Neat are a punk-hardcore band from Modiin, Israel. Their debut EP 'Starting Over' is out:
http://neatpunk.bandcamp.com/
Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Amit Ripshtos - Guitars
Hadar Shemesh - Vocals
Roee Kahana - Drums
Guy Golran - Bass
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to NEAT? How long has the band been around?
Almost every one of us were in a different band before NEAT. Roee Kahana is still in a successful trash/groove metal band named Shredhead (performed in wacken 2012, I think) Amit Ripshtos were in a band named Ripshtos - Deathcore 2-men metal project, and Guy Golran were in a israeli rock band named, Spitfire
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
We were looking for a name that will describe our band and will match our music the most.
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?
We write our own songs - the lyrics are written by Hadar - our vocalist. Our main themes for our songs talk about paths of lives you choose and consequences from our past decisions. We think our topics will change by our life situations and feelings
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
We are inspired by a lot of music and genres - starting from pop-punk bands like 'the story so far' and 'sum41' and going into more hardcore stuff like Comeback Kid and Touche Amore.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Not really , we are all into music for a long time and we just found each other and made it happen
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
A lot of practices of course, running over our songs and stretching before the show - because most of the time we are in motion and try to keep our live shows... well - LIVE and not static
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Getting our first debut EP out - named 'Starting Over'. we worked really hard to make this happen and we are proud of the result!
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Comeback Kid , The Story So Far, Gnarwolves, Sum 41, Trophy Eyes, Four Year Strong, The Hotelier, New Found Glory. They are really cool bands and have cool live shows and we want to take a part of it.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Listen to our EP 'Starting Over'. If you love it, spread the word. Stay punk!