Interviews: Challenger Deep

In this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Math Rock/Progressive Rock band Challenger Deep from the USA. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

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

Challenger Deep is the deepest point in the ocean at 10,928 meters located in the Mariana Trench. To us, it’s a metaphor for the wide range and depth of emotion we hope to evoke in our listeners.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Math Rock and Progressive music have always appealed to me. Instrumental music leaves room for the listener’s interpretation, and I think that allows for more listeners to connect in different ways. It’s a beautiful thing.

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

We didn’t; I was out playing Ping Pong at a bar that James (also guitar) was at with his roommate for a drink. We started talking and realized that we both have a passion for music. After roughly a year of meticulous practice with two guitars, we decided we needed a full-ass band. Grant (drums) was a shoe-in for us and introduced us to our now-friend and bassist Jason. Forming these connections through music has meant the world to me. I’d say that’s one of my favorite parts of being in Challenger Deep, watching this thing that I helped create grow and flourish with three awesome dudes that I consider to be some of my best friends.

4. Each band member favorite band?

I don’t think any of us have an absolute favorite band. We get a lot of our inspiration from a wide range of artists.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs? 

I’m inspired mostly by emotions. I feel things very deeply usually and making art that evokes whatever that may be is rewarding in many ways.

6. Where was your last gig?

We played Radio Room(Greenville, SC) The new location they’re at is amazing and the locals are really accepting and friendly. Super fun time. We ended up having a dance party on the stage after the last act! it felt like a second home outside of Atl.

7. Where would you like to perform?

The Moon would be pretty cool. Ha! (I wonder what that would do to the tide..) Red Rocks has always been a dream of mine. I’m happy just to be playing music for my friends but the more, the merrier!

8. Whom would you like to perform with?

This list is long, Protest the Hero, Periphery, Chon, Animals as Leaders, Standards… etc.

9. Whom not?

We’ll basically try everything once… haha

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

I actually listened to a podcast on the psychology of stage fright the other day. (shout out to Josh and Chuck) While I don’t get it anymore, it was pretty insightful. For beginners, just know that it’s all about exposure therapy. I know that can be both disheartening and comforting at the same time. The more you do it, the better it gets. You just have to get on that stage over and over and over, and it eventually isn’t noticeable anymore.

11. What bands have inspired you the most? 

I’m usually inspired by artists with really uplifting sounds. Bach is pretty metal.

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

No one has really asked me for anything weird yet... Once a fan asked me for my shirt but that’s about as weird as it gets.

13. What do you think of your fans? 

They’re amazing and super nice and great dancers.

14. What do you think of our site?

I like the scrolling bar of free album suggestions. Looks like a cooler CNN news ticker.

15. Something to add?

Make sure you check us out on Spotify and I‘d also suggest looking at the music videos on YouTube! They’re hilarious and awesome. Just the right amount of silliness and professionalism. We’ve got a ton of out of town shows booked this fall so be on the lookout for that! -Jordan, Challenger Deep (Guitar)