Malibu ‘92 from St. Louis, Missouri has a lot to offer. With constant live shows and new music being made, the band is proving that they know who they are. With their guitar-heavy backing and captivating vocals, they continue to anticipate every need of their listeners perfectly. With the year anniversary of their first release coming up on Valentine’s Day, I got the chance to speak with Andrew Craven (lead singer), Andrew Voras (lead guitar), Nathan Lee (bass guitar), and Aden Biggs (drums) about their very first single and who they are as a group.
What originally pushed them to make music as a band?
Andrew Voras and Aden were working on a band when Nathan realized he wanted to be a part of a band. Once he had learned to play the bass, the other two were done with the projects they were working with before and asked Aden to join. While trying to find more people to join, Nathan remembered Voras and asked if he would be interested in starting something up. Once they had the group together, they found lead singer, Andrew Craven, at a talent show. As soon as they hear him sing “Dream On” by Aerosmith, they knew he was the guy for the band.
Why was “Chemical Caroline” picked to be their first release?
They had a few different demo tracks that they had been working on and decided to send all of them to their producer. When he heard this song, he said that it grabbed him and made him feel many emotions. That is what the audience needs to feel from a first release, so they picked that song to be put out into the world as their start in the streaming universe. They also mentioned that it helps by being a fun and catchy track, sure to captivate audiences before the lyrics even start.
What is the main theme behind the song?
The entire song is a metaphor for addiction. The girl symbolizes someone who isn’t good for you, but you can’t help going back to them and wanting them in your life.
How does it feel to have a song out in the world that’s already a year old?
“Chemical Caroline” was released on February 14, 2019. To them, it doesn’t feel like it’s been that long. It’s really weird. They loved the response they got from the release. It’s crazy to think that after a year they’re still releasing music and putting their best foot forward.
Should listeners be expecting an album anytime soon?
The main focus right now is getting an EP out. They live a more quality over quantity idea with their music, so more does not necessarily mean better. They want to put their best foot forward and get music out in the world faster while still making good content. They want music that can appeal to as many people as possible.
Where do the guys see the band going in the next five years?
Still making music. They want to tour and possibly go overseas at some point. They want their own unique sound to be made in a way that works for them as a group. They see this as a full-time career, so they want to be successful in their own way and still be giving it 110%.
Should fans be keeping their eyes out for a possible tour?
They are most definitely thinking about it. They would like to go to different states and spread their sound. There is the possibility of a regional tour, spending a few weeks in different states and playing as much as they can. But they still plan on playing shows close to home.
Why should people listen to Malibu ‘92?
Simply put “because it’s good.” Going into further detail, they said their music has been well received by audiences. Even if people don’t vibe with a certain song, they are able to appreciate the craft and find a song that they do like.
How do they feel they are impacting the current St. Louis music scene?
The connection they have with not just other local bands, but also the people that come out to their shows and listen to their music. People have a good time at the concerts and are genuinely glad they came to see the show. For most people in St. Louis, the idea of going to see an underground show is a little scary. They want to make it a good experience for new people trying it out and hopefully opening up a new world of music for people with the bands the open for or that open for them. They feel that they are helping people support the local music scene more than before.
What is the meaning behind the name Malibu ‘92?
Originally, the band was just named Malibu, after the COIN song “Malibu 1992.” But when they decided to release original music, they realized that there were too many search results just for Malibu. That was when they decided to add the ‘92. They felt that this name change fit the band and the sound a lot more than the name from before. It’s more unique and has the ability to take listeners places they never thought they would be, just like the band and their music.
Please go listen to “Burn,” their newest single. As well as keeping an eye out for a song titled “Not The Same,” coming sometime soon.
Listen to the full interview here:
Here’s how to keep in touch with the band!
Photographer: Jane Kenney
Written by Genevieve!
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