Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.

Zak Ferentz - Vocals/Guitar/Songwriter

Rich Catalano - Lead Guitar

Rob Dudziak - Bass

Matt Wasielewski - Drums

For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to Ferentz and the Felons? How long has the band been around?

This band started in January 2018, so its a new thing. We all come from different styles of music; Rob studied and played Jazz, Rich Catalano played in a metal band Float Face Down and also has a band called Enigma Machine, Matt played in a bunch of local bands around NJ, and Zak has a Hardcore band War Story. Right now The Felons is the main focus.

What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?

I was going to go out as a solo artist but it just didn't feel right once we started jamming, since I am the primary songwriter I thought to go with Zak Ferentz and The...? but I couldn't think of anything. Finally I thought of Zak Ferentz and The Felons and decided to go with Ferentz and The Felons as the final name. I like to bring back that old school vibe, you know that Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers feel lol. 

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?

I (Zak Ferentz) handle all of the primary writing, but we collectively add to the songs musically, so it still feels like a joint effort. The main topics are what comes to my mind/what I'm feeling at that very moment. Usually topics revolve around some sort of struggle or frustration that I know I'm not alone on, its my way of releasing that and creating a positive outlook from it.

What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

Oh man, I don't stick to one genre so I'm going to give you a few past and current that influence myself: Tom Petty, Marcus King Band, Jared Hart and Mercy Union, First Blood, Madball, Stick To Your Guns, BB King, Neil Young, lol theres just too many to mention. Music is part of my everyday life. 

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?

At the age of 12 my brother took me to my first concert ever and that was to see Slayer, I wanted to make music from that moment.

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, etc …

Make sure I eat light. I'm a big man and I like to eat, but theres nothing worse than feeling like crap before you play. Pushups are awesome too.

What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?

We're newborns when it comes to this band, but I think the biggest highlight is the repose and support from our home state, New Jersey.

If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

Oh man, for this style of music I'll give you a dream tour: Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers, Neil Young, Mercy Union, and The Felons.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you to anyone who has supported what we are doing, the love is fully reciprocated. Be on the lookout for our debut EP Hudson County due out July 13th! Peace and Love.