-Interview- (2/2/24)
1. How did you get started with music and how did you develop your sound? How did the name "A Lack of Champions" come about and is there any meaning to it?
Well, it was a name nobody else had already taken! But the name can have two interpretations. You can take it that it's self-degrading, as if we're stating we're not champions of course. But the title is intended as sociopolitical commentary on the world and pop culture. With celebrity culture and vulnerable people being easy targets while millionaires get richer by whining that they are "cancelled" for targeting said vulnerable demographics, it's basically a commentary on that and the increasing struggle to stay ahead in the modern world.
2. What do you want people to take away from your music?
Catharsis of course. But overall, hopefully, comfort and enjoyment. It may seem like rough punk music (cuz it certainly is) but the way the lyrics are sung (or shouted) and the impact of the rhythm, the hits of the drums, the bass and the guitar playing riffs with an occasional solo are meant to do what great Punk Rock of the past was meant to: make you move. Dance. Think about it. Or just take it in anyway you prefer.
3. How would you describe your sound to the average listener?
Impactful. There certainly isn't a lot of softness. Distorted, loud, rough. But you can definitely move to it.
4. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?
This is a tough one to answer. But here are some I can narrow the long list down to Naked Raygun, The Foo Fighters and Refused.
5. How has Covid affected what you do?
Luckily, since this band started in late 2021, not much. We certainly must be cautious between gigs and individually avoid big crowds when possible. There is the worry of having to cancel a gig because one of us gets COVID. But, so far, we've managed to make our gigs and not make anybody sick!
6. What’s your take on the current state of Punk Rock?
It still is important. It is very diverse as well. The three of us have varying tastes, so we might not always have the same preference of what is the best era of punk or whatever. Of course, in the days of tik tok and pop stars being the trend music-wise as far as it seems, not everybody is going to appreciate the rougher side of Punk for sure. But there is a hunger for Rock n' Roll and appreciation for what we and other bands do. I wouldn't in any way say another band "isn't real punk" or whatever. I'd like to think we can bring something special to a music scene which still appreciates expression and has much to offer. Whether you sing about love and being dumped, or politics, mental anguish, or food, you make Punk Rock exciting.
7. What’s the current music scene like there in Colorado?
It's diverse, inspiring, and produces much for anyone with their own unique taste to enjoy. We're certainly new comers to it, but it's pretty frickin good.
8. What’s your take on the royalties that streaming services pay out to artists?
So far, personal experience with that, just what I've heard. Artists should definitely make more for what they do if what I've heard about what they currently earn from streaming sites is true.
9. What’s next for A Lack of Champions?
In the middle of February, we are going into a studio to record a single. That will be a great occasion and it will be exciting to share it once it is recorded and mixed. And we had two shows after that. As far as our planning goes, this will continue and more of our music will get out there for those who want to hear it.
10. Any shoutouts?
Adrenalin and The Mouse Trap! Jasmine Candelaria, Tasha Gould, Genevieve Grant, Christopher Gonzalez and Haley Milbrodt.
