Before we start off, I would like to congratulate you guys on the new
record. It sounds amazing.
>Thank you. We're fond of it.
Where does the album title, Apparitions Of Melody come from?
>It's about the spirit that haunts us and our music. Something more than
just a bunch of worthless music.
Where did you get the name "Kids In The Way?"
>We had a song back in 2000 with the phrase "kids in the way." We didn't
have a band name yet, so we adopted it from the song. But we tell
everyone that it's from one of our favorite Fleetwood Mac songs. Nobody
gets it. haha.
How do you feel this album came together?
>It was a labor of love. We're pleased with it. We try to evolve
musically and lyrically with each record, and I think this album is
representative of where we were as a band when we recorded it.
Where was Apparitions Of Melody recorded, and how long did it take to
record?
>This album is actually two parts. The first part was recorded in 2005 in
Nashville, Tennessee; the second we did in Manhattan in 2006. It came
together quite easily--as most of our music has in the past. We had a
great time recording in both areas and feel like the results were fluid
and powerful.
Were there any major themes or concepts behind this album?
>We incorporated a lot of dark imagery in this one (Jack the Ripper,
murder, breakups, etc.), but the theme is hope in dark times. We believe
in a higher power that can rip us out of the darkness we face
constantly.
Are you guys satisfied with the way it turned out?
>Absolutely ..couldn't be happier.
Are there any personal favorites on the album for you guys, or songs you
especially enjoy playing live?
>I like "Fiction" and "Safety in the Darkness." Those are probably our
favorites to play live ...and maybe "The Seed We've Sown."
Any favorite moments on tour, or as a band in general?
>Usually our favorite times are playing a rousing game of bocce, sipping
peach tea, and possibly destroying the stage.
What’s the next big step you guys will be taking?
>We're waiting to see. The future looks pretty bright at this point.
We'll be making a new record this winter and touring Europe. And we're
going out this fall with Pillar, Dead Poetic and The Showdown.
Do you guys have a favorite venue?
>Probably The Door in Dallas--always a good crowd. Also The Newport in
Columbus.
What were some of your influences growing up and for this CD?
>Growing up: U2, Bush, Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Green day, Beastie Boys.. For
the record: U2, Foo Fighters, Tom petty, AFI, Tears for Fears..
What's your most anticipated release of 2006?
>I think it was probably the new AFI record. It kills..
What's one of the craziest things a fan has done for you guys?
>It seems we always end up signing strange and expensive stuff (cell
phones, ipods, leather coats, nice guitars). We love our fans, though.
no matter how weird.
How would you describe your type of music to a person who hasn't
listened to it before?
>I would call it hard pop music.
Well, that about wraps it up, Anything you'd like to say to the Readers
of Skyline Press?
>Um. Be excellent to each other.
~ Interviewed by Jesse
August 24 2006