You don't have to look far beyond the band moniker (taken from 00s cult cartoon Clone High) and the title of debut EP - ¡Ponce! are...(The Wizards of Time & Infinity) - to comprehend the Connecticut outfit's fantastic thematic influences and lyrical references.

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

Joseph Omeluk: Guitar/Vocals/Lyrics

Chase Greer: Drums 

Brandon Lepore: Bass

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

Joe: This iteration of ¡Ponce! has been around for 2 years or so, and we had previously gone through some changes until we settled in with the current trio.

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

Brandon: The band is named after Ponce de Leon from the cartoon Clone High. The exclamation points are just for fun, and this has been our name from the offset. i played in bands called Snowball Effect and Harmless, Joe played in a couple of bands that went nowhere and this is Chase’s first band.

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?

Joe: The lyrical content is composed by our brilliant leader (me) but the music is a collaborative effort.

Chase: It’s very collaborative, I think we have all brought ideas to each other and then they’ve escalated and evolved into our current songs. It’s great having creative freedom.

Brandon: Thematically we write fantasy driven songs about time, space and anime.

Chase: I like to think our music will grow and change the same way we all do as human beings. That said, I also like to think our fun and nostalgic themes that we tend to stick to will stay prevalent as we progress.

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

Brandon: Gold Necklace and Chon.

Joe: I’m inspired by everything but especially Japanese math rock, 90s Midwest emo, and indie rock 

Chase: Mostly emo/midwest emo but also very influenced by modest mouse. 

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

Brandon: Taking Back Sunday

Joe: Modest Mouse

Chase: I wouldn’t say one band or artist but I can’t stop going to shows. I really connect with live music so any opportunity I get I take when it comes to live music.

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

Brandon: A quick stretch and practice my instrument.

Chase: In all honesty I need a beer or two, then the nerves are somethin else! 

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

Brandon: Playing a packed show at the Kingsland in Brooklyn with Challenger Deep and OK Goodnight 

Joe: I agree

Chase: Same

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

Brandon: Wolf & Bear would be great.

Chase: I would probably go with Modest Mouse, I know I keep name dropping them but that seriously would be the pinnacle for me.

Joe: Honestly touring is a task that is challenging and tiring, personally I would prefer staying home and admiring myself.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Chase & Brandon: Thanks for having us.

Joe: Many people ponder why my beauty and appearance brings about a feeling of enchantment and illumination to their lives, but it’s within the nature of a deity such as myself to inspire such feelings.