Los Muertos Newsletter Interview

What is the best gig/event you have ever performed at, and why?

Woah, what a tough question to start off with. I really enjoyed playing at Killerfest earlier this year. It was wicked to have the chance to play with so many decent bands. But, I can’t know if I can say that was the best gig ever. Opening for Thrice last year was one of those ‘pinch me’ moments. Not only did we get to play with one of my favourite bands, but we also got to play at The Powerstation. The Powerstation hasn’t had much action over the past 5 or so years and to get a chance to play there was awesome. I will admit, every gig is the best one until the next. There isn’t much more in life that I love doing other than playing shows. There’s just nothing like it for me.

What is your favourite NZ venue?

My personal favourite these days is The Thirsty Dog in Auckland. The room is a great size, the stage is low which keeps the crowd close and the staff are awesome. There just ends up being that feeling of intimacy between the band and the crowd in a venue like that. I’m reminded of venues like Valve in Wellington and the old Pizza Pizza whenever I’m there.

What can we expect to see from Los Muertos over the next year?

Our self titled debut album hits stores April 7th, so the next year is shaping up to be a hectic one for Los Muertos. We’re going to be busy in April and May doing gigs with the Bleeders, Full Nelson, Kitsch and Cobra Khan. Beyond that people can expect to see us out and about over the next 12 months playing where ever we can. We’re going to have a month or two of down time due to personal and work commitments but the rest of the band will be working on new songs for the next record.

What other NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?

Jakob springs to mind straight away. We had the pleasure of playing with them when we opened for Thrice last year. I’d never seen them live before and after they had finished I in awe by their performance. I’d love to see Antagonist and New Way Home more. Both bands have put out great records and their live performances are always impressive. One band I haven’t seen live yet but I can’t wait to catch is Strangers.

If you could, what rumour would you start about yourselves?

Damn.. The rumour would have to that one of us is a porn star. The only catch to this rumour would be that no one knows which one of us it is.

What advice would you like to give to other aspiring musicians?

From personal experience, the only advice I can give to aspiring musicians is to make things happen for yourselves. If you work hard, book your own gigs, network with other bands you’re likely to get a loyal fan base. Make sure you use the tools that are there for you these days as well. Websites like Myspace, purevolume.com, muzic.net.nz, amplifier.co.nz are just some that you can use to get exposure and be heard. If you believe in what you’re doing, others will too. The best part is, those others may be able to help you even more.