrickson’s gem of a thriller was by audiences?

I was not surprised at all. It was evident from the script, the caliber of actors, directors, producers,writers, and crew that this was something really special. Casting 11–15-year-olds made it relatable and the chemistry between the entire cast showed through on screen. Mason, Maddy, Miguel, Becca, Jordan, and Spencer were incredible to watch during the filming process and then getting to see the performances of the rest of the cast in the finished product just solidified that this was a film that would be a fan favorite forever.

Recently, you led the short film Sons of Nowhere. What attracted you to this specific production?

I was excited to take on a dramatic role which included a very emotional scene for my character. I like to challenge myself with different genres and it is always interesting when the characters are flawed, and your performance needs to be very grounded.

When you’re not acting, what do you enjoy doing just for yourself?

I really enjoy the people in my life from family to friends, so I like to just surround myself with positive people and have fun. I love to attend sporting events, play pickleball, practice guitar, spend time with my pets and go to the movies.

Acting-wise, who inspires you?

Ryan Reynolds because he is great in everything. I like his comedic style, and he seems like he would be fun on set.

Can you give our ever-inquisitive reading audience a hint or three as to what you have coming up professionally in the near-future?

I wish I could! I will say that I am 17 now (Legal 18 in the acting world) so I am at a point where I still play some younger roles, but you will also see me in some more mature roles.

Final - SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of movies - Once Upon A Time In Hollywood or Barton Fink?

That is a tough one, but I guess I’d have to go with Once Upon A Time In Hollywood. As an actor getting a glimpse of what that experience was like at different periods in time is fascinating. I do appreciate Barton Fink as well because I really enjoy dark comedies.

Zach Justice

We’re excited to be speaking today with acclaimed and very funny comedian and host of Dropouts Podcast Zach Justice; greetings and salutations Zach and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the laugh-filled Q&A mosh-pit, how is the latter part of 2024 treating you and yours?

Well I’ve been hanging in like a loose tooth, but so far so good. We have been building out and creating more content, which is always a good time. It’s been a busy start to the year but all really exciting things to come!

Major congratulations on the aforementioned and insanely funny and popular Dropouts Podcast! Starting at the tip-top, can you give us the E! True Hollywood Story on how the Dropouts Podcast came into being?

Dropouts really came into fruition during Covid, but I guess it truly started when Jared and I first met. Jared and I met as roommates in a 2 bedroom apartment with 10 guys, I found the listing on Facebook marketplace and he found the listing on some random creatives in LA site. I was living there for a hot minute already, every ounce of joy drained from me, and Jared walked in with the biggest smile on his face. We eventually ended up saving enough money to move into a 3 bedroom apartment now with 6 guys. From there we started making content, everyone started moving out and it was Jared and I who were left in the apartment. I originally had an idea to do a show called “Zach’s Diner” but Covid hit, which halted finding any guests. So we started a podcast and Dropouts was created.

Are you ever floored by just how very popular the Dropouts Podcast is among listeners? According to word ‘round industry campfire, the podcast is avidly followed by no less than 6 million souls across the daunting landscape known as ‘social media’!

As someone whose bread and butter is to entertain folks and put a smile on their collective faces, how does this make you feel?

I’m always floored by how many people have listened through-out the years, I think it’s so cool creating something that can resonate with people. To share experiences that might help or impact anyone outside yourself is something that is hard to even put into words, it’s the best feeling in the world.

Can you talk with us about what it’s like to host the Dropouts Podcast alongside cohorts Jared Bailey? What does Jared bring to the cohosting table that no one else can?

Hosting the Dropouts Podcast alongside Jared Bailey is an absolute blast. Jared’s vibrant reactions and larger-than-life personality make every episode an unpredictable adventure. He has this infectious energy that keeps both the conversation and the listeners engaged from start to finish, making the podcast feel like a casual hangout with friends.

Is it a bit too Sophie’s Choice to ask you if you have a favorite guest among the many talented folks who have popped up on the Dropouts Podcast?

We’ve had a lot of great guests so far so it’s really hard to pick just one but I would say one of my favorites was Neil Degrasse Tyson. I used to watch him in school as a kid so that was a really surreal full circle moment for me.

For the uninitiated out there, how does the podcast translate to the touring circuit and what can attendees expect and look forward to hearing when they attend a venue gig?

Live shows are always so much fun, its the best feeling being able to meet people who support you and put a face to it all. I want people to leave a show feeling like they were so happy they came and it was worth it. If you ever come to a show I promise you will have the best time! We have games, prizes, sometimes bring up special guests, and of course our wild back and forth banter.

Outside of the tour, can you give our ever-inquisitive readers a hint or three as to what else the Dropouts Podcast has coming up in the way of guests and special topics?

Well we have a lot of exciting stuff in the works this year in expanding and new content coming out. You’ll have to be on the lookout for some cool announcements!

Who are some of the comedians - past and present - who have inspired you and your own comedy?

I would say Jim Carry and Don Rickles have inspired me the most in my own comedy

Independent of the Dropouts Podcast, what does comedian extraordinaire Zach Justice have coming up for the remainder of 2024?

The remainder of 2024 is pretty busy but with all good things, outside of podcasting and social media I am very involved in Film and TV. One of the projects that I wrote is in its casting stages and has a well-acclaimed director attached. It’s really exciting to see something you have worked on for years finally start coming to life.

Any final thoughts you might like to leave readers and fans with regarding the Dropouts Podcast?

I want to thank everyone who listens, watches, and supports us. It means more than you’ll ever know and coming from where we started to now is something that I’ll never take for granted.

l ipp

n icole

We’re super-excited to have some time today with acclaimed awardwinning filmmaker and co-founder of Not Your Daddy’s Films, Nicole Lipp; greetings and salutations Nicole, and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the celluloid Q&A mosh-pit, how is 2024 treating you and yours?

This year has been kinda nuts. High highs and low lows. But that’s life, right?

Major kudos and accolades on your freshly minted new short film Mistakes You Make Before You Die! Starting at the top, can you explain to our ever-inquisitive readers what your new film is about and what inspired you and co-writer Jetta Juriansz to write it?

Thank you so much! Mistakes You Make Before You Die is a short film and a proof of concept for the feature length movie. It’s about a couple, Dora (she/her) and Lennon (they/them), and the extremely weird bucket list Lennon writes when they find out they’re dying from terminal cancer. But it’s a comedy! Lennon’s bucket list is seriously out there… item number onewhere we begin in the short film - is “attend an orgy.” And that’s probably the most tame item on the list.

I can’t wait to make the full feature film so we can explore the rest of Lennon’s list and the way their illness affects them, Dora, and their friends. The short film is really quite sweet… as sweet as a film about an orgy can be… but things get really wild and unhinged in the feature. I like to call it a dark comedy tearjerker. Think The Fault In Our Stars meets Bottoms. lol.

The idea came to me in a dream! I literally watched the whole movie in my sleep, starring my dearest brilliant beautiful friend and collaborator Jetta Juriansz. I woke up and was like holy shit I need to make this with Jetta. So I called her and told her about it and we got together and dove into the details and the characters and like 24 hours later Jetta sent me a first draft of the short… and I cried (in the best way).

You worked with such an extraordinary ensemble of actors in Mistakes You Make Before You Die, including the likes of your fellow co-scribe Jetta Juriansz, Terry Hu, and Matthew Vorce! What was it like directing this lot? Was it just a matter of pointing a camera on them and letting them take it away on their end?

Jetta, Terry, and Matt are STARS. Directing them was an absolute dream. I’d had the pleasure of directing Jetta a few times before and I knew I would do anything and everything with her forever… but finding our Lennon and our Naked Guy took some time.

Okay, want the unfiltered tea? I’m gonna give it to you… when I literally dreamed the movie, it was starring Jetta Juriansz and Mae Martin. I’m such a Mae fan… Feel Good is one of my favorite TV shows, Mae is so brilliant. When Jetta and I started producing the short, we semi-delusionally thought we could somehow track down Mae Martin and convince them to play Lennon. (To be clear. Neither of us knew Mae personally.) But then the craziest thing happened. I was having lunch with our incredible cinematographer, Kelsey Talton, talking about our plans for the project. And Mae literally walked past our table. I have never believed in manifestation

more… so I chased them down the block and pitched the movie on the spot (like a lunatic) and Mae was like oh yeah cool email me the script. CAN YOU BELIEVE?! So I emailed them and they said really nice things about it!!! And they were down to act in it!!!! And then, scheduling made it impossible...

When we realized we were back to the drawing board on casting, Jetta was like… you should meet my friend Terry Hu. And the rest is history. Turns out Terry was the perfect Lennon all along. Terry’s earnest charm and subtle, natural style blew my mind. My favorite thing about directing is seeing something that was once in my brain on a screen. Terry did that for me and so much more… they developed Lennon in a way I never could have dreamed of. What a gift!!! Anyway, I’m completely obsessed with them and cannot wait to make the full length movie with them some day.

And finding Matt? Jetta and I both posted on instagram “ISO man willing to do full frontal nudity for a short film!” lol. A few friends shared the story for us… and Matt respectfully slid into both mine and Jetta’s DMs like the brilliant, bold exhibitionist he is. Jetta had worked with him before and coincidentally, Matt had also worked with some of my friends before. It was just complete kismet. He was perfect for the roleso open and free and funny and kind. Love you Matt <3

If you can’t tell, I’m a really big fan of everyone involved in this project… I could go on for so many hours just gushing about them all. I’m so grateful to work with them!

Mistakes You Make Before You Die is set to premiere at Out on Film Festival in September; congrats! How does it feel to land such a prominent berth for your film?

Eeeeeek!!! As I mentioned, seeing what you dreamed up on a screen (a BIG screen!!) is a deeply satisfying and affirming experience. But this feels bigger than that… Because Out On Film is a queer film festival. And… welp… this is kinda crazy but I think I’m kinda officially coming out in Vents Magazine right now… I am queer! I’m married to my favorite person in the world, my husband Michael, so people tend to assume I’m straight. And because I’m in a long term ~heteronormative~ relationship, I tend to feel uncomfortable taking up space in queer communities… because bi-rasure is real? But yeah, I do identify as queer. And the struggle I’ve had (and hid) as I’ve explored my identity is part of why representation on screen is so important to me, and part of why festivals like Out On Film are so important to me.

Growing up in the 90s, there were far fewer shows/movies featuring characters outside of a really narrowly defined archetype. I felt like I could sometimes see myself in an “outcast” character but even then, those characters were most often marked with an “otherness” that meant they weren’t accepted. And so this idea of inclusion always felt like way more than a buzz word to me.

I LOVE the current generation of YA. The representation we’re seeing in shows like Heartstopper, Heartbreak High, Sex Education, Love Victor, etc. is so inspiring. These shows heal my inner child in a magical way… I was a confused and depressed teenager who buried and hated any piece of myself that I didn’t perceive as “normal.” I think if I had these shows and these characters to look up to and learn from when I was a teen, my mental health journey might have looked a bit different. I feel the same way about seeing bigger bodies on screen, seeing people of color on screen, people with differently abled bodies on screen… seeing TRUE diversity in films and TV can change culture and therefore change lives, save lives maybe. I know it would have helped me a lot in my most formative years.

You tell such a poignant and ultimately uplifting story in Mistakes You Make Before You Die which, while telling a story about two people in a loving and committed relationship is a universal one that transcends labels and identity politics: The two central characters at the heart of the story are two soul mates who just happen to be of the same sex. Was it important for you to make a film that didn’t hang its fedora on the shingle of sexual identity, much like what director Gus Van Sant did with his two protagonists in My Own Private Idaho?

I feel like some of the most impactful representation is actually in stories that are not ABOUT representation. Mistakes You Make Before You Die isn’t ABOUT being queer… It’s a deeply human (and funny) story about two people who are in love. The fact that they’re queer colors the characters’ experiences, but it doesn’t dictate the plot. I like to think that if we had more widely and universally relatable movies/

shows featuring queer people, maybe we could soften some hearts and help folks everywhere realize we’re all just humans who deserve love and equal rights. Maybe I’m being naive… but I’m just trying to keep hope alive, I guess!

Along with being one of the bright lights of the filmmaking world, you’re also the co-founder of Not Your Daddy’s Films; major congrats, again! What’s the E! True Hollywood Story on how you came to co-found this production company and what are some of the productions you have in the pipeline at the moment?

Not Your Daddy’s Films is my pride and joy!!! I’m so happy to be one of the co-founders and part of the beautiful community we’ve built together. NYDF is a social impact organization committed to educating and empowering women and nonbinary filmmakers. It all began almost two years ago… I was ready to share my first short film, MESSY, with my friends and family and I really wanted to screen it somewhere in LA. So I hosted a little friends and family screening where we also showed a few other short films directed by women. It was SO much fun and I knew I wanted to continue throwing screenings to showcase women and nonbinary filmmakers… Turns out at the same time, Katherine Hughes (who was an acquaintance at the time) reached out to me because she and a few friends hosted a similar screening event to showcase their films. Katherine and I grabbed coffee and gabbed about film and the industry and being a woman who wants to be a director (what, like it’s hard?) and we went from acquaintances to friends. She introduced me to her friends she had thrown her screening with, Carlye Tamaren and Vika Stubblebine, and it was an instant connection. The four of us came together to throw a screening together and Not Your Daddy’s Films was officially born! Soon after that, we met our fifth co-founder, Kourtney Bell, and it was like our final puzzle piece was in place. Over the past 2 years, these women have become my best friends and my greatest cheerleaders. What started as 50ish people watching some dope short films in a bar, grew up to become the social impact organization we are running today. Now, our screenings bring in an audience of 300+ and our community stretches far beyond LA. We’re working really hard to expand the educational wing of NYDF - we host regular panels and we’re producing a podcast! I’ve learned SO much from the NYDF community and my co-founders… Being a Daddy has changed my life. And we’ve only just begun!

Filmmaking-wise, who inspires you?

Mindy Kaling, Quinta Brunson, Alma Harel, Francesca Sloane, Julia Ducournau, Rose Glass, Emerald Fennel, Celine Song, Shelby Bartelstein, Abbi Jacobson, Jamie Babbit, Michaela Coel, Kathleen Jordan, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Pamela Adlon. The list goes on!

What’s next on your directing dance card? Can you give us a hint or three of new movies yet to come from your talented lens?

Hopefully I’ll be working on some more music videos in the coming months! I fell in love with directing through directing music videos… they’re such a fun and fast paced and creative art form and I love the collaborative process with artists. Chappell Roan, call me?

I’m currently in pre-pro on my next short film, The Toe. It could not be more different from Mistakes You Make Before You Die haha! The Toe is a body horror about an ingrown toenail. It’s gonna be really gross and weird.

I’m attached to direct my first feature, Influenced, with producer Chad Burris! I’m excited to finally direct something long form… and the script (written by Alix Lerner) is SO good.

Also! A TV series I wrote/created is in development with Daryl Taja!!! It’s called Eternal Flame and I can’t share too much just yet but fingers crossed it gets greenlit and I get to direct some episodes. Pray for me, y’all. I’m just out here trying to make some really good TV for the people!

Lots of exciting stuff in the pipeline. I love my job!!!

Final - SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of moviesLiving In Oblivion, Once Upon A Time In Hollywood, The Player, Barton Fink or Ed Wood?

I watched Adaptation recently (written by Charlie Kaufman, directed by Spike Jonze) and it’s more about writing than filmmaking technically… but Charlie Kaufman’s inner monologue during his writing process is so relatable… and then the movie just gets so weird and wild. I love it. I’m also lowkey obsessed with Nic Cage.

Traci Hays

Photo Credit Jackie Rangel

Traci, your newest feature film On The Run is out now on Tubi. What was the process like bringing the film to life?

Bringing ON THE RUN to life was a gift and a true honor. It all started with assembling a team of supportive and talented women from screenwriters, Becky Wangberg and Sarah Eisenberg, executive producer Mattie Fellbaum, and producers Thea Naerdal and Ellen Utrecht (to name a few). I felt supported every step of the way from development through post-production. With 14 days to shoot an 84page script with several fight scenes, moving vehicles, and complicated set pieces, I had my work cut out for me. The fast-paced nature of the production schedule brought an intensity, that actually added a raw flavor to the performances with limited takes (2 takes at best). We filmed the entire movie on location in the remote town of Tucumcari, New Mexico which offered vast, dusty landscapes stuck in the past.

What surprised and excited you the most working on On The Run?

Prior to working on this film, I knew nothing about The Witness Protection Program or how motorcycle clubs are run. Through my research, I was surprised to learn that family members of the protected witness entering the program are forbidden from contacting anyone from their “previous life” - including extended family members. I had an absolute blast fully immersing myself in this world alongside screenwriters, Becky Wangberg and Sarah Eisenberg. Unlike my previous features, I began working on the project from the conception of the logline and was able to contribute my ideas all the way through development before principal photography.

Where did the inspiration for On The Run come from?

It all started with a logline from Becky and Sarah about a family in The Witness Protection Program (also known as WITSEC). Through my research about WITSEC, I discovered the podcast, RELATIVE UNKNOWN, an incredible true story about Jackee Taylor’s experiences joining as a young girl because her father was in the Hells Angels. Her story inspired the backstory of the movie and brought invaluable insights into the mindset of how Kayla and Paige felt about their world turning upside-down.

How relatable would you say Kayla and Paige’s perseverance is to real life?

Great question! As the oldest to two sisters and a brother, I completely relate with Kayla and Paige’s unbreakable bond to each other and their family. Sofia Masson (who plays Kayla) and Taylor Geare (who plays Pagie) embody aspects of their characters that brought layered truth to their captivating performances. When faced with a lifeor-death circumstance, survival instincts kick in and Sofia and Taylor brought an adrenaline-fueled perseverance and raw energy that serves as the heartbeat of the story.

What was your biggest challenge while directing On The Run and how did you overcome it?

While filming on location in New Mexico, I ran into a number of challenges. Halfway through day one of filming, the costume designer quit (for reasons unbeknownst to me) and took all the established costumes with her. I pulled up a scene scheduled for the following day with the same costume continuity so we could make our day. Once the new costume designer, Aura Sperling, was hired, she and I worked closely to establish looks with limited resources and time constraints. Thankfully, she found the established costumes stashed at a rental house and solved the issue of having multiple hero outfits. Aura was such a team player and ran with our insane situation as only a pro knows how to do. She’s such a rock star!

For new fans and viewers who have not seen your work before, what takeaways do you hope they leave with after watching On The Run?

I hope audiences come away from watching the film with a full cinematic meal; from the entertaining action-packed story, compelling performances, and a very strong sense of place. How someone’s past can catch up to them and how one chooses to to let it define them.

What makes On The Run different from your past productions?

ON THE RUNS marks the return to my love of dramatic, gritty, grounded storytelling. Unlike my other features, this film is 100% first and foremost a drama (with action and thriller mixed throughout). It allowed me to showcase my love of cinematic landscape, scope, and how the setting plays a character in film.

With On The Run being your latest feature how would you say you have evolved as director since your first feature?

Looking back, I can see how my confidence has grown in directing action set pieces and larger-scale car work. I think quicker on my feet when making decisions, and am able to manage the stress that comes with the job through healthy habits such as going on daily walks and listening to peaceful, inspirational soundtracks.

What advice would you give other filmmakers that get inspired by your work?

Stay curious and open to growing in your craft! Don’t be afraid to take risks on yourself and through failure, you’ll grow the most.

What else is in store for you?

I have several irons in the fire! I’m attached to several original screenplays and just optioned a young adult novel, GOLDENGROVE, written by Francine Prose.

MIGUEL GABRIEL

Photo credit Robert Kazadjan

We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed actor Miguel Gabriel; greetings and salutations Miguel and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the motion picture rabbit hole, how is 2024 treating you and yours?

2024 is treating me very well. Ups and downs, but overall I’m comfortable and grateful for all the things that I have experienced and all the things I have in my life.

Major congratulations on your recent bravura turn in the new major motion picture Camera! For anyone not in the know, can you talk a little about what Camera is about and how your character of Oscar Kennedy figures into the proceedings?

Camera is about a young boy named Oscar who is mute with a widower Mother and they both move into this town. Oscar gets bullied a lot but he meets a repairman who is also a photographer named Eric (played by Beau Bridges) and they form an unlikely friendship. Oscar figures into the proceedings because he helps Eric and the rest of the town regain hope and a sense of community.

Did you know as soon as the Jamie Murphy and Joseph Gamache penned script for Cameracrossed your professional desk that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?

I didn’t know it was the production I wanted to be a part of during the pre-production process. But it was the production I needed to be a part of because I got to meet all the amazing cast & crew on set and learn lots of new things during filming.

In Camera you play a character who is mute. Can you talk about your preparations for playing this challenging role? Did you do any sort of homework on the subject, or was everything you really needed as an actor already baked into the script?

My preparations for playing this challenging role involved watching silent movies, studying the script and Oscar, using some of my own experience to help get in character, and also help from my acting coach Aubrey Miller.

What was it like exercising your own considerable acting chops in Camera alongside an all-star ensemble which included the likes of Beau Bridges, Jessica Parker Kennedy and Bruce Davison?

It was unique to be able to show my acting style on Camera with all of these amazing stars like Beau Bridges, Jessica Parker Kennedy, Jorge Luis Pallo, and Bruce Davison since they each have their special style of acting. It was an honor to see what my acting capabilities are with incredible actors.

Speaking of collaborations, what was it like collaborating with Camera director Jay Silverman? Is Jay what some actors might refer to as “an actor’s director”?

It was wonderful to work with a director like Jay Silverman, who is so humble and able to communicate properly what he needs from you to bring his movie to life. For that, I respect him so much as a person and filmmaker.

Who are you inspired by as far as the world of acting goes?

Anybody who has an extraordinary acting range with a tremendous ability to show any acting style that is appropriate to the character they are playing.

Along with acting, you’ve made a real splash in the world of podcasting with MIGS Movie Info Gossip Show; congrats! Can you talk about what inspired this podcast?

Thank you so much! Aubrey Miller and Julie Miller pitched the idea to me to do a podcast movie review show, but if I had to say what inspired the podcast, it would be podcasts that have their unique approach when it comes to reviewing movies.

Your first credited on-screen work came in the form of a 2019 episode of How to Get Away with Murder. Any special memories of that freshman production?

Working with the crew was delightful

When you’re not acting, what do you enjoy doing just for yourself?

I enjoy watching movies, relaxing, hanging out with my family and friends, and learning about filmmaking.

You scored a co-executive producer credit on the 2021 television mini-series ME. Is producing a venue in the entertainment industry which you would like to do more of?

Yes definitely. I would like to be able to be a producer more, but I also would like to take on other roles like directing or writing.

Can you give readers a hint or three as to what you have coming up in the future?

You’ll know what I have upcoming when you see me on the big screen.

Rhythm Tribe

We’re very happy to be speaking today with acclaimed and exciting Neo Soul and Latin Fusion family band Rhythm Tribe; greetings and salutations gang and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the Q&A mosh-pit, could you all say ‘hi’ and introduce yourselves as well as any absentee band members to our ever-inquisitive reading audience?

Hello, my name is Brisa Michele, and I am the lead vocalist. Mason is on guitar, hand-pan and vocals. Thomas plays guitar and sings background vocals. Esau Garcia plays percussion and hybrid drums, andis from Zacatecas, Mexico. Karthik Suresh is on upright and electric bass and is the newest member of the group.

A huge congratulations on your freshly-minted doublesided hit single You’ll Be There b/w Estaras Alli! Thomas, can you talk about what inspired these two gems?

Of course. In 1989, my father, Rafael Guzman-Sanchez, was at my house. He decided it was time to go and kissed me on the cheek and said: “I’ll always be there.” Thirty minutes later, I got a call that said he suffered a major heart attack and died while driving home. Through the devastation, I wrote this song about the last day being together. The pain is every time I hear it, I relive that loss, but I recognize that he will always be a part of me. Mason and Brisa never got to meet their grandfather, so to hear Brisa singing the words means even more. The main message is that life is short, so enjoy and give thanks for each day with those who mean something to you. Don’t waste the time, embrace it.

Mason, You’ll Be There / Estaras Alli has up for a Latin Grammy Nomination for ‘Song of the Year’ as well as ‘Best Tropical Song’; major congrats! How does it feel to compete against your peers and contemporaries? What will a nomination mean to you?

It’s a really exciting experience. To be a part of this upand-coming project that’s now up for a nomination is phenomenal! We’ve been continuously learning and growing with our music and play-styles, and we hope people really enjoy what we’ve created. If we end up with a nomination, that would be absolutely incredible! I know I’d just have a permanent grin after that. It would really be an amazing feather in the cap, and just solidify this next step we’ve been working to take with our newest album.

Brisa, who did the producing honors on the You’ll Be There and Estaras Alli single, and what did the collaboration between Rhythm Tribe and the producer look like while in the studio fashioning and shaping these amazing new sounds?

Well, the song was originally produced by my father, Thomas, back in the late ‘80s early ‘90s as a tribute to the late passing of my grandfather Rafael Guzman-Sanchez. Later my father and I collaborated with Esau to create the updated remix. Finally, with the help of Kyle Hoffman, our sound was able to be captured and turned into magic.

Thomas, as we noted at the tip-top Rhythm Tribe is so much about family! When entering the studio to record new music, do you all have to start compartmentalizing and looking at one another from a professional angle, versus a family one?

Is it easy to distinguish the two while working on the music?

We are very blessed that there is no competitiveness in the recording process. We are all supportive and approach it like an athletic event. The fact that Mason and Brisa are lifelong Track and Field athleteshas prepared them mentally deal to with the pressure of performing at the highest level. As the producer, it is a pleasure to make it possible to get their ideas and creations able to be recorded in the studio. Working with Karthik and Esau is incredible because they are so creative and have a clear voice and contribution.

Mason, what separates You’ll Be There and Estaras Alli from the Distinguished Competition on the 2024 music landscape?

Honestly, I would say that the biggest difference in the song would have to be the Aguinaldo rhythm. I can’t think of many or any other modern artists that utilize that style of music these days. If you have any recommendations, I would love to hear them! Not to mention, the multi-generational sounds that each of us bring to this song allow it to have evolved in a way that is absolutely beautiful. I still get chills when this song pops up on my playlist.

Brisa, we understand that Rhythm Tribe has some pretty heavy-hitting performance venues lined up in the near future; kudos! Can you talk about some of the venues you’ll all be playing, as well as any news we might want to know about a possible tour?

Thank you so much! We have a few venues lined up for the end of the year in our home, Los Angeles. Our first show, with a debut of newly released soundtracks, will be at The Roxy Theater in Hollywood, California on September 29th, 2024. It is coming up and I promise you it is a show you do not want to miss. More dates and venue locations will be released after the 29th.

Thomas, what does the prognosis say regarding a possible EP or LP release from Rhythm Tribe in the near future? Should we all keep our eyes and ears peeled for future releases?

Well, we have been in production on a new album since the summer of 2023. We’ve recorded live at NRG and Doug Messengers Studio in NoHo. Our engineer is Kyle Hoffmann and a new sound and collection has evolved into a new album. The album is called “TEA FOR FIVE” and will release in December of 2024 on VRL Muzic. The music will take the listener on a rhythmic and psychedelic journey. The first three songs from the album have been released on radio. “You’ll Be There / Estaras Alli” is the first release and is now up for a Latin Grammy for Best Tropical. The song is in both English and Spanish and is based on a Puerto Rican traditional music calledAguinaldo. We followed that with the simultaneous release of “One Day At A Time” which features Mason on Hand-pan and is tuned to 432hz, considered to be a “miracle tone”. This track is both mysterious and sonically healing. The third track, “Holding Onto The Night”, has been released on radio nationally. It is now #134 on the Billboard top 200. Both songs are up for Grammy consideration for Best R&B Performance, Best Global and Best Group or Duo. The three song EP is now available for sale exclusively on dancemaster.com.

Mason, what does it look like when Rhythm Tribe comes together to work on new material? Is there a rhyme and a reason for the beautiful creative madness which springs forth from these music sessions?

A rhyme, a reason, and a chancla. Wait-- that actually sounds like a good album name! Honestly though, we do have somewhat of a structure. Typically, it’ll start with Brisa and Thomas experimenting and then pulling me in to see what I might come up with. After that, we’ll bring it to Karthik and Esau during rehearsal and simply say: “Play what you feel!” From that jam, we’ve been able to stitch together some amazing pieces. Other days, it’ll be just a random instrumental interlude that me or Brisa will start working on; a little stream-of-consciousness on that creates some really fun experimental sounds that we just love to play. Overall, “beautiful creative madness” is definitely the proper phrase for our creative structure.

Brisa, any final words you might like to leave readers with regarding the most recent single release as well as upcoming events?

I hope people understand how hard it is to gain attention in this industry. Especially when you know you have something authentic, and you see people who are getting recognized by copying someone else or doing a slightly different version of what someone else is already doing. It can be discouraging because that doesn’t promote authenticity in this world. And authenticity is something our group is all about. So, for anyone who really enjoys music and wants to feel connected to something real, someone, or if you just want to enjoy some drinks on a night out with friends, I am hoping and praying to see you at the Roxy September 29th. We are working with the Children Of The Night to help fight human trafficking so please go to dancemaster.comto get your special entry pass.

Phaith Montoya

Photo Credit ERic Scott

We’re very happy to have some time today with Plus Size Entrepreneur, Fashion, Beauty, and Health Content Creator Phaith Montoya; greetings and salutations Phaith and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the Q&A fashion-forward rabbit hole, how is 2024 treating you and yours?

Beautifully. I’m always in so much awe of how beautiful my life has been lately, thank you for asking.

Major congratulations on all of your well-deserved success not only in the world of fashion and beauty, but also in the world of personal content creation which has inspired millions of people! Starting at the top, can you give our ever-inqusitive readers the Phaith Montoya E! True Hoillywood Story? What pathways have ultimately led you to this very rewarding point in your career and life?

I was diagnosed with an auto immune disease at 12 that caused me to gain weight. I thought I was cursed and hated my body for so long. Then going to college as a first gen college student I learned a lot about myself studying psychology. That’s where they diagnosed me with an eating disorder, adhd and depresssion. I failed so many classes and had 5 jobs at one point. It was heavy and I felt cursed again but it gave me the opportunity to get the help I needed and actually go to therapy. My psychiatrist told me at our last session that she’s never seen someone fight so hard for their own life like I did. I never gave up on me and I finally made it on the other side by graduating early. I moved to another side of the country to be closer to the medical schools I was applying too, in hopes of becoming a psychiatrist. In the 3 months of me moving to a new place, I got my heart broken, lost my only father figure and the world shut down due to a global pandemic. I lost my job, had no friends in this new place and I lived in my cousins basement, it was really rock bottom for me. Until a couple weeks later my cousin who was in the medical field and beaten breast cancer, passed away. THAT was my rock bottom. I grabbed the clippers and figured I had nothing else left to lose so why not? Felt cursed yet again but that never stopped me from fighting. Then I decided to document my hair growth journey every week on this new app my friend had told me about. In 8 months I gained a million followers. It changed my life I went from being a substitute teacher living in a basement to living in a mansion in Miami (for free) getting flown out to the Super Bowl and music festivals all over. I then took the opportunity to pivot and follow my passion for fashion. Which gave me the opportunity to advocate for plus size girls all over the world and make them feel seen for the first time ever. Although the rain lasted so long it made this rainbow even more worthwhile, I’m not cursed after all.

While introducing you above, we noted that you’ve rightly been lauded as a Plus Size Entrepreneur, with such notable partnerships with the good folks at PLT and YITTY, not to mention your work alongsside such luminaries as Dove, Nike, Dunkin Donuts, Fenty, Finesse and Head & Shoulders; kudos and accolades! Can you talk a little about the importance of inclusivity for Plus Size everyday people and why this has sparked such a passion within you?

The pain of seeing your girlfriends go to the mall and be able to pick clothes off the rack or see bodies similar to theirs on display left me with a sadness that I still carry with me till this day. I let that sadness empower me to advocate for those little girls like myself. Feeling included and represented is something fat women have lacked all their life and the toll it has taken on the community as a whole had made us feel worthless. This goes beyond my own passion, it’s my life’s work because plus size women deserve a dress to wear their friends wedding, a cute bathing suit to wear to the beach and most of all clothes that make them feel beautiful.

A culmination of sorts for your pioneering efforts in the world of being a Plus Size Entrepreneur was your widely covered participation in Miami’s 2022 Swim Week. What inspired this and what message do you hope that it sends to other people out there?

Tabria majors, a huge inspiration of mine dms me one day asking to be in her newest swimsuit campaign for cupshe. Then a few weeks

afterwards I was asked to walk their runway for swim week. It was a dream and I can’t wait to do another. The videos of me walking had over 2 million likes because people were inspired. I hope it only encourages more brands to include us.

You have a strong and powerful platform of roughly over four million supporters which spans all of social media. How integral is the online world for you and your brand?

I joke about this a lot but I be dead serious, I’m chronically online. Although that has negative connotations I think keeping my ears to the street is why my supporters rock with me as hard as they do. I reply to them in my comments and join in on the online discourse. I feel like a friend and honestly I kind of am. I used to spend 40 hours a month on live, swiping on tinder letting my followers choose who I date. When my lace front wig was slipping off at Coachella, I went on live and had 1000 girls trying to help me fix it. Those are my sisters and I mean it. I’m so grateful the internet has given me the opportunity to be so interconnected to so many women all at once

You are a highly respected fashion svengali. With autumn just around the proverbial corner, what sort of fashion and beauty picks would you like to give our discerning readers?

You can’t go wrong with a good pair of stockings and light layering, ike vests and boleros. I love the summer so the fall is always me trying to make my summer clothes a bit more suitable for the lower tempatures.

Along with positive body reinforcement and an eye for fashion which can’t be beat, you’ve also become the go-to person in regards to mental health. How do you feel that mental health is tied into looks and how we see ourselves? Is there a pretty direct correlation in your mind between those?

I think the worst my mental health is the less I care about how I look but also the moments I feel low self esteem it also negatively impacts my mental health. I think it goes both ways honestly. They can go hand in hand on negatively impacting each other.

What would you tell a person who is struggling through poor selfesteem when it comes to how they feel they look? What do these people need to know and hear?

I think you’re beautiful but that really doesn’t matter. Actually it doesn’t matter if you are beautiful at all because you are still deserving. Deserving of happiness, kindness and love. Beauty is so subjective and we are constantly chasing a goal post that will never stop moving so stop allowing it to have so much power over you. There are days where I feel like the baddest b walking and on other days where I avoid my own reflection but on both days I still do the things I enjoy, put on my cute clothes, eat my fav foods and laugh with my loved ones. You are still worthy of good things regardless of how you perceive yourself or even how other people perceive you. Your looks will fade eventually and all you’ll have left is the days to look back on. Don’t waste those days worrying about how you look.

Have you kicked around the idea of possibly writing about your own personal story in the form of an autobiography or memoir? Is this something you might one day consider?

Most definitely. I’m such an archival person so I have diary entries dating back almost 10 years ago. Documenting the saddest and darkest points of my life. Everytime I share bits and pieces so many people tell me how inspiring it is so I know once the full picture is captured that it well help so many hold on through life’s many battles. The only thing is my story is just getting started so I don’t think it will be coming out any time unfortunately.

Any final thoughts you might like to leave readers with?

Do it scared. Do it broke. Do it uneducated. Do it fat. Do it all regardless of what’s standing in your way.

Host of the Month

LilyO’BriantBrooks

We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed actress and singer/songwriter Lily Brooks O’Briant. Before we dive down the proverbial Q&A rabbit hole, how is 2024 treating you so far?

It’s been really good. I have been focused on songwriting & recording music and have spent this year at the LA Academy for Artists & Music Production which has been intense but I have learned so much! I am still recurring on CBS’s ‘The Young & the Restless’ & you can expect some interesting things coming this summer for my character, Lucy Romalotti. Acting was a little quiet last year during the strike which allowed me to really focus on graduating early and making music. I turn 18 in July & hope to be able to explore more acting opportunities.

Starting at the top, what can you tell our ever-inquisitive readers about how you got your start in the acting world?

I started as a musical theatre kid in Memphis, TN. When I was about 4 yrs old, my mom took me to a local show & I turned to her and said, “I want to do that!” My first role was when I was 5 & I was a bunny rabbit in ‘Sleeping Beauty’. After that I did LOTS of musical theatre and then wanted to try TV & film. My mom told me no almost every day for 8 months straight and I finally wore her down. I booked my first professional role when I was 8 as a lead in a feature film. I haven’t looked back since. I LOVE acting and storytelling.

Did you know as soon as you stepped on stage that this is what you wanted to do for the rest of your life?

Absolutely. I started singing Taylor Swift songs when I was 3 or 4 years old & have always loved performing but even more, I love storytelling which is why songwriting has been a natural fit along with acting and singing.

You have been in numerous shows including “The Big Show Show” and “Life by Ella” in which you had the lead role. You also wrote, directed, and produced the short film “Sharing the Floor”. What has been your most challenging role to date and why?

Playing Mandy on ‘The Big Show Show’ was my first series regular role and I was pretty nervous at first but it was so much fun to play & we had the best time making that show. Portraying the title role of ‘Ella’ on ‘Life by Ella’ was probably my most challenging role because Ella had such depth and had been through so much. I wanted to make sure I was as authentic as possible to show what teen cancer survivors experience. I was also 15 when we filmed ‘Life by Ella’ & being the lead with everyone looking to me to set the tone of the set was a lot to have on my shoulders but a tremendous opportunity for which I am extremely grateful.

Currently, you are on the long running soap opera “The Young and The Restless”. What has it been like exercising your own considerable acting chops alongside an incredible group of thespians? What have you learned from working with these actors?

Oh gosh. It is so fun being on ‘The Young & the Restless’! I can’t believe it has been over a year now. Everyone was so welcoming and kind. I have loved it. Filming is super-fast paced – we film at least an episode each day & most scenes are taped in one take which is NOT common in tv/film. I am very grateful that my theatre background prepared me so well for the fast pace.

Now, let’s delve into your music career! You have been hard at work writing and recording original music. What inspired this part of your career? How did it all come about?

Well, I have been singing for as long as I can remember. I used to write songs & lyrics in my journal but was really focused on acting and kept it in the background just as something for myself. I went through my first heartbreak in fall of 2022 & found that writing songs helped me process those feelings. The more I wrote, the more I loved it.

Who inspires you, musically?

So many artists inspire me but especially story tellers - Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Kelsea Ballarini, Joshua Bassett, and Dolly Parton are just some of the artists who inspire me.

Any special memories from recording your first EP? How have you grown musically since your first EP?

I loved writing ‘Too Good to be True’. The first 4 songs were about heartbreak and then the last song was finding new hope. Sadly, my song ‘Romeo & Juliet’ is a follow-up to ‘Too Good to be True’ but there is an even bigger story to tell from that heartbreak. You may hear more of the story in a new EP later this summer - Hint, hint. I’ve grown so much as a songwriter and as a person too. I am so excited to share the music I’ve been working on!

Can you give readers a hint or three as to what you have coming up as far as acting and music goes?

You can expect a LOT of music from me this coming year. I have spent this past year focused on growing as a songwriter & artist. I was lucky enough to perform at the Troubadour again this March & am excited to perform at Whisky-a-Go-Go in July. Expect a lot more live performances soon. You can also expect some interesting things coming up this summer for my character, Lucy Romalotti, on ‘The Young & The Restless’.

When you’re not acting, you’re actively involved with many charitable organizations including St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Can you talk about these worthy causes and why they mean so much to you?

I am originally from Memphis, TN where St. Jude is based & have been a St. Jude ambassador since I was a little girl! St. Jude’s mission is to Find Cures and Save Lives. No family ever has to pay for treatment at St. Jude and St. Jude shares its research with doctors & hospitals all over the world so that all children can benefit from the research to cure childhood cancer.

I am also actively involved with the Endometriosis Foundation of America. Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women, is ranked as one of the top 10 most painful diseases & is something that there is no cure for currently. My sister & I both have endometriosis and are working on filming a documentary right now about how Endometriosis affects teens.

At the end of the day, what do you hope listeners walk away with after listening to your music?

I hope they feel a little comfort & know they aren’t alone and feel seen. I hope they hear the truth because almost all of what I write is based on my own life experiences.

Final - SILLY! - Question: We hear you are a Taylor Swift fan. What song is your favorite and why?

Omg – there is no way I can pick a favorite song. It changes by the day & even what mood I’m in! If I had to pick a favorite album it would be ‘Speak Now’ but ‘Red’ is a SUPER close second.

Spitty

We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed Brampton-raised rapper and community leader Lankesh Patel, who is perhaps best known by his far-famed moniker of ‘Spitty’; greetings and salutations Spitty and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we charge down the Q&A musical pathway, how is the back-part of ‘24 treating you and yours thus far?

It’s an exciting time in my life honestly. I’m gearing up to drop my second LP, have my biggest headline show coming in the fall, and am currently enjoying the summer while putting out the best music and content of my life.

Major kudos and accolades on your freshly-minted new single Rodeo which is set to make its eagerly-anticipated premiere this August 22! Starting at the top, can you talk about what inspired you to record one of the very best new tracks of the year?

Being from Brampton, I’ve been around Punjabi culture my entire life. I’ve grown up hearing their music and language, and always wanted to incorporate some of that in my own music. It only took this long because I wanted to do it authentically and do the art justice. Meeting Roze was the perfect catalyst to get this song going.

What was it like collaborating alongside rightly lauded Calgarybased producer Yuvy and artist Roze on Rodeo?

Yuvy really set the tone with the music production. Me personally, it’s not the type of beat I would’ve chosen if I was just picking for myself. But, when Roze showed me his demo, I instantly saw the vision and potential. Roze’s voice is unreal, and it really allowed me to fill in the gaps with clever, fun rap verses. Working with Roze was easy too, he’s a pro in the studio. I actually haven’t met Yuvy in person since he’s based out in Calgary, but maybe this is the excuse for me to finally make it out to Alberta.

In your humble opinion, what sets Rodeo apart from anything else currently on the music scene?

Indian music and Indian music artists are blowing up around the world right now. However, the fusion music that has been emerging the past few years is still in its infant stages. Being a Punjabi/English collaboration already sets Rodeo apart from most music. Add in the fact that most Punjabi fusion music is either very aggressive/gangster or sentimental/sad, setting this song apart even more as it is a happy love vibe.

As we noted at the tip-top, you were raised in Brampton. How do those roots inform you and the sound of your music?

I think it’s everything. I discovered hip hop through my older cousins and neighbors in Brampton. I was able to stay connected with my Indian heritage because of how strong the community is in Brampton. Brampton is a place of immigrants and blending cultures, and I think that perfectly describes my brand as well. So much musical talent comes from Brampton, and I’ve been inspired by all of them.

Word ‘round industry campfire that, hot on the heels of the August 22 release of your sizzling new single Rodeo, you’ve got a highly-anticipated LP set for release quite soon; congrats! Can you give our ever-inquisitive readers a hint or three as to what they can expect and look forward to with the new album?

My 2nd LP is a fully collaborative South Asian hip hop album. Practically every song is collaboration, featuring artists of the South Asian diaspora from Canada, USA, India, and Pakistan. It varies in genre from Drill to Pop, but the core of it remains an album connecting me and my audience to my roots and heritage. Sonically, it truly encompasses my entire sound and brand. I’m really excited to release this one.

Who inspires you, musically-speaking?

I grew up on lyrical rappers like Eminem, Lupe Fiasco, and Jay-Z. These artists laid the foundation for my love of music and purpose in creating it. When I started rapping, I listened to a lot of Big Sean, Mac Miller, & J. Cole, and I would say those artists inspired me more so musically. Nowadays, I’m inspired by all sorts of artists from all sorts of genres. One of my favorite things to do is go on my YouTube home page and click a music video with like 500 views just to see what’s out there. Most of the time it’s actually incredible work, and I feel like I’ve just come across an amazing secret.

In the wake of the upcoming release of Rodeo, can fans look forward to catching you on the touring/performing circuit?

I am headlining at The Cave in Toronto on October 12. This is going to be my biggest headlining show, and I’m really excited for this performance. Once the album is out, we may be announcing tour dates in key cities across Canada, USA, and India, so stay tuned!

Along with being a phenomenal music talent, you’re also a highly respected community leader, making it your mission to represent your hometown city of Brampton through not only your music, but also through community work and social media platforms! Can you talk about this other aspect of your life and why it is so important to you?

I’ve firsthand experienced how powerful community can be. My music career has grown exponentially ever since I’ve immersed myself with other artists and creatives instead of trying to do and learn everything on my own. Communities support each other, help each grow, hold each other accountable, and make the world a more enjoyable place to live in. My music’s purpose is to motivate and inspire people. If I can do this beyond the music as well, that’s even better. I host free open mics with the city of Brampton, and also host music business workshops for aspiring/ emerging artists. Beyond this, I rep Brampton because so many others are afraid to, and its created a negative stigma around our city. I want people to see how incredible the people, culture, and creativity in our city really are.

Any final thoughts you might like to share about your new single Rodeo as well as your upcoming album release?

It feels like a huge personal milestone in my life to release this song. Like you said, I represent Brampton, and there’s nothing more Brampton than a Punjabi/English hip hop collaboration. It truly sums up my upbringing. The album is going to be a statement and is going to live forever. No one has created anything like it, and I’m excited to set the stage.

Instagram: @spitty95

Twitter: @Spitty

Facebook: /Spitty

Simone Denny

We’re very happy to be speaking today with chart-busting JUNO Award-winning vocalist chanteuse Simone Denny; greetings and salutations Simone and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we meander down the Q&A musical pathway, how is the back-end of 2024 treating you and yours?

Hi There VentsMagazine. The back end of 2024 is good. Lots of new projects I’ve been working on are launching! Super happy about that. Getting some touring in as well. By the time people read this I would have just returned from performing at Reminisce Fest in the UK. 5 tents of artists and my favorite event to perform at every year!

Major kudos and accolades on your freshly-minted new single take on the Love Inc. perennial classic Superstar! Can you talk about what inspired you to put your own unique spin on this musical evergreen?

Well, I have to give credit to Countrycore Records owner Graham Trude. I met Graham Aug 2021. Sung on one of his high energy Country / rock track called “Home Crowd”. We shot a video for it and We kept in touch and he suggested on a conversation…. You should a country version of Superstar! I smiled back at him and said that could something special let’s go for it! We recorded the vocals in 2022 and shot the video that summer at Wassaga. We’ve had it sitting there for the last 2 years. I love how much Superstar still means to our Love Inc Fans. It continues to deeply resonate with them 26 years later. It’s beautiful ! Happy to put a new spin on it for country music lovers. Musically it works.

When covering a well-loved tune such as Superstar, how do you pay tribute to the original while also adding your own indelible flourish to the proceedings?

I’ve spent lot of time in the UK. I’ve learned that UK DJ / producers maintain the integrity if the original and still giving classic songs new life. That’s exactly what Countrycore records did with the production. The vocals although rerecorded are still reminiscent of the original recording. The production of the music is not overdone. It’s all just enough for the ear to enjoy while not taking away from the well known original recording that everyone loves.

Superstar was produced by country artist Graham Trude! What was your collaboration process like with Graham while in the studio fashioning and shaping this new rendition?

Graham and I re-recorded the vocal in his studio. It was a simple and easy process. He let me be me. I think we recorded 3 or 4 takes and then I trust Graham to do the rest. He put his heart and soul into it! Brought in some of the best players and singers in country music in Canada. I am so grateful to each one of them. They did a beautiful job bring this version to life. It’s perfect.

In your humble opinion, what differentiates your take on Superstar from the Distinguished Competition on the 2024 music scene?

Wow great question. I don’t know that I differentiates it. But what makes it stand out is that this is an anthem. Superstar is an anthem in Canada the UK Europe & the US. People know and love it! Belters Only have already done a brilliant remix w/

my vocals in 2022. Now it’s entered a new realm, country music. No one expected it. And when they hear it the production is bang on! And I love being in spaces where I’m not expected to be! Fans can easily sing along with me and enjoy this new version of the anthem they grew up on.

Superstar is released via Countrycore Records! What makes Countrycore the perfect home for this gem of a ditty?

Countrycore is the perfect home for this gem because the label knows the original and loves it. They made me feel comfortable and at home and they were open to new things. They took me in another direction with ease and gave the song and video the love, care and heart that it needed. They paid attention to detail and it shows.

Your music video for Superstar is one of the best of ‘24;major congratulations! Did you have as much fun making the companion music video as we did in watching it?

Thank you so much ! We had an absolute BLAST making the video! It was just what we all needed during Covid. It brought us back to life creatively and being outside on a beach was everything for each one of us! I think that energy is definitely conveyed in the video! We were finally outside and loving it!

In the wake of the release of Superstar, can fans look forward to catching you on the touring/performing circuit?

Touring w/ this version is definitely the goal. It will start to hit radio this fall. It’s already available on all digital platforms everywhere! I just performed it at Edmonton Pride Fest and people loved it! It totally caught them off guard for a second. Then they realized it was superstar and they were all in! Made me so happy! So I can’t wait to get out there and sing it for everyone!

Should fans keep their eyes peeled for an EP or LP release from you before the end of the year?

Well from the moment I worked on Home Crowd w/ Graham Trude in 2021 he said to me … you need to sing country music! I’m open and we’ve written together and are throwing a few ideas around … when we find the perfect tracks the fans will get an EP! Can’t wait to work on it!

Any final thoughts you might like to share with fans and readers regarding your new single Superstar?

Kick back enjoy the country version! Music is for everyone… and you can always put on the original Love Inc version anytime and reminisce about the golden days of Canadian Dance Music! The nostalgia is true and real !Enjoy !Enjoy ! Enjoy! Thank you to all the fans that keep this song and Love Incs music alive. 26 years strong! Much Love to you all right back !

Instagram: @Simonedennymusic Twitter: @simonedenny Facebook: /SimoneDenny Website: https://simonedenny.com/

Aaron Harris

We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed actor Aaron Harris; greetings and salutations Aaron and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the proverbial Q&A celluloid rabbit hole, how is the back-end of 2024 treating you and yours?

It’s been a great year – and I’ve been having a lot of fun! I’ve been spending most of my time on location or on set filming – which is what I love doing the most! I also have to go to school at the same time, which is important, but not that much fun to talk about…

Major congratulations on your upcoming bravura turn in CBS’s Matlock reboot which is set to premiere this October 17! For anyone not in the know, can you explain what this new iteration of Matlockis all about and how your character of Alfie figures into the proceedings?

Well, I can’t say all that much about it, because there are some surprises in store for our audience that I don’t want to spoil. But I can say that it’s definitely not the “Matlock” everyone may be expecting. It’s more than just a show about lawyers and the legal cases they deal with – and there’s a whole lot more to Kathy Bates’ Matlock than what you see on the surface.

Did you know as soon as the chance came across your professional desk to work on the new Matlock series that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?

I definitely knew it was a great opportunity – and I was excited to audition for it – mostly because I knew it would be a chance to work with an absolute legend, Kathy Bates!

Going into this new version of Matlock, how familiar were you of the original classic version of the series which starred the legendary Andy Griffith?

I’m only 13, so I have to admit I didn’t know much at all about the old TV show, so I had to learn about that from my parents, who filled me in on the history.

You work with such a talented ensemble in the new Matlock, including the likes of Kathy Bates, Skye P. Marshall, David Del Rio, Jason Ritter, and

Beau Bridges! What was it like exercising your own considerable acting chops alongside this talented group of actors?

I have to pinch myself sometimes when I’m on set because it’s still surreal that I get to act with such incredible talent. I definitely feel very lucky – as someone just getting started in my career – that I get to learn from the absolute best!

Speaking of collaborations, you have an incredible pool of talented directors who have been tapped to helm the first season of the reimagined Matlock series! What was it like collaborating with the likes of Kat Coiro and Daniel Willis on the series? Are they what some actors might refer to as “an actor’s director”?

Every director I’ve had the chance to work with on Matlock has been fantastic. As a kid working with all adults, I really appreciate that they’ve been so supportive, and treated me just like the adult actors in the cast. Kat has been amazing from the start, and her enthusiasm for the show and the cast is definitely contagious.

Can you give our ever-inquisitive readers a hint or three as to what they can expect and look forward to with the new Matlockseries?

All I can say is that it has something for everyone – drama, mystery, suspense, comedy, you name it. The writing is incredible – which also makes our jobs as actors very easy!

Acting-wise, who inspires you?

Well, as I now tell everyone who asks, my favorite actor – my favorite person – is Kathy Bates! She’s incredibly kind and generous, and from day one has treated me the same way she treats all of her adult cast-mates on the show. I am learning from her every time we share a scene, and I have enjoyed every minute of it.

Any final thoughts you might like to leave readers with regarding CBS’s upcoming Matlock series?

I promise it will be fun to watch – just get ready for lots of twists!

Photo credit Ryan West

Otherworldly Entity

Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?

Good! Busy, but good! Thank you for asking What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?

Our newest album is called Inside-Out. It’s a really different album for us because it’s a full-band studio acoustic album. That’s why we called it Inside-Out; it’s a re-imagining of some of our favorite songs off of our previous albums.

How was the recording and writing process?

Acoustic brings a lot of challenges to it. You can’t really hide behind effects and distortion. Every detail and subtlety has to be deeply considered. On top of that, adding in alternate instruments like violins and mandolins, it adds complexity to the arrangements

Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?

The single we’re releasing with the new album is called Red Flags, and it’s about being attracted to someone not despite their red flags, but because of them. Which I’ve sadly had the habit of doing in the past. It’s one of those songs that comes from realizing my past mistakes and working on myself to not repeat them

Will you be hitting the road this year?

Not this year, but in 2025 we hope to be back on the road

What else is happening next in your world?

Inside-Out comes out on September 20 along with the music video for Red Flags. We’re really excited for people to see the video

www.OtherworldlyEntity.com https://www.facebook.com/otherworldlyentity https://www.instagram.com/otherworldlyentity https://open.spotify.com/ artist/2WT5b8XUDgW76dI4YVOBsu https://www.youtube.com/channel/ UCu4jovPMrcgpg5DpEODtLoA

We’re super-excited to be speaking today with acclaimed Tokyo-based Noise-Rockers extraordinaire, MELT-BANANA; greetings and salutations gang and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we charge down the proverbial Q&A rabbit hole, could the both of you say ‘hi’ and introduce yourselves to our ever-inquisitive reading audience?

Yako: Hi, my name is Yako. I’m the vocalist for Melt Banana.

Agata: Hi, my name is Agata. I play guitar in Melt Banana. We’re a two-piece band.

Major congratulations on the freshly-minted new single Flipside which is burning up record charts even as we speak! Yako, can you talk with us about what inspired this gem of a ditty?

Yako: Thank you! “Flipside” is actually the first song from our new album “3+5” that we performed live, so we decided it would be the first one to release. In addition to the guitar and bass, it features synthesizer noise, which is a new element for us. The intertwining lines of the bass, guitar, and synth create a really fun and wavy sound, don’t you think?

Agata, who did the producing honors on Flipside and what did the collaboration between band and producer look like in the studio while fashioning and shaping this and other tunes?

Agata: We’ve been recording our own music since our third album. “3+5” was also recorded by ourselves, so we didn’t have a producer. If we had to name one, it would be us. We produced it ourselves, which means we did it exactly the way we wanted.

Yako, hot on the heels of the June 26 release of the new single Flipside, MELT-BANANA has an eagerlyawaited eighth album entitled 3+5 which is poised for an August 23 release; major kudos and accolades! Can you give fans a hint or three as to what they can expect and look forward to with the new LP?

Yako: Some of the new songs, including “Flipside,” have already been played live, so some fans might have heard them. But there are also tracks that we haven’t performed live yet, so we hope you’ll look forward to those. Each song on the album is one we really love.

Agata, how is the 3+5 LP similar to some of your past albums such as 2007’s Bambi’s Dilemma or 2013’s Fetch? How is it different?

Agata: To us, it’s a completely different work, but if I had to point out similarities, it would be that it’s still the same Melt-Banana. The fast rhythms, Yako’s vocals, and my guitar are all there. “3+5” has more synth sounds and some guitar parts are arranged to sound like synths, so that approach is different from before. However, as the creators, it’s hard for us to pinpoint exactly what makes it different. We don’t create our music by writing proposals and explaining ideas to investors, so our process isn’t that logical. But from our own perspective, “3+5” is clearly different from “Bambi’s Dilemma” or “Fetch.”

A question for the both of you: Who inspires you, musically-speaking?

Yako: There’s not really a specific person. But I think we’re naturally influenced a lot by the artists we’ve performed with or seen live. For example, this year, we toured the U.S. with Tomato Flower, Babybaby_ Explores, The Flying Luttenbachers, and Squid Pisser. We listened to their music every day, so I think we were naturally influenced by them. And, we toured with Mr. Bungle and Melvins in the 90s, and because we were young at that time, I think we were greatly influenced by them.

Agata: I don’t have anyone specific either. Our basic way of creating music is by playing our instruments and gradually shaping what we find interesting. But, as Yako said, we’re influenced by friends’ bands a lot. We often check out what our friends and their bands are doing on social media, and I think we get a lot of influence from there.

Yako, in the wake of the release of all of this amazing new music, can fans look forward to checking out MELT-BANANA on the touring/performing circuit in the coming weeks and months?

Yako: Starting at the end of August, we’ll be touring the UK for a month. After that, we’ll play some shows in Japan and then wrap up for the year. We haven’t set our plans for next year yet, but since we’ve only played some of the songs from “3+5” in the US, we’d love to go back to the US next year.

Agata, in your humble opinion what differentiates the new single Flipside and the upcoming LP 3+5 from the Distinguished Competition on the 2024 music scene?

Agata: We shaped “3+5” based on what we found fun, so I’m not really sure how it differs from other bands. I haven’t listened to other bands’ music in 2024 and thought about how it’s different from ours. But if I weren’t a member of Melt-Banana and were just a listener, I think I would really like “3+5.” So, at least for people with similar musical tastes as mine, it’s definitely great music.

Yako, 3+5 is being released via MELT-BANANA’s own A-Zap label. How did A-Zap come about as a recording label?

Yako: After releasing our second album through Skin Graft Records in Chicago, we were looking for another record label but couldn’t find one that fit. So, with the help of Revolver USA in San Francisco, we decided to create our own label. At first, we thought about releasing music from other Japanese bands as well, but we ended up being so busy with our own work that we only released Melt-Banana’s music.

Agata, at the end of the day what do you hope listeners walk away with after giving many-a-listen to both the new single Flipside as well as the upcoming LP 3+5?

Agata: Basically, I hope people enjoy listening to it. For those who create something, whether it’s music or any other type of work, I hope it inspires new perspectives and ideas. And if even one song from “3+5” stays in a listener’s memory and connects with a special moment or emotion in their life, that would be amazing.

We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed multi-disciplinary artist Elliott Douglas, who might best be known by his far-famed alias M.A.G.S.; greetings and salutations Elliott and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we charge down the musical Q&A rabbit hole, how is the back-half of 2024 treating you and yours?

Lots of changes and new challenges this year so far but feeling more clear-headed than ever. I can’t complain.

Major congratulations on your freshly-minted new album CREATOR which is set to drop this coming August 23! Starting at the tip-top, can you talk about what inspired this awesome reimagining of last year’s DESTROYER?

My initial point of inspiration was deciding I wanted to do some kind of deluxe version of Destroyer or a B-sides EP….something to that effect. That concept evolved into an acoustic version of Destroyer. Near the beginning of 2023 I recorded some acoustic guitar and all the vocals at my old apartment in LA with intention to flesh out the arrangements collaboratively later in the year. When we actually started working on the songs they quickly pushed past my original concept of creating stripped-down versions….it felt like we were moving into uncharted territory pretty early on and by the second or third day, we were totally leaning into it and just doing whatever we thought would be a vibe. We definitely tried to maintain the essence of an acoustic album but it’s not really fair to box it in at this point, there are so many unique textures blended in.

Prior to the upcoming August 23 release of CREATOR, you released the popping new single Sequence 07! What made this gem of a ditty the best choice to get the single treatment? Do you feel that tonally it represents what audiophiles will hear when they get their mitts on CREATOR?

Primarily because I already had the treatment for “Where’s Floyd” drafted. We knew we wanted to make a video and honestly, things just kinda fell into place. Sequence 07 is definitely one of the more easily digestible cuts on CREATOR so it wasn’t a hard decision.

The ever-amazing Jay Mass of Defeater fame handled the producing chores on CREATOR! What was it like collaborating with Jay on this new LP?

Well, Jay and I worked on Destroyer together and that was absolutely a game-changing experience for the sole fact that I’ve never worked with anyone whose brain works as quickly as mine. Our partnership on Destroyer was essential to getting the most out of these songs.

That being said, Jay had virtually nothing to do with the making of CREATOR…I was fortunate to get to work with my friends Ehmed Nauman and Micah Miller (This House Is Creaking) on this project. Ehmed and Micah were right at the beginning of forming their duo when I came to Chicago, the creative synergy was already there when I

arrived and I got to watch them cook up all sorts of things I would have never thought of on my own.

In your humble opinion, what differentiates CREATOR from the Distinguished Competition on the ‘24 music scene?

I made CREATOR because I wanted to build a bridge for M.A.G.S. toward whatever I decide to do next. I think this record is unique in that it touches on more diverse genres than anything I’ve personally heard this year. There aren’t a lot of artists releasing fully REIMAGINED versions of their albums in this day and age…I’ve seen sped up, slowed down and remixed but not stripped back to the bolts and re-composed.

Hot on the heels of the August 23 release of the CREATOR LP, can fans look forward to catching you on the touring/ performing circuit?

Yes! I’m playing a few headlining shows from the West Coast to the Midwest around my LA date with American Football.

Listening to CREATOR, we can hear the sweet refrains of alt-pop, as well as the raw energy of punk and the exciting backbeat of rock and roll! For a newcomer to your music, how would you label your indelible musical stylings?

I don’t know that anyone has ever successfully labeled M.A.G.S., including me. With CREATOR in my discography now I think I’m headed further out into the weeds and crafting my own genre.

Smartpunk Records is releasing the CREATOR album! What makes Smartpunk the perfect home for you and your music?

Smartpunk has always supported whatever I want to do with my music. When I initially pitched the idea of an acoustic album they were super hyped and onboard….then when I came back with this slightly off-the-rails batch of tracks I think they quickly recognized how perfectly weird and unique the project was and immediately got behind it. It feels good to know I’m supported.

You wrote all of the amazing tunes which are on the CREATOR LP. When working on new music, which generally tends to come first: The music or the lyrics?

It depends but I would say I tend to have ideas for the music first. The amount of beats and instrumentals I make is generally greater than the amount of songs I finish.

At the end of the day, what do you hope listeners walk away with after giving many-a-spin to the CREATOR LP?

I hope this project gets my current fans excited for the future of M.A.G.S. and makes them wanna go back and compare each CREATOR version to their favorite songs on Destroyer. I also hope this album can introduce M.A.G.S. to a wider audience and bring more eyes and ears to what I’m doing.

Arcadia Grey

We’re super-excited to be speaking today with acclaimed emo band extraordinaire Arcadia Grey; greetings and salutations gang and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the Q&A mosh-pit, could you all say ‘hi’ and introduce yourselves to our ever-inquisitive reading audience?

HI :) I’m Cooper, He/They, player of Drums in Arcadia Grey and ‘Guy caught in the Rat Race’ in Chicago, IL.

Hi, I’m Nat They/them. I play bass and sing in the band, write some songs, and make dope music videos for us.

Hi, I’m Cora, She/ Her. I play guitar, sing, and write the bangers of the group

Major kudos and accolades on your freshly-minted LP Casually Crashing! Nat, what’s the VH1-Behind the Music

origin story on one of the best album releases of 2024? Yes, Casually Crashing is a record we wrote off the brink of 2020. We were all in this weird transition from young adults, to full-on members of society. While the whole world was seemingly burning down. We wrote this album as an expression of all the depressing things going on in our lives. s. Tackling topics and just being open about our relationships with our gender, and families. It was a dark time, and we just wanted to make an album where if people were feeling anything similar to what we were, they would know that they weren’t alone and would get through it.

Coraline, who did the producing honors on Casually Crashing and what did the collaboration between producer and band look like in the studio while fashioning and shaping the new music?

For Casually Crashing we decided we wanted to go big! For our first LP we went to a smaller home studio and recorded 8 songs in 4 days.it was a rinky dinky process. But we really wanted to take our time and work with a more seasoned producer. So we chose to travel to Philly and record with Kyle Pulley from the emo renowned headroom studios. It was a special session because they had just moved into a new space. We were kind of the guinea pigs of the new studio space. And it was AWESOME. Kyle was so friendly and had so much experience, input, advice, was always prepared with valid and insightful tips, and criticisms. The whole experience was a huge learning moment for us. Learning how to really be prepared in the studio. Use every hour to our fullest. Working with Kyle was a dream come true. He truly had a passion for our project that we really hadn’t felt from any other producer we’ve worked with. And it showed throughout the project. He really understood the songs as well as we did.

Cooper, Casually Crashing is released via Smartpunk Records. What makes Smartpunk the perfect home for Arcadia Grey and their inimitable musical stylings?

It really seemed to me that, while we were looking for labels to release Casually Crashing, we wanted to find people that not only care about our growth, but really see our art and care about music and its expression in the ways that we do too. I think it’s really difficult to parse through different labels, because the industry around labels is much different today than it has been, or the way that it has been presented. Smartpunk, and particularly Matt Burns, who has been our primary contact, to me feels like a supportive crew who all want to see Arcadia Grey flourish. It really felt like Smartpunk truly showed interest in our project in the way we had been hopeful that a label would. They had the ability to help us release Casually Crashing and enable us to tour with much less of a financial burden, and in general, follow our silly little rock and roll dreams.

Nat, in your humble opinion what differentiates Casually Crashing from the Distinguished Competition on the ‘24 music scene?

I think our record tackles themes beyond the standard emo tropes. And although we use samples, and sing about weed. We are a very openly trans/queer band. And casually crashing tackles some harsh realities of our existence that I think a lot of bands don’t/can’t cover. Exploring our inner conflicts with our gender and families. Using quiet-to-loud dynamics to emphasize certain moments. But also using our absurd sense of humor to cope with these hard topics. Laughing it off. I think our record is a dark introspective that you can cry and laugh to in the 30 min runtime.

Coraline, who are some of the musical influences on Arcadia Grey?

Where to start, We were really influenced by the 3rd wave and revival emo. And honestly mall emo and 90s alternative. Specifically Weezer’s Pinkerton. Pinkerton was a record that we all bonded over when we first started this

band. We always admired its vulnerable, intimate, and harsh sounds. It’s a manic record that only grew with time. And that’s what we aspired to with CC. Bands like My Chemical Romance, Origami Angel, Prince Daddy and the Hyena, and Modern Baseball. The Obsessives, Motion City Soundtrack, Death Cab for Cutie, Great GrandPa. All were monumental in our process.

Cooper, in the wake of the release of Casually Crashing, can fans look forward to catching Arcadia Grey on the touring/ performing circuit in the coming weeks and months?

There’s a lot of shows with incredible lineups! We’ll be on the road in October, making our way south to The Fest in Gainesville, Florida. The tour will be roughly two weeks long, and we’ll be playing alongside our friends in Kerosine Heights, Leisure Hour, and Combat. We will be mostly in the Midwest, the South, and Eastern area’s of the U.S. There’s a few more shows around the corner, but I really can’t talk about them yet. Rest assured, we’re always looking to find new opportunities and plans to travel further. We keep the specifics updated on all of our socials, so following us on Instagram or Twitter are the best ways to stay ‘in the know!’

Nat, how did Arcadia Grey come together to form the tight and electric ensemble which we hear on full and proud display on the Casually Crashing LP?

Well, Cooper and I have been friends since middle school. And I met Cora in high school when I moved back to Indiana. I was kinda the connector of the band. Cora started coming over after school and we would practice and write, and just discover music together. We did that for like a year before inviting Cooper into the group. From there we just clicked. We started practicing like 3 times a week. And once we felt confident, started hosting shows to get a feel if this was even a band worth continuing. And I guess it was, cause here we are 6 years later still ripping gigs and making albums.

Coraline, what does the creative process generally tend to look like when Arcadia Grey comes together to work on new material? Does everyone throw-in creatively, or is there a specific Lennon/McCartney team who primarily handles the writing chores?

Its kind of a mix of both. I tend to write and demo out full songs. Getting the full ideas across before presenting them to the band. Nat tends to write “shells” of songs and we work on them as a group. Finishing the songs together. Either way, the process always end as a group project.

Cooper, any final thoughts you might like to share with readers about the Casually Crashing LP?

Casually Crashing means a lot to me. It’s the culmination of the efforts and dedication of my best friends, it’s my pride to be included, and it’s evidence to myself that my own efforts can have an effect on something greater than myself. It means the world to me that other people care, and find not just comfort but also meaning in our music. I find our DIY community incredible, as I have for years, and it’s an honour to have Casually Crashing as one of our footprints in this scene.

Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?

Thanks a lot for “having us”. We’ve been very good and keeping busy; working in the studio on new material, we have done some gigs during the summer , and now we are promoting our new single “Love Phobia” which is doing quite well. In general we try to enjoy and have a good time with what we do. After all, we love making )and playing) music.

What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?

Like in most of our songs there’s a certain amount of self experience to be found in the lyrics. It’s about different things; challenges that come along in a relationship in this modern day and age, the “together alone” - feeling, to suddenly feel estranged and alienated in a relationship; just like you wake up and think “who is this person that I’m sharing my life with, or sharing this friendship with…etc?”. The title “Love Phobia”alludes to how one can feel after experiencing after

How was the recording and writing process?

The recording was of the “quick and painless” kind. It’s a fun song to play and I think we all enjoyed the studio process. It is a little bit to the left from our other stuff; it’s riff based and the guitars are played with a groovy metal approach. But as in every Peel song the main focus is the melody, and “Love Phobia” has got a strong vocal melody and some nice harmonies.

Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?

As I said there is an absolute necessity for us that we can connect with the song both as performers but also on a personal level. We try to be conscious about that so the writing is in a personal manner and always with some degree of self experience. We hope to reach a bit further into the heart and soul of our listeners than what the average post on Instagram, Tik Tok, Facebook or whatever does. And our hope is that we can offer some comfort or feeling of togetherness with our lyrics and music.

Will you be hitting the road this year?

No, it might be the occasional gig here in Norway, but nothing big planned. However, we hope to get out on the road next year.

What else is happening next in your world?

Besides promoting “Love Phobia” and at the same time preparing for our next release, there’s simply not much else happening right now when it comes to Peel. But there are lots of things happening in our world that affect us, frightens us and angers us, just like in your world. This planet has problems (to put it mildly) on so many levels, that we sometimes feel like the band on the Titanic. Hey, we ended this on a high note…hehe…

Minneriket

Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?

Thanks. I’m in a very creative place at the moment, so things are going well. Been hitting my head against a wall for many months, but the skies are finally clearing up and I’m making good musical progress.

What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?

The latest release “Gjennom meg går ingen til hvile’’ (transl.: Through me noone will find peace) was a very ambitious project. It’s written like classical music, founded in black metal dynamics. It was this special kind of perfect storm, a huge struggle. So I ventured into that struggle also with the lyrics and concepts, and there was a kind of climax without any release. An achievement without celebration. Still ready to move on. And that is what the title represents. I offer no peace on this journey.

How was the recording and writing process?

Long! Haha. I spent about 6 years on the album, doing several demo versions of each song and with a lot of problems outside of my control. One thing was the pandemic of course, that made things difficult, but I also work with session musicians from all around the world, and there was a lot of things going on for a while. The album really felt like it was cursed. There was the pandemic, one person experienced martial law where he lived and the UN was sent to observe, one had to evacuate because of huge forest fires, one went into severe depression and.. yeah, the list could go on, but it’s been a while now. The point is, everyone

was struggling, and I was trying to fit all the pieces of the puzzle into my vision. So it took time.

Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?

I find inspiration in everything around me, but I never know when it strikes. I suddenly get an idea, an urge, something that grasps me and just won’t let go. Then I follow up on that, analyze it, see how it translates to my inner being, my worldview and experiences, and then I try to translate the emotions into music.

Will you be hitting the road this year?

No, Minneriket is a one-man band and does not play live.

What else is happening next in your world?

Minneriket actually celebrates 10 years this year, so I’m preparing a limited edition compilation tape that will be released a little later this autumn. It consists of 10 tracks from the whole career, curated to be a good and varied representation of Minneriket. Follow on social medias for updates.

I’m also working on the next full album, and will probably make an announcement there early next year. All instruments have been recorded and only vocals remains at the moment. I’m bringing back some of the same guests that I had on Gjennom meg går ingen til hvile, and also some new ones.

Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?

Hi thanks for having us we are going well

What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?

The Grinding /Awake Not Asleep was released on 19/8/24 The Grinding is an electronic experimental punk song about Respect Resist Revolt for change for a better environment and indigenous cultures. Its a simple message delivered with powerful vocals by Kymin Kaos.

Awake Not Asleep is an Instrumental track that continues in the Experimental Electronic sounds we are exploring on this project we managed to get Smokey Po from Byron Bay to join us for some powerful Drum sounds and samples

How was the recording and writing process?

We are grateful for Kymin Kaos to join us on this project from New Zealand Punk band Monsteraband an incredible artist and bass player. Hopefully we can encourage her to be on our next project.

Having someone else come in and play bass using the sounds she really brought life to this track in the studio. Our normal processes are rapid fire once we get going on a topic the music starts to pour out quickly. We compose building layers with multiple tracks for each instrument then it starts to sound very full.

Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?

Lost Dogs Of Ultimo is a collective of Musicians Artists and Activists so we usually have a flow of ideas on topics that we try to cover and social injustice and environmental issues are always close to our heart. Music and Art is all about passion and expression these things come naturally to us

Will you be hitting the road this year?

We are looking at some show opportunities in a few months hopefully our manager can put a decent tour together for us again

What else is happening next in your world?

We continue to find new artists to work with so that is alway exciting as they bring new ideas to the project Stay tuned

https://open.spotify.com/artist/0XwoN8qkF3CNq5aQoYf3 EC?si=Wh1RUYNhTEiWuZ8ZyxiguA

https://www.instagram.com/lost_dogs_of_ultimo_/

https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100077331099830

https://lostdogsofultimo.bandcamp.com/ https://lostdogsofultimo.bandcamp.com/album/thegrinding

Exilia

VENTS MAGAZINE: Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?

Hey! Thanks for having us. We’ve been going full throttle lately—working hard in the studio, gearing up for live shows, and riding the wave of energy that comes with releasing new music. It’s been a wild ride, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?

Our latest release, UNLEASHEDXX, reflects 20 years of EXILIA. The title says it all—this album is about breaking free, shedding limitations, and standing up for what we believe in. Each track is fueled by the same fire that’s driven us from the start: the fight for truth, justice, and respect for the earth, animals, and ourselves. We wanted this record to be a statement—both musically and in the message it delivers.

How was the recording and writing process?

It was intense, as always. We’ve always poured everything into our writing and recording process, and this time was no different as we worked on new singles and remastered the UNLEASHED masterpiece. Revisiting some of our most iconic songs, we injected them with the energy we’ve built up over 20 years. The studio sessions were raw, emotional, and incredibly focused. We worked with Joerg and his team again, and they always know how to bring out the best in us. Every moment was pure intensity, and we’re proud of how it turned out.

Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?

Inspiration for us always comes from the world around us—the chaos, the beauty, the things that make you want to scream, and the things that give you hope. We’ve always been committed to using words not just to fill a melody, but to convey a message and emotion. The way humans are treating the planet and animals, the sense of isolation many feel—it deeply affects us, and that comes through in our lyrics. We also draw from personal experiences—struggles, victories, everything in between. Our music is how we process it all and turn it into something that resonates with people.

Will you be hitting the road this year?

Absolutely! We kicked off in February in the UK and we’re still on the road with headliner shows and festivals. Touring is one of the best parts of this journey. We’re planning more shows and tours, and we can’t wait to share these songs live. The energy of a live crowd is something that can’t be replicated in the studio. We’re ready to bring that intensity to the stage and connect with our fans in a way only live music can.

What else is happening next in your world?

Right now, we’re focused on bringing UNLEASHEDXX to as many ears as possible. We’re also working on new music—it’s early stages, but we’re already feeling the spark. There’s always more to come with EXILIA. We’re constantly evolving, always looking for new ways to push ourselves and our sound. And we’re not slowing down anytime soon.