By Nicholas Jason Lopez
Recently featured on Spotify’s “New Noise” playlist, Pennsylvania-based post hardcore outfit Violet Nine also joined forces with Sleeping With Sirens vocalist Kellin Quinn for their lead single “Change In Plans,” set to appear on their forthcoming EP.
Since their 2018 formation, the quintet have shared the stage with acts like Blessthefall and From Ashes To New.
Violet Nine are lead singer Tyler Kern, drummer Keith Gensure, bassist Nick Metz and guitarists Brandon Gregorzek and Kyle Long.
The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with the band about “Change In Plans” and more.
Music Bugle – What inspired your single “Change In Plans” and how did Kellin Quinn get involved?
Tyler Kern – I had a friend at the time who was going through a rough time and I wanted to help write something to lift them up out of that dark period. Kellin Quinn got involved through a few mutual friends snd everything fell into place with him being on the track. It was an honor to have him on the song.
Music Bugle – How did you guys decide the band name?
Tyler Kern – Literally no idea. I was watching TV one day years ago, but I was zoned out and I thought I heard the person on TV say, “Violet Nine.” I thought it was cool and it stuck with me.
Music Bugle – How would you describe Pennsylvania to someone who has never been there before?
Kyle Long – Pennsylvania is a beautiful state with a lot of wildlife and stays true to the meaning of its namesake, “Penn’s Woods.”
Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your musical style?
Nick Metz – We feel like our musical style is just fun all around. We love playing all of our music and our fans always have a great time when we get to play for them.
Music Bugle – What was it like putting together your EP?
Kyle Long – Putting together our first EP ‘Trials’ was interesting, which is why we decided to call it ‘Trials.’ It was very much a test of our will and musical dedication.
Music Bugle – What do you attribute your streaming success to?
Keith Gensure – As humbly as we can put it, our success in our streams comes simply from good music and the amazing production from King Studios.
Music Bugle – Does social media make it easier or harder for a band to stand out these days?
Keith Gensure – Social media for bands is a love/hate relationship. It’s a great way to promote and gain fans, being that most of the world is connected through social channels. However, the social media outlets have made it more difficult for bands to reach their audience in the last few years.
Music Bugle – What has been your most memorable moment while at a show?
Brandon Gregorzek – Last year, we had the awesome opportunity to play at Musikfest in our hometown. We had such a huge, responsive crowd! Definitely one for the books.
Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?
Brandon Gregorzek – We all have a similar style for the most part, but we do have a range of other interests as well. We listen to everything from Neck Deep to Dababy to Breaking Benjamin to BLACKPINK and Blessthefall.
Music Bugle – How have you been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?
Nick Metz – Individually, we have all been hit in some way, whether it’s a loss of job or a less than ideal quarantine situation, but as a band, we have still thankfully been able to be productive.
