New Jersey Stage Issue 55 | Page 15

call for distraction and escapism in a long time. As a band that has a clear view about the way the world is at present, what is the role of the artist to voice those concerns? Everybody is different. For some people, ignorance is bliss. I don’t mean to put anybody down by saying that, it’s just how some people are more comfortable living. Personally, it makes me sick to see the world with such discourse. I may not be able to change the world, but if I can change one person’s world, or wake one person up, I have to try. More than anything, I think I can speak for most artists when I say that this is an outlet for me. This is how I cope without exploding. I take it out on the pen and paper, then eventually the mic. What has been the general NJ STAGE - ISSUE 55 reaction to getting out there and being forthright and unafraid to state these concerns? I’ve heard audience members say that they admire our ability to really make a point and stand for something. I’ve been told the opposite. Everybody is different. Some people want to hear “Gucci gang, Gucci gang, Gucci gang” six thousand times... some people want to see the depths of your soul. It just depends on who’s listening. I’ve always been a confrontational person. I’m peaceful as can be, or I try to be, but I don’t stand idly by when I see change is needed. What are the plans for the band after February? We hope to tour. Honestly, our everything has been put into this album and its release, but 2019 will be a busy year for us. w INDEX NEXT ARTICLE 15