A song that made you want to make music?
My dad would play the piano when I was growing up and I loved when he played Beatles songs. I think that’s when I first felt the power of music and melody and rhythm coming together.
Best rider you’ve had?
During our tour with Alkaline Trio, they messed up and gave us a rider from the band who played the previous night (I can’t remember the band), but we got so much alcohol we just started laughing cause none of us are big drinkers. But we also got a tonne of deli meats and most of us are vegetarian or vegan, so Mike (Park, bandmate) made sandwiches and just gave ’em out for free at the merch table. He would say “if you buy a shirt, I’ll make you a sandwich.”
Craziest moment you’ve experienced in the band?
I’d have to say doing the tour with Alkaline Trio. They hadn’t toured in a long time since Matt had joined Blink 182, so the shows were massive. We felt like rock stars. Their fans were so loving and enthused about our set, it really was crazy!!
Deepest lyrics one of your songs features?
You can make homes in the distance
You can say I have no sense
You can parry in vain
The abuses in your name
This is from the title track of our We Can Pretend Like LP.
Easiest song you wrote?
The Real California from my old band Mixtapes. Within an hour, the structure was done. After the 2nd hour I finished lyrics and DONE!
Favourite song in your set?
We do a cover of Modern English “Melt With You” and I just love the song. The 80’s new wave dance groove. I love 80’s dance parties, so getting a dance party going at our shows is always so much fun.
Guest you’d most like to feature on your record?
Wouldn’t it amazing to get Beyonce! We could just layer our voices over her singing the most powerful soulful lines and then we’d be besties.
Hardest thing about being in a band?
Like all relationships, there’s ups and downs. It could be that time of month for me and your stuck in the van and you have cramps and you just want to curl up in a ball and cry. But that’s life.
Interesting fact about one of your members?
Did you know Mike Park is an ordained Minister and started a punk rock wedding service called punkrockweddings.net. He’s actually officiating a wedding in Brighton when we’re on tour.
Jokes you have in the band?
Megan likes to imitate Count Dracula. Or sing popular emo songs in the voice of the Count. We Instagram story her doing this way too much.
Key to writing a song?
You just need a good melody. But don’t forget the lyrics. Try to put some heart into the words.
Longest distance you’ve traveled to play a show?
Coming to England was pretty far. Actually, I think is definitely the farthest we’ve traveled. Other than Canada these will be our first non US shows.
Most inspiring musician you’ve experienced?
Laura Stevenson. Her guitar playing and voice are so superior. Every single time I see her perform, I just ask myself why am I even doing this? She’s just so good, it makes me want to get better.
New band you’d recommend?
Small Crush. Mike Park played me their new album that’s coming out sometime this year, but it’s just dreamy indie pop fronted by an 18 y/o female singer/songwriter.
Opening for this band would be ideal?
I would love to tour with someone like Tegan and Sara or Alvvays.
Place you’d most like to tour?
Japan, that’s my dream. I’ve never toured there. I’ve been a couple times to visit family, but never had an opportunity to play music there.
Quote you’d like to pass on to our readers?
I love music with all my heart. I try not to take it for granted and appreciate any chance I have to play music for others.
Reason for the title of your recent/forthcoming release?
See us live at?
UK TOUR
17.06.19 – Portsmouth – Edge of the wedge
18.06.19 – Exeter – The Cavern
19.06.19 – Southampton – Joiners
20.06.19 – Brighton – Prince Albert
22.06.19 – Cheltenham – Frog and Fiddle
23.06.19 – Swansea – Crowleys Rock Bar
24.06.19 – Bristol – exchange
25.06.19 – London – New Cross Inn
26.06.19 – Leicester- soundhouse
27.06.19 – Stafford – Redrum
28.06.19 – Manchester – The Castle
29.06.19 – Glasgow – The 13th
30.06.19 – Edinburgh – The Banshee Labyrinth
The old days of music were better than the current, do you agree?
No way. I hate when people say that. It’s close minded. I love all eras of music, but I want to stay open minded and I know there are so many great bands coming out all the time.
Unusual merchandise?
Nothing on this tour. Just the same ol’ shirt and records.
Variations you’d like to do on any of your songs?
Haha – nothing I can think of. Mike loves ska so much, so maybe he’d want to do a ska version of one of our songs.
What do your fans mean to you?
Everything. I know they’re the reason we exists.
X-rays or any treatments needed for band related injuries?
Thankfully we’ve been blessed with injury free touring, but knock on wood. I hope it continues to this way haha!
You’re late for a show, whose fault is it?
Probably me haha. I can’t help it. I’m always the last one ready. But I always say sorry.
Zoo animal that best describes the personality of your band?
Of course, the zebra. With their black and white stripes pushing for equality. Like the 2 TONE movement.