Monday, August 21, 2017

The Judge Interview

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording and release of the new album?
Well the record has been done for some time now, and between recording and releasing the album, we have been playing locally as well as working on the third album. We plan to tour soon as well while we're working on the next album. (Evan - Drummer) We've been extremely active promoting the album. We've also been planning a few big shows, putting together some merch campaigns, and just getting the word out about the band. (Tyler - Singer)

2.Recently you have released a new album, how would you describe the musical sound that is presented on the recording and also how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
The musical sound is definitely a heavier sound, in terms of lyrical content and how the music is presented. Live shows are really the best way to experience the album correctly, but it's really an attempt to move away from the cookie cutter "70s classic rock" sound. We were trying different things on this album, specifically recording styles, and that is probably the biggest difference compared to our past releases. The music will continue to progress as we develop our own identity.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the newer music?
I think this album reflects a lot of abuse that happens in our lives and other people's lives. We explored the route of drug addiction, invasion of sorts, emotional trauma, and family neglect. It was a treat to write some of these songs cause in one way or another has touched our lives on a deep level.


4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'The Judge'?
The Pontiac GTO Judge. Lolz (Evan) Originally we were named after the GTO Judge from the movie Sex Drive. But then people started making courtroom puns. Then we slowly started using and actual judge as the logo and it stuck. (Kevin - Bassist)

5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
Opening up for Jackyl and our tour kickoff show in our hometown are probably our favorite shows. We try to be high energy, heavy rock and roll. Really, we are very loud and if you enjoy that, then get ready to rock your socks off!

6.Do you have any touring or show plans for the new album?
Yes, in the future. At the moment I (Evan) am in school and Tyler has some things to take care of, but we definitely want to tour VERY soon. (Evan) We play a lot locally in St. Louis, but our best shows are when we can get out of town. We did a weekender to Chicago and Indianapolis recently, and we met some really cool people. (Tyler)

7.The new album was released on 'Ripple Music', are you happy with the support that they have given you so far?
Absolutely. Todd is an amazing guy and really supports every single band on the label. It makes being part of this label family so much more worth it. (Evan)

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of metal and rock?
We have gotten lots of support for our music in Europe specifically. Because we are so local still, it's hard to get a name out to places like Finland, UK, Sweden, Germany, etc. However, we still have had many complements for the music and support to tour in Europe. (Evan) Yes, the metal scene is a very loyal one. We got lucky signing with Ripple and it's been downhill ever since! (Kevin)

9.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
We're always trying progress in one way or another. What comes out is how we sound, but I can't really put a name on what we will sound like. Heavy progressive psychedelic? Who knows haha. (Evan)

10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Well we've gotta give props to the bands that influenced us from the ground up: Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Rush, Deep Purple, Hendrix Experience, for me, Buddy Rich, Louie Bellson. As of now, Graveyard, Kadavar, Radio Moscow, Red Fang, The Shrine, lots of other "smaller" bands like Slow Season, Cloud Catcher, our good friends Spacetrucker. We're always looking for new music and influences. (Evan) I'm the type of guy that listens to everything, and I draw techniques that I like from all of it. I draw from R&B and folk specifically for vocals, in addition to all the obvious zeppliny sabbathy stuff that our band takes after. (Tyler)

11.What are some of your non musical interests?
I am a incredibly huge hockey fan. I follow basically all that's going on in hockey and I try to watch baseball when I can as well. I like making sketch comedy and editing thing on the computer. Photoshop has always been one of my favorite programs to use for fun. (Evan) I have a wife and two kids. For money I'm a freelance audio engineer and a metal worker, but I spend most of what little free time I have with the family. I like music and camping and beer. (Tyler)

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
We'd like to thank everyone for their support of our music, as well as their support for other local bands like us. The business has changed so much since the 60s and 70s, and the only way we are able to do any of this is because of people who genuinely love music and support it fully. (Evan) We just want to thank everyone from our parents to ripple, to the sound guys that deal with our constant monitor tweaking. The heart of rock n roll is still beating, and from what I can tell I believe 'em. (Kevin) Thanks to all the promoters and fellow bands that help nourish this sweet network we have going! (Tyler)

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