Famous Last Words is a post-hardcore, five-piece band hailing from Michigan. They are known for releasing concept albums that often face really difficult topics head-on. At the end of September the guys put out their third studio album The Incubus which is a concept album that battles the topics of sexual/domestic abuse.
We were lucky enough to catch up with JT Tollas, the vocalist of Famous Last Words to talk a little more about the inspiration behind the story for the album as well as the bands plans for the year. Check out what JT had to share with us below and catch their music video for "The Judged" off of The Incubus below the interview!
The Incubus is your latest studio album and it is a concept album, what was the inspiration behind the story for this album?
JT Tollas: The story, oddly enough, just came to me, from start to finish, in the middle of the night. I immediately went to my phone to start writing down the story in my notes. After that was a long road of research. When I started my research I found out how incredibly uneducated I was on the subject matter, and the more I learned, the more inspiration for the story I found.
What did the creative process look like for this album?
JT: I always start the concept albums with the story first. Once the story is solidified, I try to visualize each "scene" in my head and then attempt to score what I see, just like someone would score a movie soundtrack.
The Incubus did well on the iTunes charts and was streamed over ½ a million times in its first week. How have the fans been reacting to the newest release?
JT: The fans seem to absolutely love the new album. It's definitely different from the other albums, but is still very Famous Last Words. So there were a few people who weren't crazy about it at first, but even some of them have grown to love it.
You linked up with Revival Recordings on this latest release, how was your experience working with the new label?
JT: They agreed to let us have full creative control, which is something most labels won't do. So that, I am very grateful for.
What do you have planned so far for this upcoming year? What are you most excited to do?
JT: We just announced two tours actually. A Midwest run with our label mates, The Funeral Portrait, and the band, Convictions. Then that tour leads directly into an east coast run with the Canadian rock band, Manafest.
What are your goals for 2017?
JT: We just want to be on the road as much as possible. I want to meet all of our new fans, see some old faces, and really reconnect with all of our supporters on a more personal level while we are on the road.
Anything else you'd like to add?
JT: Like always, be sure to keep checking out our socials to see any updates!