In today’s A-Z challenge, we find out all about Take It Or Leave It!
A song that made you want to make music?
Superman by Goldfinger. That Tony Hawk soundtrack era shaped a lot of us, and the entire Hang-Ups album still hits hard today.
Best rider you’ve had?
We haven’t had anything too wild yet, but shout out to any venue that gives us water, beer and a place to stash our gear. That’s the real MVP move.
Craziest moment you’ve had in the band?
We played a whole set at The Delancey while the monitor kept rattling off its platform. Every time it fell, it would cut the power strip to our pedalboards, so we were troubleshooting mid-song all night. They also wouldn’t let us wear our hats. Total chaos but an awesome show in the end.
Deepest lyric one of your songs features?
“Your ego devoured so much of my time” from Cracked Ribs. It’s a gut punch that hits harder the more you think about it. Plus we all scream it at the top of our lungs, there’s something therapeutic about it.
Easiest song you wrote?
Pints and Power Chords. Craig brought it in just a few days before our first show and the whole thing came together before the first beer was empty that night. We’ve tweaked things along the way but the foundation was made in a matter of minutes.
Favourite song in your set?
Some Things Never Change. The intro goes hard and gets the whole room moving. Plus, it’s got a message that hits close to home right now. We intentionally put it somewhere in the middle because it always gets us back up to max speed if we need that boost.
Guest you’d most like to feature on your record?
We’d love to bring in a female vocalist. Craig’s voice would pair great with a call-and-answer style, and it’d open up a ton of creative options.
Hardest thing about being in a band?
Everything that happens outside of being on stage or at practice. From recording to photo shoots to social media and everything in between, it never really stops, so we’re never not working.
Interesting fact about one of your members?
The drum set Devon plays was originally a Christmas gift Mario’s dad gave his mom because she liked air drumming (and specifically in More Than A Feeling by Boston). Devon first played it over a decade ago when jamming with Mario’s first band, and he’s still playing it now.
Jokes you have in the band?
Pasta Rock. Someone once said “TIOLI” sounds like “ravioli,” and it spiraled into a full-blown identity. It’s more than just a rhyme, it’s a vibe.
Key to writing a song?
Patience and inspiration. You’ve gotta be open to the moment but also know when to step away and revisit it with fresh ears.
Longest distance you’ve travelled to play a show?
We drove from Tappan, NY to Buffalo, NY for a gig, which is about 380 miles one way. It was our first real road trip show, and we’re ready for more.
Most inspiring musician you’ve experienced?
Joe Strummer. He had presence, purpose, and a voice that mattered. That kind of legacy is something every band should chase.
New band you’d recommend?
Winona Fighter. Mario’s been listening to them a lot lately. They’re making noise for all the right reasons.
Opening for this band would be ideal?
Green Day, Four Year Strong, Foo Fighters, Blink-182, Rancid, or The Offspring. Any of them would be unreal.
Place you’d most like to tour?
Europe or Japan. Getting to share our music on another continent would be a dream.
Quote you’d like to pass on to our readers?
“Those who stand for nothing fall for anything.” – Alexander Hamilton
Reason for the title of your recent/forthcoming release?
The name for our EP ‘Tunnel Vision’ came from our need to refocus. Early on we were juggling too many ideas and losing sight of the end goal. We had to lock in and take it one song at a time. The name reflects that mindset.
See us live at?
Our next gig is July 5th at Debonair Music Hall in Teaneck, NJ, with more shows lined up across NY and NJ all summer long. Follow us so you don’t miss out on the fun!
The old days of music were better than the current, do you agree?
Yes and no. We love the access and influence that the internet brings, but now we’re up against more bands than ever. With AI and home studios in the mix, the scene is crowded and mediocrity is plentiful. It’ll balance out eventually…we hope.
Unusual merchandise?
We tried to turn a visual from our lyric videos into a fanny pack design. It ended up looking like dirty laundry, but we made it into a sticker and earplug bag instead. Problem solved.
Variations you’d like to do on any of your songs?
We’d love to do an unplugged version of Pints and Power Chords. Lose the distortion, turn up the chant-along energy, and give it that rowdy Irish pub drinking song vibe. Maybe even record it in a pub for authenticity.
What do your fans mean to you?
They’re everything. Whether you’re at the show, streaming a track, or just liking a post, every bit of support means more than you know.
X-rays or any treatments needed for band related injuries?
Zach got into a minor car accident on the way to a show in May. We played as a three-piece while his hand recovered. He’s on the mend.
You’re late for a show, whose fault is it?
Probably Craig. He’s got a habit of remembering last-minute errands. But if you ask Zach, it’s definitely Zach.
Zoo animal that best describes the personality of your band?
The whole band? Probably a goat. We’re loud and we do our own thing. If we weren’t a zoo animal though, we’d probably be a golden retriever or a raccoon. Both friendly and chaotic in their own way.