The Vended Interview (Simon Crahan & Griffin Taylor)
Mar 21, 2024
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Simon Crahan and Griffin Taylor from Vended bring their electrifying energy to the conversation. They dive into their musical evolution, sharing heartfelt stories of their childhood influences and the emotional depth of their latest tracks. The duo candidly discusses navigating their identities as musicians with famous parents, along with the humor of learning guitar. They also reminisce about a chaotic tornado encounter that ended with a kitten rescue, showcasing their camaraderie while teasing future creative collaborations.
Vended's evolution as a band is rooted in their strong interpersonal bonds and shared experiences as musicians and friends.
Their diverse musical influences, spanning genres from metal to jazz, shape their unique sound that blends modern metal with nostalgic elements.
The band strives for authenticity in their work, aiming to inspire fans while navigating the pressures of familial legacy and public scrutiny.
Deep dives
Band Evolution and Dynamics
Vended has undergone an impressive evolution since its inception, with members discussing their growth as both musicians and friends. The group highlights their unique dynamic, emphasizing their bond as brothers who experienced both collaborative and challenging moments while creating music together. Starting their journey at a young age, they navigated the complexities of teenage life while pursuing their passion for metal. This journey has shaped them not only as individual musicians but also as a cohesive unit dedicated to their craft.
Musical Influences and Backgrounds
The members of Vended attribute their diverse musical tastes to their upbringing, with various influences shaping their individual styles. One member recalls a childhood where their father introduced them to different genres, from metal to jazz, enhancing their appreciation for music's complexity. The conversation highlights how these varied experiences contribute to the band's sound, reflecting a blend of modern metal with nostalgic elements reminiscent of early 2000s new metal. This openness to different musical styles informs their creative process, allowing them to craft unique tracks.
Confronting Criticism and Expectations
Growing up with familial connections to established bands comes with its own set of expectations and public scrutiny. Vended members share their experiences of being compared to their fathers' musical legacies, urging listeners to recognize their individuality rather than reducing their sound to mere lineage. They express frustration at critics who fail to appreciate their artistic evolution, opting instead to focus on familial ties, yet they remain unfazed and focused on their own identity. Emphasizing authenticity in their work allows them to sidestep pressures to conform to existing molds in the metal scene.
The Power of Music and Community
Vended acknowledges the profound impact music has on people's lives, reiterating that they strive to inspire through their work. The band reflects on how their music can resonate with fans during difficult times, offering solace just as they found in their favorite artists growing up. This sense of connection drives them to invest passion and vulnerability into their lyrics, tackling personal and relatable themes. The band members understand the responsibility that comes with their platform, desiring to create a positive influence while navigating their careers.
Future Aspirations and Creative Freedom
As Vended looks to the future, they express a desire to reach new heights in the music industry and solidify their place among legendary acts. Their aspirations extend beyond mere popularity; they aim for creative freedom that allows them to explore different artistic endeavors, such as filmmaking and streaming. The band is driven by ambition, determined to prove themselves as a prominent force in metal while staying true to their roots and individual artistic visions. They emphasize the importance of authenticity, unity, and the freedom to create without the constraints of external pressures.
