After a busy year of touring and releasing their new album ‘By Default’, Band Of Skulls had a quick catch up with Soundcheck-Live to look back at 2016 and talk about their new album!
Hi Band of Skulls, how has your 2016 been so far?
Well after the record came out, it’s been a blur. We’ve played shows in the UK and Europe and toured the USA and Canada. It’s always a thrill to share new music with people, and get some adventure in there for good measure.
You’re currently part way through a huge tour in support of your new album ‘By Default’; how is the tour going so far?
Really good. We treat every gig the same; small club or big festival. Just play from the heart. And try to connect with everyone in the crowd. All the songs evolve on the live stage and it’s exciting to witness what twists and turns the music will take.
What have been the stand out shows for you so far?
The first one tends to grab our attention. London at the Electric Ballroom was one of those; we return to the Roundhouse in London on this tour and it will be interesting to see how the show has changed.
What’s your favourite thing about performing live?
The pure adrenalin; that and making people happy. It’s a win-win.
There are some truly fantastic tracks on the new album; what are your favourites to play live?
Right now it’s ‘In Love By Default’ … it’s Band Of Skulls but in a different mode, low slung and angry.
For anyone who hasn’t heard ‘By Default’ yet, why should they give it a listen?
Well I hope it’s the sound of a real rock band pushing their own envelope. And opening lots of doors to the future.
If you could describe the album in just three words, what would they be?
Past, present, future.
What is the latest album you personally bought and what do you think of it?
I buy old records from markets and record shops, and tend to listen to new music either live or online. Our recent support band are called Mothers and they’re from Athens, Georgia. They play an intriguing mix of early Talking Heads mixed with something very mournful and atmospheric. I enjoyed them 30 nights in a row.
How do you think your music has progressed over the years?
All I know is that we are a real band; we met as kids and have been on an unbelievable journey so far. We try to keep the same attitude as when we started. Be the best we can and push ourselves. The goals change but the passion is the same.
What do you feel has been the highlight of your career so far?
It’s always the firsts that give us a buzz. And we still strive for more. First record. First time in a country. We continue to find new challenges and then have a go at smashing them.
And, finally, what do you see in the future for Band of Skulls?
We always look forward. There are so many songs to finish and places to visit. That to us is the future of rock n roll!
You can buy the new album ‘By Default now, and check out Band Of Skulls across the UK at the following dates:
OCTOBER
Thu 20 LEEDS University Stylus
Fri 21 MANCHESTER Albert Hall
Sat 22 NEWCASTLE Northumbria University
Mon 24 BRISTOL SWX
Tue 25 NOTTINGHAM Rock City
Wed 26 LONDON Roundhouse
NOVEMBER
Thu 17 SOUTHAMPTON Engine Rooms
