Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Gene Louis (vocals)
Felipe Rodrigo (guitar, backing vocals)
Zachary Kibbee (bass, backing vocals)
Jonny Udell (drums)
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Bullets And Octane? How long has the band been around?
Bullets And Octane has been around for nearly twenty years now. After Gene Louis moved to California back in 1998, he and original bassist Brent Clawson founded the band while living in Orange County. The band released one album with RCA Records in the mid-2000s and has continued on with some line-up changes over the years. The latest incarnation features Gene Louis on vocals, Felipe Rodrigo (The Brave Ones, Crash FistFight) on guitar, Zachary Kibbee (The Brave Ones, Stonefeather) on bass and Jonny Udell (Warner Drive, The Knives)
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
Thought it sounded cool.
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?
Gene writes most of the songs but Felipe brings some guitar riffs and Zachary has written a few of the newer songs.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Foo Fighters, Men At Work, Huey Lewis And The News, Def Leppard, ZZ Top.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Gene grew up surrounded by jazz musicians so music was just meant to be for him.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
Felipe, Gene and Zachary pretty much drink whiskey at the bar while Jonny has a very regimented schedule that includes stipulations on when he eats, hand and arm stretches, and push-ups.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Touring with great bands like Korn, Social Distortion, Avenged Sevenfold, Stone Sour and Eagles Of Death Metal, among others has been an incredible journey, one gigantic highlight.
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Huey Lewis And The News, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Neil Diamond, and Pink Floyd.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Our album is due for release in 2018, be on the lookout for shows in the area! We're coming for ya! And Huey, if you're reading this, we're looking for your support.