The sound of Golden Daze was a blend of Motown and Indie Pop, with influences ranging from legends like Smokey Robinson to more contemporary artists like Amy Winehouse and Dr Dog. It all blends together in a sound Doc Robinson like to call Backyard BBQ Breakup music.
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Doc Robinson? How long has the band been around?
Jon - I began singing in a band during my Freshman year of high school with a few of my classmates. We eventually got smart and changed our name from 'Money for Gyros' to 'The Floorwalkers' and relocate to Columbus where we continue to write and perform.
Nick- had a band in high school names The Eyes, every set ended with our lead guitarist Matt Jackway, taking a gnarly tooth solo, then flipping it around his back to finish usually over sweet home alabama. Played mostly of our gigs in our drummers basement, and in a comic book store next to a bowling alley.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Jon- When I was a Sophomore in high school I saw Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals play in Cleveland, and It had a profound impact on me. I was blown away by the musicianship, showmanship, and the sheer joy that seemed to radiate from the musicians as they tore the roof off the place.
Nick- had a catharsis around 25, was in night school to be a english teacher at the time, went to a dr dog show with my uncle, and watching those guys play all that beautiful music they wrote together made me want to do it forever, no matter the cost. My uncle made me realize the only way to make it so, was to go out and do it, started my 2nd band Nick D’ & the Believers the next week.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc.
Jon - I always try my best to drink a ton of (good) water, and depending on how long our set is, sometimes I'll huff a little steam from a vapor machine to really open things up before I start doing any singing.
Nick- In my last band i used to do a power stance, and listen to Rocks Off on Exile, pound energy drinks, and throw myself around. Nowadays it’s more essential oils, breathing and tea
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Jon - One of my favorite highlights over the last few years was playing the Pine Grove stage at Duck Creek Log Jam - Music Festival in Hocking HIlls. The combination of the authenticity of the atmosphere, and the energy of the music that night, made for an unforgettable experience that I got to share with my soul brothers and many newly made friends.
Nick- getting to play the troubador sold out when we were on the road with caamp was a bucket lister i never thought i’d cross off. It was especially powerful knowing that the heroes like cat stevens used to play residencies there. Definitely felt like a high water mark.
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Jon - I would give anything to catch Sly & The Family Stone in their prime years, let alone share the stage.
They were so funky and eclectic, while defining a rock & soul sound that was unmistakably thiers.
I'm sure hitting the road with The Band would also be quite a hoot.
Nick- even though his recent live shows come under a lot of fire, i still would give quite a lot to open for bobby d sometime. Especially on some of the dylan and the dead runs.