Unsigned Spotlight: Andrew Thomases
At the heart of Andrew Thomases’ music is one thing: he wants to stir curiosity in the hearts of his listeners. Whether it’s through singing about current events, bringing humor into music, or singing from the heart, his mission is the same, and he brings it to his audiences through retro rock rhythms infused with captivating melodies that pay homage to the greats of the ‘80s and ‘90s.
Exploring" is your latest in a string of singles that you began releasing last year. What does this song represent for you as you progress in your career?
Yes, “Exploring” is my sixth single, and I have at least three more coming in the next few months. Each of my songs has an important meaning – from protecting our planet, to recognizing the divisions in our society, to understanding that it is okay to be imperfect. “Exploring” continues the trend of songs with a message. Here, the song reflects on the fact that many of us experience some burnout at some point in our lives, whether it is because of the monotony of a job or just the time-consuming task of adulting. One way to avoid getting stuck in a rut is to make sure that you are always exploring something new – going on adventures, picking up a new hobby, learning something completely different.
“Exploring” encourages us to try the untried. The song itself tries some new things. It starts with a mellower acoustic guitar and layers on some guitar with ‘90s effects. This melancholic sound fades, and a driving drum-back progression kicks in pushing the listener to shake it all up. The uplifting music is accompanied by the encouraging lyrics delivering the positive message. In singing, I tried some new things, including expanding my vocal range. It is part of my attempt to make sure each song is unique.
What was the inspiration behind this song?
The song is definitely semi-autobiographical. I am older than the average starting musician, and my experiences have informed the theme of breaking out of the tedium of life. The antidote to stagnation, in my mind, is to continuously challenge yourself to learn and try new things. For me, it was to try recording music for the first time when I was in my 50s. I had to learn so many things – I taught myself guitar, music theory, mixing, and production. It was (and continues to be) invigorating. I also love traveling to new places and adventure sports like skiing. This concept is so important to me that I thought I’d write a song about it, and, voila, “Exploring” came to be.
What does the word "Exploring" represent for you?
In short, exploring the world and exploring my own capabilities. One doesn’t know what they don’t know until they get out and look for it, whether in the world or in their own mind. We should each explore new things and try the untried, lest we come to a point later in life where we ask ourself, “Why didn’t I try that when I was younger?”
We hear influences from bands like The Smiths and Weezer on this track--what is it about these bands that inspire you?
I went to high school and college in the ‘80s, and I was in my 20s in the 1990s. Pretty early on, I was drawn to alternative rock (what we now call classic alternative). The Smiths were particularly influential, with Morrissey and his ethereal vocals and Johnny Marr and his unconventional guitar work. The beginning of “Exploring” was inspired by the guitar line in “How Soon Is Now,” although I don’t think anyone could really recreate that sound. Weezer had (and still has) important meaning in their lyrics, with catchy lines and memorable phrases. I also love the chord progressions, guitar sounds, and endless hooks. So, you may be able to hear a bit of those bands in “Exploring.”
What do you think it is that sets you apart from other artists in the alt-rock genre?
The most obvious thing is my age. I am starting out as a recording musician in my mid-50s. I try to keep up with the latest acts from The Pretty Reckless to Wet Leg, but I also have lifelong knowledge of alternative rock. This includes a stint as a college radio DJ in the ‘80s. So, my influences are deep, and I try to give my listeners a bit of that history of alt-rock in my music. Similarly, I have a broad array of life experiences, and I try to use those to write songs with meaning.
How do you think living in the Bay Area has influenced your songwriting?
I love the diversity of the Bay Area. Not just the societal diversity, but also the vast range of activities one can do. We have beaches nearby, hiking in the foothills, and skiing in the mountains. The options are endless, as are the opportunities to try new things. If there is something you want to explore, you can find it here – a sport or hobby, new food, classes at a top-notch institution, or new people to meet. Plus, there is a great music scene!
If you could collaborate with any band or artist in the Bay Area, who would you choose?
Wow, that is a tough one. I would probably pick Green Day because they were so influential and they seem like they are a ton of fun.
What do you have coming next?
I am very excited about my next release. It is a collaboration with Anne Bennett, a great rocker from Salem, Massachusetts, who has a bit of a goth vocal sound. She lends her voice to my track “Funkin’ Blame Game,” which examines people’s growing tendency to blame others and avoid taking responsibility. The song has a funky rhythm, but with definite alt-rock sounds. You may hear a bit of The Red Hot Chili Peppers in there. Look for it on May 20, 2022.