In this engaging episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with members of the Los Angeles-based punk rock band FIDLAR—Zac Carper (lead vocals, guitar), Max Kuehn (drums), and Brandon Schwartzel (bass)—to delve into their latest album, Surviving the Dream, and their evolution in the punk scene.
The Evolution of FIDLAR and 'Surviving the Dream'
FIDLAR, an acronym for "F**k It Dog, Life's A Risk," has been a staple in the punk rock community since their formation in 2009. Known for their...
In this engaging episode of The Hang, host Scott Saldinger sits down with members of the Los Angeles-based punk rock band FIDLAR—Zac Carper (lead vocals, guitar), Max Kuehn (drums), and Brandon Schwartzel (bass)—to delve into their latest album, Surviving the Dream, and their evolution in the punk scene.
The Evolution of FIDLAR and 'Surviving the Dream'
FIDLAR, an acronym for "F**k It Dog, Life's A Risk," has been a staple in the punk rock community since their formation in 2009. Known for their raw energy and candid lyrics, the band's latest album, Surviving the Dream, marks a significant milestone. This release, their first in five years, showcases a matured sound influenced by life experiences, including the global pandemic. The album features a blend of genres, reflecting their diverse musical tastes. As bassist Brandon Schwartzel notes, their influences range from Ween and My Bloody Valentine to Slipknot and Daft Punk.
Creative Process and the Role of Demos
The band emphasizes the importance of demos in their creative journey. They view demos as drafts that offer insight into the evolution of their songs. This process allows them to experiment and refine their music before finalizing tracks for the album. The inclusion of previously unreleased demos in their deluxe album editions provides fans with a glimpse into their artistic development.
Live Performances: The Heart of FIDLAR's Music
For FIDLAR, live performances are the truest representation of their music. They believe that the energy and connection experienced during concerts bring their songs to life in a way that studio recordings cannot fully capture. This philosophy underscores their commitment to touring and engaging directly with their audience.
Impact of Life Experiences on Music
The band's lyrics often draw from personal experiences, with the pandemic serving as a significant influence on their recent work. This period of introspection and change is reflected in the themes of resilience and adaptation found throughout Surviving the Dream. The album resonates with listeners navigating similar challenges, highlighting the universal nature of their messages.
Music Videos and Cover Songs: Connecting with Fans
FIDLAR takes a hands-on approach to their music videos, often creating them independently to maintain authenticity and a direct connection with their fans. Additionally, they enjoy covering songs from various genres, viewing it as an opportunity to explore different musical styles and pay homage to artists they admire. Their covers of Tom Petty and Limp Bizkit, for instance, showcase their versatility and willingness to step outside traditional punk boundaries.
Memorable Tour Moments and Festival Anticipation
Touring has provided FIDLAR with a wealth of memorable experiences, from electrifying performances to unexpected adventures on the road. They express particular excitement for upcoming festivals like Punk Rock Bowling, known for its vibrant atmosphere and community spirit. The band appreciates the unique energy of festival shows compared to club performances, noting the broader reach and diverse audiences they encounter.
Looking Ahead: Future Collaborations and Musical Exploration
While FIDLAR doesn't adhere to rigid plans, they remain open to future collaborations and exploring new musical directions. Zac Carper expresses a hypothetical desire to collaborate with Prince, while Max Kuehn is interested in working with producer Rick Rubin again. Brandon Schwartzel finds the idea of collaborating with The Neptunes intriguing. These aspirations reflect their eclectic musical tastes and openness to blending different styles.
Diverse Influences Beyond Punk
Beyond their punk roots, FIDLAR's musical palette includes genres like hip-hop and musical theater. This diversity informs their sound and contributes to their dynamic and evolving music. They encourage fans to explore various genres and support artists across the musical spectrum.
Supporting Emerging Artists and the Music Industry
FIDLAR emphasizes the importance of supporting new and emerging bands. They recommend artists like Playboy Manbaby and NoBro, highlighting the need for fans to purchase music and merchandise to sustain the music industry. This support is vital for artists to continue creating and sharing their work.
#punk #punkrock #punkrockbowling #FIDLAR #PhilCollins
Connect with FIDLAR:
Webstite
Instagram
X-Twitter
Facebook
Bandcamp
Punk Rock Bowling
@punkrockbowlingandmusicfest
PunkRockSavesLives
@punkrocksaveslives6596
