Keep Flying - Sound In The Signals Interview
I recently had the opportunity to interview Keep Flying. We discussed their upcoming album ‘Time & Tide’, lyrical inspiration, filming music videos, artwork, collaborating with Smartpunk, and more. Check it out below.
First, thanks for the interview.
ALWAYS. For both you and Happy Gilmore, anything!
You recently announced your debut album ‘Time & Tide”. You’ve released many EPs over the last few years, but fans have waited a long time for your official debut album. Why did now feel like right time to write and release it?
Transparently when this band started we immediately got into touring. We wanted to go go go as soon as possible because that’s what we were used to doing in previous bands. Because of the busy touring schedule we like to keep whenever we had time to work on music we would end up with streamlined releases. From 2016 onward we have had people ask when we are going to put out a full-length and this felt like the right time to do it because it was time for something different. In the evolution of this band we have gone through many phases and this chapter is the coolest yet. We created a really sturdy foundation to be able to finally release this album.
What was the writing process like for this album? Who did you record with on it?
We honestly did so many new things this time around. First of all, we had multiple pre-pro sessions in Nashville with our friend Luke Granered to build these songs. I’m talking rented airbnb and just riff through Henry’s tunes. We did go back to Nik at Gradwell House to track everything but Tate Mercer mixed the album as well as Kris Crummett on mastering. More minds than ever before and of course some fresh, new to our music ones. Recording wise we did drums LAST which was very exciting for us. On the recording of this album is the ‘Daylight’ lineup of the band which of course consists of Dustin Wallace on lead guitar and Chuck Bernard on bass & some backing vocals.
You released the first single, “Stormchaser”. Can you tell me about writing that song and why you chose it as the lead single?
Stormchaser was the first single for a few reasons. One, we worked on that one right out the gate so I think we were all a little biased to it. Two, it really does a great job featuring all instruments and voices which is nice. Three, it’s more of the rock sound we want to showcase moving into the future. As far as writing the song, this was one of Henry’s mastermind tunes and as we started pre-production it evolved into something even more powerful than originally anticipated. The chorus is one of the catchiest hooks on the album and it was magical working on horn parts that alternate between leads and pads. Not to mention the entire end of the song is this massive, aggressive big rock ending that punches you right in the gut.
You also released a video for the song. What was the video shoot like for the band?
For the video, and the videos to come... ;), we worked with Long Island legend Tom Flynn. This was shot in several locations in Oceanside, NY as well as Lido Beach. It was incredibly humbling to be outside in the thin clothing we wore for this video as it was below freezing haha. We did several takes and then would hop in the heated car to warm up for a bit. Since this is the first song we had decided to release we wanted the video to also be both the coolest thing we’ve ever shot as well as a reintroduction of the band.
You can sense in the story that Henry and I are meeting again to be joined by Pete & Rick as we choose to go into the storm, something we’ve all felt since the start of this band. We had a few people with us to capture some BTS and help with wardrobe/props and shot this over the course of a full day with the last shots being wrapped up right before sunset at the beach. Post production saw Tom create and emulate a real post apocalyptic storm and the video for Stormchaser was complete!
What’s the meaning behind the title ‘Time & Tide’?
This is one that you’re going to just have to wait to find out. What I can say is that it is a recurring theme throughout the record that climaxes at the title track which closes the record. We created ways to touch on it as the record progresses and leaned into it with the visual. Chris did an incredible job with the album art and everything that we are working on as we approach release day.
Is there a song that you’re most excited for people to hear and why?
Our multimedia manager actually sat us each down and I was told that everyone had a different answer which I think is neato but speaking for myself I would say the title track "Time & Tide". I’m excited for everyone to hear this one, but for me it gets me choked up as well as goosebumps every single time I listen to it. It is such a powerful and perhaps the most brutally honest introspective song while also being outwardly thankful to everyone who has been with us along this road. Not to mention, the ending is just...yeaaaaaaa.
I really like the album artwork. It’s really interesting and works well with the album title. Can you tell us more about who came up with the concept for it and designed it?
Our secret weapon Chris Pappas sent this over and to be honest we had almost no notes. He had listened to the album and I had let him know that I wanted to go literal with the art. Time...Tide...clocks, ocean, nautical, space etc. We also gave one note that we wanted him to try doing a different style of art if possible. What ended up coming through is by far the most impressive design work I believe he has ever done and we've already gotten so many compliments on it. I’m eager for everyone to see the companion pieces that Chris is already working on. :)
You’re continuing to work with Smartpunk on the vinyl, CD, and merch for the album. You’ve been one of their flagship bands for a few years now. What’s been your favorite thing about working with them through the years?
Correct! We are still doing physical media with Smartpunk and have been since inception. It feels good to know that we are one of the bands that kicked things off with them and we have both been growing together. My favorite thing about working with Smartpunk is that Matt Burns, who is our rep, is simply one of the closest friends I have since the early 2000s so everything we do is fun. We are able to get on the phone at any hour and just riff ideas. It makes for a great relationship and of course silliness. We all need a little more silliness these days.
Thanks for taking the time to answer the questions. Do you have anything else that you would like to add?
Thanks for having me. We appreciate the kindness that has been coming in from the community on the announcement of the first album and the Stormchaser single. Pay attention to this rollout because every 3 weeks we have something new for you to try and prep yourself from some twists and turns. Lots of curves to come!
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