Army of Freshmen interview

e-Mo Magazine talks to Chris Jay and Kai Dodson from Army of Freshmen about their forthcoming album and UK tour.

e-Mo: What have Army of Freshmen been up to recently?

KAI: We've been hard at work on our new record. We've actually finished recording and should be getting mixes.

e-Mo: You're doing your first UK headline tour this June - are you looking forward to it?

KAI: Absolutely! I can't wait, in fact. we haven't toured in a while because of the record and, as much as I enjoy the studio, I live for shows. Not to mention, what better place then the UK?

CHRIS: Beyond words. We've been waiting for the chance to do our full headline set in that country for a while and give people the AOF experience instead of the quick 25 minute opening slot set we usually do. Not to mention to see all our friends and fans over there!

e-Mo: How do you entertain yourselves when on the road?

KAI: We watch a lot of movies and play a lot of video games. We have a Wii and a PS2 that we bring out in the states and one or the other is generally running. A few of us read quite a bit too.

CHRIS: We're big on movies and a lot of sight seeing when it's possible. We enjoy house parties too... the event not the Kid and Play movies.

e-Mo: How do your UK fans differ from your US ones?

KAI: The UK fans are very dedicated and just seem to appreciate shows a little more in general. Though, to be honest, we have really great fans everywhere.

CHRIS: I think music fans in the UK are bit more passionate which is cool but fan is fan is a friend you know?

e-Mo: Your new record is due out this summer. What can we expect from the album?

KAI: I know we say this every time we make a record but it really is the best stuff we've done. I think all of us have come a long way as musicians and in the studio. There was just a great feeling going around while we were making it. I can't wait for people to hear it.

CHRIS: It's our best yet for sure. We've tried to improve on everything from writing to recording to performances. We are beyond happy with it. Can't wait for everyone to hear it.

e-Mo: You mention on your website that you're doing some writing with friends in other bands - sounds interesting! Can you tell us more about that?

CHRIS: Hmm. Lawyers say we can't talk about that yet but look in our top friends on myspace and there's some clues!

e-Mo: You're the co-founders of the popular Get Happy Tour with Bowling For Soup. What's been your best and worst experience on the tour?

KAI: Honestly, anytime we play with BFS is a good time. I can't think of any bad moments other perhaps people having a few too many drinks.

CHRIS: Hanging with our friends in BFS and just having sick amounts of fun every night is the best… nothing is the worst but sometimes when we're playing first if they venue is late on opening the doors and there are kids stuck outside while we are playing that's the worst! Maybe the only time you'll see me mad!

e-Mo: What's playing on your iPods at the moment?

KAI: I've been on a beatles kick right now so I've mostly been listening to that. I've been watching the new muse dvd quite a bit too.

CHRIS: The rough mixes of our new record and the new record from the Hooters… an amazing band from Philly which also happened to be my first concert ever!

e-Mo: What advice would you give to other independent bands trying to make it in the music business?

KAI: Do it for the right reason. If you are in for the money or the glory you probably won't survive. If you do it for the love of it you will never be disappointed.

CHRIS: Play with your friends. Have fun. Write A LOT. Don't get caught up with trying to be signed. Be smart. Make new friends. Ask advice. Be nice to everyone. Walk Hard.

e-Mo: Where do you see Army of Freshmen in 5 years time?

KAI: We will be the most powerful force in the world. Kinda like the empire from star wars but way better and our death star won't be able to be destroyed by single ships. Oh and we won't be dicks.

CHRIS: Invading a third world country and establishing a six man dictatorship that emphasizes dope rhymes over hard times.

e-Mo: What's been the weirdest gift a fan has given you?

KAI: Hmmmm. I can't think of anything very strange but we have been given some really kick ass stuff.

CHRIS: Hmm. There have been a few. Been a couple food dishes we've had to pass on.

e-Mo: Finish this sentence: Army of Freshmen are like...

KAI: Slayer. mostly.

CHRIS: a little Evan Dando and a pinch of John Rambo tearing up malls like Arnie in Commando!

e-Mo: And finally, the burning question: Peanut or Chocolate M&Ms?

KAI: Peanut. Definitely peanut

CHRIS: Our keyboardist Dan is a massive peanut M&M supporter