Recently I had the chance to talk to one of the vocalist of Us, Ghosts , Brandon Howard. Us,Ghosts is a 6 piece Post – Hardcore band from Sarasota,FL. Musically this band brings a fresh sound to the table and vocalists who enrich every bit of it.This is a band I have had the privilege of working with a few times. They never stop to amaze me with their live performance all the way down to their professionalism.The band has seen their tales of up and downs but they continue to push forward and will not be held back.
The Interview:
To start, can you give us a brief background of Us, Ghosts and how you formed?
Like our name Us, “Ghosts”, we all felt like ignored and shunned from the “popular” people. No one would respect us even if it was doing what we love. But we have a voice to be heard and people need to hear it. We never give up, and neither should you.
When can we expect a new release (CD/EP)?
We are going in the studio on June 4th and we are hoping to release the new 6 song EP within July! ;) get stoked!
Any names for the EP yet and were will you be recording at?
We haven’t named it yet actually! We’re waiting to hear the all around feel. We are going to Think Sound Studio with Drew Fulk in Greensboro, NC.
If you could sign with any label, who would it be and why?
We like a lot of labels out there, I think it would honestly depend on the contract. Sumerian or Equal Vision would be cool!
For you personally, what inspires you musically and what message would you like people to perceive from your music?
Everything about music inspires me: the feels, the lyrics, the sounds. It helped me escape reality in my time of need. I want people to never give up on their dreams, never let anyone bring you down. At the end of the day all that matters is being happy. So do what you love.
If you could tour withy any 3 bands who would they be and why?
Pierce the veil, Chiodos, and Panic At The Disco :D. They’re all huge inspirations to me.
Being a well seasoned DIY band, what advice would you give bands starting out (Tips & Tricks)?
Don’t waste your money on gas to play a bunch of local shows, save up and record an awesome EP or demo. Get your shit out there, and take pride in everything you do. If you want to succeed you will! Also don’t get caught up in facebook likes or Internet promoting. Buying likes is not the way to go!
What is one show you played that stand out above the rest and why?
We played the Sumerian battle of the bands show. We had a huge awesome, responsive crowd. And it was at the Orpheum which was so fun!
What are the top 3 things you think a promoter should keep in mind when booking a band?
They need to be honest with the bands no matter what, need to make sure they know what they’re getting into and also try to find locals who will bring a crowd to open. DON’T HAVE TOURING BANDS OPEN OR HEADLINE. Locals help keep the crowd there.
In closing is there anything you would like to add for the readers?
Nothing that I haven’t already said. Never give up. Seriously.
Us, Ghosts Merch: http://usghosts.bigcartel.com/
Us, Ghosts on FB: https://www.facebook.com/Usghosts?fref=ts
Us, Ghosts on Twitter: https://twitter.com/usghostsband
Interview By: Tim Morris