SIMPLY SIX: Strait Laces

Strait Laces are a group from Northern Ireland.


1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they
knew they wanted to be a singer.  For many it was the appearance of Elvis on
the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance
on Sullivan half a decade later.  Is there such a defining moment for you?

A: As individuals, we have all been involved and exposed to music from a young age. Being influenced by music our parents listened to and from the endless stream of music videos on the TV. I think its every young guitarists dream to be a huge rockstar and experience all that goes along with that. We've all been in and out of bands since we were in our early teens, but I think the biggest inspiration to start Strait Laces was getting a taste of the Belfast music scene. Watching our friends perform to an adoring crowd. It seemed alot more achievable than playing a sold out stadium tour, so we thought we'd have a go.

2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to?  Who are some
of your favorites?

A: All three of us have a fairly varied taste in music. Some of the bands that I think have influenced our sound our: Biffy Clyro, Weezer, Reuben,Manchester Orchestra, Brand New. The list is really far too long.

3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on
record or live?

A: We've have had some great times as a band so far. We've been lucky enough to travel across to the mainland and play gigs in Liverpool, Manchester and London, all of which have given us a library full of great memories. I think I can safely say that the biggest and most exciting thing to happen us so far is getting the chance to play at SXSW. Getting to travel to Texas and play at an event such as SXSW is a huge opertunity for any young band. We are determined to work hard and make the most of the entire experience, but most of all we want to enjoy ourselves and have fun.

4.  Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen
to?   How much can music influence current events?

A: When we started out as a band we didn't give much thought to the content of our lyrics. Our early songs were mostly written about getting drunk and looking for girls. As we've matured as a band we have realised that we have a great platform to sing about things that really matter to us. We have recently written and recored a song called "kids like john need a hero". This song was inspired by a trip to WW1 memorials in Belgium andFrance, and tells of the struggle of young soldiers durung the war. I hope that people will be inspired or moved by the track, but I don't think it will change the world lol.

5. How has technology affected the music industry?  How has technology
affected your career as a musician?

A: Having only been involved in the music industry recently its hard for me to tell how technology has had an affect. I think the biggest way technology helps us as a band is with the communication side of things. The internet and email have made it much easier for bands to communicate, with each other, with industry types and with venues and promoters.

6.  Now for my Barbara Walters question:  If you were a pair of shoes what
type of shoes would you be?

A: If I were a pair of shoes, I think I'd be a pair of clogs, cause I'm hard as fuck!