E: Before Today is a band ready to explode onto the scene with an upcoming release on Equal Vision Records... do you think that where you're at with the band right now is the highest point of the group so far?
Joe: Absolutely�we have worked really hard the past five years to make it this far and we are really excited to take the next step and finally have a "real" album released.
E: When the band was started, were you expecting there to be interest from labels in your band?
Joe: We never expected label interest... we were all fourteen and fifteen and never took things seriously. We just liked to play after school. We really never even played a lot. But we always made demos of our new music every year, and one day we got a call from some labels saying that one of the demos had came there way and that they liked it. So definitely not when we started. *Laughs*
E: Have you been pretty fortunate in terms of what bands you've gotten to do shows with?
Joe: We actually have been very fortunate. I think that the San Diego venues have been more than generous with us. We have only been on two tours: a leg of Warped Tour and a tour with My American Heart. But we have tour lined up for the rest of the year now.
E: How much focus do you think a band should put on getting CD's recorded as opposed to playing shows?
Joe: Well, I think that most of the time your first impression that your going to make on someone is your recording, either from a friend or on the net somewhere. So I think a good recording first to represent yourself is very important. Once bands have that demo or CD, I think it makes it easier to get shows or gain fans to come to shows.
E: Do you think bands are generally more well-known closer to their home?
Joe: Absolutely�we have learned that this summer by being on tour all summer. Playing at home is always the best. I think it also depends on which bands you are talking about. A band like us is still trying to play most cities for the first time.
E: To you, what is the best aspect of being on tour?
Joe: I love traveling and being able to go to shows and meet so many new people. And I get to play everyday just about, which is a dream come true.
E: If you suddenly lost all ability to play music, what do you think you'd do with your life?
Joe: Ouch... I would like to work somewhere in the industry. Or just jump off a bridge. *Laughs* Just kidding.
E: How do you personally define sucess or popularity as a band?
Joe: I think just having a good time and spreading what you play to as many people as possible. It's a cool feeling that people would actually pay to come see your band or buy your music, or even download it for free and listen.
E: Do you expect music to be something you'll be involved in your whole life?
Joe: Absolutely. It's so much fun and makes me feel good. I can't see myself not being in a band or working in music somewhere.
E: Well, thanks for your time!
Joe: Thanks a lot for having us on your site. Anytime. |
