If there was one word to describe the music of Night Riots, it would definitely be “contagious.” The band’s pop-rock sound has infiltrated summer radio play the last couple of years and they don’t seem to be stopping anytime soon. The hints of punk and electronica that shine through give the band a distinctive sound, especially when paired with vocalist’s Travis Hawley’s voice and the creative instrumentals from the band.
I caught up with the band over email to hear about their message and influence.
Photo courtesy of Night Riots.
The band is currently on tour in support of their brand new singles, “Colour Morning” and “On The Line,” as a follow-up to their most recent acclaimed album, Love Gloom. This serves as the band’s first real headlining run in the states. It allows them not only to play a longer set but also to cater the show to the fans by playing more favorites.
Night Riots works to give fans a place to escape and feel welcome within their music and at their live shows. Their music, though it does have a “tinge of darkness,” as the band says, the hopeful message and undertone of perseverance and acceptance are what really resonates with the listeners. According to the band, existing solely in the moment of a live show and feeling the energy of the songs they are playing will allow the crowd to feel and reciprocate that energy.
“If someone can listen to our music or come to a show and forget about life for a second, relate in some way to the music, or be transported then I’d feel like we did what we set out to do.”
The band mentions that their influence comes from plenty of different artists and styles. They love both the fearlessness of early punk as well as the glamour of such performers as David Bowie and The Cure. Even modern artists, such as J. Cole’s power to stand up for what he believes and share a message, have an impact on the quartet and their musical process.
Fans can look forward to a plethora of new music rolling out over the rest of 2018 and more touring!
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What started as an unlikely union has since led to a fantastic alternative rock band that will capture the attention of listeners everywhere. Silent Rival is comprised of vocalist Sara Coda, guitarist Joz Ramirez, and bassist Yutaka Sao. The Set List had the chance to chat with Coda over email about their style and creative process.
Photo courtesy of Silent Rival.
Silent Rival’s upbeat rock is perfect for dancing and singing along, with vibrant vocals and unique instrumentation. Though the members come from around the world (the United States, Mexico, and Japan, respectively,) a shared passion for music blended with the already diverse city of Los Angeles was what brought their identities as musicians together. The band pulls influence from a variety of music and time periods from 60s R&B to Nirvana and everything in between, according to Coda.
The vocalist shares that the creative process of making new music allows these musicians to discover new things about themselves and each other. While it can be tiring and bring out plenty of emotions, she mentions, “When we’re finished, it feels like we’ve been born again.”
“Connecting with others through music is at the core of what motivates us and makes creating very rewarding.”
In 2018, fans can expect a new album in the fall and tour dates around the country!
Don’t miss Night Riots and Silent Rival on June 10 at U Street Music Hall! Tickets are available here!