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Interview: Ellimist
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What got you into music, and if you had not gotten into music what would you be doing today?
A: I played keyboard as a kid for a long time, but started playing guitar as a teen, and didn't really lolok back! We aren't at the stage where we can work as full time musicians yet ( seems to be very rare these days). I would probablyprobably be doing my dayjob still, But pursuing other interests like art, MMA, or cooking!
What do you like to do when your not playing music and how does that influence your creativity?
A: I like drawing, exercising, MMA, cooking, watching movies, playing pool, Etc. Definitely fInd crossover in different aspects of my life that influence my music! Plus, I notice that if I have writers block, It's good to take a break and do something else, generally helps me get around it; So if I'm having trouble finding the ending to a song, I might draw something or work on something else, And usually the idea will find me!
How long has your band been around?
A: Ellimist is relatively new as a band, though we've technically been around for about two years as an entity. The initial ellimist album was inspired by a chance reading of the Ellimist Chronicles while I was moving. I initially planned it as a solo album album, but decided Ellimist needed to become something more than that about halfway through.
Where are you based out of and how did that influence your music?
A. I am from east Hartford, CT. I don't think my specific region has affected my music much, since it's not an exactly ''iconic' area. But it is close to a lot of great areas for music, and I was definitely Influenced by some of the great musicians I've met along the way. I think there's a solidarity in being from nowhere special, adjacent to great music scenes haha.
How did you come up with the name of your band and what does it mean to you.
A: Ellimist was inspired by the book ''the Ellimist Chronicles' by KA Applegate. I wrote to her and asked for her blessing to proceed forward with the project, and she was kind enough to give it! There's something about the story that deeply touched me, while also capturing my imagination! The transformative nature of the plot in specific is definitely one I fell in love with.
Tell me about the best and worst shows you have played.
A: Ellimist hasn't played any shows yet, while we work on completing our lineup (still seeking a drummer and bass). My favorite show would have to be playing Summer slaughter as a fIll in vocalist with Acius. it was an incredible show and I have many fond memories from that evening! My least favorite would have to be playing at the Amityville Teen center. The show was a nightmare, And the owner screwed me out of my pay for the show! It was just an awful gig in general in every way. I appreciate the people who came, though!
Tell me about your favorite venue to play at, and do you have any places you want to play that you haven't already?
A: One of my personal Favorites is cherry Street station in Wallingford CT. I would love to play the palladium's Main stage with Ellimist one day, and the Oakdale!
If you could play any show with any lineup who would be on the ticket?
We'd love to complete our lineup soon! Haha. But I would love to play a with Chris feener on lead guitar, Anup Sastry on Drums, Devin Townsend on vocals, and John Goblikon playing the triangle
What is some advice that you would give to someone who is just getting into playing in a band?
A: Don't settle, but be realistic! A band is just like a relationship In a lot of ways; So finding people you genuinely like is important, being able to communicate and work out differences is key, and working towards a common goal is also essential. Find that, and the world is your oyster!
If you could go back in time and give yourselves advice, what would it be?
A: Be a better bandmate, go to school for music production fter you get your BA, and be more understanding and patient!
Of your songs which one means the most to you and why?
A: My personal favorite is Ellimist. I wrote a lot of myself in the lyrics, and really enjoyed how the solo came together!
Which songs are your favorite to play and which get requested the most?
Boy, We really need a drummer and bassist! We can't wait to play these songs live.
What is the creative process for the band, and what inspires you to write your music?
A: I wrote the whole first album. Generally, I start with some good riffs, fit them together, and build from there. I think writing a song is a lot like putting a puzzle together. gotta start with the whole picture in mind
What kinds of messages do you like to get across in your music?
A: You are not alone in feeling how you do! We aren't huge on themes in that way, as a band that's based in sci-fi; That said I think overall, I think that's the message we try to share in this album
Do you ever have disagreements in your band, and how do you get past them?
A: We do; Generally it helps to work towards a goal and remember what it's all about. Communication and understanding go a long way!
What are your plans for the future, and do you have anything that you want to spotlight that's coming up?
A: We have a follow up album planned, And we plan on playing shows once we have a line up solidified! Keep an eye out for us! And make sure to check out our debut album!