Interviews: Alternative Skin

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Rock band, Alternative Skin from France. 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?

The name represents the versatile side of the human species, which often changes opinions depending on the context and events that happen to it. It's a bit like a superhero undergoing transformation. Hence the alternative combination SKIN.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We are all influenced by the rock culture of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, that miraculous period from which fantastic artists emerged, with an energy and a rebellious spirit that can be felt during that time. Our roots are close to grunge, alternative rock, and even metal. We love the melodies and the power of these styles.

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

The band was formed by the desire to create something. We didn't know each other, but we shared a passion for rock that brought us together. It's deep and intense.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Arié is a big fan of Scorpions, Steven swears by Iron Maiden, Rémi love Rory Gallagher, and led Zeppelin, and I listen to a lot of Foo Fighters and Muse.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

The current period is filled with tension, challenges, and disillusionment. Life is a struggle with beautiful things but also with others where we must move forward and fight. Generally, inspiration comes naturally, it's quite visceral. The music carries the emotion, and the lyrics then come to put words to these musical foundations.

6. Where was your last gig?

We just played at a food truck festival. It was a unique experience because there were a lot of people from different backgrounds. We had to stay focused and not let ourselves be destabilized. In any case, we had a lot of fun presenting our universe.

7. Where would you like to act?

We like small venues, the proximity to the audience, and that underground atmosphere that allows everything to come alive. However, we would also love to perform at festivals in the near future.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

In my wildest dreams, sharing the stage with Matt Bellamy or Dave Grohl would be a great challenge that I am ready for. But I believe there is still a long way to go. In the meantime, there are so many unknown bands that are fantastic, so the pleasure will be there every time we share the stage.

9. Whom not?

I believe that every cool and committed group, regardless of the style, will be a good experience. We quickly forget about the others.

10. Have any of you ever suffered from stage fright? Any tips for beginners on how to beat that?

Of course! Stage fright is something to tame, and it's even decidedly positive. You have to overcome your fear and take a deep breath. I think it's important to tell yourself that it's your moment and that you should enjoy life, which is ultimately short. Tomorrow everything can end. You can also listen to "Nothing I Can't Change" because the song talks about motivation, doubts, and determination!

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

There are many bands that have inspired us, from French rock like No One or Noir Désir, to bands like Pixies, Soundgarden, Rage Against the Machine, Metallica, and even Muse. The influences are really wide and in different styles.

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

We haven't had anything too strange yet, just requests for photos and maybe some pleasant conversations. But we're prepared for anything.

13. What do you think of your fans?

Our fans are the ones who make the band exist. I mean, without the audience who listens to the messages in our compositions, we would be speaking into empty space. In that sense, anyone who connects with or is sensitive to our music is exceptional because they bring it to life and transmit its message through themselves. It's an important exchange that motivates us to create more.

14. What do you think of our site?

Similarly, your site plays a crucial role as a link in the chain, helping to discover artists and allowing them to express themselves by breaking down distances and making music travel. It's essential in a world like ours that promotes overconsumption, where we are overwhelmed with information and music releases.

15. Something to add?

Not much to add, just a big thank you for giving us a voice. We hope that the upcoming songs will find their audience and that we'll have the opportunity to present them live to as many people as possible.