We had the chance to connect with Cincinnati’s own rock band, The Big Smile and ask them about their journey as a band. We also had to ask about the writing process for their latest track, “Killdozer”, how they’re passing the time during quarantine and if there will more music headed our way.
Beyond the Stage: How did each of you get started in music?
The Big Smile: We all got started in either a garage band or a church band.
How did the band come together?
TBS: Well Ethan, Cameron, Noah and I (Scooter) have been in previous bands together and worked very well together. We found John through a Craigslist ad and here we are!
BTS: How would you describe your music to someone who hasn’t heard it before?
TBS: The perfect blend of aggressive punk and smooth pop with gravelly but passionate vocal delivery.
BTS: Who are some of your influences, musically and non-musically?
TBS: We all have a number of personal influences. As far as the band goes, we take a lot of influence from The Wonder Years, Knuckle Puck and The Story So Far. Non-musically, our friends and our atmosphere are a major influence.
BTS: Do you have a specific recording process, or does it change each time?
TBS: We’ll change it based on how the producer feels about the song. Sometimes it’s straight-up short and simple. Other times we have to jump around the song and work parts into place
BTS: Have you been writing a lot since quarantine started?
TBS: Actually we finished the EP right at the start and haven’t written a whole lot since but some.
BTS: You just dropped a new single, “Killdozer” — what was the writing process like for that track?
TBS: “Killdozer” started with a guitar riff and vocal melody and a lot of the song came together in the recording process
BTS: Do you have a favorite line from the track?
TBS: Hmm… I think my favorite line is, “In business to make us statistics”. As heavily unfortunate as that is, I think it will turn some heads and raise some awareness.
BTS: What do you miss the most about touring right now?
TBS: Oh man. Everything. Mostly seeing new venues, new parts of the country and especially new friends.
BTS: Can we expect more music soon?
TBS: Absolutely! We just signed with Anchor EightyFour records and will have a batch of tunes coming soon!
See the video for The Big Smile’s latest single, “Killdozer” below.
Keep up with The Big Smile: Instagram | Twitter | Facebook
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