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

Robbie Hiser - Singer/Songwriter

Alex Downtain - Guitar

Arafat “Fluffy” Patwary - Bass

Sheppard Martin - Drums

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

We’ve all played in various bands in Atlanta throughout the years. In 2011, Sheppard, Alex and I were all in a band called Dawn Is Broken that released an EP and toured regionally. After a little time off to get my life together and reprioritize, I started this band in winter of 2015. 

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

I came up with the band name a few years back and it is simply acknowledging the many dualities in life. The band has been named Fighting Sides since it’s announcement back in March of 2015. 

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 write the music. I just write whatever I am thinking about the time, so that changes as events in my life change. The lyrics on our new EP, “Haven’t Scored Yet”, overall have a defiant, individualistic theme as that topic was most on my mind last year. As many other artists can confirm, working full time jobs and other obligations just take you away from your art and make you feel like you aren’t living to your potential. All I want to do is play music all the time. 

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

I’ve been listening to a lot of pop music recently. I used to exclusively listen to material that was within the “scene,” like pop punk or hardcore. I really like bands like Bad Suns, Cage The Elephant, and 5 Seconds of Summer. 

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

When I was 15, I saw Story of the Year at Warped Tour. To this date, that was still the craziest concert I’ve ever experienced. Seeing the huge crowd all jump and go crazy at the same time was one of the most amazing things I’ve seen. I knew at that point that I wanted to experience that energy from the stage. 

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

Honestly we just drink of a lot of beer before we play.

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

The release of “Haven’t Scored Yet” was certainly amongst the highlights. Playing with Handguns and Roam back in December was quite a bit of fun. Other than that, we always have a good time playing house shows. Everyone is drunk and the energy is super high. 

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

We would love to tour with our heroes growing up, bands like Sum 41, Good Charlotte, or New Found Glory. 

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our new EP “Haven’t Scored Yet” is out now. Check us out on the various social media sites so you can stay updated on new content we release!