Music Bugle Exclusive – Q & A – Bittersweethearts

By Nicholas Jason Lopez

After their first-ever European tour, a string of West Coast dates that brought them to venues like The Viper Room and Whisky A Go Go and a plethora of instant earworms like “Hate To Love,” “Polly Plastic,” “Run From You” and the latest “Empty,” Bittersweethearts have ascended to heights never imagined before.

Summed up as a sonically “kaleidoscopic blast” of Blondie, The Motels, Mazzy Star and CBGB’s-esque spirit, the indie rock quartet is comprised of frontwoman Zoë Infante, drummer Daniel Jun and guitarists Alyssa Robertson and Zach Andrews.

The Music Bugle had the chance to talk with Infante, Jun and Robertson about what inspired the band name, their creative mindset behind “Empty” and much more, which you can check out below.

Music Bugle – What inspired the “Bittersweethearts” name?

Zoë Infante – When I started the band, I was going through a super tough time, but I knew there would be a beautiful and rewarding outcome. Therefore, “Bittersweet” came to mind, but I do love a good play on words, so I was like, “Hmmm… sweetheart is cool. Bittersweethearts?” and Bittersweethearts was born.

Music Bugle – What was your creative mindset behind your latest single “Empty”?

Zoë Infante – I wanted to show women in bad relationships everywhere can always get out and it will always get better. I was in a horrible, toxic relationship and it just left me feeling empty. I decided I didn’t have to put up with the torture anymore and made the hard decision to walk away.

Music Bugle – Who are you listening to right now, music-wise?

Alyssa Robertson – Lately, I’ve been really into listening to whole albums. I’ve mostly been vibing with Failure’s ‘Fantastic Planet’ and ‘Decomposer’ by The Matches.

Daniel Jun – Surl, Se So Neon and Backseat Lovers.

Music Bugle – How was your first-ever European tour? What were some highlights?

Zoë Infante – Our 2023 European tour was so amazing! I had never been to Europe before and it was so awesome. One of my favorite memories was, after a kickass show in Belgium, my drummer and I rode locals’ bikes through the sleepy streets at 4 am. Even though we had to get up at 7 am, it was so worth it.

Daniel Jun – One of the most fulfilling tours I’ve ever done, the audience was very engaging and enthusiastic. My favorite was in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Music Bugle – What excites you the most about your style of music?

Zoë Infante – I want to bring a retro new wave vibe back to the 21st century and I love it because I feel like that shows in our music.

Daniel Jun – It’s not pure rock nor pop. We get along musically and I love our stage presence. 

Music Bugle – What’s your stance on the use of AI in music?

Zoë Infante – Fuck. That. Shit.

Daniel Jun – It’s a tool. AI won’t be able to create the human aspect of music and as long as we treat it as such, I don’t mind AI. 

Music Bugle – Where do you go when you need a break?

Zoë Infante – My bed with my cat, Fig.

Daniel Jun – Camping in the mountains or in the desert. 

Music Bugle – What show are you currently binging on in your free time?

Alyssa Robertson – I’m currently binging “I Think You Should Leave” on Netflix. It’s completely absurd, so quotable and the writing and acting always make me laugh. 

Daniel Jun – “Psych” is my favorite tried and true show.

Music Bugle – What’s something that you wish happened more in today’s music industry?

Zoë Infante – More rock versus today’s pop and more bands versus today’s solo acts!

Daniel Jun – For everyone to be represented properly and to be compensated for their time and efforts. Too many times, people get shorted because no one cares enough about music or someone else will do it cheaper.

Music Bugle – What motivates you to keep doing what you do?

Zoë Infante – Our band and manager and my love for music, touring and teaching people through our music.

*Photo Credit – Scotty Wise*