Interviews: Smokeheads

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Alternative Metal band Smokheads from France. Check out this band and follow them 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 of the band came quite naturally. Like all bands, we'd been looking for weeks when it appeared on a bottle of whisky. When we talked about it together, it just seemed so obvious.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Why not? No, we all have many years of practice behind us in different groups. We've all been involved in rock, stoner, and death metal. The genre we're doing (if you can call it that), is a crossroads of all that, a kind of compromise if you like. Playing what we do didn't come right away; we had to search and compose several songs before we were all in agreement. After that, the other songs were composed much more simply, which was normal if you like.

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

Yes, some members have been playing together for years. Personally, I was the last to meet the other members of the band, even though we'd known each other for 10 years. In fact, we got to know each other because our old bands used to rehearse in the same building, and we used to meet in the common areas of the rehearsal place.

4. Each band member's favorite band?

Philippe (Drums): Rammstein, Porcupine Tree, Marillion...

Alain (Bass): Queen of the Stone Age, Soundgarden, Alice in Chains...

David C (Guitar): Porcupine Tree, Jinjer, Tool...

David Z (Voice & Guitar): Gojira, Tool, Devin Townsend...

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Inspiration comes from many sources. It can be experiences in our lives or simply events we read about in the newspapers. It can also come from personal reflections.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last concert was in the town where we have our rehearsal space. We played at home, so to speak.

7. Where would you like to act?

Everywhere!!! We're always on the lookout for new gigs, so we'll consider every proposal.

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

Personally, I'd say the bands that influence me the most, are bands like Gojira, Tool but also with Devin Townsend, even if it's going to be complicated in the next few years.

9. Whom not?

No idea, of course, it's easier to play at a party or festival where the music styles are close to each other, but it can also be interesting to play with bands or artists who are not in the genre.

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

Yes, of course. There's no magic formula, everyone's different. Some people need to isolate themselves and take time for themselves, while others prefer to be surrounded and think about other things. For my part, I apply both techniques, isolating myself just before going on stage to concentrate and take the time to warm up.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

I think it's Tool, Devin Townsend and Porcupine Tree. After that, we also have very different influences. The age difference in the band has a lot to do with it.

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

We did not get any weird requests so far... maybe in the future! But as for now, we simply receive requests for pics or autographs after our show. But we would like to! That would be fun!!!

13. What do you think of your fans?

They're great, thanks to them for their support.

14. What do you think of our site?

It's pretty impressive, it's great to be able to share so much information and give lesser-known bands a chance to get exposure. Thank you!!!

15. Something to add?

Thank you for your interest. Our first album will be released on September 15, 2023, and we've already got a single out on all the right platforms, called "Side by Side". Thank you and cheers