Heavens Best Fighter 11/28/08
Anthony Stefani (Redding,CA) took some time to answer a few questions from us here at Owl Radio. Stefani has a busy workload playing guitar in both Heavens Best Fighter (his solo project) and You Versus The Ocean. Take some time and read all about it:
What got you into music and how long have you been writing your own material?
When I was 8 years old, I heard a band called Blink-182 and from then on, I knew I wanted to play music for the rest of my life. I've been playing the guitar for about 5 years but I've only been writing songs and singing for about a year and a half.
What are some of your influences when it comes to your musical style and lyrical content?
Jesse Lacey from the band Brand New has probably influenced more than anyone. He's such a brilliant songwriter and lyricist. He blows my mind. I'm also a really big Kevin Devine fan and I'd say if anything, I really look up to him when it comes to lyrics. The stuff he writes can give me chills. But I've got a lot of influences. I can list them all day. I won't though.
How is the Redding music scene? Any likes or dislikes?
Its not bad, I do wish it was more "alive". Its no were near Chico. There aren't as many bands that I can play with up here. But bands and musicians come up here from time to time and lots of people come out to the shows and listen to the music, it's nice.
How do you juggle being in both Heavens Best Fighter and You Versus The Ocean?
Its not bad. Doing both projects gives me more excuses to write and record and play live which are all things I absolutely love doing. Its gets tough sometimes, cause its double the stuff I have to do, but as long as I remember why I play music, it never gets overwhelming.
What do you think makes a great live performance?
I think any music played with passion makes it amazing. If the vocals are okay and the guitar chords are kinda bland. Its no big deal, as long as they're singing those words because that's actually how they feel and you can tell that its how they feel. Plus when you really get into the music you're playing, the crowd will notice that, and getting the crowd involved is also another big thing.
Do you have any plans for an album/tour?
Well all the recordings I have were done at my apartment, with a real crappy mic and a program i downloaded for free. But i definitely have enough songs for a full length. I just need to put the time into finding someone who can give me decent recordings. As for a tour, I'd absolutely love one! I think there's rumors of a summer tour.....but I don't know.
Anything else?
Thanks so much for the interview! and for all who are reading check out these amazing bands and artists!
www. myspace. com/kevindevine
www. myspace. com/mybandowen
www. myspace. com/brandnew
oh yeah add my bands too!
www. myspace. com/youversustheocean
www. myspace. com/heavensbestfighter96055