VERACIOUS
MAGAZINE
Featuring: Cody Jay Issue 2 // April 2017
2
Featuring:
12
Cody Jay
18
Isabel Torres
24 Faultlines 30 Arkells 32
Plaid Brixx
40 Shorelines 46
Shayna Leigh
48
Sweater Beats
50
Second GO!
58 CallMeKarizma 60 Loathe
3
Dedicated To: Justine Fields Thank you for all of your love and support over the years! You’ve helped me become confident in my work, and to never give up even on the hardest and overwhelming days.
Left: Letlive. in Brisbane, Australia Venue: The Triffid Photography by: Dana Hope
Right: RSJ in London, England Venue: Electric Ballroom Photography by: Marisela Morales
Many Thanks: Plaid Brixx: Ann Hailey & Candace Brown
Shayna Leigh: Jessica Shein
KidBrother: Lee Jackson
Shane Henry: Ella Morrison
CallMeKarizma: Matt Vigliotti
Cristina Fernandes of Listen Harder PR
Cody Jay: Lexie Ramos Sweater Beats: Lindsay Herr
Zachary McCarthy Robinton Hobbs of HYPR Media of Corpta
Tony Shurm of Jazz, Jay, Will & Ellie Earshot Media of Prescription PR Isabel Torres Vibes Earplugs 4
Austin Griswold of Secret Service PR Loathe
Faultlines: Elisa Tapia Ted Sullivan of Atlantic Records Tyler Soucy of Stunt Company Sarah Sigro of Big Hassle PR
Jana, Anna, Sam
Founder, Editor-in-Chief: Samantha Toy Senior Editor: Maria Reynon
“There’s nothing easy about photographing music. The scene, the framing, the lighting all need to align for one fleeting moment. Line them up, and you can almost hear the notes.” - Matt Adams from National Geographic
Playlist Editor & Designer: Tiffany Martinez Photographers: Aili Hauptmann Callum Ludlow Dana Hope Eve Schiano Jordan McGill Lauren Taylor Marisela Morales Samantha Toy Tamara Watts Grace Dearing
Alexandra Schnell Cassidy O’Hara Emily Freya Ian Enger Kristen Zarra Luxicon Photography Sam Elias Steven Ward Tiffany Martinez
Kenny Holland // Luxicon Photography
Writers: Olga Sawicki
Reviewers & Interviewers: Eve Schiano Gabriel Dufour Grace Dearing Luxicon Photography
Skindred // Tamara Watts
www.veraciousmagazine.com https://issuu.com/veraciousmagazine press@veraciousmagazine.com Twitter / Snapchat: veraciousmag1 Instagram / Facebook / YouTube: veraciousmagazine 6
CRUISR // Alexandra Schnell
Cover Photo: Cody Jay // Jordan McGill
Vibes High-Fidelity Concert Earplugs Review by: Samantha Toy
As a frequent concert goer, and photographer, you’re always next to the stage which can have your ears ring nonstop for days. It’s a horrible feeling, until I recently purchased Vibes’ Hi-Fidelity Earplugs. They are earplugs designed for live music, and they block and muffle sounds unlike the traditional foam ones. The earplugs filters acoustics, and lowers decibels to safer and more comfortable levels without sacrificing the sound quality. It allows you to take control of your live music experience, protect your hearing, and you can still hear the music even better because you can hear it clear, clean, and controlled. Vibes’ clear-as-glass design makes them virtually invisible, allowing you to avoid the stigma of wearing brightly colored, extremely visible earplugs.
Each pair of Vibes includes: - Three sizes of interchangeable eartips to ensure a comfortable fit for any sized ear - Hard plastic carrying case Ever since I purchased Vibes, they’ve changed my concert experiences for better, and it is worth it. You can purchase a pack at discovervibes.com now.
8
Four Year Strong Photography by: Callum Ludlow
Recent Releases: AFI - The Blood Album For Fans Of: Taking Back Sunday, Thrice, Bad Religion Released: January 20, 2017 Hometown: Ukiah, CA Website: https://afireinside.net
ERIK - U C ME ft. Dalton Wixom For Fans Of: The Chainsmokers, Calvin Harris, Martin Garrix Released: February 3, 2017 Hometown: Old Saybrook, CT Website: https://soundcloud.com/erikofficial
Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness Zombies on Broadway For Fans Of: Jacks Mannequin, COIN, Dashboard Confessional Released: February 10, 2017 Hometown: Dana Point, CA 10
Recent Releases: The Kin - Modern Primitive For Fans Of: Foals, Foster The People, The 1975 Released: January 27, 2017 Hometown: Australia & NYC Website: http://thekin.com
Shane Henry - Save Me off of Light In The Dark For Fans Of: BB King, Tom Petty, Stevie Ray Vaughan Released: February 21, 2017 (Album for release on April 28, 2017) Hometown: Oklahoma City, OK Website: http://shanehenry.com
Ben Hazlewood - Sail Away For Fans Of: 5 Seconds of Summer, Hey Violet, Justin Bieber Released: February 17, 2017 Hometown: Wellington, New Zealand Website: http://www.benhazlewood.com 11
Cody Jay Words by: Grace Dearing Photography by: Jordan McGill
Raised in Burbank, California, Cody
Jay spent most of his life exploring many genres of music, including R&B, Jazz, Barbershop, Opera, Jazz, Musical Theatre, and Pop. His debut album, Off the Vine, mixes Urban R&B sounds with a slight Pop undertone to accompany his lyrics. In songs like Different, Cody’s sound is upbeat and catchy, but the lyrics tell a different story. Beneath the music, he is almost begging someone to let him show her “something different.” In this song,
Cody is longing for someone to realize that she deserves “more than just a fancy car.” The longing for a deeper relationship than the superficial ideals society has placed on “relationship goals” is a common theme in Cody’s music. In the acoustic version of Off the Vine, Cody strips Beautiful down to just his vocals and a guitar. His voice drips with passion as he sings, “I’m not gonna plead, but all that I could ask of you is are we gonna
13
make this through? What we have is something beautiful. Girl you know it’s worth the push and pull.” Both Off the Vine and Off the Vine Acoustic encapsulate Cody’s talents in the studio and beyond. Not only did he record and produce both of these albums himself in his recording studio in Orange County, California, but he also wrote all of the lyrics featured on them. The music video for Different features clips of Cody’s past performances and tour and his charisma and energy on and offstage is so genuine that it’s almost tangible through the screen.
Cody’s albums are now available on iTunes and Spotify. To keep up to date on his newest music, videos, and projects, follow Cody on the following links. Instagram @codyjaymusic_ Twitter @codyjaymusic
14
Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/codyjayfans Soundcloud at https://soundcloud.com/cody-jay-music
TOP HITS OF 2017
16
Armors - Kerosene
GHOULS - Seasonal Affective
Wavves - You’re Welcome
New Politics - One Of Us
TOP HITS OF 2017
Molly Kate Kestner - Good Die Young
No Vacation - Mind Fields
Hardcastle - Millennial Attraction
The Flatliners - Human Party Trick 17
Artist Of The Issue with Isabel Torres Interview by: Samantha Toy Instrument: Guitar Touring with: Declan McKenna Age: 21 Hometown: London, England Dream Collaborations: Bruno Mars, Katy Perry, or Zara Larsson
What is your highlight of your day when you’re on the road?
You’ve performed for well-known festivals across the world such as: Outside Lands, Glastonbury, and Latitude. How was it playing in front of hundreds to thousands of people?
The highlight of my day is probably It’s a great experience! Outside Lands was surreal as we were standwhen I have the morning off to work ing all the way on the other side of the world and there were so many out or visit the city I am at. For me people so into it. And then to play at Glastonbury had been a dream personally, it’s really important to of mine for such a long time so it was amazing to have had that have some time on my own to do the experience so early on in my career. things I enjoy, as in this industry you are surrounded by people most of the time, having to be social and also living on a tour bus with the whole You’ve been touring with Declan Where do you see yourself three McKenna for a while now, years from now? band and crew. how has the experience been? And then of course the actual show! I know a lot of people get stage anxiety or find it stressful to play in front of a crowd but for me it’s one of the most peaceful moments in the day: my brain just switches off and for an hour all I do is enjoy playing my guitar and seeing everyone’s happy faces singing along in the crowd.
18
The experience has been wonderful! It combines two of my favorite things: traveling and playing music so I am very lucky to be able to call that my job. Besides that, I have been able to tick a few bucket list goals for example playing on the Late Show and doing festivals like Glastonbury.
Still a session guitarist, traveling all around the world but hopefully spending some more time in London working on my own music as well. I have been so busy with touring lately that I haven’t had time to sit down and work on my own sound but I would love to do that at some point.
Guitar is one of the most popular instruments in the world, and males outweigh the number of female guitar players according to Elle Guitar. Do you deal with sexist remarks on how a guitar is a male-dominant instrument? If so, how do you handle with those comments? I think when you are girl who plays guitar, people tend to assume that: 1) you are not very good at it or at least not to a professional standard; 2) No way you play electric guitar! If anything you play singersongwriter style acoustic guitar songs. So I suppose you just have to prove yourself a little bit more. This happened when I was at University - we were 2 girls and 60 boys, so I just had to do my best from the start so that I wouldn’t fall into either of those labels. Nowadays it benefits me because people think it’s such a rare thing that they want to have you in their band. That of course brings the stigma that “you only got the job because you’re a girl” which can be unfair sometimes. Is there any advice you would give to another female guitarist? Yes! Take as much time as you can to practice and become as best as you can. I know this can be hard when you are young, or at least it was for me when I was younger. Mainly because you put in so much time into pursuing your passion but there are not a lot of people you can relate to, as most of your girl friends have completely different priorities in life. But I just think it’s important to really be the best you can so that later in life when you start your career you can stand up for yourself and show that you weren’t just hired because you have a pretty face.
Do you believe in gender roles on any instrument? I think traditionally there used to be a few gender roles – Boys play drums, bass, guitar and girls play the violin, classical piano or sing. I don’t think this is so prominent these days but it’s definitely still a stereotype! I honestly don’t understand this distinction or why people make it such a big deal, because at the end of day what really matters is if you enjoy the music one plays or not. But this happens in tonnes of other jobs as well, it’s definitely not something exclusive to musicians.
What is one venue you want to play at in your life? Definitely The Royal Albert Hall in London. It’s so incredibly iconic for its history and beautiful architectural details. I love art so the architecture and interior design in a venue can make the show so much more special for me. Dream festival, however, I have to say Rock in Rio in either Lisbon or Rio de Janeiro (or hopefully both!). Growing up in Portugal, that has always been the ultimate festival where you get to see all the huge international pop rock bands, so if I ever get to play there my inner Portuguese kid will feel like I have made it.
19
Six Bands You Need To Know: Band: Belmont Genre: Pop-Punk Hometown: Chicago, IL Record Label: Mutant League Members: Alex Wieringa, Sam Patt, Taz Johnson, Matt Fusi, Brian Lada
Band: B1A4 Genre: K-Pop Hometown: Seoul, South Korea Record Label: WM Entertainment Members: Gongchan, CNU, Jinyoung, Baro, Sandeul
Band: Ryan Follese Genre: Country Hometown: Nashville, TN Record Label: Big Machine Label Group Members: Ryan Follese
20
Band: Moe Meguro Genre: Power Pop Hometown: Berkeley, CA Record Label: Self-Released Members: Bernie Gelman, Joseph Brandel, Logan Bean
Band: SHAED Genre: Alternative-Rock Hometown: Washington, DC Record Label: Photo Finish Members: Chelsea Lee, Spencer Ernst & Max Ernst
Band: Porshyne Genre: Heavy Atmospheric Rock Hometown: Brighton, England Record Label: Unsigned Members: Chris Hardwick, Harvey Fenny, Harry Baker, Jack Hosgood, Fergal Lyden
21
Jacob Whitesides Photography by: Sam Elias
Bebe Rexha Photography by: Aili Hauptmann
Faultlines Words by: Olga Sawicki Photography by: Jordan McGill
Meet Fautlines. This Los Angeles based folk trio, made up
of members Ashley Morgan, Todd McCool, and John Flanagan, has some pretty impressive experience under their belt. Last year they not only opened for both Christina Perri and Easton Corbin, but also released their second EP, entitled Telephone Philosophies. Though the band members themselves are inspired by the likes of Michael Jackson, Maroon 5, Whitney Houston, and The Beatles, the band’s signature sound is more reminiscent of what a day in Nashville might sound like. Warm and inviting, the elegance of the band’s three-part harmonies instantly draws you in and makes you feel like you’re sitting inthe sun on the most beautiful day you’ve ever experienced.
24
The band’s sophomore EP is very much crafted around heartbreak, but though many would agree that heartbreak in itself is a very sad experience, these three make it feel more bearable. Songs like “If You Only Knew” and “Starting at the Finish Line” show the listener that no one is perfect, and though that can cause your heart to ache, you’re not alone. “Wooden Bridges” is a song to listen to when you’ve caught someone in a lie, with lines like, “If you wanted something real, you should have built them out of steel, instead of betting all your riches on wooden bridges.” Songs like “Waiting for You” give people hope if they’re feeling down about not having a significant other (and we all know that one immediately joined my playlist).
All in all, this threesome of musicians should absolutely be on your radar. Their talent & ability to translate raw heartache into something beautiful is something that is much needed in people’s music libraries, and one can only hope they'll make their way to the opposite coast soon. I would love to experience a show that's more of a sing along than a crazy concert. Until then, catch Faultlines playing at Disney in Anaheim from late March to early April.
Contact the band: Twitter - @faultlinesongs Instagram - @officialfaultlines Website - faultlinesofficial.com Spotify - Faultlines iTunes - https://itun.es/us/B2OJdb
25
Surfer Blood - Snowdonia Review by: Gabriel DuFour
For those who have been searching for a
blissful album to brighten up the cold winter, look no further than Surfer Blood’s Snowdoina. It is a ray of sunshine that has emerged from the bands tragic past. A breath of fresh ocean air, Snowdonia is poetic, love struck, and playful. The albums whimsical melodies are layered over reflections of maturity and growth. For the most part, this album is about growing up. The eight track LP starts with the over the top nature of first loves, trails through experiences of self doubt and fear, recovers by embracing second chances, stumbles once more with the trials of single parenting, and ends with a narrator that’s grateful for home after experiencing the harsh realities of the modern world. When said like that, Snowdonia doesn’t sound very comforting. However, the albums inviting nature is achieved through its joyful delivery. The appropriately titled Surfer Blood have caught the wave of the early sixties surf genre and ride it out for the entirety of Snowdonia. Imagine the beach frenzied styles of the era blended with the quirky storytelling that so many young bands flock towards today. That is Surfer Blood. The obvious homages to the rolling, dirty surf music of acts like Dick Dale, The Ventures, and The Atlantics, as well as lighter care free riffs will impress coinsures of the style and time tremendously. The wonderful melodies are matched with unique, metallic-like vocals that are completely heart melting. Surfer Blood demonstrates their ability to perform, as well as communicate emotion efficiently in Snowdonia. The way Snowdonia was produced and its tracks performed make it challenging to hear the actual lyrics for many of its songs. However, the genius direction of the melodies, and emotion demonstrated in the vocals, allow the audience to understand the songs message without even hearing its words. While Surfer Blood explores vintage techniques in Snowdonia, the band does not let its content be restricted in its structure. It uses the surf styles as foundations for exploration. They switch between moods, pacing, and inspirations throughout each of Snowdonia’s tracks. A prime example of this is the epic “Six Flags in F or G”. The track starts with a relentless and rolling riff that creates a sense of suspense when layered with the eerie vocal delivery and narration. As the lyrics progress and switch themes, the melody does as well. The progressions completely transform into a gentle, hypnotic flow of good vibes. This transformation doesn’t just happen in this track. Snowdonia rarely has a track that hasn’t warped from its beginning when the finale arrives. Whether through an extensive solo, or just an abrupt change, Snowdonia doesn’t stick to the patterns it defines in its opening bars. Snowdonia is built from surf music along with aspects of punk sprinkled in here and there. The enjoyable album has everything that young audience’s want. It’s fresh, passionate, energetic, and it also manages to confront the fears that are associated with growing up, individuality and learning to love again. Snowdonia captures the spirit of a happy-go-lucky road trip, and is a wonderful little album that is a guaranteed delight.
Bea Miller - Chapter One: Blue Review by: Grace Dearing
Heartbreak is inevitable. Falling in love
almost always means also falling out of it. Especially when you’re young. In her new project, Chapter One: Blue, Bea Miller takes us through the process of coping with heartbreak. Bea breaks her music out of the pop sound fans grew accustomed to after the release of her first album, Not an Apology, and adds a bit of an edge to her music and lyrics. In the first song of the EP, A Song Like You, Bea’s raw vocals are met with soulful guitar and bitter-sweet background vocals. The sound mirrors the raw, bitter-sweet feeling of what it’s like to realize your relationship isn’t as picture-perfect as you once thought it was. “A Song Like You describes how even your happy moments with somebody are not that good for you, and how that intensifies the not-so-happy moments,” Bea says in the promo video she released on Instagram. In the song, Bea compares a toxic relationship to “a whispered lullaby that’s drowned out by a baby’s cry.” This juxtaposition further enhances the misconception that someone who was once your knight in shining armor is now the villain in this notso-perfect fairy-tale. Once this realization has been made, the next song, Burning Bridges, depicts the anger that is soon to follow. There’s nothing sweet left to the the vocals, the tone is completely bitter, and rightfully so. “You feel betrayed by the realization that they haven’t been doing anything positive for you,” Bea explains. The lyrics, “I don’t know why I stick around to watch you burn our bridges down. I can’t help it that I need you,” show the struggle to let go of something that was once the most important thing to you. There’s an undertone of hope in the lyrics, as if maybe things between these two people can actually be fixed, but they’re sung with such resentment that shows this is the end. For good. The EP ends with I Can’t Breath and by this point, Bea has taken down all of her walls and really let the listener in on some of her darkest moments. She is no longer accompanied by the heavy guitar heard in A Song Like You, or the bitter tone that drips off her lyrics in Burning Bridges. I Can’t Breathe is just Bea, and a piano. It’s the one song that Bea wants everyone to be able to relate to, no matter what they’re dealing with at the time. She says, “Sometimes we have a lot of things go wrong all at once and it really sucks and it’s really hard to understand and we feel super lost and alone and kind of like we’re suffocating. But, I think what’s really special about that song is that we do all feel that and maybe it’ll feel good to listen to that song when that’s how you’re feeling.” Chapter One: Blue is just the first part of a three-part project throughout 2017. Chapter One: Blue symbolized the sadness of heartbreak. In three months, three more songs will be released and in six months, the final three songs will be released. These six songs will make up the red and the yellow chapters. The red will symbolize frustration and freedom and yellow will symbolize conquering any problems life throws our way. Throughout 2017, Bea will do one of the most courageous things anyone can do: she will let the world into the deepest parts of her mind.
Taking Names - Trap City EP Review by: Luxicon Photography Having not heard any of Taking Names' previous music I wasn't sure what I was getting myself into, but I was not disappointed. They are a pop-punk band from Bergen, Norway signed with Loyal Blood Records, and their music has a modern variety of references from different genres giving them a uniqueness. They mark themselves as an act worth experiencing and paying attention to in the future.
Their EP, Trap City was released February 24th, 2017 with a single from it released a few weeks earlier. The single “Say Anything” is the opening track and immediately draws you in with catchy guitar riffs and angsty vocals. The song perfectly shows everything the band has to offer you on this EP. There’s an energy in the music that makes you feel like you're in the room with them dance moshing along. Intriguing vocal harmonies pop out here and there that really had me wanting more, which they made sure to feature later in the album. The next couple songs, "Near Life Experience" and "Young Landmarks" keep the energy going with catchy choruses you want to sing your heart out too. Then in "So the Legend Goes" we get a more mellow side of them. This song quickly became a favorite when the instruments suddenly all dropped out after the first chorus and just their vocals were highlighted for a few seconds. Their enchanting harmonies drew me right in and caught my attention before easing the bassline and guitar parts back in. The EP wraps up after that with a party banger of a song. The title track "Trap City" about wanting to get out of town is a song that you just know would get everyone moving at a show. It's the perfect ending to the set and leaves the album on such a high note. This EP is absolutely worth checking out for any pop punk fan and Taking Names is definitely a band to keep an eye on.
Social Media: Twitter: @takingnamesno Instagram: takingnames_official Spotify: http://bit.ly/TN_TrapCity iTunes: https://itun.es/us/Fktthb
28
Artist: Underdog Champs EP: Skeletons in Daylight Genre: Pop-Punk Hometown: Richmond, VA Release Date: February 24, 2017 Songs: 7 tracks
“We feel incredibly lucky that the four of us get along so well, write so naturally together, and all strive to the best we can be. We don’t care if we are the biggest band; we just want to keep making songs that we are proud of.” Virginia natives, Underdog Champs, tackle a
multitude of pop punk elements on their brand new EP, “Skeletons in Daylight,” that was released on February 24. Weaving through a range of emotions and topics, the EP seamlessly mesh together to create a solid, catchy body of work, filled with pop/rock hooks and relatable lyrics. The band are not afraid to stray away from categorizing themselves under a specific genre. Combining passionate lyrics, pop punk-esque breakdowns, and the occasional mid-tempo ballad, the band effortlessly weaves their personal musical influences into their work, molding together a high-energy discography. Formed in the summer of 2014, the current lineup of Mark Bradley, Nick Jones, Josh Bailey, and Justin Mason gives listeners a catchy collection of refreshing pop/rock hooks, staying true to the initial inspiration for the Underdog Champs persona. “Skeletons in Daylight” is available NOW.
Social Media: Twitter: @UnderdogChmpsVA Instagram: @UnderdogChamps Website: http://www.underdogchamps.com Skeletons in Daylight is available on Spotify and iTunes.
29
Arkells Interview by: Eve Schiano
Photography by: Cassidy O’Hara You’ve been on tour for quite some time now! How has the tour been? Do you think the show tonight in San Francisco will get wild? Max Kerman: Tour has been great! Yeah we’ve been on tour for a long time but it’s been a really fun experience. Especially on this tour it’s been great, and since we’re one of the openers, something you hope for when opening for somebody else is that the crowd is at all interested. Because a lot of times people go to shows and want the openers to get the hell off the stage, but the fact that we can go out there and put on a show, and make new fans every night is something that’s pretty special. Also a lot of the time, you know, openers don’t always get that opportunity. And that’s a testament to Frank and his band.
30
Do you have a favorite song or any favorite lyrics from the “Morning Report” record? I like a lot of the lyrics on a song on the record called “Round and Round,” we have and during the second verse where it goes, “After the closing bell and last song / it’s a buzzkill when the house lights turn on / I hit the road and sing along to my head phones / Jules is dancing when I get home /we ramble round and round.” That’s just from the idea of like, the end of the night, you know, the bartender puts the house lights on and everybody leaves. I like to put my headphones in and walk home by myself and just sing along to songs by myself. Growing up or in high school, did you have any awkward phases you went through? I definitely loved hip hop and in the early 2000s, Nelly was very popular. I definitely tucked my socks into the back of my jeans - that was a big style - so that was probably a little awkward in retrospect but I felt really cool at the time doing it, but it was silly; big baggy jeans with white socks tucked in.
What’s your favorite concert that you’ve ever been to; either growing up or recently? I’ll say this tonight because, John K. Samson, whose on the bill for tonight. He’s from a band called the Weakerthans, in Canada and they’re the reason why Mike, Nick and I became friends. I met Mike and asked him, “Oh what kind of music are you into?,” and he said the “Weakerthans,” and they were my favorite band - and I’d seen them play a bunch of times, and they always blew me away - so I’ll say that.
31
Plaid Brixx Words by: Samantha Toy Photography by: Lauren Taylor Originating from Columbus, Ohio, the threepiece alternative band, Plaid Brixx have been working hard since they first formed in early of 2013. The group consists of Chris Duggan (vocals & guitar), Mark LeRose (drums), and Jared Sawaya (bass) who have been playing together since high school. From the moment they began, they have released two EPs called
32
“Chemistry”, and self titled, “Plaid Brixx”. Following the success of the band’s debut project from the Chemistry EP, they have received praise from Buzzfeed, Diffuser, Guitar World, along with a nomination for Best Rock EP of 2014 by the Independent Music Association. They are also no strangers to screaming crowds and playing several major festivals such as
SXSW, CMJ, Fashion Meets Music Festival, Musikfest, and Albany Classic. From touring a ton over the years, they’ve played alongside with major acts like top country artist at the moment, Kelsea Ballerini, Dove Cameron, Before You Exit, and Timeflies. Recently, the band stopped at House of Independence in Asbury, New Jersey where they wrapped up a
thirty-two date tour with Astro Lasso, Cute Is What We Aim For, and We The Kings. Before the tour began, Chris Duggan remarked, “We have been fans for a long time (We The Kings) and are so grateful they chose us for their 10th Anniversary Tour.” When you’re at a Plaid Brixx show, you can expect music from their previous music projects, and high energy performances. In the future, you will definitely see more music, tours, and videos. For more information, you can check their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and make sure to listen to their two EPs!
Following the success of the band’s debut project from the Chemistry EP, they have received praise from Buzzfeed, Diffuser, Guitar World, along with a nomination for Best Rock EP of 2014 by the Independent Music Association. They are also no strangers to screaming crowds and playing several major festivals such as SXSW, CMJ, Fashion Meets Music Festival, Musikfest, and The New
33
Bad Suns Photography by: Tiffany Martinez
MAX Photography by: Samantha Toy
Latest Music Videos: Artist: The Maine Song: Bad Behavior of Lovely Little Lonely Release Date: February 23, 2017 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/ TheMaineOfficialVEVO
Artist: Declan McKenna Song: The Kids Don’t Wanna Come Home Release Date: January 20, 2017 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/ DeclanMcKennaVEVO
Artist: The Summer Set Song: Jean Jacket of Stories For Monday Release Date: February 14, 2017 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/Fearless Records
36
Artist: Airways Song: One Foot Release Date: January 27, 2017 YouTube Channel: Airways VEVO
Artist: Pierce The Veil Song: Floral & Fading of Misadventures Release Date: February 10, 2017 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/Fearless Records
Artist: With Confidence Song: Long Night of Better Weather Release Date: February 21, 2017 YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/user/Hopeless Records
37
Moose Blood Photography by: Ian Enger
Ghouls Photography by: Jessica Piochon
Shorelines Words and Photographs by: Dana Hope Shorelines are a dual vocalist pop punk
band from Brisbane, Australia. Dylan Thompson and Harry White, former members of Call The Shots, collaborate with Sean Fisher and Shaman Grayson of Rum, Forrest, Rum to begin a new chapter and are extremely excited for the years to come. With influences including State Champs, All Time Low, Neck Deep, With Confidence and The Story So Far, the band is bringing a whole new wave of music to the Australian shorelines. I sat down with the boys of Shorelines for a cheeky interview to find out about the bands plan for the months to come and get an insight on them. The boys picked the name Shorelines after much debate, but came to the conclusion that “we want to travel the world playing our music”, guitarist and lead vocalist Dylan Thompson said; “we want this band to take us shoreline to shoreline”. Although horrible pun and a very corny quote, I can see the fire that is beneath these guys to get this band off the ground. The pop-punk genre that they play has a mixture of meaning behind it. Drummer, Shaman Grayson said; “pop punk is the most fun to play live, it’s just an all-around good time”. The dude isn’t wrong. Pop punk shows, as a punter are some of the most fun shows to attend: crowd surfing, circle pits and screaming the lyrics back at those on stage, what more could you want? Harry White; bassist and lead vocalist states “we didn’t really ‘decide’ or plan it, we just started writing and that’s where we ended up”. The band released their first single “Let Us Go’ which received a massive responsefrom the fan base they have already created since the beginning. With over 9.5k views already, the future is looking bright for these young lads. With the upcoming release of their first EP “New Heights”, I and many others wonder, how a band chooses just 4 or 5 songs to feature and show to the world.
“We think these tracks are all different from each other”, Shaman states, “but somehow, from one to the next they flow really well and tell a story too”. Dylan adds “It’s got a bit of everything for everyone”. The boys have always been in bands or involved with music somehow. Shaman and Dylan’s fathers were both musicians, so it was somewhat in their blood to progress into a band, but lead guitarist Sean Fisher is different. “My dads not musically talented at all”, he states, “but it’s the feeling when you’re playing your songs to a crowd of people and they’re singing your lyrics back to you, it’s being able to travel the world and never get sick of hearing those lyrics sung back to you. It’s just the best feeling ever”. The pop punk nature of the band was influenced by those such as State Champs, All Time Low, Broadside, Panic! At The Disco, Neck Deep and Blink 182, some of the biggest names within the scene at the moment. After hearing Shorelines EP, you can definitely see the influences from these bands, and I can most certainly find the points that when these songs are performed live, are scattered with punk jumps and crowd interactions, which will improve their stage performance and crowd response weather they’re playing The Brightside or Wembley Stadium.
Shorelines have all been playing their instruments for a number of years, Dylan being the most, as he approaches his 20th year of playing guitar. While delving deeper into the thoughts of Shorelines, I was curious as to any competitions they’ve won in the past, that might have lead to them gaining more confidence with their instruments and playing live. “we (Sean and Shaman) won battle of the bands in High School, well we got Best Stage Presence and Best Cover”, Sean states, “yeah we played All Time Low’s ‘Dear Maria, Count Me In’”, Shaman continues.
41
Although the boys didn’t actually win the competition, any battle of the bands is not complete without someone covering ATL. Now although the boys have all been playing their instruments for a very long time, everyone makes mistakes. I would find myself cringing and crying and running off stage if I made a mistake while performing (I don’t perform, I write and photograph, but you get my point), Shorelines are performing and playing shows all the time, so how do they handle their mistakes onstage? “Everything we do is a mistake so we just
live to learn with it”, Harrys was quick to state when the question was asked, “that’s probably something my parents said to me growing up…” he continued. Shaman chimes in with “just keep playing, just keep playing”, a glorious Finding Nemo reference. All four guys have jobs, family commitments, girlfriends and still find time for band. “Band is life, we don’t have a life outside of band. We sleep together, we eat together, we poop together”. A bit of an overshare by Dylan there but you get the point. Shorelines practice multiple times a week for hours on end so they can perform to the best of their abilities for fans at every show. Shorelines have their first show coming up in Brisbane. The boys will be playing at The Brightside, on April 15. Tickets can be purchased at www.thebrightsidebrisbane.oztix.com.au. They also have a tour in the works with another pop punk band in Australia. Follow Shorelines journey and their upcoming adventures under ‘ShorelinesAU’, on all social media and keep an eye out for their debut EP, ‘New Heights’, coming soon.
42
If you could have dinner with 2 people, dead or alive, who would it be?
What is your favorite song at the moment?
D- Bon Scott & Jim Morrison
D – Dirty Laundry by All Time Low
SH- Alfred Hitchcock & John Lennon
SH – Chlorine by Trophy Eyes
S – Brendan Urie & Christian Bale Harry couldn’t think of one, so just said “Dylan and Shaman” - loser
S – Inspire The Liars by Dance Gavin Dance H – Archers by With Confidence
What is your favorite dog? D – Husky SH – Border Collie S – Dash hound, you’re all wrong, the answer is dash hound H – German Shepherd, wait GREAT DANE, wait ALL DOGS THAT AREN’T SHIT, except Chihuahua’s, they piss me off
43
Patrons Photography by: Emily Freya
Everywhere Photography by: Marisela Morales
Shayna Leigh Words by Maria Reynon & Interview by: Samantha Toy
Shayna Leigh is an aspiring pop artist hailing from Orlando, Florida. Leigh is an artist who is truly passionate about her passion, and it shines through in her songs. Her musical journey started when she was a child doing musical theatre. Through that, she fell in love with singing. In her eyes, it was “most instinctual form of expression she’d ever experienced.”
Throughout her career, she has perfected her craft through being influenced by The Beatles, Carole King, Laura Nyro; as well as modern pop music today. Through years and years of writing lyrics, recording vocals, and performing for fans, she has truly found her sound that separates her from other artist. In the summer of 2015, Shayna Leigh released her anticipated debut album, “Drive,” and it included ten tracks for listeners’ pleasure. Her album describes a monumental milestone in Leigh’s career. Both musically, and emotionally. It is unique due to its “organic roots and pop touches.” Besides her music, Shayna is a genuine human being. She does what she does because she believes in the “universality of the human heart,” and that is showcased in her album. Leigh may have Photography by: Bobby Quillard written the lyrics to her songs, but the stories that are being painted in her fan’s minds belong to her fans. Besides music, she enjoys other hobbies like acting, When did you know you wanted to become a dancing, and traveling. One that stood out from the singer/songwriter? rest was her commitment to promote self-love. She has performed at a fundraisers for the American My decision to become a singer/songwriter didn't Foundation for Suicide Prevention. happen in a single moment. I always knew that performing was something I wanted to do, & I dreamed Shayna is currently residing in New York of doing it professionally, but it's a decision I make where she is making more music magic. Check out all the time. Every time I start a new project, write a her debut album on Itunes or Spotify. Plus, check out new song, it feels like I am making a decision to be a her music video for “Goodbye July,” on YouTube. She singer/songwriter. is sure to be topping the charts soon.
46
You released your debut album, “Drive” back in 2015 via S-Curve and UMG Records. How has the reaction been to the record? What has been your favorite song? The reaction has been amazing. Making an album takes a lot out of you, both in terms of time & also in emotional energy. Putting it out into the world can be a bit intimidating, but people have really responded to the music, which feels incredible. This album was a long time coming for me. I'd written a lot of music that I didn't end up releasing for one reason or another, which ultimately made these ten songs all the more special to me. "Drive" will always be my favorite song from this album. It was the first one I wrote. We (my cowriters, Peter Zizzo, Michael Mangini & I) wrote it during a very difficult time in my life, both personally and professionally, & it helped bring me out of that. "Drive" showed me the type of artist I wanted to be, the type of music I wanted to make & assured me that I was on the right path.
You’ve had the chance to work with incredible producers such as: Michael Mangini (Joss Stone, Diane Birch), & Peter Zizzo (Avril Lavigne) What was it like working with them? Did they give you any advice on anything? I have been incredibly lucky in terms of the people I've had the opportunity to work with. Michael & Peter are not only enormous talents with incredible resumes, but they are also two of the best people around. Working with them was definitely intimidating at first, but ultimately it helped me become a better version of myself, not only in terms of my singing & songwriting abilities, but also in my confidence & self assuredness. They give me lots of advice, both on literally making the music & on the music industry in general. I think the greatest lesson I've learned was about how those two things combine: how to make music that is meant to be put out into the world & how to execute that.
What has been your favorite music video to film? Any outstanding memories? I actually just finished filming 5 new music videos for the 5 new songs I’m releasing, so that was kind of incredible! (We filmed them all in 6 days... which is a pretty insane undertaking.) I also have to say that the making of “Goodbye July” was pretty special. I don’t really know how to explain it, but sometimes as an artist you undertake a project that changes you in the process. I feel like I grew into myself while we were filming. I was able to let go and lose myself in the story in a way that was really transformative for me as a person. Where do you see yourself in two years from now? This is hard one! One of the things I've learned about life as a musician is that things are always changing. I've found that I have to set goals for myself while staying open to shifting my plans & letting them grow. In two years, I hope to be singing & writing and performing, & I hope to continue to connect with fans. That's always been my primary goal-to try to make meaningful art that has an impact on people. That’s what I’d like to be doing.
Do you have any musical plans for the rest of the year? New music or possibly a tour? I am hoping to do a lot of touring in 2017! I am joining Lee DeWyze on tour next month, which I am quite excited about. I toured with him a bit last year & it was a really great experience. He’s an incredibly nice guy, I learned a lot and his fans are just so welcoming and supportive. After that, I plan to keep going- keep playing shows, release my 5 new songs (stay tuned) & make more music! That’s always the goal!
47
Sweater Beats Interview & Photography by: Samantha Toy Born in the Philippines, and raised outside of
Maryland, Sweater Beats also known as Antonio Cuna is hitting the world by his hybrid music. He infuses R&B, and dance together which sounds equally fitting from both the festival stage, and his bedroom. Sweater Beats has constantly pushed the limits of his own sound which has gotten to where he is today. With support from the likes of Diplo, Omarion, and JoJo, plus tours with artists like Chance the Rapper, Flume and Chet Faker, the producer has clearly caught the eye some of a wide variety of tastemakers.
We are here tonight in San Francisco, CA at The Regency Ballroom which is the first day of The Sleepover Tour. How excited are you to finally embark this journey of twenty-four dates? Ah man. I’m really, really, really excited because Gnash is awesome and I get to travel with two of my very good friends, MAX and Imad Royal and it’s just the nice Sleepover Tour.
Have you been to San Francisco before? I have actually! I’ve played at 1015 Folsom multiple times, and a bunch of other ones I’m blanking on right now, but they’re always amazing shows.
48
What is your favorite thing to do when you come here? Ah man, eat food. Most of the time I’ve been here was for playing shows, and it’s only been here for about eighteen hours...so I definitely need to come out here more often and to hang out.
MAX who is also an opening act on this tour was featured on your single, Did You Wrong. Do you both plan on collaborating more over this month? Absolutely! We are going to be doing a lot of things especially on this tour where I can be like, “Hey do you want to listen to this and maybe sing on it?” It’s probably going to happen, hopefully. What you plan to achieve by the end of this tour? Hopefully get some awesome fans and just show more people my music who have never heard of this before and try to open some people’s minds.
Finally, what are your plans after this? Probably go on a vacation. To be honest, I work a lot and I don’t think I’ve taken a vacation in a very long time so I might go travel, and then go back to making music.
49
Second GO! Interview and Photographs by: Luxicon Photography I had the chance to catch up with Ian and Coltin from Arizona band, Second GO! for a pizza themed afternoon. Both Ian and Coltin play guitar and sing vocals for the band. Unfortunately Jade, their drummer, and Devon, their bassist, were unable to attend our mini pizza party. The group has been together under the name Second GO! for a little over a year now and have been working hard on writing and recording music and playing shows. The band currently has a song up on their bandcamp page and a new EP set to be released very soon. After doing some goofy pizza photos, perusing youtube for pop songs they could potentially cover, and then going to pick up some ‘za I sat down with them and asked them some questions. We talked about their new EP, plans for this year, and of course, pizza. Be glad you don’t get to hear all the eating noises between questions.
V: What's the name of the single coming out? I: The song is called Biding Time. The song is about love and biding your time and always thinking you can find something better and kinda cutting yourself short all the time. I think it's the only song on the record about a girl or love interest. C: That song kinda represents self sabotage to me which I uh, know a whole lot about.
Valerie: So word on the street is there's a new EP coming out. Coltin: Yeah it's called A Static Standstill. It's getting put out by Human Heart Records that we just signed to. The EP comes out April 7th I: The EP has 5 songs on it. We're gonna release a single about a week or two before the release date. I wrote that song myself and then brought it to the band. We all put our own into it and eventually it became this perfect mix of all of our favorite types of music into one. So we're really excited. C: I feel like it was one of the first times that we composed something together as a group that really was.. I: *Burps* C: It was like a science project or something! It was the best science project ever and I hope that it wins a ribbon when it comes out. We're gonna put out a lyric video for it I think a week before the EP comes out and it's gonna be super duper sick.
50
V: So where'd the name A Static Standstill come from? I: Coltin and I go on these walks all the time and we were trying to think of a name for the EP...and "static" was mentioned so we held on to that. He said "standstill" like 5 minutes later and I was like "Static Standstill." Basically what it means is like, there's so much going on inside your head or around you but it still feels like you're not going anywhere. C: Basically, I feel like all I see around me at this time of my life, everyone's just stuck. ... I'm always freaking out. Like everything's just static all the time, but nothing's moving or changing and then everything around me is kind of dead stopped. I feel like it could be relatable. V: So how was the recording process?
V: Sounds like a big learning experience
C: It was sick! We recorded with Matt Aldawood. He plays in a local band in AZ called Trouble Minds
I: Definitely, we came out a different band.
I: The recording process... we tried to track to a click track as a band which we had never done before. So we spent an entire day trying to do that, went home, he called me up and he said 'Hey it's all kinda shit so you wanna redo it or you wanna do it a different way?' I said 'Let's just live track it' C: We paid for that. We paid to suck I: Then the good and oh so forgiving Matt Aldawood let us go in an extra day to tie up loose ends after recording it live. We're a very live band, we thrive playing live shows. C: Yeah, it was a good time. Usually I hate the recording process but I really enjoyed working with Matt. He pushed us really hard and he was definitely hard on us but I feel like he pulled a lot of good performances out of us. He made me sing a lot of ways I had never really sang before. There was a couple times when I went in to track my vocals that the rest of the band was like 'What? I didn't know you could do that? You were holding on to that? Why didn't you tell us about that before?'
C: It was the most positive recording process we've ever had.
V: So what else do you guys have planned for this year? C: Well, we have a release show in the middle of April. We're hoping to just play as much as possible. I: We're playing April 28th at Pub Rock with bands Westbrook, Sunland, Troubled Minds, and Graveler, who's from California on the same label as us. And even, we're planning a tour, maybe a week long tour in May or June. We're gonna start doing more weekend tours around the state or Colorado or Utah or California. By the end of the year we wanna start probably writing and recording the next EP. We're already throwing ideas around cause we write constantly. We can't stop. C: Basically we're just gonna keep chugging away
51
V: So is that the song you guys are most excited for on the EP or are there any others that really stand out? C: My favorite song on the EP is, I guess I'm an asshole, but it's one that I wrote. Jade, our drummer, named it. I guess I wrote it on a Wednesday and she was like "One Shot Wednesday!".
V: Last question, If you could have a pizza party with your favorite musician, who would it be and what kind of pizza would you order? I: Hmmm. Mark Hoppus, pretty much everyone in Blink, Travis and Tom. Neck Deep, they’d have to be there for a pizza party definitely. The youtuber Jarrod Alonge. I think he’s hilarious. He’s a parody artist so I guess that counts. Justin Timberlake, ugh I love him. I have such a soft spot for him, JT, my boy. Oh, Sum 41 for sure. C: I would say Macho Man Randy Savage... I: He’s not a musician
I: Every song on the EP is like its own thing. Each one kinda stretches in a different direction.
C: Well I don’t care, he’s an artist. I would want... I would probably have Ben Folds there. Ben Folds is really cool. And Pinegrove. And probably The Wonder Years, mostly The Wonder Years. The Wonder Years are my faaaaaave.
C: It's a really diverse EP
I: One more artist for me, All Time Low, Jack Barakat. I touched his dick once. On stage. No lie. He called me up on stage and he came up to me and put his arm around me and lifted his leg so I picked him up and swung him around and as he was coming off me I kinda, swiped his dick. And when I got off stage he was like “The guy in the red shirt touched my dick.” I was like “Yeah I did.” But the pizza I would have is a cheese stuffed crust for sure. My favorite pizza is green peppers and sausage.
I: Yeah it's totally like, here's what we can do 5 different ways' C: Yeah we don't wanna be pinned down to one genre. I don't wanna set up an expectation for people and then disappoint the next time we put something out. I just wanna be able to do whatever I want I: We can never sell out if we always change our music.
C: I would do a Mexican pizza...with like a pico de gallo stuffed crust and instead of mozzerella cheese I would probably use Cheddar Jack and then enchilada sauce. V: You’re inventing an all new pizza. C: Yeah dude. For a dream pizza party. I have a dream...to have the greatest mexican pizza ever. You could call it Pizza de Gallo!
And on that note, we called it a night and said our goodbyes so they could go practice. Make sure to check out their EP when it comes out on April 7th. It'll be available on iTunes and Spotify. Also, if you're in Arizona make sure to get out to their EP release show on April 28th at Pub Rock!
52
We The Kings Photography by: Jordan McGill
Jay Som Photography by: Steven Ward
Hey Violet Photography by: Kristen Zarra
It's said that music has an uncanny ability to bring people together. The same is said all too often when it comes to tragedy. How do we handle one colliding with the other?
Words by: Olga Sawicki
On March 10th, 2017,
a seemingly normal Friday for most of us, police responded to several 911 calls pertaining to a luxury condominium in St. Charles, Illinois. Inside, they found four victims: 16-yearold twin sisters Brittany and Tiffany Coffland, their 46-yearold mother, Anjum, and their 48-year-old father, Randall. All were fatally shot except for Anjum, who was taken to the hospital in critical but stable condition. It would later be reported that Randall had been responsible; he had killed his daughters and shot his wife in both legs before reporting what he'd done to the emergency dispatcher and ultimately turning the gun on himself. Naturally, this heinous act sent shockwaves through St. Charles. Anyone on the outside looking in would never expect those waves would also travel to a living room in New Jersey, someone’s car in New York, or bedrooms in Louisiana and Tennessee. I saw the pain sent through my sister’s heart. I saw the despair in the eyes of my friends. I saw the anger in my own face, reflected out of my soul, because, to all of us, this was something that happened to strangers, not to people we knew.
56
Timmy Rasmussen of 7 Minutes in Heaven with Brittany Coffland
Many of us grieving had never met either Coffland sister. Some were lucky enough to experience their infectious laughs, their hearts of gold, and their pure love of life, but a majority of us did not receive such a beautiful gift. It was mostly a game of six degrees of separation; we knew people who knew people, but some of us never spoke. We would have an indirect bond over social media, and most of the time, that was enough. We became a web of individuals who tried to be there for one another as best as we could. Though my path and Brittany’s never crossed, I knew of her through my sister. I knew how much she loved 7 Minutes of Heaven, a Chicago based alternative band, and I saw how happy my sister and her friend were when they said something like, “Britt saw Timmy today!” People who knew Brittany and Tiffany echoed the sentiment. “They were both so similar - it was constant smiles at concerts,” recounts their friend Emily. Their friend Toni agreed. “She (Brittany) always has a big smile on her face when she was with Timmy,” she told me via Twitter DM. “She had shiny, big eyes that showed pure happiness, and it made me a little jealous because I didn’t know someone’s eyes could show so much happiness.” Not only was Brittany the epitome of sunshine, but her
heart was in the right place. “She was so kind to everyone she met, no matter if she knew them or not,” her friend Sam mentioned, also via Twitter DM. “We all loved her so much.” Though the scars of this loss will never truly fade, many of those affected find comfort in both music and each other. Our 7MIH family lost someone truly special, and we lean on one another for support. I see it all around me, and it gives me hope. And to think: this all started because a group of people liked the same band. We felt understood by musicians who knew nothing us personally, yet we connected because of them, and now they are helping us through varying degrees of sorrow, anger, loss, and grief.
“Because, after all is said and done, I’m okay if you’re okay.”
A special thanks to the following: Paulina (@ linabearrr), Christina (@cmahachek), Renee (@reneejean_xoxo), Gabby (@therealgappysap), Tay (@iamtaypatt), Natalia (@natalialynn96), Neena (@neenee_y), Lizzie (@ qtlizzielou143), & Kylie (@bye_kylie) for giving me strength & love when I need it most; Emily (@punkassweirdo), Sam (@Sam_Kpro), and Toni (@hayitstoni) for giving me insight; Timmy (@Timmy7MIH), Alex (@Alex7MIH), Justin (@Justin7MIH), and Brennan (@Brennan7MIH) for inspiring us all, and for loving Brittany as much as they did.
57
CallMeKarizma Words & Photography by: Eve Schiano
58
This 21-year-old musician from
Minnesota just closed up his first nationwide headlining tour titled Emo Espresso.The title of this tour derives from the musician constantly talking of the music he grew up and listened to, as well as to help inspire others to know he is always there and different outlets one can use. CallMeKarizma went around the country playing songs from his most recent album, Uninvited that released in April of 2016, and songs from his newest EP called “Emo” released February, 2017.
self on his one-on-one interaction and close relationships with his fans and the people looking for an outlet and to encourage artists and struggling personalities. In his most recent project and campaign, #ArtistsForAnxiety, he encourages those who support him and who have any creative outlet to share with the world the talent they have. CallMeKarizma believes in helping others and being a strong advocate to find relief to understand they are never alone especially with ones who deal with anxiety and mental illness. The Artists For Anxiety campaign is this musician’s way of letting those know how everyone can help one another.
“just talked to a teen issues class at my old high school about anxiety and it felt good to share my story” - CallMeKarizma As a musician that is not confined to any specific genre of music, CallMeKarizma continues to push the boundaries and create new music for this new and forever changing world to hear. He states this through his twitter, and social media accounts that this is his favorite work he has ever created and could not be more excited for people to hear and to gain a new following. Karizma provides him
CallMeKarizma is currently taking the world by storm, and has new music, and tours on the way along with his project, ArtistsForAnxiety. You can join the group by tweeting under the hastag, #ArtistsForAnxiety to read more inspirational stories from other fans across the globe. Make sure to check out his music on iTunes, and Spotify along with following him on social media for more updates.
59
Loathe Interview by: Samantha Toy Answers by: Erik Bickerstaffe
Your debut album, The Cold Sun, is being released on April 14. You all flew out to Atlanta, Georgia How long have you been working on this record? Has it been years, to work with producer, Matt McClelmonths, or weeks? lan who has previously worked with Underoath, The Devil Wears Prada, The writing process began around the beginning of 2015. A year of and Being As An Ocean. What was writing led us to Glow in the Dark for 2 months in March and April the experience like working with of 2016 and from then on we have been working on it until we him? announced it. So around two years now. Working with Matt was something that we had collectively wanted to do since the bands fruition so it was When it comes to writing lyrics, do you all collaborate together, great to finally get the chance to work or is it a one person job? alongside him. We worked very closeIt can be either really. We all like to have our input on lyrics but it can ly alongside him to achieve a sound we had brewing in our heads for a sometimes work out best if its either Kadeem or myself. It depends while and we're all very happy with really. the outcome. What is your favorite song off of The Cold Sun, and why?
 How has your music evolved since you first began playing music together?
I think "Loathe" is our collective favourite. To us it completely represents what sound we were aiming for with the music on "The Cold Sun" so much so that we named it after the band.
We feel like it has just became more natural and rooted to who we are as people. We started writing our first release "Prepare Consume Proceed" over 3, nearly 4 years ago now. So we are just seeing our musics evolution as a natural progression.
60
Pierce The Veil Photography by: Cassidy O’Hara
63
veraciousmagazine.com