IndieShark Music News, Reviews & Interviews
Exclusive Interview with Blue for Black
When did you first know you wanted to make a life in music?
I’d say around age 16. I got my first electric guitar, started to learn how to play, and realized I wanted to make music for the rest of my life.
How would you describe your music to someone who had never heard it before?
It’s really a fusion of all the aspects I like of other music. If you think the vocals of Queen, the guitar of Eddie Van Halen, and the sounds and textures of Nine Inch Nails, that would be a pretty good start.
Who are your top 5 musical influences?
I’d say Eddie Van Halen and Nine Inch Nails would be my two biggest influences. I love Eddie’s playing, both rhythm and soloing, and Trent Reznor has been a huge influence on my songwriting and the percussion and textures I use. I love Alice In Chains, and the way they weave atonal and melodic passages together. Queensrÿche and Rush were also huge influences, mainly in the way they integrated progressive elements with straight-ahead rock.
What new music are you listening to at the moment?
I mostly listen to older music (laughs). I’m digging the new Tool album, and I like the new Alice In Chains a lot.
What city is your home base and what is the music scene like there?
I’m just outside of Buffalo, NY, which has a great local music scene. There’s tons of talent here, in many different genres. There’s also a real sense of community amongst musicians, which I think is really cool. I’d like to see more opportunities for artists to perform original music, but that’s improved a great deal over the years.
Which do you prefer more, performing live, or recording in the studio, and why?
Definitely performing live. There’s nothing in my experience that matches the synergy of performing with and for other human beings. I love working in the studio too, but it’s really just to create what I can play live.
Is there a song on your latest release that stands out as your personal favorite, and why?
I’d say ‘The Elegant Charade’ is probably my favorite. It has deep personal meaning for me, and I’ve gotten universally positive feedback on it. People I would’ve never expected to like it have liked it.
What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
Roger Waters The Wall. The combination of music and visuals was just amazing. Ronnie James Dio’s Holy Diver tour was really impressive, as well. The best sound I’ve ever heard in a large arena.
If you could collaborate with any band or artist (living or dead) who would it be, and why?
Oh wow, that’s a great question. If I had to pick one, I’d go with Trent Reznor. I’d love to see how he crafts music, up close and personal
What are your goals for the future?
Honestly, I’d like to create a connection with as many other humans as possible. I believe everyone has a gift to give, and music is mine. When I make a connection with people through my music, that’s as good as it gets for me.
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/blue_for_black/
End of Interview
