INTERVIEW WITH ALEXIS BROWN (STRAIGHT LINE STITCH)
‘Life is my main inspiration for lyrics. I’ve lived, made mistakes, learned, got knocked around, fell down, experienced pain, loss, devastation, and ultimately picked myself up and continued to carry on. My lyrics are a testament to that’
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH was formed in 2000, the band is originally form Knoxville, Tennessee’s STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is Metalcore group with some history behind them. They have publish four full-length album and some other EP´s with another one coming up very very soon.
They are quite popular in the States and normally tour with bands like SLIPKNOT , HATEBREED or KITTIE out there. Lucky for some, they played in 2011 at DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL and supported LACUNA COIL for some dates in the UK. They are known to be very energetic on stage and bring a good vibe in all their shows.
The band is about to release their new EP Transparency (Relapse Records) we took this opportunity to chat with Alexis Brown (Lead singer) and tell us a bit more about it,their tour and coming to Europe, upcoming plans, her as a role model much more!
Things are shaping up quite nicely,we have an EP about to be released mid June.
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH has a new EP on the horizon, entitled Transparency. How did this EP come together?
I think we all decided that four years was long enough to not have any new music out.
Can you tell us a bit more about the process of recording Transparency?
It was chaotic at times because we were literally recording during the middle of tour.
How was the atmosphere?
The atmosphere was intense (in a good way) we were totally focused on the goal to put out new music. It was us putting everything on the line one more time.
Any particular reasons why lately the band has been releasing EPs instead of LPs?
With us we decided on an EP to test out the waters. We wanted to first figure out if people were still interested.
How would you say this EP differs from all of STRAIGHT LINE STITCH´s previous releases?
With our previous albums we had a lot of help and support but we also had a bunch of drama on every side. The writing process of Transparency revealed to us that we could do it ourselves if need to be and we have.
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH have been together for almost 14 years and you have quite a lot of albums and EPs so far, how do you keep your writing fresh?
Every phase and cycle in this band has been different with many different members bringing something different to the table. I would say that has definitely been one of the many factors that has kept us fresh and naturally our music has just evolved over time.
Which are your main inspirations when composing songs and writing lyrics?
Life is my main inspiration for lyrics. I’ve lived, made mistakes, learned, got knocked around, fell down, experienced pain, loss, devastation, and ultimately picked myself up and continued to carry on. My lyrics are a testament to that.
If you could back in time and be a part of an album, which one would you choose?
It would definitely be FLEETWOOD MACS Rumors. That album definitely made a huge impact on my life.
We are eager to see Transparency live on stage, any european tour plans?
We’ve literally been dying to get back over to you all. We fell in love with the UK when we played DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL and toured with LACUNA COIL a few years back. It’s definitely in the works.
As a woman in metal, are you finally seeing a new level of acceptance that certainly wasn’t there a decade ago?
There has definitely been a shift in the scene where it is more acceptable to be a woman in metal.
Do you see yourself as a role model for your female fans?
I don’t know really…. because I’m imperfect. I definitely try my hardest to carry myself properly because I understand that there are ladies and young ladies that may look up to me.
STRAIGHT LINE STITCH is a very unique name for a band. Can you tell us the story behind this name?
The name was invented before I joined the band but I’ve always been told that it was misinterpreted lyrics that ultimately gave the band it’s name.
When you guys started as a band internet was only emerging, but now is something that is in our every lives, How does internet impact on STRAIGHT LINE STITCH as a band in terms of promotions, interacting with followers of the band?
I think it has its uses for sure. There are pros and cons. On one hand it’s a great tool to interact with your fans, supporters, also be able to network outside of your bubble. On another hand it gives every person who thinks their word is gospel a voice & that can sometimes suck especially if it’s their mission to make your life a living hell.
Any kind words to your fans in Europe and Metalcry readers?
We love you and don’t worry we are coming to see you soon. I promise.
