CIRCLESWITCH
An interview with Danny Rodic and Kenny James from Milwaukee's Circleswitch
by Mike Huberty
March 2016
Circleswitch singer Kenny James, photo by Absolute Eddy
photo by Absolute Eddy
Melodic hard rockers, CIRCLESWITCH, has been busy tearing up stages for Midwestern headbangers since we last talked to them in 2013, releasing their album, Daybreak and a stream of music videos. Their latest video, “Alibi” will be released in March (found on their website, www.circleswitch.com) and they’ll be performing in Madison at The Red Zone Annex on April 2nd. We talked to guitarist Danny Rodic and lead singer, Kenny James, in advance of the show.
MI: It’s been three years since the last time we talked, what’s been happening with CIRCLESWITCH? DR: In the past three years CIRCLESWITCH launched regional tours in support of Ritual and our latest album Daybreak. We have had the privilege to share the stage in direct support for DROWNING POOL, Mike Tramp of WHITE LION, and bands like FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH at Summerfest.
We also released a DVD titled As We Are. The DVD contains a rockumentary of the band, as well as some live concert footage, 4 music videos, as well as a “Gag Reel”. KJ: We’re also trying to expand our touring schedule to reach areas we’ve never had a chance to play yet and we’re doing more benefits as well, that really mean something to us. Like raising money for cancer victims or fundraisers for our war veterans. That holds a more personal meaning for me, because my Father was a Vietnam Vet and came back during a very confusing time in our nation’s history, when the support wasn’t always there. To all of us in the band, when you get a little notoriety, even if it’s on a small scale, it’s all about how you use it to give back. Whether it’s giving back to those who support your music to say thanks or those who suffer from real life issues, we use our platform to make a difference in the lives of others.
MI: You’re debuting a video in March, what is “Alibi” all about? DR: My interpretation of “Alibi” is to question what is the truth, and what is a lie. KJ: “Alibi” is a very dark song on a personal level. To get into specifics might ruin the song for some people who would interpret it differently. In general though or maybe to put it into a brief synopsis, it calls into question some of our society’s faith-based and political institutions. It exposes the hypocrisy and misuse of power or authority on its supporters or public trust. However, I don’t want people to think we’re too serious of a band to not have a good time, but too much of a good time can make you look shallow, if not naïve to certain realities in life. That’s why songs like this are written metaphorically, so they don’t come across as preachy, but at the same time reveals how we have an awareness of what’s going on and strongly disagree with it.
MI: Three years is like a decade in rock band years, how do you feel that your music has evolved and changed? DR: Our band has really come together in the past three years. We had two new additions to the band with Eddie Gunz and Johnny Wahlen. Being able to transition with our new rhythm section, record and film music videos for the Daybreak album has really set us on a course to rise even higher in our chosen musical path. KJ: I’d say our music has evolved in a sense where we always try to think outside the box. I’ve heard a lot of artists say this, but it’s true. Especially with some of our older influences with bands like Queen. Maybe you could pick an era where you liked their music a lot better, but they were never afraid to branch out and explore. Their only downfall was sometimes going too far and in turn, alienating their fans. I understand how music is art and art is self-expression, but there’s also a fine line with how you want to connect or disconnect with the outside world. I’m not too selfish or self-absorbed as an artist to not want to give back in some way and say thanks to all those who supported us. I think being too selfish in your art sends the wrong message. It’s okay to feel that way sometimes, because it saves you from being redundant and stale, but too much of that attitude will isolate you and the connection you’re trying to make with your audience. The music by itself though, will always have the intensity and emotion we enjoy putting into it. That much will never change. MI: What kind of live show can people expect on April 2nd? DR: Our live show is energetic, passionate, off the cuff, and fun. We pour our hearts out onstage, and leave nothing behind. When the last note is struck, we can walk off knowing we gave it our all. KJ: Our live gig on April 2nd will be a complete high energy and crowd participation show. We absolutely love getting our audience involved. Whether we encourage them to shout, sing, or even come up on the stage, it’s all about of how we like to give back and say thanks for coming out. We honestly couldn’t do what we do without their support!
(2398) Page Views CIRCLESWITCH Online:• Facebook Record Label: Buckingham Records