Interviews: Elisium

In this new occassion we have had the opportunity to interview the Alternative Metal  band Elisium, from USA. Check out this band and give them a like on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1.Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that? 

In Greek mythology, "Elysium" is the place warriors to who have been slain in battle, it's the great reward for laying it all on the line for something you believe in.  We were unable to trademark the name with that spelling, so we spelled it "Elisium" and now it's our very own word! 

2.Why did you want to play this genre? 

The rock and roll lifestyle kind of chose us, hahah.  We all know, as we look around us, that country, pop, hip-hop, are all making more money than rock music.  I think that we just play the kind of music we love, the kind of music that comes naturally to us and isn't forced or constructed.  And that kind of music just happens to be hard rock.  

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed? 

Two of us (Nate and Kirb) are brothers, and we grew up playing together.  Our drummer (Nathan) played in some local bands in our hometown, and joined the band when we got serious about touring and playing music for a living. 

4. Each band member favourite band? 

Nate (vocals): Pink Floyd 

Kirb (bass): The Browning 

Nathan (drums): 36 Crazyfists

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs? 

For most of our adult lives, it has been struggles with love, work, relationships, money, politics, the kinds of things that humans wrestle with all of the time.  Now that we are full time musicians, most of our music revolves around the relationships we struggle with as we travel so much, and the nature of our world around us.  How crazy things have gotten lately.  We always try to put some hope out into a darkening world.  

6. Where was your last gig? 

We just wrapped up a tour in the very mountainous state of Tennessee at a place called Club 1341.  It's in Dolly Parton's home town, and man they can get crazy there!

7. Where would you like to act? 

We've never performed outside the USA.  We'd love to experience how shows would be in other countries, we've done thousands here in the states, and I bet it's quite different! 

8. Whom would you like to feature with? 

We love to perform with other successful bands in our genre, so that we can meet their fans, and hopefully people who are interested in the style of music we play.  Bands like Chevelle, Tool, Karnivool, and Nothing More who are doing well and drawing people to rock music again. 

9. Whom not? 

We'll play with anyone. We are friendly. 

10. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that? 

Luckily, we don't have a stage fright issue.  Bigger crowds are more exciting than they are scary.  I suppose that's part of what makes you want to be a performer, the desire to be in front of people who are enjoying your art.  But, if I had to give a tip, I'd say be confident. Stay out of your head, and in the moment.  It'll be awesome!

11. What bands have inspired you the most? 

I mentioned a few of them earlier, Pink Floyd, Tool, Chevelle, Karnivool.  Lately bands like Twelve Foot Ninja, Parkway Drive, and Nothing More have been putting out some quality music.  We're encouraged by the bands who are finally succeeding after years of struggle and work. 

12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for? 

Our sweaty clothes.  I can't believe how many times people will ask for my shirt, or my sweatband on my arm, or even my neck tie.  It's all sweaty and gross after the set, and we travel in a van with no laundry service, so often it's as dirty as it sounds. 

13. What do you think of your fans? 

There's no Elisium without them.  We have been fortunate to meet so many great people all across the country.  We've played 45 out of 50 states, and our fans are the support system that makes it work.  We have actually just launched a VIP fan club called The Secret Society, it's online at http://Elisiumband.Bandcamp.com 

14. What do you think of our site? 

It seems like a lot of the bands featured are a little heavier than us, but we often play with heavy heavy bands, and appeal to their fans too.  

15. Something to add?

Please check out our new VIP group, the Secret Society.  It's http://Elisiumband.bandcamp.com and it's a way for fans to really help us survive.  We are a completely independent band, our entire income is based on selling music and playing shows.  Help us survive by checking out our site, and picking up some music!