Interview: EDUARD BANULESCU
What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
I’d probably be breaking into people’s houses. Music saved me from a life of petty crime, and beguiled me into one of miserable poverty . I’d like to thank Syd Barrett for that. Thank you, Syd!
What do you like to do when you are not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
I meditate, play the sitar, and go on pickpocket sejourns. It’s hard, really, to say which one helps the best. But, I’d reckon it has to be the meditation bit.
How long has your band been around?
My band consists of me, myself and I. So, you know, a couple of years at least.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
Right now I’m in Morocco, trying to learn Gnawa music.
But, mostly I take drugs, and see what kind of visions those inspire. Haven’t failed me so far.
How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you?
I came up with it on an initiatic journey to the Bucegi mountains. We met so many wise men that day. The stars glistened with an unnatural glow.
Then a voice spoke and said: “You will name your project Eduard Banulescu. That’s your name, idiot!”.
Tell me about your most memorable shows.
I once fell asleep on stage. Had been awake four days straight. Didn’t get a lot of complaints though.
I’ve played, mostly, in punk bands. Shows usually end once you’re all covered up in sweat, various other bodily fluids, or fallen underneath the stage.
What is your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you have not already?
Wembley sounds nice, although a bit on the small side.
If you could play any show with any lineup, who would be on the ticket?
The Gaslight Anthem. One of the few bands I’d gladly open for.
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band and some advice that you would give to your younger self?
Don’t do it! Crime doesn’t pay, but neither does music.
If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?
“Trust yourself! You’re great!”
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
Long Time Ago. It’s a song about European refugees. It’s also a song about commitment.
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
I seem to hear “Freebird” quite a bit.
What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?
Oh, just drugs, you know. That, and ripping off Beatles and Clash songs.
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
The truth is out there, but it ain’t on your Instagram feed.
Do you ever have disagreements in your band, and how do you get past them?
All the time. I usually smack myself in the jaw with an old cane when it gets to that.
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that is coming up?
I plan to release 2 new EPs. First one is Bontida. The second is called Berlin.
Both will be very good.
Support your musicians, please, and consider buying it off my Bandcamp.
Cheers!
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