Today, meet Alex Kostka, a Michigan native. We learned more about Alex, his musical inspirations, how it felt releasing his debut single and more. Read our Q&A with Alex Kostka below. Connect with Alex by visiting his Facebook, Bandcamp or listening to his new single on iTunes here.
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- Introduce yourself to our readers.
My name is Alex Kostka from Bay City, Michigan. I’m starting to go under Kostka though. Whatever floats your boat. I play alternative/indie tunes.
- Describe your sound to a reader who may not have heard it before.
Honest and straightforward. I like to think that my sound and songs can heal wounds to make you feel better and comfortable with yourself. That goes for any situation you may be in… different paths taken compared to others, life struggles, still figuring out what you want in life, etc.
- How did you get started in music?
I couldn’t tell you the first time I was captivated by a guitar but I received my first guitar when I was 10. Eventually I learned how to play and would stand in front of my mirror acting/performing like I was playing to an audience. By the 5th grade I started my first band and had my mind set on touring and pursuing music as a career for a living. Never really had a backup plan since then. No regrets.
If we were to go back a little further (3rd or 4th grade) I was introduced to death metal through one cousin, introduced to punk through my dad, and introduced to emo/alternative through the other cousin. I’m very fortunate for that. You better believe my mixed cd’s were amazing. Cannibal Corpse, Northstar, Brand New, Saves the Day, Black Flag, The Cramps, and The Dead Kennedy’s all on one cd? Heck yeah.
- What are your musical influences?
My influences are all over the place. I’m a huge Dashboard fan and Chris Carrabba in general is one of my favorite songwriters. Neko Case, Connor Oberst, Ace Enders, Cory Branan. Those are just a few. I’d love to tour with those guys/bands.
- Do you write your music or lyrics?
I write both. I try to steer away from influences when I create music. It comes in waves, it really does and it can be frustrating. It either takes me a few months to be happy with a song or it just pours out in 30 minutes. I really have to be focused in the moment. A change of scenery or place helps.
- What’s something interesting about your creative process?
Chances are if we’re hanging out then you’ll eventually hear me hum a new tune idea or singing random lines to work out an idea that I’m thinking of in my head.
- You recently released your debut single, what was that process like?
I’ve been blown away by the reaction I’ve been experiencing with “One and Done”. That was the second song I recorded for the forthcoming full length. I decided back in the winter that “One and Done” would be the single for this summer’s release. I was so determined to give everyone a taste of what I’ve been working on with my producer/best friend (Chris Tanner) and this is the first song I wanted everyone to hear. Once it was officially released, I felt so relieved.
- What’s next for you in 2016?
Piecing together a full band to play shows, some touring in the fall, but most importantly finishing writing and recording my new album. I’m so excited to see where this journey will take me.
- Coffee or tea?
Coffee all the way. Populace Coffee represent!
- Song you’re obsessed with, but ashamed to admit?
Complicated by Avril Lavigne
- Pool or ocean?
Henderson Lake.
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