How did you start?
I started playing piano when i was 3, my Mom had an old piano in the house but no one every played it. She says I learned the McDonalds theme song one day and it was all downhill from there. Haha. but didn’t start to write music until 17 or so. My first band was called Hornswaggled. We played for about 7 years around San Diego; did some touring and it was fun…until it wasn’t. Then I decided to go back to school to study composition. While going to school in New York, I met Joey Cape, and he took me on my first tour in 2009.
Where are you based?
Encinitas, CA.
Please give an example of your music writing process?
I usually write a piano riff and vocal melody, then jam out with Paul (my drummer) for a while. We hash out an arrangement, then I sit on my couch and try to write lyrics for 2 months. haha. I’m pretty quick with the music stuff, but the lyrics take longer. I try to collaborate with friends as much as possible.
What are you working on right now?
I just finished an EP with full band. We’ve been working on it for like 2 years. It shouldn’t have taken 2 years, but everyone in the band has full time jobs, so it’s taken a while. We’re called GOMO ~ Me on piano and vocals, Steve Morris (unwritten law) on guitar and Paul Rucker (armchair martian, drag the river) on drums. It should be out sometime in the summer. Also heading out on a Europe Tour this fall with One Week Records, Joey Cape, Zach Quinn and Donald Spence. Really looking forward to that. Also, doing a lot with One Week Records.
What is your gear setup?
I usually play a Roland RD-800. At home I have a few different pianos to mess around on.
What do you like to do outside of music and does it affect your music?
I live near the beach so I’m always out in the water. It doesn’t affect the music really, accept I’ve got a few lyrics about the little beach town I live in. I’m very close with the group of friends I’ve had since I was a kid. We hang out a lot. They’ve been a huge influence and inspiration, since we grew up loving the same art.
How would you describe your music genre?
Hmmmm.. “Piano Punk”? haha.
Do you know any music theory?
Oh I love theory. Kind of a theory nerd. Got a masters degree I love it so much. Haha.
What are your plans for the future?
New EP out this summer, Europe tour this Fall, then hopefully more touring next year.
How did you get into music?
My mom had an old piano in the house, it kind of started there. Then just gravitated towards music in school.
What are you listening to at the moment?
I’ve got “Inviting Light” (The Flatliners) blasting right now.
Who are your top 5 influences and icons?
Music icons? That’s way too hard!!!
When are you playing next?
A record release shows here in San Diego, somtime in July. Still working on date and venue. Then Europe tour in the fall.
Tour dates available: http://www.fatwreck.com/tour/single_artist/104
Please feel free to include any extra info.
https://www.facebook.com/brianwahlstrommusic
