Paul Rogers from L.A. based band Eject takes some time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions before their return to the Kiss or Kill stage tonight at Safari Sam's. Eject takes the stage at 10:15 pm.1. Where are you from originally, and what brought you to Los Angeles (if you are not originally from LA)?
I'm from England; Gary and Tim (our drummer and guitarist) are from Ireland; and Andy, our singer/guitarist, is a native Californian. Music brought us all here.
2. Some of the longtime fans and supporters knew you as The Slow Lorries what called for the band name to be changed to Eject?
There was another band called Slow Lorries in Northern California. We'd rather not worry about names at all - it's all just time and energy that could be used making great music.
3. How did the current line-up meet? Were any of you involved in other bands previously?
I met Andy after he placed an ad on Craig's List for "Peter Hook Wanted". Gary and Tim go way back and have played together on and off for years. Gary had briefly played in a band with Andy too.
4. What instruments do you each play?
I (Paul) play bass; Andy sings, plays guitar (and keys on the recordings) and writes all the songs; Gary plays drums and sings backing vocals; and Tim plays guitar.
5. What made you get involved with music?
Is there anything else?
6. Are there any plans to tour anytime soon?
Absolutely - as soon as it's viable.
7. Eject is currently in the studio recording, will the end product be a full length? Has a release date been scheduled?
We're permanently in the studio - Tim is also a world-class engineer. We just released our debut EP - the stuff we're currently recording will probably also appear as an EP, in the fall.
8. How did Eject's involvement with Kiss or Kill come about? When did you play your first Kiss or Kill show?
We first played KorK, at the Echo, in August '05 I think. A friend introduced me to the club in 2004 and we've had a relationship with them ever since.
9 What do you feel makes Kiss or Kill different from other nights in Los Angeles/Hollywood?
They're consistent with the bands they book. If you like melodic, punkish pop music, you can go to KorK on any given night and - even if you're not familiar with any of the bands - you'll almost certainly enjoy at least one of them.
10. In your own words how would you describe the Eject sound?
It's melodic, atmospheric and evocative, but has energy and angst too.
Eject in Action - photo by Brian Callaway
11. What do you feel sets Eject apart from other bands?
Hopefully great songs and quality arrangements. All I know is that our absolute priority is the songs - not fashion, being part of a "scene" or what the fuck ever.
12. Where does the inspiration for your songs stem from?
Andy's head. Musically? The Cure, Doves, early U2, New Order, Talk Talk, Pale Saints, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, Swervedriver, Andy's classical training, Buzzcocks, the Charlatans ...
Video The Charlatans - "The Only One I Know"
13. How has the sound evolved over the last few years?
We're gradually crystalizing our own sound/personality, and Andy's songs are getting better and better. I've no idea where our sound will go from here, but I'm excited about wherever it takes us.
14. What bands have influenced you personally?
Me? The Cure, Talk Talk, The Streets, David Sylvian, Magneta Lane, Immortal Technique, The Jam, Eisley, Depeche Mode, The Smiths, Catherine Wheel, Coheed & Cambria, Glassjaw ...
15. What advice would you give to bands that are just starting out?
Just do what you do and, if you're lucky, fashion and fate will line-up with your sound. Don't start chasing fashion - that's a recipe for misery and fake music. Remember why you got into this: to express yourself and have fun (presumably)
16. Do you feel band's have more of an advantage or disadvantage when it comes to taking their band to the next level in today's day in age considering the state of the music industry?
Nothing's changed - the cream still rises. If your music is great and you work hard, you'll succeed on some level. We're doing our thing without compromise and thoroughly enjoying it - we're already succeeding.
17. What would be your dream bill to play on?
On tour with The Cure, forever.
Video The Cure "Friday, I'm In Love" -
18. If you didnt reside in the Los Angeles area where would you live?
Austria.
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