Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Taylor - Vocals
Aaron - Guitar, Vocals
Sean - Guitar
Ali - Bass, Vocals
Aaron, Taylor, and Ali all contribute to the programming. Ali has also mixed, engineered, the current record and co-produced it with the rest of the band.
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Awaken The Shadows? How long has the band been around?
Aaron - Empyreon (Vocals) 2009-present, Wildstreet (Guitar, Vocals) 2011-2013.
Ali - Wildstreet (bass, vocals) 2008-2013
Taylor Paul - The Truth Is
The "Idea" of Awaken the Shadow started with Ali and Aaron sometime in 2013 shortly from their departure from Wildstreet.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
Aaron: I've always been a fan of horror and dark imagery, however, the name, like certain lyrical concepts is open for personal interpretation. For me it symbolizes the birth of something dark, sinister or haunting.
Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?
Aaron: It's been a collective effort writing for the band. Themes include everything from dark stories, to personal tragedy, to love and triumph. We like to leave some lyrical concepts open to personal interpretation, but most of the themes are pretty apparent. Over time I'm sure our lyrical topics will change and evolve.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Aaron: Crown the Empire, A Day to Remember, Falling in Reverse.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Aaron: White Zombie 1995. It was the 2nd concert I had ever been to, and as a kid it had a lasting impression on me...
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
Aaron: Quick vocal warmup. Hydrate.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Aaron: Releasing "Life Beyond the Curse", a fully independent record done on our own terms, which we're incredibly proud of.
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Aaron: Avenged Sevenfold, Rob Zombie, Iron Maiden. Best stage shows, loyal fans, great performers.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Make sure to add us on FaceBook, Instagram, twitter, and check out our debut album "Life Beyond the Curse" out now!