Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.
Collin Derrick - bass, vocalist
Stephen Russ - drums
Jesse James - keys
For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to The Fire Tonight? How long has the band been around?
We got together in college, around 11 years ago, as our first serious band and weren't ever smart enough to break up or join other bands. So we're still together and about to release our sixth record.
What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?
It was a secret song on Collin's first solo album that Stephen co-produced. Once the band officially formed we changed the name from being a Collin solo project to The Fire Tonight.
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 all write the music! Collin originally wrote 95% of everything but over time both Stephen and Jesse started writing amazing material and now it's pretty evenly split. We still rework, refine and collaborate on finishing the music which makes it a special relationship where we're all equal partners. Collin does generally write most of the lyrics though and a lot of the themes on the upcoming album are more inspirational. It's about overcoming your own demons, living through the dark moments and finding hope on the other side. In general we've focused on more morose and depressing topics but this album has been a reaction to that - not wallowing but looking forward.
What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?
Animals as Leaders, The Bad Plus, Band of Skulls, Rage Against the Machine, Hiatus Kayote.
Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?
Not really.
What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect …
Since we all live in different states it's a lot of drills, practicing and communication to prepare to arrive in a single spot and rock out. Lots of email. Real exciting stuff.
What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?
Releasing our upcoming on album on vinyl will our biggest highlight. We've played over a hundred shows in 5 states for hundreds of people but nothing beats the satisfaction of putting our an album you're proud of!
If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?
Led Zeppelin or The Bad Plus.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
You guys are awesome! And we're giant nerds. With masters degrees.