ION : If I peeked into your music collections , what bands would I find in there ?
Efrum : Everything . If it ' s good , I listen to it . If it ' s not , that ' s just my opinion , which means nothing . I still appreciate it for what it is--and the artists who made it happen .
Brandon : Anything and everything ! I just love listening to music , it doesn ' t matter what it is !
ION : Given the current state of the music industry , do you find the internet , social media , and tons of free online music streaming hurts or helps the band ?
Brandon : I really do not think it matters . Most people are focused on the wrong things . The industry has been heading in this direction for a long time , and most are not willing to embrace it and adapt . No matter what , you need to create value . If your band holds value ( this does not mean money ), people are willing to buy your CD and a ticket to your show . Of course , it can be tough for bands in our position who do not have the financial backing of a label , but we are all still presented with a huge opportunity , if you can shift through the fog .
Senior Photojournalist Gary Carota ( pictured center ) with the band Kelen Heller
ION : What are the band ’ s plans and goals for the future--and where do you guys see yourselves in a few years ?
Brandon : 2017 is going to be a great year ! We are looking forward to finally releasing our new album and touring in support of it . I hope we can keep making new friends and inviting people into our family along the way . We want to take our band as far as it will go . We have always had the biggest dreams for Kelen Heller--and we are going to do our best to make them come true and bring everyone with us !
ION : If somebody reading this article wants to buy your music , or any merchandise from you , where can they do that ? Brandon : Please visit any of our links to keep up with us and stay up to date on all news that IS Kelen Heller !
ION : Thanks guys ! You ' re one of the most down-to-earth bands I know … who absolutely love hanging out with your fans , both before , and after your shows . I wish you much success in 2017 … and we ' ll catch you out there on the road !
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