Kalen Chase is a rare breed. With a unique sound and striking appearance, he immediately demands attention. Born in Southern California and growing up in Washington state until his dream of becoming a lumberjack were dashed to the ground, this singer, songwriter, guitar-player, and producer has already toured the world with major performing acts

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

Kalen Chase: vocals, guitar

For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to (insert band/artist name here)? How long has the band been around?

I was a touring member of Korn from 2006 through 2008. I was primarily the background vocalist and percussionist, but also played some guitar and keys.

I then went on to front Vimic, which was started by my friend Joey Jordison of Slipknot. We released four singles and are currently on hiatus. I started my solo project in 2018 as a way to showcase my other musical interests, which largely goes back to my singer-songwriter roots.

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

While the project is simply my name, Kalen Chase, I have a variety of musicians who play with me live or in the studio. Brian Viglione, from The Dresden Dolls, plays on my newest release Good Things (6/26); Pete Thorne, who has played with Chris Cornell, Melissa Etheridge, etc. is featured on another track slated for release later this year, and many other talented people contribute to my "solo" work. I call this communal group the Capital Vices.

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 am the primary songwriter. But I work with my brother Nick Morris and many of the songs are written by him. I try to write about the saddest aspects of life in the most triumphant way. It feels amazing to sing about the hellish nightmare of existence with a soaring vocal and epic wall of sound behind you. I like to use satire spirituality and sexual innuendo as often as possible and I don't see myself maturing beyond that anytime soon.

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

I have always taken inspiration from Tom Waits, Type O Negative and Starflyer 59 in my music. Recently, TwentyOne Pilots and Billy Eillish have impressed me quite a bit. And, of course, there is always Pig Destroyer.

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

When I was a young lad, I saw a music video by the band Fuel. I am not a fan of their music and I can't remember the song, but I realized that if I went to Hot Topic, changed my wardrobe, and started a band, I would have a better chance of propagating my species. It was a defining moment. In all seriousness, music has always been an integral part of my life. Once Vimic went on hiatus, I started sharing some of my solo work with Kato Khandwala, our producer who became a close friend. He encouraged me to pursue my solo efforts and was slated to work with me until his untimely death in a motorcycle accident in 2018.

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

I have used a long time regiment that consists of upside down push-ups, 2 shots of Jager, and a carrying amount of Bud Light to lube me up before a performance.

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

While I have been fortunate enough to tour the world and play in front of tens of thousands of people with other bands, I am the most thrilled about all of the people who have come to my aid as I branch out in this new musical direction. The support of my incredibly established and talented peers, friends, and family will always be the biggest highlight for me.

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

I would love to tour with Muse, because they are one of the best live shows I've ever seen, and Tom Waits because I could listen to him read the phone book.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would like to add that if I can bring a little bit of weirdness into this insanely normal world, I will be satisfied with my difficult and debauched existence.