Andrew P. Logan
We’re happy to have some time today with acclaimed actor Andrew P. Logan; greetings and salutations Andrew and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we meander down the proverbial celluloid Q&A pathway, how are the final weeks of ‘24 treating you and yours?
Hi there! I’m super happy to be talking with you all at Vents Magazine. Thank you for having me, I hope everyone had the best holiday possible! The final weeks of 2024 were consumed by the show, from photo shoots to various interviews, I loved it. I’m currently working two jobs because being an actor isn’t cheap! I’m also in a new relationship, so the holidays have been extra special this year.
Major kudos and accolades on your bravura turn in the upcoming Netflix series American Primeval which is set to premiere on January 9! Starting at the top, can you explain to our ever-inquisitive readers what American Primeval is about and how your character of Lucas Cutter figures into the proceedings?
Thank you so much! Working on American Primeval and with the whole Netflix team was an absolutely wild experience. American Primeval is set before the age of “cowboys.” The year is 1857, and it covers America’s westward expansion. The world is chaotic, and it really comes down to how strong you are and your strength in numbers. Now, the character I play, Lucas Cutter, is a bit different from the rest. He’s the little brother of Virgil Cutter (played by Jai
Photo Credit
Courtney). While everyone is focused on making money or gaining power, Lucas is listening to the sound of horse hooves hitting the rocks, which he thinks sounds like music. He truly cares about everyone else and is one of the only characters on the show who always leads with his heart.
Did you know as soon as the script for American Primeval from wordsmith Mark L. Smith crossed your professional desk that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?
When I first got the audition in my inbox, I had no idea just how big this project was or what it really entailed. But as soon as I heard from my agent and manager that I had booked American Primeval, I dove into research. I quickly read most of Mark’s work and watched a lot of it too, and I became very excited to be trusted with such a huge opportunity. When I finally got the full script, I posted up at a coffee shop here in Austin and read the entire series straight through. I absolutely fell in love with the script and who Lucas was. From that point on, it was all systems go.
Did some of the private tumult which you were experiencing at the time of being cast in American Primeval inform how you approached playing or interpreting the character of Lucas Cutter?
It’s interesting how I came to get this role. Two months before I got the role of Lucas, my father passed away. His passing took me to a dark place and I felt very lost. As a method actor, it was very easy for me to channel the pain and darkness that I felt in my life and pour it into Lucas’s. In short, I felt alone in my world, just as Lucas felt in his.
The visionary director behind American Primeval is the nigh legendary Peter Berg of Very Bad Things and Friday Night Lights fame! What was it like collaborating with Peter on this very special project? Is he what some actors might refer to as ‘an actor’s director’?
Unreal. I grew up watching Pete’s work all the time. I’m a football and sports guy, so Friday Night Lights was one of my favorite movies growing up. It’s still my favorite football movie ever made. So now, working with this director, who was the mind and brains behind a lot of that, was extremely surreal. He was very good at letting me create on my own, which is insane for a “green actor” like me, but he gave me a lot of creative freedom to flesh out Lucas. I’d definitely say Pete is an actor’s director. He’s been an actor himself, so that makes it easy for him to communicate with me and the rest of the cast in a way we understand.
Speaking of collaborations, you work with such a brilliant cast in American Primeval, including the likes of Taylor Kitsch, Betty Gilpin, Jai Courtney, Lucas Neff, Shea Whigham, Joe Tippett, Tokala Black Elk, Kyle Bradley Davis, Preston Mota, Shawnee Pourier, and Nick Hargrove. What was it like exercising your own considerable acting chops alongside this ensemble?
INSANE. I grew up watching all of these actors in different shows and films, so to say I was feeling a little bit of “imposter syndrome” would be an understatement. It did take me a while to feel like I belonged amongst such a talented group, but after some time and reassurance from Pete and my costars, I gained the confidence I needed and then some. Once I was able to move past the imposter syndrome, playing alongside such a massive group of talented actors became the best time ever. I think I held my own in the series, and I’m excited to see what everyone else thinks about my acting chops!
Did you do any off-the-books research on the beginnings of the American west prior to the start of production of American Primeval? Or was everything you really needed to understand the character and his times already pretty much baked into the scripts for the series?
I always research any role I book to the highest extent. Since American Primeval is set in 1857, about two months before shooting, the whole cast went out to New Mexico for what we called “Cowboy Camp.” That’s where we learned how to ride, shoot, spit, and talk like real roughnecks. Apart from that, I did read a lot about Mormonism and the surrounding context, even
though my character in the show is not a Mormon. The script itself was very informative and told me a lot about what life was like on the frontier in 1857. So, to answer your question, it was a little bit of both.
Netflix has slated American Primeval as a six-part event miniseries. Should the series perform like gangbusters to audiences – and we feel that it will – is there the potential for more seasons of the show?
This is a limited series, and throughout the six episodes, we tell a very compelling story with a satisfying conclusion. With that being said… if there is more on this series I would love to be a part of that!
Can you give readers a hint or three as to what else you have in the pipeline for 2025, acting-wise?
For 2025, the plan is just to keep moving forward. This show coming out is a massive piece in my career, and hopefully it’ll make the ball roll even faster. I’ve developed a really good team around me, and I’m excited to see what we can cook up. So, keep your eyes open!
How do your small-town Michigan roots inform you as not only an actor, but also as a person?
Being from a small town in the Midwest, especially Michigan, taught me so many lessons about life and how I want to live. But the most valuable lesson I learned growing up in the Midwest was the importance of a hard day’s work. It taught me a crazy work ethic, which I don’t see too often in others. It’s helped me excel not only in my acting career but in every aspect of my life. My dad taught me that anything can happen if you’re the smartest and hardest worker in every room, and I hope to share that piece of advice with every aspiring actor.
Acting-wise, who inspires your own craft?
This question is fun because I could easily start naming the greats—De Niro, Pacino, Brando, Streep, Denzel, and so on. And yes, I do get inspiration from many of these actors, but that’s not where my greatest inspiration and motivation come from. My greatest inspiration comes from the people I surround myself with. People like my roommate, Jake P. Ryan who loves acting just as much as I do. I have alot of friends who share similar aspirations and values who push me forward and make me want to better myself every single day.
Any final thoughts you might like to share regarding the upcoming January 9 Netflix premiere of the eagerly-anticipated series American Primeval?
The only thing I want to say is that I truly hope everyone enjoys American Primeval and my role in it as much as I loved being part of it. This has been my dream, and having the opportunity to act and share it with the world is more than I could have ever asked for. A huge thank you to everyone at Vents Magazine for taking the time to chat with me and listen to what I had to say. If you haven’t seen it yet, make sure to check out American Primeval!
Nico Wan
We’re excited to be speaking today with acclaimed actor Nico Wan; greetings and salutations Nico and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the Q&A celluloid rabbit hole, we know that you’re a rightly proud card-carrying citizen of the Los Angeles, California area. How have you and yours been doing during the California fires?
Thank you so much asking and for having me. Yes, I do live in Los Angeles and was there during the California Fires. Fortunately, I was unaffected but a few of my friends lost their homes was absolutely devastating. Many of them talked to me about how it was like loosing part part of their identity as they had either built up or spent a majority of their lives living there. I had spent some time volunteering to cook for the firefighters and even through, I was volunteering in an unaffected area, there was a moment when I was stir-frying vegetables outside where I saw ash fall from the sky. It made me (1) wonder if we should cooking elsewhere else and (2) notice how bad the air really is all over LA from the aftermath. It’s going to be a process for recwevery for everyone but hopefully we’ll get things moving ahead shortly.
Major kudos and accolades on your bravura turn in the freshly-minted sophomore season of the hit Netflix series The Recruit which is set to premiere this coming January 30 ! Starting at the top, and for anyone not in the know, can you explain what The Recruit is about and how your character of Ji Min figures into the proceedings?
Absolutely! The Recruit is a Netflix espionage thriller following CIA lawyer Owen Hendricks (Noah Centineo) as he gets pulled deeper into the world of intelligence operations. In Season 2, Owen finds himself in South Korea, where he crosses paths with Jang Kyun (Teo Yoo), a re-
lentless Korean NIS (National Intelligence Service) agent. Though their goals often put them at odds, the shifting nature of their missions forces them to work together at times, creating a tense and uneasy partnership. Ji Min is a gangster-turned-informant, secretly working with the NIS while maintaining ties to South Korea’s criminal networks. Operating in the shadows, he plays a dangerous double game, balancing survival, self-interest, and shifting allegiances.
Did you know as soon as you read your first script for The Recruit that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?
100%. I was a huge fan of The Recruit and binged the first season in one sitting, so when the opportunity came to audition for the show, I knew I had to go for it. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone on the cast, crew, and casting team for believing in me—I was pinching myself every day on set. Getting to work with Noah and Teo was a dream come true, and stepping into Ji Min’s world was both exciting and challenging. He’s so starkly different from me, especially in how much risk he’s willing to take, which made playing him even more fun.
You work with such an amazing ensemble of actors in The Recruit! What was it like exercising your own considerable acting chops alongside the likes of Noah Centineo and Teo Yoo, among many others?
Well, I’m still relatively new to the industry, so I’d be lying if I said imposter syndrome didn’t kick in at times. But working alongside such talented actors was incredibly inspiring. I loved just watching their process—hopefully not in a creepy way—because I learned so much about how to further develop my own craft. Rehearsing with Noah and Teo initially felt like I was living in
a different reality, especially as it was my first time in a project like this. Since most of my scenes were with Teo, we spent a lot of time together discussing our characters’ interactions and building that dynamic. It was an amazing experience.”
Speaking of collaborations, what was it like collaborating with such talented directors as Julian Holmes, Jessica Yu, and Viet Nguyen on this sophomore season of The Recruit? Are they what some actors might refer to as “an actor’s director”?
Alexi Hawley and Viet Nguyen are the definition of an actor’s director. They really took the time to talk to me about Ji Min, making sure I understood his motivations and felt confident bringing him to life. As it was my first time on such a major production, their encouragement meant a lot. But what really stood out was how emotionally attuned they were—not just to me, but to the entire cast and crew. They created such a supportive, collaborative environment where everyone felt heard and valued. That kind of energy made coming to set every day something to look forward to.
Can you give fans of The Recruit a hint or three as to what they can expect and look forward to with the second season?
For those who haven’t seen it yet, I’d argue Season 2 is even more action-packed than the first! It brings all the best parts of a spy show— intense missions, high-stakes twists, and some seriously fun espionage—without ever taking itself too seriously. The story expands to South Korea, adding a whole new layer of intrigue, cultural moments, and unexpected alliances. There are some wild twists, plenty of new faces, and of course, the push-and-pull dynamic between Owen and Jang Kyun (Teo Yoo) keeps things unpredictable.
You were a successful attorney before getting into acting, as well as a nationally recognized professional ballroom dancer!What inspired you to change careers? Have you always been fascinated with the acting process?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, but for a long time, I channeled that interest into law and business—partially, or maybe very much, because I came from an Asian immigrant household. I worked in venture capital and startup law, which meant I was constantly surrounded by founders, hearing their stories and watching them take risks to build something from nothing. Over time, I realized I was more fascinated by their journeys than the deals themselves. I had reached a point where I had achieved a lot of what I set out to do, but I found myself asking, ‘Is this really what I want for the rest of my life?’
But acting challenged me in a completely different way—it required me to be emotionally present, vulnerable, and trust my instincts. It’s been a huge adjustment, especially coming from a world that values certainty and control, but I’ve loved every part of the challenge
Word ‘round industry campfire has it that you’re currently working on a very personal film project entitled LI LEE; congrats! Can you talk with readers about this feature film production and why it has such personal meaning to you?
Yes! Li Lee is a chaotic comedy and buddy adventure that I’m incredibly excited about. It follows two best friends, Li and Lee, who are stuck in their mundane corporate lives until they get thrown into a ridiculous, highstakes quest to track down a rare vinyl record. Along the way, they find themselves questioning just how much they’d sacrifice for each other—including, at one point, nearly losing their balls.
Beneath all the absurdity, the film also touches on something deeply real— the quiet anxiety of people who have spent most of their lives in America but remain at the mercy of their visa status, no matter how hard they work or how much they belong. I’ve had many friends go through this, and while Li Lee is first and foremost a wild comedy, that undercurrent makes Li’s journey even more personal. It’s a story about friendship, loyalty, and finding agency in a world that constantly tries to dictate your fate. I can’t wait to bring this madness to life!”
Who are some of the actors and actresses who have inspired your own craft of acting?
Absolutely. There are so many actors whose work I admire, but a few that really stand out to me are Oscar Isaac, Mahershala Ali, Tony Leung, Teo Yoo, and Tilda Swinton.
What draws me to their work is how effortlessly they disappear into their roles while maintaining such a strong presence on screen. They each bring this incredible balance of naturalism and bold, memorable choices, making even the smallest moments feel deeply alive. Getting to work with Teo—who I still can’t believe I had the chance to collaborate with—was especially inspiring. Watching him work up close in rehearsals and on set was an incredible learning experience, and I’ve been very lucky that he’s shared so much advice that has further shaped how I approach my craft
Final – SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of movies – Living in Oblivion, Ed Wood, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Barton Fink, or Hollywood Shuffle?
The shift into acting felt abrupt, but in a way, it made sense. I’ve always loved creative expression, whether it was through ballroom dancing, cooking in Asia, or even the creativity required in building businesses.
Oh, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, hands down! It’s such a love letter to the industry—equal parts glamorous, absurd, and completely unhinged. Plus, the idea of just chilling in a trailer like DiCaprio’s character, screaming at yourself in the mirror after blowing a take? Yeah, I think every actor has a version of that moment—hopefully with less whiskey.
Simon Newton
1We’re very happy to have some time today with acclaimed actor Simon Newton; greetings and salutations Simon and thanks for spending some time from a very busy schedule with us here at Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the Q&A celluloid rabbit hole, how is the New Year finding you and yours thus far?
This year has been good to me with a busy start to the year. We are already planning ahaead for Cannes film festival in May and I have a number of other movies I am waiting to cast for.
Major kudos and accolades on your bravura turn inRise of the Footsoldier: Ibiza, the upcoming sequel to 2023’s hit film, Rise of the Footsoldier: Vengeance! Starting at the top, and for anyone who may not be familiar with this seven-chapter saga, can you explain what the film is about and how your character of Maxim figures into the proceedings?
We are currently half way through still shooting the movie so I can’t say to much around the story line. But my character Maxim is a defected Bosnian Soilder who is now a Mercanary.
Did you know as soon as the screenplay for Rise of the Footsoldier: Ibiza from Andrew Loveday and director Nick Nevern crossed your professional desk that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?
Andrew Loveday has produced a number of high quality movies in his career as a film producer and Nick is known for Directing Footsoilder movies so they are both industry professionals I have wanted to work with at some stage. When I was asked to play the part of Maxim I was super pleased.
Speaking of Nick Nevern, what was it like collaborating with this talented auteur for Rise of the Footsoldier: Ibiza? Is Nick what some actors might refer to as ‘an actor’s director’?
Nick Nevernis a talented director with a unique directing style. Not only is he a director he is also an actor himself and that definitely helps with his approach in directing other actors.
You exercise your own considerable acting chops alongside such a great ensemble in Rise of the Footsoldier: Ibiza, including the likes of Craig Fairbrass, Tamer Hassan, and Leo Gregory. What was it like showing up for work every day and getting to play with these phenomenally talented thespians?
One of my first scenes in the movie was with both Leo and Tamer. They’re both very talaneted actors and easy to work with. Craig is a seasoned veteran in the action acting world. A lot can be learnt from all three actors.
Before landing into acting yourself, you were a celebrated and highly respected bodyguard for high-profile celebrities. Was it difficult to transition from protecting actors and actresses to working alongside them in a scene as an actor yourself?
When I was a bodyguard I didn’t look after anyone in the film industry. I was only a bodyguard for Super Models and Music Artist. My transition into the acting world really did start from the beginning for me.
Your first credited work as an actor came in the form of the 2010 Paul Greengrass film Green Zone. Any special memories of that freshman production?
The Green Zone was a fantastic film for my first one. To work with the likes of Matt Damon and Jason Isaacs out in Morrcoco under the direction of Paul Greengrass was a great move into the film industry for me. The film as a whole was an experience I will never forget.
What fascinates you the most about the craft of acting?
Acting is great for taking people out of their comfort zone, even the most experienced actors come across difficult or awkward pieces of diologue or parts to play. I like the challenges each movie can bring to an actor, often it will help you grow and make you a stronger performer.
Looking ahead, what does 2025 look like for you as far as other film or television work goes? Will you be pretty busy?
2025 is looking looking like a good year for me in the film space. I have a number of castings set up and potentially four more films in production between now and early 2026. Three are due to be filmed in the UK and the other in the US.
When you’re not acting, you’re also the founder of Simon Newton London, an international clothing brand; congrats! Can you talk about what inspired you to start-up your own clothing line?
Simon Newton London is my clothing brand that has done extreamly well over the last 12 months. We currently have product placement in two movies that will premier this year. I used to to wear bomber jackets when I worked as a bodyguard and decided I would create my own one day. Since launching with the bomber jackets the brand has gone from strength to strength with a number of other pieces, the most recent being tracksuits. It’s is a middle market brand bringing a sense of luxury at a more affordable price tag.
You’re also a co-founder of Askari Secure which is a private security firm; kudos! Is it a safe bet to assume that Askari came about, partly, due to your time as a bodyguard?
Askari Secure is based in central London UK. I started the company back in 2010 when I was still a working bodyguard. The company has gone from strength to strength over the years and holds a number of security contracts across London and Europe. Although I don’t spend much of my time with the company anymore, it is still an industry im very familiar with.
Final – SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of movies – Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Ed Wood, Hollywood Shuffle, Living in Oblivion or Swimming with Sharks?
It would have to be Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Tarantino, what an iconic Director.
Erika Prevost
Photo Credit : Jaclyn Vogl
We’re delighted to have acclaimed actress, writer, and producer Erika Prevost with us today—welcome to Vents Magazine! To kick things off, how has the New Year been treating you so far?
Thank you so much for having me! The New Year has been coldddddd. I’m so tempted to escape to a warm island to get some sunshine!! But besides that it’s been really good, nice to finally catch up with friends and family! I feel like 2025 has some sort of magic in the air, I have a feeling it’s gonna be a really good year!
Congratulations on your latest project Saint-Pierre! For those who may not be familiar, could you share what the show is about and how your character, Patty Montclair-Ito, fits into the story?
Yes! Saint-Pierre is a procedural/ whodunnit type comedy-drama that follows two badass detectives - Fitz and Arch who come from completely different walks of life and have to learn to become partners. And Patty is a member of the police force that helps them solve all the crimes that happen on the island! She’s sort of the one in charge of research. She’s the youngest officer on the force and doesn’t have as much experience as her colleagues but she’s so good at her job! She often finds missing pieces of the puzzle that helps them crack the case.
When you first read the script for Saint-Pierre, what drew you to the project? Did you know right away that you wanted to be part of it?
Part of why I wanted to be involved in the project is because of Allan. He graduated from the same theatre school as me and has produced and starred in his own show multiple times. One of my dreams is to produce and star in my very own show so I wanted to work with someone who’s literally doing exactly that - it’s so inspiring! And the script was such a page turner, the dialogue was amazing and the characters were all so clear and distinct, I knew it was a world I wanted to be a part of!
Without giving too much away, can you tease a little of what fans can expect as the season unfolds?
Ahhhh it’s so hard to respond to this without giving any spoilers! I’m going to be so vague but they can definitely expect some characters’ worlds to be turned upside down and question everything they thought they knew!
Saint-Pierre boasts an incredible ensemble cast, including Joséphine Jobert, Allan Hawco, Benz Antoine, and Jean-Michel Le Gal. What has it been like working alongside them?
It’s been THE ABSOLUTE BEST!!! This cast is such a gift! It’s so hard to describe in words what they all mean to me, I love them all so much. Josephine has become a big sister to me, Allan is a mentor and at times big brother, Jean-Michel is both little brother and big brother lol, and Benz is like the uncle that keeps you safe at all times. They’ve all taught me so much in different ways and inspire me everyday to show up as my best!
The series also features direction from the likes of T.J. Scott and John Vatcher. What has your experience been working with them?
TJ and John could not be more different from each other but also both have that spark that brings the room to life! TJ is so passionate and is like a kid in a candy shop - you can tell how much he loves what he does. I haven’t said this to anyone yet but TJ’s actually a little bit of my inspiration for Patty! And John is the brightest kindest soul I’ve ever met. I’ve never immediately felt so safe with a director. He holds space for collaboration in such an effortless way. We were also so lucky to have Winnifred Jong and Vanessa Matsui direct us this season and working with both of them was a gift I didn’t know I needed!
Your first credited role was in 2014’s Step Up All In. Do you have any standout memories from that experience?
What a throwback!! Yeah, we shot that in Vancouver and it was my first time working away from home. It was with my dance team at the time and I remember dropping my jaw watching Jaja Vankova dance, she was soooo good!!
Are there any actors or actresses who have particularly inspired or influenced your approach to acting?
Ouhhh that’s a good question! Some actors I love are Sandra Oh, Steven Yeun, Denzel Washington, Andrew Garfield, Julianne Moore and more recently Paul Mescal and Zendaya. Their work feels so honest and risky, it’s so exciting to watch! But I think I get most inspired by their interviews and I see how themselves they seem to be. It’s like “oh right, they’re just being who they are in this moment and trusting that’s enough” and that inspires me the most.
In addition to acting, you’ve also made strides as a writer and producer. Is that a creative direction you’d like to explore further in the future?
I don’t know about “made strides” haha, at least not yet, but yes! Producing and starring in my own show is a dream of mine! I’m currently working on developing a series with my director partner Graeme Campbell. We’re in the very beginning stages so we have a long road ahead of us but I love writing, creating and collaborating so I’m hoping to get to do more of it. I would also love to direct one day!
And just for fun: What’s your favourite movie in the film industry? Is it Living in Oblivion, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Barton Fink, Hollywood Shuffle, or The Player—or maybe something else entirely?
Something else entirely! My favourite film is actually an animated movie - SOUL by Pixar! When I first saw that film, I balled my eyes out. It really moved me and I still think of that space artists go into when they are “in the zone” - that realm between worlds where you completely lose track of time. I love artists and living life as an artist is such a gift, including all the ups and downs, and Soul reminds me of that!
The Hannah
Fletcher Show
was created to cater to the younger generation, who has no talk show on the market in their favor.
Hannah Fletcher
Photographer Credit: Tim Schaeffer Photography @timschaefferphoto Hair and Makeup: Lexx Pianezza @lexx4makeup Stylist: Rex Z @rawunprotectedrex
We’re very happy to be speaking today with acclaimed media personality and host Hannah Fletcher; greetings and salutations Hannah and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the Q&A rabbit hole, how is the latter part of 2024 treating you and yours?
First of all- I appreciate this energy SO much! Thank you for having me. The latter part of this year has been amazing, honestly. I have been so busy with getting the show ready, shooting the show, and now we are in the post-production and press of it all- it’s honestly incredible! I am thrilled for the second half of this year and I am eager to see what it continues to have to offer.
Major kudos and accolades on your freshlyminted new talk show The Hannah Fletcher Show for which you are both the host and the producer! Starting at the tip-top, can you talk about what inspired you to create The Hannah Fletcher Show?
The inspiration for this project derived from wanting to establish a more genuine connection and support with guests when interviewing. After having worked on red carpets for years, I noticed collectively that there was an apprehension that existed among those being interviewed by the media. Additionally, I knew that it was on my heart to have my own talk show, and after expressing my goals and intentions to my Executive Producer and Director, Eric Wheelwright- he was inspired to continue conversations surrounding how we could bring this vision to life.
In your humble opinion, what does The Hannah Fletcher Show offer to its audience which no other ongoing daily talk show has going for it?
The Hannah Fletcher Show was created to cater to the younger generation, who has no talk show on the market in their favor. We see the age of podcasting for sure, but there is no formal talk show nor talk show format, that exists for the younger demographic. I am eager to share that the show is also in the process of adding segments and expansions that can serve the younger generation, and provide resources as well! We will strive to create more awareness and support in terms of economics, lifestyle suggestions and support, and providing tools and guests that can also help to provide guidance in accordance to what our audience wants and needs.
Do you feel as if all of your years as an accomplished journalist and red-carpet reporter have sort of prepared you for The Hannah Fletcher Show?
Absolutely! I hold a BFA in Acting and I have pursued acting and the entertainment industry since the age of three. However, I feel that the red-carpet experiences and opportunities were the final notch in the belt leading to The Hannah Fletcher Show.
Can you give readers a hint or three as to who some of your very special guests will be in future episodes of The Hannah Fletcher Show?
Yes, of course! The variety of guests so far has been amazing! You can expect to see icons such as Lainie Kazan, Gary Anthony Williams, Spencer Sutherland… there are so many incredible guests and I am so thankful to have had absolutely remarkable conversations with each individual who sat across from me. We have musicians, social media celebrities, life-changing individuals who came on the show to share their stories and abilities. We have someone for everyone, and I am so excited to share this show with the world!
You currently host for various and sundry outlets such as The Buzz, Muse TV and Where Is The Buzz. Has it been difficult maintaining that level of a workload in the face of the day-to-day reality of The Hannah Fletcher Show?
What has been amazing as everything has developed- is the fact that interviewing while launching a show, is a way to continue to practice and keep my chops up. With this, aside from coordinating schedules- when you do what you love there is no difficulty in the maintenance of the workload. Everything for me has been maintainable because of the fact that I simply love what I do.
You are a volunteer for the organization S.T.R.E.A.M. For anyone not in the know, can you explain what S.T.R.E.A.M. is all about and how you became involved with them?
S.T.R.E.A.M. is all about providing resources to the younger generation. It stands to show that no matter what socio-economic class you are, no matter who you are, there should be access to resources to provide opportunities to the youth so they can aspire to pursue any career. I became involved several years ago via a mutual connection, and I have had amazing opportunities to host a gala with the organization and to also attend several events-making an impact and opening the minds of the youth to jobs such as interviewing and hosting.
Acclaimed producer and director Eric Wheelwright is an instrumental figure behind The Hannah Fletcher Show. Can you talk with us a little about what Eric has meant to the show?
Eric has been remarkable to work with and learn from. Eric’s accolades and decades of industry experience are exceptional, given that he’s worked with the talents of: Michael Jackson, Mena Suvari, Faye Dunaway and so many more remarkable celebrities. What I most adore about Eric, is his ability to listen. He hears me always, and to find someone who not only hears you, but respects and sees your vision- that is an astounding gift that is so rare in life. I am beyond grateful for Eric and his abilities and willingness to collaborate on creating our show.
Of the many interviews that you’ve conducted over the years, is there one which stands out for you above all of the others?
Larry the Cable Guy stands out- one hundred percent! Having lived in Virginia, I have heard many of my friends and family express their absolute LOVE for Larry. Also, he is utterly adorable, talented, and down-to-earth. During our interview, Larry pulled out his Mater toy and said my name in his Mater voice. The fact that he acknowledged me via his cartoon voice, and just really dropped in to the idea of playing during the interview and making me feel comfortable as well- that just means the absolute world when you are an interviewer.
At the end of the day, what do you hope audiences walk away with after checking out The Hannah Fletcher Show?
I am praying that viewers see guests that they can relate to and learn more about. I am eager that the show is also in the process of adding segments and expansions that can serve the younger generation, and provide resources as well. Above all, I am beyond hopeful that “The Hannah Fletcher Show” can be a show that the audience can enjoy watching with the ability to focus on the segments and conversations being had, providing support, inspiration, intelligence, and entertainment all at once.
What I love most about acting is the chance to tell stories and step into so many different lives
Host of the Month
Amber Afzali
Photographer: Birdie Thompson at Bird’s Eye Photography @birds_eye_photo
Hair: Mika Fowler @mikahairstylist Makeup: Anton Khachaturian @antonmakeup
We’re happy to be speaking today with acclaimed actress Amber Afzali; greetings and salutations Amber and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we meander down the celluloid-lined Q&A interview pathway, how is the New Year finding you and yours?
It has been amazing! The New Year is always a time for new beginnings, fresh goals, and new perspectives. 2025 has already been incredible, especially with everything happening around Rule Breakers. I’ve been busy, but in the best way possible. I’m healthy, my family is healthy, and we’re all so close and happy - what more could I ask for?
Major kudos and accolades on your role in Rule Breakers which is set to be released in movie theatres on March 7! Starting at the top, can you explain to our ever-inquisitive readers what Rule Breakers is all about and how your character of Esin fits into the story?
Thank you! Rule Breakers is based on the true story of Roya Mahboob and the first all-girls robotics team from Afghanistan. It’s a powerful story about women’s empowerment, resilience, and following your dreams. The film centers around the Afghan Dreamers, who overcame many obstacles to compete in global STEM competitions. My character, Esin, is inspired by one of the girls from the team, although she is fictional. Esin finds her voice throughout the film, and it was such an honor to portray her journey of self-discovery.
Did you know as soon as the script for Rule Breakers from director Bill Guttentag and co-scribes Jason Brown and Elaha Mahboob crossed your professional desk that this was a production you wanted to be a part of?
Absolutely! When I first read the script, I was over the moon. I had heard about the Afghan Dreamers and was so proud of what they had accomplished. To see a Hollywood film being made about Afghan women, not focusing on war but on their strength, intellect, and resilience, was incredible. It was a story that needed to be told, and I was beyond excited to be part of it.
Speaking of Bill Guttentag, what was it like to collaborate with Bill on Rule Breakers? Is he what some actors might refer to as “an actor’s director”?
Bill is an amazing director! He truly valued our perspectives as actors, as Afghans, and as women. I’d definitely call him “an actor’s director” because he gave us space to be creative and encouraged us to try different takes. He did a lot of research into robotics and Afghan culture, which made the project feel incredibly authentic. Bill made sure we understood his vision and the humanity of the girls we were portraying. One of the most important things he said was that he wanted these girls to feel “relatable” and not like they were “otherworldly,” which really stuck with me.
Since we’re on the topic of collaborations, what was it like for you to exercise your own considerable acting chops on Rule Breakers alongside the likes of such talented thespians as Nikohl Boosheri, Waj Ali and Phoebe WallerBridge?
It was incredible! As it was my first time on set, I tried to absorb as much as I could from the talented actors around me. Nikohl Boosheri was amazing—she felt like our guide at times, offering support and even organizing a get-together before filming at her house. She inspired us to stay grounded and connect with one another, but more importantly, to connect with ourselves. She’s such a skilled actress. Waj Ali is another gem - he has such a warm, humble presence, and working with him, even briefly, was unforgettable. He is phenomenal, and we are all happy to have worked with him.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge was effortlessly funny and so chill. She was kind enough to come film on short notice and shared how deeply the script resonated with her. It was a real treat to work alongside her and even bond over video games like Resident Evil and Tomb Raider. She’s an incredible actress, but even more importantly, a genuine and down-toearth person.
What fascinates you the most about the craft of acting?
What I love most about acting is the chance to tell stories and step into so many different lives. It’s such a dynamic craft because you’re constantly learning and discovering new aspects of human behavior - why people do what they do, say what they say, and act how they act. It’s like peeling back layers to understand someone else’s world. I also love the fact that acting allows me to be part of something bigger than myself. It’s comforting. Every role I take on is part of a much larger story, and being a piece of that puzzle, contributing to a greater vision, is something really fulfilling.
Rule Breakers is based on an amazing true story. How much research did you do offscript in order to prepare for your role as Esin?
We did a lot of research as a group. We worked on dialect coaching to capture the Herati accent while still keeping it subtle so the girls felt relatable. We watched the documentary on the Afghan Dreamers, Soumaya’s TED Talk, and the clips of the robotics competitions featured in the film. Personally, I also spoke to family members about Afghan culture and the conditions in the country and met with Roya and Elaha before filming to gain a deeper understanding of their story.
What really helped me was creating a backstory for Esin. I wanted to understand who she was, what she liked and disliked, and what motivated her. Finding myself in Esin, and vice versa, was key to connecting with her journey. Her arc of finding her voice was something I really resonated with, and I think that’s where I felt the deepest connection to her.
Can you give fans and readers a hint or three as to what you have coming up as far as acting goes in the near future?
Right now, I am staying fully present and enjoying all of the exciting promotional
components that come ahead of the Rule Breakers release. I’m excited about what’s to come and staying open to some amazing opportunities that are on the horizon. I’m always looking for roles that inspire me and push me to grow as an artist. I can’t share too much just yet, but I’m looking forward to diving into the new and exciting projects to come!
You are the daughter of Afghan immigrants. How do those roots influence you as both an artist and as a person?
Being the daughter of Afghan immigrants has shaped me deeply, both as an artist and as a person. My roots give me a strong sense of identity, reminding me to stay grounded and connected to my culture. It influences my values, such as my commitment to advocating for women’s rights and social justice, but it doesn’t necessarily dictate the roles I choose. I’m not just drawn to stories about my culture—I want to explore a wide range of characters and narratives that challenge me as an artist. However, my background definitely keeps me focused on authenticity and staying true to my mission of telling meaningful stories.
At the end of the day, what do you hope viewers walk away with after viewing the upcoming film Rule Breakers?
I hope viewers walk away feeling inspired and empowered. Rule Breakers is about so much more than overcoming obstacles—it’s about celebrating the strength and determination of young women who are paving the way for a better future. It’s so important for Hollywood to tell stories like this, highlighting the strength and power of women from the region, and to cast authentically to show the true depth of their experiences. This film gives audiences the chance to see the other side of Afghanistan— one that’s not defined by war and tragedy, but by hope, ambition, and resilience. More than anything, I hope it inspires audiences to push past obstacles, look at the region through a new lens, and maybe even pursue a career in STEM!
Nymphic
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
We’ve been great! Thanks for having us—we’re excited to be here and chat about everything happening with the band!
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
Our latest single, Enemy, is the second installment in our original trilogy, following on from Peony. The track is dropping alongside a cinematic music video that continues the story of The Nymphic Flower, our band’s central character.
The Nymphic Saga is a multimedia experience—told through music, videos, and an ongoing comic series—using dystopian sci-fi and fantasy to reflect the struggles of our own world. Enemy dives deep into that inner battle we all face when everything feels like it’s against us—when the world is burning, and you don’t know who to trust.
How was the recording and writing process?
This track was a turning point for us. It was one of the first songs where we really embraced our heavier sound, pushing our creativity further than ever before. The writing process was pure energy— jamming new riffs, experimenting with structure, and letting the song naturally evolve. Enemy became a catalyst for us to fully lean into the fusion of weighty instrumentals and the ethereal elements that define NYMPHIC.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?
A lot of Enemy stems from personal struggles—both as individuals and as a band. We were all going through moments of self-doubt, questioning our identities and our place in a world that feels like it’s constantly on fire. That emotion bled into the Nymphic Saga, mirroring our protagonist’s own journey. It’s a raw, cathartic chapter in both the story and our own experiences.
Will you be hitting the road this year?
Hell yeah! We’ve got a ton of exciting shows coming up—including our first run of gigs outside London! Here’s where you can catch us live:
• 03 Feb - Acoustic Set @ BrewDog, Shepherd’s Bush, London
• 05 Feb - Headline Show @ Signature Brew, Haggerston, London (We’re also competing for a spot at a major festival in February—stay tuned for details!)
• 07 March - Supporting Iridium @ Engine Rooms, Bow, London
• 08 March - Women’s Day Acoustic Set @ Raven Records, Camden, London
• 16 March - Supporting Tempest Saint @ Hope and Anchor, Islington, London
• 20 March - Ignition @ Hot Box, Chelmsford
• 02 May - Supporting Once Awake @ The Bank Top Tavern, Manchester
• 26 July - Monsters of Metal Festival @ The Hunter Club, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk
• 30 August - Supporting Space Pistol & Seething Akira @ The Six Six, Cambridge
• September - UK Tour with Blou2Death (Dates TBA)And we’re working on even more shows across the UK—so keep an eye on our socials for updates!
What else is happening next in your world?
After Enemy drops, we’re gearing up to release Nina’s Secrets—the epic conclusion to our original trilogy. The wait won’t be long at all! But that’s just the beginning. We’re also wrapping up our next EP, set for a summer release, which will explore the prequels to the Nymphic Saga. On top of that, we’re re-recording a fan-favorite track with some exciting new elements.
And if that wasn’t enough—we’ve already started working on our first full-length album. Trust us, it’s going to blow your mind!
Nymphicofficial.com (Band): (Comic): @nymphic_official @nymphic_comics
Danishka Esterhazy
Horror is an amazing genre because it is so cathartic. Horror lets us experience feelings that scare us – terror, dread, anxiety
Photo Credit: Pia Poppy
We’re very excited to have some time today with acclaimed and visionary filmmaker Danishka Esterhazy; New Years greetings and salutations Danishka and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive into the celluloid Q&A rabbit hole, how are the first few weeks of 2025 finding you and yours?
Hello! It’s a strange time for me at the moment. I split my time between Toronto and Los Angeles (I am a dual Canadian/American citizen) and, as you know, Los Angeles has been on fire! Luckily, I live in a neighborhood that has been spared. No evacuation orders, no risk to my home. But, to make it all a little bit stranger, I am currently in South Africa shooting a new horror film. So, I am watching the fires unfold from afar. It’s disorienting and alarming. My thoughts go out to those who have lost their homes.
Major kudos and accolades on your bravura turn as director of Sony’s Sniper: The Last Stand which is set for a January 28 premiere! Starting at the tip-top, and for anyone not in the know, can you explain what Sniper: The Last Stand is about and what led you on the pathway towards directing it?
Well, I have always been a huge fan of action movies. I’ve been addicted to action films since I was a little girl watching James Bond movies with my dad. I’ve directed action sequences in some of my science fiction, thriller and horror movies. But I had not had the opportunity to direct a full-on action film. So, when Sony called me to discuss the Sniper franchise – I was truly excited. Sony wanted to amp up the action in this installment. To bring a grittier tone than the last few movies. Higher stakes. Which was a perfect match for everything I wanted to do.
Sniper: The Last Stand is the eleventh chapter in the ongoing Sniper film franchise. Was there any intimidation on your part in taking the reins of a series of films which are steeped in such a rich back story and which has inspired its own sort of cottage industry?
Yes and no. I had previously directed a reboot of the 80s cult horror movie
The Slumber Party Massacre. So, I had experience re-imagining a beloved film series. Like in Slumber Party, I wanted to celebrate the elements that fans love the most. To honor the other films. While adding my own vision to the mix and embracing a darker tone. Hopefully, the fans will love this new direction. I think it brings the franchise back to its roots.
What was your experience like in working with the amazing cast of Sniper: The Last Stand as well as the focal actor of the film, Chad Michael Collins?
Chad is amazing. He has that star quality that makes a great leading man. He’s incredible in fight sequences. And he’s just a lovely human being. As number one on the call sheet, if he didn’t want to welcome me into the Sniper world, it would have been a frosty reception. But he welcomed me with warmth and immediately gave me his trust. We had a lot of fun making this film!
And I got to work with Arnold Vosloo! Which was a fan girl dream come true. I am a massive fan of The Mummy movies. I’ve watched the first film a zillion times. So, I could not have been more thrilled to have Arnold in my movie. He’s an icon.
For any folks who might have missed some of the past Sniper films, is the upcoming installment new-viewer friendly, or would a ‘Blockbuster Video’ night be in order to brush up on the Sniper mythos?
Well, I highly recommend watching the previous 10 films because they are so much fun. But you don’t need to be an established Sniper franchise fan to appreciate Sniper: The Last Stand. I kept it accessible. While still layering in some easter eggs for the hard-core fans.
Who are some of the folks both in and out of the film industry who have inspired your own career trajectory?
Patty Jenkins and Kathryn Bigelow have been inspirations, of course. And in television, I love the work of Michelle MacLaren, Deborah Chow, Kari Skogland and Mairzee Almas. It is exciting to see women directors breaking through the glass ceiling and helming larger genre projects. There are still a lot of barriers, but the doors are opening, and the opportunities are happening.
Outside of film, I’m inspired by the women artists who broke down barriers in their own time – and continue to do so today. Artemisia Gentileschi, Elizabeth Siddal, Frida Kahlo, Emily Carr, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker. Whenever I want to recharge my creative energy, I go to an art gallery.
Your first work as a director came in the form of the 2002 short film Embowered. Any special memories of that freshman production?
I started my filmmaking journey at a little Canadian film co-op called The Winnipeg Film Group. Embowered was an experimental film that I shot on a hand-cranked 16mm Bolex camera. No crew. My mother was the actor. I handprocessed the film and hand-colored it. I shot it in my bedroom. The scale of that production could not be more different from my experience on Sniper! With a crew of hundreds, an army of extras, massive pyrotechnics, shooting in a 400-year-old fort at the southern tip of Africa. It’s been a wild journey from that first short film to shooting Sniper.
You’ve got an intriguing-sounding horror film in the pipeline for Tubi entitled Match; congrats! Can you give our ever-inquisitive reading audience a hint or three as to what they can expect and look forward to with this new feature film?
Match is a film written by the Kaplan Brothers – Jon and Al. It’s a dark contained thriller about a woman who meets up with a stranger through an online dating app and ends up fighting for her life. I loved the script when I first read it. Because it is so tense and compelling – and disturbing. I’m shooting the film right now and it will be available on Tubi later this year.
You’re celebrated for your unique and indelible take on the horror genre. What do you enjoy the most about delving into horror?
Horror is an amazing genre because it is so cathartic. Horror lets us experience feelings that scare us – terror, dread, anxiety. It allows us to face our mortality, or fear of death, in a safe environment. Much like action, horror is a genre about thrills. It opens up our emotional range. And I think that is healthy. To let down our emotional walls for a few hours and truly experience that range of feeling.
Horror can also be beautiful and very cinematic. In horror, I can play with palette and lighting and less conventional framing. Horror, like action, often feels like a puzzle. Because so much is hidden, and you want to take the audience on a journey of emotion and surprise.
Final – SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of movies – Living In Oblivion, Hollywood Shuffle, The Player, Barton Fink or Ed Wood?
Great question! I adore Living in Oblivion. When I am on set, I regularly hear lines from that film playing in my head. And it has made me forever wary of the dairy products at craft service.
Imani Davis
We’re very excited to have some time today with acclaimed and award-winning filmn producer, official American Cinematheque Film Programmer and podcast host bar none, Imani Davis; greetings and salutations Imani and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we dive down the Q&A rabbit hole, how are you and yours doing during what has been an incredibly tragic time for California?
Thank you so much for having me. It’s been a really unexpected and tragic start to the new year here in Los Angeles, certainly not the kick off any of us were imagining. I’m very grateful to live on the east side - we had power the whole time and didn’t have to evacuate. I really wish I could say the same for everyone else. It was scary and everyone was shaken up, but it feels good to be entering back into a sense of normalcy in the city.
Major kudos and accolades on your many activities, specifically in the world of motion pictures as a successful and rightly lauded producer and as an official programmer for American Cinematheque! Can you explain to our ever-inquisitive reading audience what your job as an official film programmer for this prestigious non-profit institution entails?
Thank you so much! And yes, I love demystifying the world of professional film programming. The American Cinematheque is a member-supported 501(c)(3) non-profit cultural arts organization dedicated to building an engaged film community through immersive film curation, conversation, and presentation. We program regularly at the Egyptian Theatre, the Aero Theatre, and the Los Feliz 3, showcasing over 1,600 films a year - over 100 a month.
As a film programmer at the AC, I’m on the team that curates our calendar filled with new and old films, many times with filmmaker Q&As too. My day to day includes watching films, having meetings, building relationships with distributors, filmmakers, and community partners, and lots of emails!
What can movie aficionados expect and look forward to with the 2025 lineup of films from American Cinematheque? And are there some specific titles which you’re already excited about folks checking out?
Something I love about the way we program at the AC is that we don’t program out too far, meaning our calendar remains very flexible to things that might pop up, like a filmmaker being in town unexpectedly and we can play some of their old films for example. So that means that we don’t necessarily know what we’ll be playing say, 3 months from now! Things that we have annually include Beyond Fest, the highest attended genre fest in the nation, which starts the last week of September - and also PROOF Film Festival which is the only short film festival completely dedicated to proof-of-concept shorts. I founded and run this festival, and it’ll be happening November 7-9, 2025. For more,
sign up for our email list where we announce things constantly, and also follow us on socials to stay up to date.
What have submissions looked like so far in 2025 with American Cinematheque versus this time last year? Has there been an uptick in submissions?
We take film submissions for three of our festivals: This Is Not a Fiction (our documentary festival), Beyond Fest, and PROOF Film Festival. Across the board as an industry, film festival submissions have gone up. I think it has to do with film equipment being more accessible, and the project delays we saw with COVID and the strikes now coming to fruition. We’ve seen this trend in our submissions too. They’ve only gone up!
Word ‘round industry campfire has it that American Cinematheque will have some amazing panels in 2025; congrats! Can you give readers a hint or three as to what some of these panels might be on?
We have a lot of panels for PROOF Film Festival in November, all geared at emerging film talent and getting the business savvy necessary to navigate the industry. Something we’ll have this year are some more panels with industry veterans aimed at film financing, including an investor panel and a financing 101 workshop!
We’ve spent some time talking about American Cinematheque and your role therein, but you’re also a very in-demand producer. How did you land upon the pathway of producing? Was this something which you’ve always aspired to?
I got my undergraduate degree in Film Studies at The Ohio State University. I’ve always loved the art of storytelling and writing since I was a kid and I had a concentration in screenwriting. I quickly realized I did not want to be a full-time screenwriter upon beginning classes.. I still love screenwriting and do it, but I knew there were other aspects of the film industry that I wanted to be involved in. I like thinking about marketing and the business side of things, as well as serving the story and helping create something that audience members love. That’s when producing came up as a potential path. I started doing it with friends in Chicago on short films and never looked back. The projects have grown in scale and budget, but those core elements always stay the same.
What types of films are you drawn to, producing-wise? And what can fans of the silver screen look forward to seeing from you in ‘25?
I’m really committed to getting more grounded women-directed and womencentered genre films out there. So think of action, sci-fi, thriller, mystery, etc - but with women protagonists, and very character driven. We are wildly underrepresented in these areas, and these are the types of films that people are showing up for at the theaters. It’s such a big area for growth.
In 2025, I’m actually very focused on getting my first produced writing work out there. I’ve produced a lot of stuff, but I haven’t yet produced something that I’ve written. So 2025 is the year for that! There will be more soon, but it’s a sci-fi heist short film.. With a woman lead of course!
You’re the co-founder of Film Girlz Brunch; congrats again! For the uninitiated, can you give us the E! True Hollywood Story on how you hit upon this ingenious monthly networking Meetup?
Totally. Film Girlz Brunch started out of a need for a consistent, casual space for women filmmakers to connect in LA. I come from the Chicago film scene where there is a lot of in-person networking series and events, and a deep sense of community. I was afraid of not having that in LA, especially because community means a lot to me in my practice. Upon moving here, I couldn’t find anything to immediately tap into, so I thought to myself “well, maybe in one or two years, I’ll start up some kind of casual monthly brunch meetup for women”. I then met one of my FGB co-founders, Kaiulani at a film festival quickly after moving to LA and told her about the idea. She said “why not start now?” - and so we did. And here we are, two years and counting of accessible monthly meetups around the city for women and nonbinary folks in film!
You have a crackerjack of a podcast called Players: A Film Industry Podcast in which you have interviewed some of the key movers and shakers in Hollywood. What motivated you to embark upon this incredibly informative podcast?
My co-host Demma and I both come from the Chicago film scene. We spend so much time talking to each other about the film business - always brainstorming how to break in and potentially innovate. One day, we were like “why don’t we record these conversations?”. We knew there had to be other up and coming filmmakers talking about the same things, and we wanted them to join in the conversation!
Players is all about sharing information and demystifying this business, which can seem daunting and intimidating at times. Coming together with folks on our level, as well as industry veterans seemed like the perfect formula to have productive conversations.
Final – SILLY! - Question: Favorite movie about the making of movies – Living in Oblivion, Hollywood Shuffle, The Player, The Big Picture, Swimming with Sharks, Bowfinger, or Barton Fink?
I’ll go with Barton Fink! I definitely resonate with it as a person who loves writing, but then was a bit horrified to learn about the process of how movies get made in Hollywood, ha!
JESSE COLLIN
Photo Credit : Parmida Vand
We’re thrilled to have you with us today, Jesse Collin! Welcome to Vents Magazine. To start things off, how has the New Year been treating you so far?
Thanks for having me! The New Year has been great so far—busy, but in the best way. With The Recruit Season 2 coming out, there’s a lot of excitement around the show, and I’m really looking forward to fans finally getting to see what we’ve been working on. It’s been a whirlwind, but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
Congratulations on the highly anticipated second season of The Recruit! For those who may not be familiar, could you share what the series is about and how your character, Dodge, fits into the story?
The Recruit is a high-stakes action thriller that follows Owen Hendricks (played by Noah Centineo), a young CIA lawyer who gets thrown into the deep end of the intelligence world way sooner than he expected. The show is a unique take on the genre—it blends action, suspense, and humor in a way that feels fresh, grounded, and unpredictable.
My character, Dodge, operates in a different world than Owen. He’s in CIA Operations, working as Dawn Gilbane’s reliable right hand— the guy who thrives in high-risk environments and handles the kind of work that never makes the headlines.
Without giving too much away, can you share a glimpse of what fans can look forward to in the second season of The Recruit?
Season 2 turns everything up a notch—more action, higher stakes, and even deeper character dynamics. We explore new locations, introduce incredible new characters, and raise the stakes for everyone. If you thought things were intense in Season 1, just wait.
Many shows evolve between seasons, often adding fresh twists to keep things interesting. How does the second season of The Recruit stay true to its original premise, and in what ways does it break new ground?
At its core, The Recruit is still about navigating the unpredictability of the CIA while trying to stay alive—whether you’re a lawyer like Owen or an operative like Dodge. The humour, tension, and highenergy storytelling that made the first season stand out are still very much present.
But this season, we break new ground by expanding the world. The shift in setting to South Korea, and the new additions to our cast, add a fresh intensity, and the stakes are even higher. The characters are tested in ways they weren’t before, which makes for some great moments of growth—and conflict.
Your character, Dodge, has already captured the audience’s attention. How has he grown or changed since the first season?
Dodge is still the guy you want by your side in a crisis, but this season, we see him pushed further than before. He’s used to operating in the moral grey area, making moves in the shadows, but this time, he’s dealing with new variables that force him to adapt in ways he hasn’t before. You’ll get to see more layers to him—what drives him, what he’s willing to risk, and how his dynamic with Dawn plays into all of that.
The Recruit features a fantastic cast, including Angel Parker, Noah Centineo, Laura Haddock, Teo Yoo, Nathan Fillion, and more. What has it been like collaborating with such a talented group of actors?
It’s been an incredible experience. Noah is a natural leader—he’s balancing being the lead of the show and an executive producer, and he does it with ease. He’s thoughtful, charismatic, and brings so much energy to the set.
Angel Parker is phenomenal. She commands every scene with effortless power, and working with her is a masterclass in nuance and intensity. Every time we have a scene together, I know it’s going to be electric.
Working with Teo Yoo—especially after the success of Past Lives— was a privilege.
The whole cast has incredible chemistry, which is a huge part of what makes The Recruit so engaging. For an action series, we might not be the most conventional choices—but that’s part of what makes The Recruit so compelling. Everyone brings something unique to the table, and that dynamic really translates on screen.
Your career began with the 2004 short film Superhero Wannabe. Looking back, what are your fondest memories of that early project?
It was my first real taste of being on a set, and I loved every second of it. I remember just being excited to be there—to be part of the process—even if I had no idea what I was doing half the time. It was one of those early experiences that solidified my love for acting.
A standout memory was working with Hilda Doherty, the lead actress in the short, who was 88 years old at the time! Funny enough, a year later I ended up doing my first community theatre play with her—The Cripple of Inishmaan—while I was still in high school. We were even featured in a newspaper article about our two generations—then 17 years old and 89 years old—finding our places on stage together. It was such a special moment and a great reminder that an acting career has no age limits.
Who are some of the actors or performances that have inspired you throughout your career?
I’ve always admired actors who have a real love and appreciation for the craft—Ethan Hawke, Mark Ruffalo, Sam Rockwell, Russell Crowe. They bring such depth and authenticity to their work, and any time there’s a new Actors on Actors conversation or roundtable, I’m all in.
The Bourne Identity was a formative film for me. It was the first time I saw an unexpected actor like Matt Damon step into an action role, and the film was shot with such sophistication and intelligence. Later getting to work with Doug Liman on The Recruit was a full-circle moment.
Oh! And my favorite comedy of all time? Robin Hood: Men in Tights. No contest.
What initially drew you to acting, and what made you decide to pursue it as a career?
Storytelling has always fascinated me. I love exploring different perspectives, stepping into someone else’s reality, and finding the humanity in every character. Acting allows you to live so many different lives—to be a police officer, a lawyer, a parent, or a CIA operative—and experience relationships and challenges you’d never encounter otherwise.
The moment I knew I wanted to do it professionally was in Grade 7 when my drama teacher forced me to audition for a play. I hemmed and hawed about being too busy, but he wasn’t taking no for an answer. I ended up landing the lead role, and from that moment on, I was hooked. It was a pivotal moment—not just because I discovered a love for acting, but because someone recognized something in me that I hadn’t yet seen in myself. That experience shaped me in ways far beyond the stage, teaching me confidence, adaptability, and the power of stepping outside my comfort zone.
A light-hearted closer: What’s your favorite movie about the filmmaking process – Living in Oblivion, The Player, Hollywood Shuffle, or Barton Fink?
I’ll have to go with Barton Fink. It’s the Coen brothers—how could I not pick it!? And John Turturro delivers an unforgettable performance.
That said, if we’re talking about behind-the-scenes chaos, Tropic Thunder is hard to beat. It’s both a ridiculous send-up of Hollywood and a great action movie at the same time.
Deadly Virtues
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
We’re doing well! Busy grinding and getting shows on the calendar, which has been a bit exhausting to be honest, but we are starting to see the fruits of our labour manifest, so it’s worth the effort all day!
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
We just debuted our new album “Decay of Society” back in May of this year. The album describes what appears a lot of people were feeling during the dystopian COVID era and how things were so drastically different from what was everyday life. The “new normal” led to unhealthy behaviours through hedonistic tendencies and depression, along with the potential loss of a loved one resulted in the culmination of our first album.
How was the recording and writing process?
The writing process was definitely a learning experience, especially in this first go of making our debut album and trying to find our identity as a group. There was a lot of vulnerability in putting the content out in the world, as it was something completely authentic and true to what we as a band enjoyed playing together. Melody and lyrics were definitely the greatest challenge overall. It’s easy to jam out and create a feel for a song, but it’s another beast entirely when you start adding melodic ideas, phrasing, and lyrical content. Trying to mesh your influences, ideas, and personal taste into something you can authentically call your own is one of the hardest things honestly.
Recording was quite the adventure, as we ended up going to four different studios over the course of about 8 months before we finally got our first single out. Each studio had their own advantages and disadvantages, from better equipment to availability and sound engineers. Ultimately, we ended recording the majority of our content at Mind’s Eye Studios in Phoenix before finding a permanent recording home at Premier Studios with Jeremy Parker mixing and mastering our album. I’ve learned as an artist that if you like it, other people will too and you have to share your art with the world, even if you feel it needs more work. It’s always going to need more work, get it to the best quality you can within a specific timeframe to stay on track with your goals.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the songs and lyrics?
The songs were definitely based on multiple references from personal tragedy, anger, and isolation, to determination and perseverance through difficult times. There were multiple musical influences that different members had that played a role in the writing of the songs too.
Will you be hitting the road this year?
We just got confirmation we are playing at The Whiskey a Go Go on Sunset Boulevard December 18th. Currently, we are looking at multiple venues in Las Vegas and major coastal cities in California for our first short 2 week tour in March of 2025. We are also looking for festivals to play in, so if you’re out there reading this and need a strong metalcore group, hit us up at bookingadeadlvvirtues.com!
What else is happening next in your world?
There is a competition going on for AZ Bike Week 2025 to have four local bands play the sidestage during the event. Right now there’s about 30 different groups that have signed up so far. The first elimination is based on how many votes each group gets. The top 8 groups will get to play live and compete for one of the four slots available for AZ Bike Week 2025. So, if you’re interested in voting, head over to www.azbikeweek.com/band-poll and select Deadly Virtues by clicking on our picture, then scroll down and enter your email and submit! Hopefully we can add AZ Bike Week to our schedule for 2025. Let’s make it happen!
TRANK
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
Thank you. How we’ve been ? Busy – in a good way. We’ve spent the last 2 years making, recording, crafting, finessing, mixing, mastering, polishing our new album, “THE MAZE”. Most of that as a 3-piece instead of 4, too, in case it was too easy – because our friend, co-founder and lead guitarist, Julien, decided to leave the band around the beginning of the process, for personal reasons. We’re lucky enough that we’re stubborn to the point of delusional, so we headed on. We’re also surrounded with very talented people who were instrumental in realizing the vision we had for the album – pretty much the same team we worked with for the first one : Yvan Barone, our rec engineer and co producer, who’s a little like us, an analogue man in a digital world; he’s a veteran of the Montreux Jazz festival in addition to his studio recording talents, so he was really important in capturing the balance of live feel and studio perfection we were shooting for. Then there’s Brian Robbins, over there in New Jersey, who
was our mix engineer on the first album and mixed 9 of the 11 tracks on this one again (Yvan did the other two, as they were more up his alley); he’s made a name for himself for bands like Papa Roach or Asking Alexandria, and while we sound completely different, there’s that thing in common about blending hard rock or metal elements with sounds and inspiration that feel much more alternative – which he does really well. Then Andy Van Dette in NYC (who’s worked with the likes of David Bowie or Porcupine Tree), who did a wonderful job of ensuring that the sound we had in mind came to life in the final “product”, with exactly the balance of power, texture and cinematic feel we wanted. Also, of course, Alban Verneret, our visual director, who’s done the album design as well as the videos. It’s been hard work, but it’s incredibly gratifying to hear and see the results, and we’re getting flooded with very positive reviews, so fortunately we’re not the only ones who think it was time well spent.
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
“The Maze” is mostly about the many ways one can get lost searching for themselves. We live in times when words like “identity” have never been quite as ubiquitous – there’s this pressure to constantly and explicitly define yourself, to a fairly extreme level; this obsession with being visible and respected or admired not for what you do, but for who you are. It leads to all kinds of excesses no matter how well intentioned the idea might be – and paradoxically I think it makes it harder for the majority to be at peace with who they are. Each song deals with it in a different way. “Twentieth Century Slave”, one of the songs written while Julien was still with us, talks about the self-destructive, counter-productive obsessions of social justice warriors; “Boys (Eyes on the Road)” does it from the angle of the constant calls to join this or that movement, without much questioning about whatever it may mean or intend to achieve. “Queen of the Broken” is much more openly romantic and is about finding oneself in someone else – it riffs on both the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur at the centre of the maze, and the themes found in Neil Young’s “Like a hurricane” – to which it is an optimistic response of sort (not that we claim that we’re anywhere as good as Neil Young, but his song was an inspiration). In many ways, the maze is both the outside world –and the human brain, the consciousness within each of us.
How was the recording and writing process?
Collaborative, demanding, painfully opinionated, painstaking, physically demanding, emotionally taxing, and ultimately rewarding. Like us.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?
In the huge fail between how we think the world should be and feel and make you feel, and how it really is. Also, in the music of artists who are an inspiration to us. We’ve all got extremely eclectic tastes and our musical centres of gravity are wildly different from one another, but our tastes meet around bands and artists that do the best job of sounding like we aspire to : epic AND intimate, intense AND contagious, powerful AND layered, authentic AND cinematic. In music as in life, it’s always the contrasts that feel the most interesting. We find that in the sounds of Depeche Mode, Radiohead, Massive Attack, SoundGarden, Queens of the Stone Age, Nine Inch Nails, Porcupine Tree, there’s too many to name. But they all take fairly dark subject matters and transcend them into songs that feel truly cathartic. Pretty much also what we try to achieve.
Will you be hitting the road this year?
You bet. We have quite a few festival dates lined up and we have a KILLER line-up to take every stage by storm. There was 3 of us in the studio, but there’s 6 of us on stage, because that’s pretty much the only way you can sound as big and cinematic as we want to without pre-recording everything – which is a big no-no rule for us. Pretty soon into the making of “The Maze” we realized we were writing songs that HAD to be played with two guitars on stage. David, our bass player, ended up doing most of the guitar work on the album and we all loved the result, and he comes from a 2-guitar attack school of arrangement. So we’ve
recruited another guitarist, Nico, an old friend of mine (Michel –vocals and programming) – we used to play together in a cover band that taught us everything. David and Nico split rhythm and lead depending on the song, and Nico brings in an element of funk-metal inspired groove that blends really well with David’s stoner roots. Also, Arnaud, our new bass player, is just as gifted and a technical master of sorts – he has a way of interlocking not only with the drums but the sequences that elevates the songs to a new level of dark-ish groove. Last but not least, in addition to Johann (on drums and backing vocals) and myself, we have Emma, our band manager, who happens to be a very talented keyboard player and backing vocalist – so most of the synth parts are played live, in addition to a minimal amount of sequences triggered by Johann. We’ve been rehearsing and finetuning several versions of the live set, more or less hardhitting depending on the audience – all of them with enough light and shade that they will feel like a self-contained trip for the audience. We cannot wait for people to hear all of that.
What else is happening next in your world?
Well – the coolest thing : “The Maze” is coming out on audiophile grade vinyl sometime in March or April. We’ve just approved the test pressings – they sound AMAZING, which is the point of making vinyl. Andy made a vinyl specific master for us, and recommended a pressing plant that knows how to press records the right way. Honestly, knowing the master recording by heart – I think it sounds even better on vinyl than in real life. Go figure. Once that’s out, we’ll be back on the road and just talking about it gets us excited. We do spend a lot of time making the songs sound exactly as we want them – but in the end, they’re made to be played live. The stage is what it’s all about. Taking people through the maze with us.
Michael Webseter
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
All good! Very busy as of late, but it’s great to be able to keep doing music and what I love.
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
My last release was “a northern perspective” - an EP I released over two years ago. I’ve been working on a bunch of new stuff lately, but this one really means a lot to me, there’s so many tracks in here that are some of my favourites. The title is actually a Coronation Street quote, a little joke between me and one of my old musical pals - but it’s also apt for my life, being from Preston.
How was the recording and writing process?
I really love producing and recording my own music. There’s so much freedom, and to be able to craft something to how you want it to be, how it should sound, bringing so many
elements together to create something - it’s fantastic.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?
A lot of my songs are written from my own perspective (get it? the title!), and about how I feel towards situations, experiences that I have within my life. So many of these songs just flow at times - there’s so many different things that I want to write about.
Will you be hitting the road this year?
I’ve got a load of shows in the works! Not only me performing, but lots of stuff that I’m putting on through my label Bread Records. You can find it all at www.breadrecords.co.uk/events!
What else is happening next in your world?
I’m currently working on a bunch of music with other artists, recording and producing their music - and I’m hoping to get back on it with my own stuff too. Lots of stuff coming up, live shows, music, the works!
Photo Credit :
Håbrand
Will you be hitting the road this year?
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
Thank you for having us. Great, excited for the album release.
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
It is our debut album, called ”Shining. But Dead”. You can interpret the title however you want. It can mean that things aren’t always what they seem. Something might appear a certain way, but a closer look reveals a different story.
How was the recording and writing process?
Quick and liberating. The idea for this album was that we each would come up with parts, send it to the other and they could add whatever they wanted, send it back, add stuff etc… Until we felt that the track was finished. Carl did the drum machines and keyboards and I did bass and guitars through a ton of effects, to make it sound like keyboards or pads or whatever.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?
This is an instrumental album so there are no lyrics. I don’t really know where the inspiration comes from. We sit in front the computer and tinker. Tweak sounds to find something that triggers an idea. Sooner or later stuff happens.
No, there are no live shows planned.
What else is happening next in your world?
Both of us play in other bands. Carl has Bakelit, Carptree, Jupiter Society. I play bass in Evergrey and have my solo records.
And we both play in Hollingshead and we have a new record out called ”Trail”. Check it out!
Sean Chambers
Photo Credit : ARNIE GOODMAN
We’re very excited to have some time today with acclaimed Euripides of guitar, Sean Chambers; greetings and salutations Sean and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we meander down the proverbial Q&A musical pathway, how is the New Year finding you and yours?
Thank you for having me! The new year is here in full swing and everything has been great so far. I’ve been preparing for this new release “Live From Daryl’s House Club” since the beginning of the year, so things have been busy and it’s been a lot of work, but good work to have!
Major kudos and accolades on your freshly-minted new album ‘Live From Daryl’s House Club’ Featuring The Savoy Brown Rhythm Section which is set to light up record charts across the ever-lovin’ globe beginning February 28th! Starting at the tip-top, can you talk about what inspired one of the very best live albums we’ve ever had the privilege of feasting our over-sized ears on?
Wow, thank you for the compliment! I’m so glad you all are enjoying the album. Well, I spoke with Mike Carden from my record label, Quarto Valley Records last April in between tours, and he basically asked if I was close to being ready to record another album. I let him know that I had ideas but that we had a tour coming up in May (2024) and it would take me a little while to complete the songs and arrangements once we returned. He asked about, and suggested possibly doing a live album. I thought that was a great idea, especially since my last live album was released in 2011. After looking at the venues on our then upcoming May tour, I thought “Daryl’s House Club” would be perfect. Not only is it a legendary and super cool venue, but they are totally equipped and set up to do live recordings and video. Savoy Brown did a DVD there years ago when they played Daryl’s. So, I went to work setting up the particulars and off we went. The album was recorded when we played there on May 2nd, 2024.
As the moniker for the new LP denotes – Live From Daryl’s House Club – this is a live recording with an enthusiastic audience. For anyone who might not be familiar with Sean Chambers in a live setting, what can they expect and look forward to when they catch you on a show?
At our shows, people can expect to hear an energetic 3 piece band playing mostly original music, consisting of songs from my previous albums, a few covers that have inspired me, as well as a few Savoy Brown songs added to the mix. Everything from upbeat boogie woogie, mid tempo songs, slow blues and anything in between.
Was it always on the books for you to record a live show at the renowned venue owned by none other than Daryl Hall, or was this a fortuitous happening?
Good question. Like I mentioned earlier it wasn’t planned until my record label suggested doing a live album on our tour, and “Daryl’s House Club” was my first choice. After speaking with Daryl’s House they were happy to oblige! It actually couldn’t have been planned out better. in my opinion.
Can you introduce our ever-inquisitive readers to the incredible musicians who shared the stage with you on the Live From Daryl’s House Club album?
Absolutely! Pat DeSalvo on Bass, and Garnet Grimm on Drums are the ultimate three piece rhythm section in my opinion. Rock solid! They were Kim Simmonds last, and longest running rhythm section and for good reason. I feel honored to have them in the band.
Pat De Salvo began recording with Kim Simmonds in 2001 on his solo records “Blues Like Midnight” and his follow-up solo album “Struck by Lighting”, playing acoustic bass on both. He also worked with Kim Simmonds on two CD’s with Jimmy Cavallo “House Rocker” which was nominated for a W.C. Handy award, and the follow up “You Better Believe It”. Pat began touring and recording with Kim full time in 2009 playing on” Voodoo Moon”, “Songs from the Road” recorded in Germany , “Going to the Delta”, “The Devil to Pay”, and “Witchy Feelin” which hit number 1 on Billboard under the Ruf record label.
Garnet has been a professional drummer for over 4 decades. He spent 2 years studying music at Onondaga Community College in Syracuse NY. In 1999 Garnet was introduced to Kim Simmonds who was also residing in the Central New York area. Together, he & Pat worked on Kim’s solo recording, “ Blues Like Midnight”. Later playing dates together with Kim Simmonds as an acoustic/electric trio. In 2009 Simmonds invited Garnet Grimm along with Pat De Salvo to Join Savoy Brown. The trio spent 14 years playing, recording and touring together until Kim’s passing in December 2022.
You have a deep and rich recording catalogue. How did you go about deciding what tunes you would perform on the Live From Daryl’s House Club LP?
Basically we approached it as another show. We played all of the songs that we normally were playing on that tour, but knowing that for the live album we would have to pick 12 songs or so, as we cant use 22-25 songs on the CD. We listened to all of the tracks once we got home, and it was difficult but we had to pick 12 songs out of the whole night that we wanted to use. I did my best to pick songs that I thought would flow nicely together, and make for one good live CD. There were some good ones that didn’t make it, but they might show up one day as ‘bonus tracks’ on another album, ya never know!
You did the producing honors on the Live From Daryl’s House album. What are the pros to serving as your own producer versus outsourcing the job to someone else?
Well, normally in the studio we would have a producer. But, since this was live, after the recording was done I worked with Mark Gray who mixed the album and I would listen to different mixes that he did. I would make suggestions and share my input to get the mixes where I wanted them. A producer in the studio would typically be directing us, telling us what is good and what isn’t, what to do and not to do etc... Being that this was live there was ne need for that, so I just assisted and somewhat directed Mark as he was mixing the album.
The new LP is being released courtesy of the good folks over at Quarto Valley Records. What makes Quarto Valley the perfect home for you and your music?
I really can’t say enough good things about Quarto Valley Records. Firstly, they are all super great people. The whole team has a passion for music and they care about their artists first and foremost. Bruce Quarto, the founder and owner of the label is a true music lover and really enjoys working with his team at QVR, not to mention he has put together a stellar team with decades and decades of experience in the music business. As well, Bruce Quarto and Mike Carden enjoy working hand in hand with the all of the artists on the roster. It a diverse roster of artists and a real honor for me to be among the acts on the Quarto Valley Records label. I never thought that I would be on the same record label as Paul Rodgers, or Edgar Winter and so many others. These guys are my heroes! It is truly a blessing working with the entire QVR team. I’ll be here until they give me the boot!
In the wake of the February 28th release of your new LP Live From Dary’s House, can fans look forward to catching you on the touring/ performing circuit?
Yes, we will be touring behind the album this year. We have dates on the schedule and are still adding dates all the way through October. We also have a tour booked through Europe this September. The band and I are looking forward to touring behind this album for sure!
Any final thoughts you might like to share with fans and readers alike regarding your amazing new album ‘Live From Daryl’s House Club’ Featuring The Savoy Brown Rhythm Section?
My final thoughts would be that I hope people enjoy this album as much as we enjoyed making it. We had a good night that night playing the show. Also, in closing if folks want to stay up to date on news, tour dates and more visit www.seanchambers.com all that stuff is there, and we try to keep it updated and fresh. Thank you so much for this great interview, I sincerely appreciate it!
Eloah
Hi guys, welcome to VENTS! How have you been?
Hello, and thank you for having us! We’ve been doing great - busy and inspired. Between writing, recording, and collaborating on new projects, it’s been an exciting time for ELOAĦ. We’re thrilled to share our latest work and look forward to connecting with more listeners
What can you tell us about the title and meaning behind your most recent release?
Our latest release, The Book of Pain, is a deeply personal exploration of emotional suffering, resilience, and growth. The album contains 17 tracks, each representing a chapter in this metaphorical “book,” tackling themes like grief, longing, and the complexities of love. It was inspired by significant life experiences, including the loss of loved ones, and aims to offer listeners a cathartic journey through these emotions. The title track reflects the overarching theme, capturing pain as both a burden and a transformative force. We are especially excited to announce that the LP version of The Book of Pain was officially released yesterday. It features exclusive mastering and artwork, marking marks our first venture into vinyl production, and we are thrilled to share this special edition with fans, especially since it adds a new dimension to the listening experience
How was the recording and writing process?
The recording and writing process for The Book of Pain was both challenging and deeply rewarding. Writing often began with
spontaneous moments of inspirationusually a guitar riff or melody that captured an emotional truth. These initial ideas were developed collaboratively, with each band member bringing their unique style and creativity to the arrangements. Tracks like “A Spark of Darkness” and “The Book of Pain” were shaped by raw emotions, blending personal experiences with musical exploration. Recording took place over two years using a mobile studio setup, allowing us the flexibility to capture performances in comfortable and familiar settings. This approach fostered a relaxed and creative atmosphere, resulting in authentic and emotionally resonant tracks. Some of the recordings even include elements from earlier sessions, such as the vocals of the late Jörg Horner, which were recorded over 20 years ago. The process balanced structured arrangements with moments of improvisation, ensuring the final album maintained its emotional depth and sincerity.
Where did you guys find the inspiration for the song and lyrics?
The inspiration for our songs and lyrics often comes from deeply personal experiences and the emotions they evoke. The Book of Pain reflects a journey through grief, longing, and self-discovery, capturing the complex feelings tied to these experiences. Tracks like “A Spark of Darkness” were born out of profound loss, written as a tribute to my late friend Michael Görig and inspired by his unfinished novel of the same title. Similarly, “Golden Summer (Girl to Adore)” carries a bittersweet resonance, as it features vocals
recorded by Jörg Horner, a band member who has since passed away, adding an irreplaceable layer of depth to the song. Other tracks explore broader emotional landscapes, like the cathartic reflection in “Serendipity,” which delves into the pain of missing a loved one and the bittersweet moments that linger in their absence. Themes of resilience and transformation also shine through in songs like “We Shall Rise,” which closes the album on a hopeful note. Each lyric and melody is a testament to the power of music as an outlet for confronting and processing life’s most difficult emotions.
Will you be hitting the road this year?
While ELOAĦ as a band doesn’t tour traditionally, many of our members are active in live performances with other projects. For now, we have been focusing our efforts on our first LP, and we are already busy in the studio again, having started work on our next album, which will explore a rather different theme from the current one. We’re also exploring potential live performances once these projects are completed.
What else is happening next in your world?
We’re thrilled to be working on an exciting new album that explores gospel-inspired hymns, reggae, and jazz. Additionally, we have welcomed our latest band member, the incredible violist Zarja Medved, who has brought fresh energy to our music and become increasingly involved in the composition and production process. As always, we remain committed to creating authentic, meaningful art that resonates with our listeners.