Published: August 23, 2009 2:27 AM EST
By: Isaac Davis Jr., MBA (Juniorscave.com)
New Music Spotlight August/September 2009 Edition
Guitarist Richard Benjamin of Fifth Story
Fifth Story
Guitarist Richard Benjamin of Fifth Story recently spoke to our Webzine about the band's music. What I found interesting about the band is the range of their style in music especially when it comes to the type of music the band is performing. At one point, I am listening to a softer side of the band with great tracks like "Eastern Jazz" and the next I am raising some hell with tracks like "Sonic Reducer". But, that is what draws fans to their music. If you are a fan of good music, then check out what all Richard talked about in this super cool spotlight and learn more about the amazing Fifth Story. Enjoy!
Isaac: What has been the best part of 2009 for you musically so far?
Richard: The best part of 2009 for Fifth Story was finding Mike Murrie, our drummer. Jason and I had gone through a number of drummers since our conception, none of which gelled with what we were trying to accomplish musically. Mike happened to be a fan of the band that we knew through the local music scene and he basically came in and killed it.
Isaac: What do you feel has been the biggest accomplishment for 2009 so far?
Richard: Our biggest accomplishment of 2009 was finishing our self-titled EP. We had a collection of really good songs that we played live, but nothing was recorded. We basically locked ourselves in the studio for a couple of months hoping to get a 3-song demo out of it and we ended up with a solid 7-song EP.
Isaac: Describe the music scene in your area.
Richard: It's Chicago so you can experience every genre of music imaginable. A lot of the clubs mix up the music styles on any given night, so you may get a metal band followed by an indie band with a jam band headlining. For us, our favorite shows are when we bill up with local glam band "V-Sparks" or a roots band like "Great Divide." It gives everyone an opportunity to be exposed to something new musically that they might not have before. We have gained a lot of new fans this way.
Isaac: What has been the best venue to perform at and why?
Richard: Elbo Room Chicago. A sweaty rock club with an intimate atmosphere. A place where rock and roll was meant to be played.
Isaac: Elaborate a little about whom were your biggest influences in the music industry and why?
Richard: J. Mascis of Dinosaur Jr. was a big influence. His progressive songwriting and sense of melody has been something we strive for. Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo of Sonic Youth have also been highly influential with their experimental guitar techniques. Other artists like Wilco, Radiohead, Beastie Boys, Pearl Jam, Neil Young, and The Who have played a role in shaping us as a band.
Isaac: Let's talk about what you feel you will bring to the music industry?
Richard: Versatility. As a 3-piece, we don't necessarily fall into one category of music. With Jason's vocal range and Mike's ability to experiment with drum rhythms, we have a lot of freedom to try new things.
Isaac: If you had an opportunity to work with one artist or group, who would it be and why?
Richard: Pearl Jam. Their longevity and relevance in such a saturated music world continues to inspire us. As a musician, it's hard to deny them the respect that they deserve. To be a part of that would be amazing.
Isaac: How would you describe your music to others?
Richard: Hard question to answer, so I'll let someone else do it for me. A recent review of our MOBfest performance said: "This band didn't need a flashy gimmick or whatnot to garner the fans' attention. They let the music be their spokesperson for them........ One minute they could turn a ballad into a sweet lullaby and in the next pounding your ears with blood-curdling guitar riffs". We like to think we are suitable to dance to.
Isaac: What type of feedback have you received from fans about your music?
Richard: We give out thousands of CDs and people take the time to send in emails to let us know what they like about our songs. Then they actually come to the shows. Something must be working.
