Introduction to Spiritbox
Spiritbox, formed in 2017, is known for their unique blend of metalcore, progressive metal, and post-metal elements. The band consists of Courtney LaPlante (vocals), Mike Stringer (guitar), and Zev Rose (drums). They have captivated audiences worldwide with their powerful performances and innovative soundscapes. With each release, Spiritbox continues to push the boundaries of what is possible within their genre, drawing inspiration from a wide array of sources.
The Impact of Outside Influences
Artists often find themselves influenced by various external factors, including other musical genres, personal experiences, and even non-musical art forms. For Spiritbox, embracing these influences is crucial to their creative process. We sat down with the band to explore the significance of these external inspirations.
Interview with Spiritbox
Interviewer: Thank you for joining us today. To start, could you share how you define “outside influences” in the context of your music?
Courtney LaPlante: Absolutely. For us, outside influences are anything that exists beyond our immediate musical environment. This includes other artists that we admire, films, literature, and even personal experiences that shape our perspective. It’s about embracing a broader cultural context to enrich our music.
Interviewer: How do these influences manifest in your songwriting process?
Mike Stringer: Each song usually starts with a core idea, but it’s the layering of different influences that gives it depth. For instance, a guitar riff might be inspired by a specific metal band, but the overall structure could be influenced by a film score. We love to experiment and blend these elements to create something unique.
Interviewer: Could you give an example of a song that was particularly influenced by an outside source?
Zev Rose: Sure, our track “Holy Roller” was heavily inspired by horror films. The intensity and atmosphere of those movies really resonated with us, and we wanted to capture that same energy in the music. The lyrical themes and sonic elements were all crafted with that inspiration in mind.
Exploring Diverse Genres
Music is a vast landscape with countless genres, each offering its own set of characteristics and emotions. Spiritbox is no stranger to exploring these diverse musical avenues.
Interviewer: How do you integrate elements from different genres into your music?
Courtney LaPlante: We approach it with an open mind. We listen to a lot of different music, from electronic to classical, and we try to identify what makes each genre unique. It’s about finding those elements that resonate with us and figuring out how they can complement our style.
Interviewer: Are there any particular genres that you find especially influential?
Mike Stringer: Progressive metal has always been a big influence for us. The complexity and technicality of the genre really challenge us as musicians. But we also draw a lot from ambient and electronic music, which adds a different dimension to our sound.
The Role of Personal Experiences
Personal experiences often serve as a profound source of inspiration for artists. Spiritbox acknowledges the importance of these experiences in shaping their music.
Interviewer: How do personal experiences influence your songwriting?
Zev Rose: Our personal lives are deeply intertwined with our music. We write about things that matter to us, whether it’s personal struggles, relationships, or societal issues. These experiences give our music authenticity and emotional weight.
Interviewer: Can you share a specific experience that led to the creation of a song?
Courtney LaPlante: “Constance” was inspired by the passing of a loved one. It was a deeply personal and cathartic experience for me. Writing that song allowed us to process our grief and connect with others who have faced similar losses.
Looking Ahead
As Spiritbox continues to evolve, they remain committed to embracing outside influences while staying true to their artistic vision. With each new project, the band aims to push the boundaries of their sound and connect with fans on a deeper level.
Interviewer: What can fans expect from Spiritbox in the future?
Mike Stringer: We’re always exploring new ideas and experimenting with our sound. Fans can expect more innovation and surprises from us. We’re excited to continue growing as artists and sharing our journey with our audience.
Interviewer: Any final thoughts on the importance of outside influences?
Courtney LaPlante: Outside influences are essential to our growth as musicians. They challenge us, inspire us, and keep our music fresh. We’re grateful for the diverse sources of inspiration that help us create music that resonates with people.
Conclusion
Spiritbox’s dedication to incorporating outside influences into their music is a testament to their commitment to artistic growth and innovation. By drawing inspiration from diverse sources, the band creates a rich and compelling sound that resonates with fans around the world. As they continue to explore new creative avenues, Spiritbox remains a powerful force in the music industry, continually pushing the boundaries of their genre.