Published: August 15, 2010 3:23 AM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight August 2010 Edition
Deezer of Astrovan
Music Now Artist/Band Spotlight Weekly Series
Astrovan
Seattle band Astrovan is making a big splash on the indie music industry with their fantastic Rock sound that Rock music lovers will find appealing. Front man and Lead Vocal, Deezer, recently spent some time with our Webzine to speak about his band Astrovan and their mission to entertain the masses. Here is what developed from this online conversation with Deezer of Astrovan. Enjoy!
Isaac: Let’s get started with this interview. When and how did you first become interested in music? How long have you been playing music?
Deezer: I first became interested in music at a very early age. My mom is a singer, and naturally, I wanted to follow in her footsteps. I have been playing music for a long time! The rest of the guys have been playing music the majority of their lives as well! We all have that in common. Lifetime musicians, with the same goal in mind...to make it big!
Isaac: Who would you say are your biggest musical influences and why?
Deezer: Growing up in Seattle, I was exposed to some great musicians before they hit it big. Eddie Vedder, Chris Cornell, and Lane Staley are big influences vocally. Led Zeppelin, Black Crows, Van Halen, and Metallica are just a handful of other influences. There is a certain energy that these bands have that speaks to me! A lot can be said about "mojo" and I am drawn to bands that have a great vibe to there music. I study all aspects of what they do to help improve my game, and grow as a frontman!
Isaac: What has been the greatest highpoint in your career so far?
Deezer: The highpoint, for me, has been playing The Gorge Amphitheatre in George, WA. It is an absolutely beautiful setting! It was, truly, a dream come true.
Isaac: What has been the greatest disappointment in your career so far? What did you learn from that experience?
Deezer: Finding out people aren't who they say they are. A lot of people want to be a part of something special. They take advantage of all the hard work and effort we put into something just to gain personally. You have to watch out for yourself first! It sounds selfish, but if you let people take advantage of you, odds are they will.
Isaac: What draws you to want to play the type of music that you do?
Deezer: The power that comes out when we play. Whether at rehearsal, or at a show, there is a driving force that pushes us to do what we do. It's really hard to put into words. It's just something we all feel.
Isaac: What do you feel it takes to play this type of music that you play?
Deezer: Pure energy, and a no rules attitude. Most people are so worried about what others think about them, they lose sight of why music is special. Believing 100% in what you’re doing is key. That's what Astrovan is all about! Staying committed to our music, our fans, and our performance is what it takes.
Isaac: What do you think you will create that will make your performances and who you are stand out in the music industry?
Deezer: Getting back to the basics! Focusing on powerful music, with powerful live shows to match. True Rock & Roll is a dying art that needs to be revived! There is way too much touchy/feely music right now! Aggressive, groovy, toe tappin' rock that makes you wanna drink a beer, and party is sorely needed. I think that is what will set us apart from the rest.
Isaac: If you had the opportunity to do one cover, what cover would you do and why? How would you put your own spin on this cover?
Deezer: It would probably have to be Led Zepplin's Lemon Song! It's gritty, groovy, and down right sexy tune! It has a lot of space in it for everyone in the band to shine! I don't really think that you would have to play it any different than it already is. Zepplin never played the same song, the same way twice. So I think that is the way we would approach it.
Isaac: What does it take to be a good songwriter?
Deezer: An open mind. I think good songs come from a place of simplicity. Don't over complicate the process, because it will only take away from the overall goal. Being a vocalist, it is extremely important for me to have amazing instrumentals behind me. Donnie, Zeke, Tony, and Damage, are my inspiration, and fuel to write lyrics, and hooks that can match what they do. I gotta tell you, sometimes it can be tough!
Isaac: How difficult is it to juggle music, family and work obligation, and life in general? Explain.
Deezer: For me, music is a full time job. Staying committed to the cause is a 24/7 endeavor! Having said that, it can definitely conflict with my personal life. Time away, from friends, and family, happens more often than not. Luckily, we have a ton of support, and encouragement surrounding what it is Astrovan is trying to accomplish!
Isaac: What is your definition of being an Indie artist/band?
Deezer: My definition of Indie is being completely independent. Taking the reigns as a band, and creating our own destiny! It can all be done; it just takes massive amount of work! That's what separates the men from the boys!
Isaac: Where can fans access your music online?
Deezer: You can find all the links to Astrovan’s music, showdates, updates and merchandise at http://www.astrovanrocks.com!
Isaac: In five years…….
Deezer: Astrovan will be a well known, machine, and force to be reckoned within the Rock & Roll scene! Not just locally, but around the states as well! That's how confident Astrovan is in its abilities!
