Exclusive Interview
We talk with hard rock band, Scarecrowz!
We talk with hard rock band, Scarecrowz!
Who exactly makes up the sonic force that is Scarecrowz? Let's break down the lineup:
Ger Madden: Rhythm Guitar, Lead Vocals
Trevor St. Peter: Lead Guitar, Backup Vocals
Aansen Harrison: Drums, Percussion
Zac Bryan: Bass Guitar, Backup Vocals
Scarecrowz boasts a unique name; so what's the story behind it, and how does it reflect the band's personality or music? It started out as a thought regarding Halloween around the band's inception. The name was sort of a take on the movie, 'The Warriors' as a group or band or ragtag guys. Originally, we were called Scarecrow, then Scare Crows, then Scarecrows, but officially changed our name in 2006 to Scarecrowz. It reflects the sound as somewhat scary, I think.
Canada has a rich musical history; which Canadian artists have most influenced Scarecrowz's sound and approach to music? We are influenced by so many different artists. This impacts the dynamic every time we had a new band member. Regarding Canadian bands, all the classics you can think of would probably have some sort of impact on us. Nickelback is definitely one.
Do you perform live often? We do, but not lately since we were focusing on recording and releasing our new album 'Husk' that just came out. We are looking at dates now, however.
If you could choose one iconic venue to play a sold-out show at, anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? Well, that's a good question. So many great places out there. The L.A. Forum, Madison Square Garden, O2 Arena. Heck, I would love to play the amphitheater in Pompeii like Pink Floyd did!
What's been the biggest challenge Scarecrowz has faced as a band, and what did you learn from overcoming it? Band member turnover. Ger Madden is the only original member. He's had to contend with personalities, band financial issues, recording problems, and other roadblocks and obstacles over the years. He's still here leading the charge, and having a positive attitude was the only way forward, which is why the band is still going today. Life throws you lemons...make lemon-aid!
Describe your creative process for writing music together. Is it collaborative from the start, or does someone usually bring a more fully formed idea to the table? Ger writes most of the material, but the others over the years have also contributed to a greater or lesser degree. Sometimes songs are written in the moment together, but sometimes apart. As mentioned, Ger mostly writes by himself but does collaborate with the members on occasion. There is no standard format on writing. Lyrics can all be done first or the music. It usually starts with a riff.
Beyond music, what are some of your passions and interests that might surprise your fans? Pastimes? Hmm, boardgames, history, hockey, movies. Sci-fi movies are cool!
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are just starting out and dreaming of making it in the rock scene? Be realistic, but get all your ducks in order first. Have a plan. What is your goal? How will you attain it? Put your plan down in writing and use spreadsheets, network, etc. Whatever advances you to your goal, but above all...never give up on your passion whether you make it or not!
Where do you see Scarecrowz in five years? What are your biggest goals and ambitions for the band's future? Well, that's another good question. We've been around for a quarter century already. I don't know if we'll be around another 25 years, but at the moment, we have no plans on stopping. We get to record, we get to perform shows, we have merch, we have a website (www.scarecrowz.ca)...we have a lot of things going for us. We still try to make inroads in new avenues and locations with fans. Always gotta promote!