GET TO KNOW THE BAND: The Technicolors
October 2015
Interview and photos by Sophie Hsu
"We
were in need of an outlet to try different styles to see what we really
resonate with, both in the studio and live. We chose the title based on
that, and we produced it ourselves." - Brennan Smiley, The Technicolors
Color describes something we see, but can also figuratively
describe what we hear. For The Technicolors, formed in Phoenix, Arizona, it
does just that. The Technicolors started as a project by Brennan Smiley, and
has now expanded to a full band, including Sean Silverman on guitar and vocals,
Troy Lowney on keys, and Mike "Nico" Nicolette on bass, combining
rock with a little bit of electric groove. They recently released a new EP Ultraviolet Disguise, and are currently
supporting Lydia (Check out our interview!) on The Run Wild Tour, also with
Seahaven and Turnover. They recently stopped at The Gramercy Theatre to share
some of their Arizona vibes. However, even better, lead vocalist and guitarist
Brennan Smiley took a pause on tour to fill us in on the beginning of The
Technicolors, his unexpected start of music with the drums as a toddler, and
even a true fact that might explain the endless joy and charisma that resonates
across the band's members.
What was the first musical instrument you started making music with?
What sparked your interest in music, both playing and listening?
I
think I was playing drums before I knew what music was or what I was
doing. But I had pretty good groove. So I'd have to say that playing
music made me fall in love with it.
How did the band form and take on the name "The Technicolors”?
The
band formed out of a solo project that I was working on. When I started
playing out around Phoenix, I put together a band, which soon became The
Technicolors. The name just popped up, and we decided to roll with it.
You recently released a new EP titled Ultraviolet Disguise earlier this year! Briefly, what was the process of writing, recording, and producing the EP? Why Ultraviolet Disguise as the title?
We
were in need of an outlet to try different styles to see what we really
resonate with, both in the studio and live. We chose the title based on
that, and we produced it ourselves.
After listening to the album, my favorite track is "Heavy Leather."
What sparked the inspiration for that particular track, and what was the
process of creating that one?
Thank
you—I'm glad you like it. It was fun to write and create. We just
wanted to create something sneaky, and we were trying to channel the Gorillaz and Outkast.
Who are some of your prominent musical influences?
If you could tour with any two artists (alive), which would you select?
If you were to plan a perfect night in NYC as a performer, where would
you want to play a show, followed by a bar or spot you'd grab an after
show snack or drink?
What is one fact about yourself the others may not know about you?
"Smiley" is actually my last name.
What is a favorite restaurant or bar in NYC you would recommend? Any places back home in Arizona?
I love Lucy's. We've spent a lot of time there. If you're ever in AZ, check out Lux.
If you were a superhero, what power(s) would you possess?
What can listeners expect in terms of upcoming projects and/or releases?
At
this point. Music. Not sure which form it will take on, whether it be
an EP, singles, or an LP, but it's coming. I assure you, it's coming.
A huge thanks to brennan and the technicolors for taking the time
and thought to respond to our questions. Be sure to FOLLOW THEM ON DONYC
TO CHECK THEM OUT the NEXT TIME THEY'RE IN TOWN!
don't forget to follow Sophie on Twitter and Instagram for more updates and photos on what's shaking up New York City!
