The Rough Boys Interview

1.Can you give us an update on what has been going on with the band since the recording of the new ep?
Tom: We finished tracking in March and since we’ve been writing tunes for the next one and getting ready for the summer shows.

2.You have a new ep coming out in June, can you tell us a little bit more about the musical direction of the new recording and also how does it differ from the stuff you have released in the past?
Tom: This one’s harder than the other ones…and faster. The other 2 EP’s we did had more of a Rock N’ Roll feel, where as this ones has more of the punk/thrash. We also used gang vocals in some of the chorus’ which we hadn’t done before.

3.What are some of the lyrical topics and subjects the band explores with the music?
Tom: Lyrical topics and subjects…well…let’s say 70 percent of the songs are about drugs, alcohol, partying and violence…and the other 30 are just about rocking out.

4.What is the meaning and inspiration behind the name 'The Rough Boys'?
Tom: The idea came from lyrics in the song “One of These Days” by Neil Young song. It went  “All those rough boys/playin’ that rock n’ roll.” We thought is it suited us and so it stuck.

5.What are some of the best shows that the band has played over the years and also how would you describe your stage performance?
Tom: We got called in last minute last February to play a Valentine’s Day show. Two American bands had been stopped at the border and the promoter called us 2 hours before we had to be onstage. We got there just in time to set up and we destroyed the place! That one and one we played in Montreal at a place called Fattal Lofts…that one got pretty crazy. Opening for Fuck the Facts in Barrie in March was pretty sweet too actually. I’d never played on the same bill as a grindcore band so that was really fun. It was awesome. As for our live performance, it’s very high energy, aggressive and at times very chaotic, hahaha! We’re soaked with sweat after everyone…even in the winter.

6.Do you have any touring or show plans for the future?
Tom: Summer shows are being booked now by our friends at Silver Wings Studios…for concert announcements and show updates, best to check out our facebook page.

7.Currently you are unsigned, are you looking for a label or have received any interest?
Tom: Yeah we’re unsigned…we haven’t seriously looked for a label and unfortunately no, none have shown interest as of yet. But label support would be totally awesome.

8.On a worldwide level how has the feedback been to your music by fans of thrash and punk?

Tom: World wide feedback has been a minimum cause we’ve never played outside of Ontario save for a dozen or so trips to Quebec. We have a few fans from Germany though! Haha! The feedback has been good all around by fans of heavy music; Punks, Metaheads, …you name it. Our style allows us to play with a variety of different genres and still fit on the bills. Probably wouldn’t fit on a Black Metal or Death Metal bill but what ever haha.

9.Where do you see the band heading into musically during the future?
Tom: Definitely exploring more in the genres that we’re into already. Thrash. Punk. Heavy Metal. We’re all in agreement as to what we want to do, so we won’t be doing jazz or pop punk any time…just more cut-throat rock n’ roll.

10.What are some of the bands or musical styles that have had an influence on your music and also what are you listening to nowadays?
Tom: Motorhead, the obvious one…Kyuss, Fu Manchu and thrash bands like Slayer for the speed and intensity. Those are some of the bands that influenced us in what we do. As for what I’ve been listening to lately…lots of Death Metal and Grindcore actually. Napalm Death, Autopsy, Carcass…Entombed…that kind of stuff.

11.What are some of your non musical interests?
Tom: Well….most of what we do is based around music so…partying I guess? Definitely the odd game of pool…and curling.

12.Before we wrap up this interview, do you have any final words or thoughts?
Tom: Enjoy “Blood, Booze and Gasoline” we’ll be be recording a full length early next year! Check us on Facebook for Rough Boys updates and concerts! RB 4EVER