So then, what’s the band name and what do you ‘do’ in the band?
Our band is called A Lonely Crowd and I play guitar and compose a lot of the music.
Bearing the terrible clichéd nature of this question, what do you reckon people will say you sound like?
I personally don’t think we sound like any other band, but we have been told by others that they can hear glimpses of Mr. Bungle, King Crimson, The Dillinger Escape Plan etc and sometimes our vocalist Xen is likened to Kate Bush.
What do you love about making music?
Mostly just creating music that I would enjoy listening to and challenging myself melodically and rhythmically. I feel fortunate to be playing with 3 other likeminded individuals whose common goal is to create something unique and imaginative. We all try to push the boundaries and get a real buzz as it all comes together.
What do you hate about the music industry?
Radio stations force-feeding the same old crap over and over each day, then to go out to a pub and be bombarded with it all over again from a cover band or DJ.
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your stuff, who would it be and why?
Someone like Frank Zappa or Robert Fripp (King Crimson) who were experimenting and pushing boundaries themselves back in their day.
If you could assassinate one person or band from popular music, who would it be and why?
I wouldn’t target any of the artists I dislike… I’d be more inclined to assassinate the Corporate bigwig puppeteers pulling their strings.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
Our audience expects to be challenged and surprised. We try to make each show diverse and dynamic. We prefer to let the music speak for itself.
What’ve you got to sell CD-wise?
Our 16 track debut album User Hostile, which we’re releasing June 18th.
When’s the gig and with who?
Our album launch at The Evelyn Hotel, 351 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy June 18th with our good friends and fellow progressive/experimental partners Ennis Tola, Xenograft and Fritzwicky. Tickets are available from each band for $10 or at the door for $13. Doors open at 8pm. Email us at [email protected] for tix.
Anything else to add?
We’re excited to be a part of Melbourne’s emerging Progressive/Experimental scene and our aim is to broaden the musical appreciation for this genre both locally and further afield.
Check out a couple of tracks off our upcoming album at: www.reverbnation.com/alonelycrowd
