Introduction
Renowned for their prolific songwriting, the Michigan-based five-piece Black Note Graffiti has seen their music featured in various films and television shows. The band’s signature blend of alternative rock and progressive metal, all while maintaining a melodic essence, sets them apart. It’s no surprise that they’ve collaborated with some of the top producers in the industry for their albums!
The band consists of Gabrielle-Gloria (Vocals/Keys), Ricardo Ortiz (Vocals/Guitar), Adam Nine (Bass), Kurt Keller (Percussion), and Kris Keller (Guitar/Vocals). Together they have graced numerous festivals, including the Toronto Music Festival and SXSW. Through their festival performances, the band has had the opportunity to share the stage with industry heavyweights like Falling In Reverse and Lamb Of God.
Rubbing shoulders with the best is where this band belongs! We have no doubts at all that they are destined for greatness! Their latest single “Place You Lie” has just been released, and we caught up with the band to find out all things Black Note Graffiti.
For Fans Of – Rush/ R.E.M / Pixies
Interview
What’s the meaning behind the bands name ?
“Like the notes you see on a page of music!”
What message do you try and get across with your music ?
“The bands new materials has a message salvation and solace. Dealing with addiction, trauma and conquering struggles of everyday personal life.”
If you could name 3 big influences on your sound who would they be?
“This is a tough one to answer for the entire band. So I am going to take the question as the sound of my instrument. Tony Iommi, Jim McCarty, Kim Thayil”
When can fans expect a new album?
“2024”.
Knights is a particular favourite of ours from rise volume III , can you tell us what the song is about?
“Knights runs two simultaneous themes conflicting both within themselves and to that which is greater: systematic oppression and toxic masculinity. With systematic oppression, we have a culture that only now recognizes the inherent imbalance of class that has been sewn into the fabric of our society.“
“Concerning toxic masculinity, one can sometimes get lost in trying to “save” someone you love who is in a tough situation when you should just be there on their terms. Both require introspection, change of action, and empathy, not pity. Ultimately, Knights is about showing compassion.”
Why was volume III Split into two halves ?
“Covid may have played some part in that. Although, all the songs meanings coinside with the titles for each of the two EP’s Fall and Rise.”
What was it like working with Chuck Alkazian who has previously worked with artists like Soundgarden and Pop Evil?
“Chuck is a very talented engineer and always puts out top quality radio ready content. We always learn something about recording working with Chuck.”
What does the band like to do to unwind?
“One of the great things about the band is everyone has different tastes and interest in music. So we always show each other different artists, new artists and discuss.”
Are you going on tour soon? If so where and who with ? Ps would love to see you in the UK!
“That awesome! The UK is on the bucket list so we hope to see you soon!”
What is the best place you have ever played at?
“The most fun I’ve ever had at Mile of Music is Appleton WI. The stars were aligned with the band and the audience.”
If you could only drink one thing for the rest of your life what would it be ?
“H2O Sparkling”
Your new single “The Source” is coming out in a few months, could you tell us more about it and what message you’re trying to get across with it?
“The Source” is a composition that underscores the subjugation an individual may endure when entangled in self-destructive tendencies. Terms such as “crawl” and “kill” are employed to metaphorically represent the perpetual and consuming cycle of addiction.
Despite cognizance of the repercussions, it becomes apparent that the weight of one’s struggles is overwhelming, leading them to seek solace in the very thing causing their destruction. The concluding lyric, “Waking up to nothing real,” conveys the aftermath of sobriety, where reality feels elusive and intangible.”
You are playing Havoc Fest in August what was it like being added to the line up?
“We are very excited for Havoc Fest we will be performing August 23rd 2024. This is the first year of the festival and what an amazing line up. There team is doing an amazing job and we are so stoked to have another ROCK festival in Michigan. You can also get a discount on Tickets for that if you use the code “NOTE”. https://apexsportsjxn.com/havoc-fest/ ”
Interview By – The Fox Reviews Rock Team
All the songs used in this review belong to their respective owners, and this website does not claim any right over them. All images were provided by Black Note Graffiti and were taken by Justin Friesen & Kurt Keller.
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