Interviews: Stripping The Pistol

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Rock 'N' Roll band, Stripping The Pistol, 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 plan it or come out just like that?

We were taking a smoke break in an alley after rehearsing when we found an instruction book in the gutter on how to dismantle a handgun called Stripping the Pistol. Charlie and I thought it was cool because it could be used as a metaphor for dismantling anything. It was also kind of ironic because Chicago has such a violent gun problem. 

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

We really didn't choose to play rock music, it kind of chose us. I guess some people gravitate to pop music but rock music will always be authentic.  I find that everyone I meet who likes heavy music becomes people I have beers with. Where else does that happen in life? You can see some dude with an AC/DC or King Diamond shirt on, and you already know he's one of you. 

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

Some of us knew each other from the music scene in Chicago. 

4. Each band member's favorite band?

That's going to be a tough one but I think I can speak for us all when I say we will always dig bands like Slayer, Kyuss, Motörhead and Refused. 

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

It might sound cliché but emotional madness. Music is therapy. 

6. Where was your last gig?

Chicago

7. Where would you like to act?

Do you mean where do I want to play? We would play anywhere

8. Whom would you like to feature with?

It would be cool to be at a festival like Riot Fest. They always have killer metal, punk, and alternative bands. 

9. Whom not?

We will play with anyone. A gig is a gig. 

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

I don't think any of us have stage fright but my tip for any up-and-coming musicians who do have that jittery shit is to just learn your parts so well that you're on autopilot. I usually just close my eyes, harness the energy, and let the spirits guide me. 

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

For me, I'm inspired by Refused, At The Drive-In, Slayer, Monster Magnet, and Fugazi, but I also dig newer bands, like Turnstile and Idles.  The other guys listen to much heavier shit than me though. 

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

Nobody has ever asked us for anything weird but there was a dude who was dressing up like me. 

13. What do you think of your fans?

It's really humbling for someone to come up to us and tell us they play our songs at the gym, school, or wherever. Writing songs can be very personal but sharing the music with other people who appreciate it is magical.

14. What do you think of our site?

I love that you have bands listed by country. 

15. Something you'd like to add?

Thanks for the interview. Make sure to give our song Black Reflections a listen.