Introduce yourself…
My name is Heath, I'm the only member of The Zits. The band name is plural so that throws everybody off haha. I write and record all the music in my appartment on my laptop. It's a 100% DIY!!!
How did the band start?
I've always had a love for pop punk. Particularly the 90's Lookout era scene. There are very few bands that still make good music like that but I wanted to start a band that would one day carry the flag and give a rebirth to real underground pop punk.
How did you come up with the name?
It really just came to me one day. No magic, no voodoo, just thought of it.
Who would you say are your influences?
My biggest influences are The Queers, Screeching Weasel and The Ramones. I also draw some influence from The Kung Fu Monkeys, Beatnik Termites, and Le Volume Etait Au Maximum.
What is the punk scene like in Maryland?
It's not too bad. Some great pop punk in Baltimore. But I live in Denton, it's basically the middle of no where. People here either listen to hip hop or country so when I go to shows, it's usually in Baltimore or DC. But at least I can say The Zits are the best pop punk band in Denton, MD, because there are no others haha.
Describe the song writing process...
It pretty much starts with a song title. I kinda just pick up the guitar and lay out the basic structure of the song. Then I try to write some catchy hooks and start making a vocal melody for the verses. Choruses are usually the last things I put together. Once I got everything put together, I start recording and that's where the magic happens. I start adding riffs, back up vocals, and everything just comes together from there.
What have you released?
Well, I have released 2 acoustic EP's, 2 electric EP's with drums and bass, 2 singles, and one album. I just recently combined everything into one album called "Bubblegum Days" and remixed and remastered everything.
Who are some of the bands you have done shows with?
I have only played one show. It was with Pat Termite and his side project, The Firecrackers. I also invited my friends, T.F.M., to play. Two of which played in The Zits just for the show.
Have you toured?
No, and there are really no plans for that at this moment. Or even time haha.
Do you prefer small clubs or large venues?
Definitely small clubs. Up, close, and personal is always the best.
Is there a favorite band you like to do shows with?
Playing with The Firecrackers was a blast and definitely would love to share the stage with them again.
Is there a favorite place you like to do shows at?
Well, since the only place I've played at is the Ottobar in Baltimore, then I guess that would be my favorite! ;)
What do you see is the future of the Zits?
It's really hard to say. Right now, I'm taking a break from The Zits. Maybe work on some other projects for a while that I've been wanting to do. But first I've got some personal things I want to take care of before I get back into the music thing. I guess once I start up The Zits again, hopefully I can get a steady amount of shows again and release another album.
How can people contact the band?
You can go to http://www.facebook.com/thezits and there you can stay updated on everything. To check out my music, you can go to http://thezits.bandcamp.com
0 comments:
Post a Comment