Interview – Slowcrash

By: Amanda Hather

Slowcrash is a rock/alternative four-piece band based in Oshawa, Ontario. The band includes Chris Draper (guitar, vocals), Szymon Janicki (guitar), Jordan Ciesielski (bass, vocals), and Neil Ledger (drums, vocals). They released a self-titled album on May 17th, 2014. Want to learn more about this band? Check out their social media below and keep reading this interview.

First of all, how did you come up with the name Slowcrash?

Slowcrash: We originally had another band name in mind but just before a show we realized that another local band had the same name. An ex band member who was a real estate agent suggested “Slowcrash” and with time being a factor we decided on it. We’ve all played in other bands before and so much time was spent seeking a name and not enough focusing on the music. Once that name came out we’ve stuck with it.

How long have you been together?

SC: Slowcrash has been active since 2009. Some members have departed but the line up has evolved and become stronger over time.

Who are some of your biggest influences in music?

SC: We all have different tastes in music which mixed together and created our sound. Some of our influences are Matt Good, Radiohead, AC/DC, Pink Floyd and many others.

What is your favourite song to play live?

SC: As we progressed and challenged ourselves, we enjoy playing some of our newest material.

When did you know that you wanted to play music as a career?

SC: As the music industry changed we realized that we have to play music because we love it and not because we want it to be a career. If it becomes a career down the road then that’s a bonus.

Many bands connect with their fans through social media; do you think that this is important? Do you think there are better ways to connect to fans?

SC: Social media is a great tool to help you progress, but many bands become complacent and rely only on it. You have to be able to engage people in many different ways to really maximize your success. Working with our promoter (Marty from Party Envoy) we really tapped in to an incredible source to help us promote ourselves. Also, nothing can compare to experiencing a live show.

What inspires you to write songs?

SC: Everyday life is the perfect inspiration.

If someone hadn’t listened to your band before, how would you describe your sound? What would be a good song to listen to first?

SC: We would describe our sound as Rock music with meaningful vocals and ambient and melodic tones. As we talk to our fans, we realized that the favourite song varies from person to person. For that reason the best song to play first depends on the person.

What’s coming up next for you guys?

SC: We are planning a video and a full-length album in the near future.

At Canadian Beats we like to throw in some fun questions so your fans can get to know you a bit better:

What is something that fans might not know about you?

SC: We all work full time and have families and music is our passion and outlet.

Out of all the concerts you attended as a fan, which was your favourite?

SC: We really enjoy the local music scene and try and catch a show whenever we can. We love to see unsigned bands in the area as they are approachable and are always willing to hang out after their set. We would encourage anyone to check out his or her local scene as there is so much unnoticed talent.

You’re stranded on a desert island, what three things do you want to have with you?

SC: My family, my instrument and a boat.

If you were in charge of a music festival weekend, who would you have playing?

SC: Reference Wayne’s World 2.

Are there any Canadian bands/artists that you would recommend to your fans?

SC: Future History, Glorious Sons, Wildlife and many others.

If you could change one single moment in your life, what would it be?

SC: We are all about no regrets. You live and learn.

What do you think the most played song on your iPod is?

SC: It depends on the mood and the activity during listening.

What is your favourite thing to do when you have free time?

SC: Playing music and spending time with the family.

What is your favourite season?

SC: 3 of us like the summer and our drummer enjoys the fall.

Where are the top three places you want to travel?

SC: -Australia

-Hawaii

-We would love to see all of Canada

And finally, is there anything you’d like to say to your fans?

SC: Support your local music scene. Go see a live show.

Slowcrash: https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/slowcrash/id888849147

Slowcrash on social media:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/SlowcrashBand
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SlowcrashOfficial/timeline
Website: http://www.slowcrash.com/