While NQH Productions is committed to covering bands based in northern California, we still feel it is important to introduce musicians from all over. We have also been curious what our neighbors up north have been listening to. We took a look and found hard rock band Damsel-Fly. Formed last year, they have already built an impressive online following and we thought that Lisa, Mike, Mario and Jared had something to offer Chico:
Group- Damsel-Fly is a
relatively young band. You racked up quite a few nods for
production, harmony, lyrics, as well as Lisa's Vocals. When listeners
of Alternative-Metal were asked to pick their favorite songs, "Let
You Go" ranked number 9 out of over fourteen hundred songs. Were
you surprised how quickly fans rallied behind the band?
We’re very happy about how much support we’ve received in the short time the band has been together. We believe in what we’re doing and I think people can hear that in our music.
Group- Lisa and Mike had a band previously and Mario did a song with you two. How did you eventually become Damsel Fly?
We auditioned a ton of drummers but none really seemed to fit what we were looking for. Jared was the missing piece of the puzzle. The musical connection was instantaneous.
Group(Lisa)- The bitterness of love seems to be a recurring theme in your lyrics. Is this intentional?
I
write about what I need to release. I know it’s been said a
million times before but there’s so much truth in the cathartic
aspect of being a lyricist. It feels like a huge weight off my
shoulders sometimes. I never intentionally set out to write about
any one thing. Whatever I’m feeling at that moment is what
gets out on paper.
Group- What is the independent music scene in Vancouver like?
The music scene in Vancouver is growing. For several years, it was stuck in this stagnant state. There was definitely some talent during that time but the interest from the audience wasn’t there. Now, things are improving and you are starting to see more people at concerts, different styles of music, and some really creative talent.
Lisa- Your vocals have been likened to Amy Lee of Evanescence. What do you think of the comparison?
It’s very flattering, she has a beautiful voice. I’m a fan of their music and what they’ve contributed to the genre. I think it’s great to see really strong female musicians who don’t follow the stereotypical music trend of showing more skin than talent. It’s especially empowering and important to young girls starting out in the music business today.
Mike- How has the Damsel-Fly experience been for you compared to See No Star?
The Damsel Fly experience has been much more intense. When Lisa and I started See No Star, we used to sit around in the sunshine, playing guitar and writing songs, playing the occasional gig. Now, our focus is on the four member unit and there is much more that is required by Damsel Fly. For me, it has been a growing experience, one where I look forward to new challenges and broadening Damsel Fly’s recognition. Damsel Fly has also opened us up to a completely different market and allowed us to play larger venues as a result, which has always been a goal of ours.
Mario- You played with Lisa and Mike in two bands. You must all obviously work well together. Do you think a band's camaraderie offstage helps its music?
We have a love-hate relationship, we’re friends one minute and then we hate each other the next. I think it contributes to the aggressiveness of the music. When you spend so much time together there are bound to be conflicts but just like any relationship, when it’s worth it you work it out.
Jared- How long have you been playing drums before Damsel-Fly? What does the drummer bring to his band?
I’ve been playing for 11 years. I think the drummer brings the solid foundation for everyone to build on.
Group- Any plans to play in America?
We’d absolutely love to, it’s just more difficult these days to get a work visa. It’s unfortunate because it would be a great experience. We do hope to get out there soon.
Group- What should our site visitors know about you?
They should know that we have a full record to be released in the fall and that we do have plans to tour. When you come to see a Damsel Fly show, expect to get your ASS rocked!!!