Hence Confetti interview-an truly awesome conversation with Rowland about all things HC and utter Duress.
Hence Confetti interview-a truly awesome conversation with Rowland about all things HC and utter Duress.
This was an impressive and insightful interview with Rowland Hines, the band's main creative force and a great human. This was as deep as I expected from not only a superb professional but most importantly a genuine and down-to-earth individual such as Rowland.Enjoy this fantastic conversation.
DHZ:
Give us a brief of how your brilliant band came about, and what is the band's purpose?
RH:
I was struggling to scratch my creative itch during mandatory isolation because I thrive on collaboration musically. I was lucky enough to find some like-minded friends from my hometown, Bathurst. We started out creating the first EP long distance and everything stemmed from there.
The original idea was to create music that inspired our children by showing the psychological benefits of creating, perseverance, teamwork and performing. When my previous band Mish was disbanded, I had to continue creating and the birth of my daughter inspired me to cement Hence Confetti.
DHZ:
The band has an amusing name matched only by a very solid commitment to colourful art, could you elaborate on this, do members have an arts background?
RH:
Our band was inspired by our children, and so was the name. We thought the juxtaposition between the heavy sound and the light festive imagery of confetti could be intriguing. It was also a way to show our kids that even amid the dark, intense and heavy music we create, there is room for opposition, amusement, and an eclectic personality. Basically, take pride in enjoying things that aren’t ‘cool’.
I am constantly creating Art for myself, social media, advertising and albums. I’ve been at it since childhood.
DHZ:
The band has an amusing name matched only by a very solid commitment to colourful art, could you elaborate on this, do members have an arts background?
RH:
Our band was inspired by our children, and so was the name. We thought the juxtaposition between the heavy sound and the light festive imagery of confetti could be intriguing. It was also a way to show our kids that even amid the dark, intense and heavy music we create, there is room for opposition, amusement, and an eclectic personality. Basically, take pride in enjoying things that aren’t ‘cool’.
I am constantly creating Art for myself, social media, advertising and albums. I’ve been at it since childhood.
DHZ: How do see the intersection between art and music, personally or for this band?
RH:
I have found album art to be a crucial piece of interpreting meaningful music. For me, it is more than just sound. It is about creating an experience that resonates deeply with our audience. An auditory and visual journey is going to incite a more emotional sentiment
DHZ:
What do you think you can achieve creatively in live spaces that you can’t in your recordings and vice versa?
RH:
Nothing beats the energy of like-minded fans converging to see live music. We feed off their energy and they feed off ours. People at home or in their car can sink their teeth into the music. Find easter eggs and press replay hopefully! They can dissect what we have done without the adrenaline that comes with a fleeting moment at a live gig.
RH:
I have found album art to be a crucial piece of interpreting meaningful music. For me, it is more than just sound. It is about creating an experience that resonates deeply with our audience. An auditory and visual journey is going to incite a more emotional sentiment
DHZ:
What do you think you can achieve creatively in live spaces that you can’t in your recordings and vice versa?
RH:
Nothing beats the energy of like-minded fans converging to see live music. We feed off their energy and they feed off ours. People at home or in their car can sink their teeth into the music. Find easter eggs and press replay hopefully! They can dissect what we have done without the adrenaline that comes with a fleeting moment at a live gig.
DHZ:
Talk us through the amazing new EP that you are dropping soon. Thanks for the early listen, I love the mixed textures and tone of this; it is eclectically proggy at times, to straight-up aggressive and abrasive, like your debut EP, a real rollercoaster of a release and that is brilliantly a considered compliment in the songwriting/composition space, the ability of this band and as a challenging yet rewarding audio experience. Thoughts?
RH:
The new EP, Duress, focuses on building resilience through introspection. It emphasises embracing change as a path to personal growth, not just for ourselves but for the benefit of our families and future generations. There is also a foreboding warning woven throughout the tracks—a reminder of the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. We examine the dystopian consequences of unchecked technological advancement, exploring how, if we aren't careful, we might lose our humanity in a looming cybernetic apocalypse.
DHZ:
The new release really builds on the debut EP, is there more introspection and reflection on this, what drove the mood/s on this release, because it is a wildly emotive soundscape?
RH:
Our EPs explore themes of perseverance and awakening, but each EP dives into these ideas in its own way.
DHZ:
You have been in bands before, What do you feel like you embody as a performer when you’re on stage?
RH:
The new EP, Duress, focuses on building resilience through introspection. It emphasises embracing change as a path to personal growth, not just for ourselves but for the benefit of our families and future generations. There is also a foreboding warning woven throughout the tracks—a reminder of the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. We examine the dystopian consequences of unchecked technological advancement, exploring how, if we aren't careful, we might lose our humanity in a looming cybernetic apocalypse.
DHZ: The new release really builds on the debut EP, is there more introspection and reflection on this, what drove the mood/s on this release, because it is a wildly emotive soundscape?
RH:
Our EPs explore themes of perseverance and awakening, but each EP dives into these ideas in its own way.
DHZ:
You have been in bands before, What do you feel like you embody as a performer when you’re on stage?
RH:
We aim to express the music in a way that resonates not just with the crowd, but also with our own sense of identity and purpose. It’s about letting the music take over and becoming a conduit for something larger than ourselves. I’m the front man but I don’t want to be the focus. I like to think I embody a humble rage.
DHZ:
Walk us through the album tracks and what ones really stand out for you at this point in time? What would you say is the most vulnerable song on the release, and what does it mean to you? or why?
RH:
Duress - This song tells a haunting tale of demons who, through modern technology, hypnotise humanity into a collective slumber before consuming us. The lyrics paint a picture of a society sedated and self-destructive, oblivious to the approaching consequences. An “interval of blankness” descends, underscoring their vulnerability.
Promise - Is an introspective song that captures a father’s self-reflection and his commitment to making significant sacrifices to become the best version of himself for his family. The song symbolises the importance of embracing change and personal growth. It stands as a testament of inspiration for fathers. Anything is possible. Embodying themes of hope, resilience, and dedication to creating a brighter future. “Promise” highlights the profound impact of parenthood and an unwavering commitment to family.
Shang Tsung - The lyrics and themes in this song are about the essence of a world under the influence of a manipulative, shape-shifting entity. It emphasises the dangers of being misled, hence the name “Shang Tsung”.
We aim to express the music in a way that resonates not just with the crowd, but also with our own sense of identity and purpose. It’s about letting the music take over and becoming a conduit for something larger than ourselves. I’m the front man but I don’t want to be the focus. I like to think I embody a humble rage.
DHZ:
Walk us through the album tracks and what ones really stand out for you at this point in time? What would you say is the most vulnerable song on the release, and what does it mean to you? or why?
RH:
Duress - This song tells a haunting tale of demons who, through modern technology, hypnotise humanity into a collective slumber before consuming us. The lyrics paint a picture of a society sedated and self-destructive, oblivious to the approaching consequences. An “interval of blankness” descends, underscoring their vulnerability.
Promise - Is an introspective song that captures a father’s self-reflection and his commitment to making significant sacrifices to become the best version of himself for his family. The song symbolises the importance of embracing change and personal growth. It stands as a testament of inspiration for fathers. Anything is possible. Embodying themes of hope, resilience, and dedication to creating a brighter future. “Promise” highlights the profound impact of parenthood and an unwavering commitment to family.
Shang Tsung - The lyrics and themes in this song are about the essence of a world under the influence of a manipulative, shape-shifting entity. It emphasises the dangers of being misled, hence the name “Shang Tsung”.
The Road is Thinning - Portrays the dissonance between our authentic selves and the characters we outwardly display. Symmetry is obtained through filters that can lead audiences into a distorted reality and performers into a loss of authenticity. In a world obsessed with perfection, we put forward a challenge for people to reflect on their own identities and the masks they wear, urging a return to being our unique true selves. The song is hinting at a sense of urgency. There is a narrowing path we all walk as we navigate the pressures to conform due to scrutiny, exposure, and external pressures.
Void - Is a haunting soundscape that explores the emptiness left in the wake of digital forces having taken control. The song depicts us being devoured by the interval of blankness, capturing the eerie sensation of losing oneself in the vast expanse of the digital void.
Onslaught - Picture a world where the digital realm has overtaken reality. This song is about neglect and helplessness as our natural world is overshadowed by a relentless, binary-driven existence. This cautionary story warns us of a future where lethargy and blind dependence on technology lead to humanity’s downfall. People become mere casualties in a landscape consumed by data and code. It highlights the pervasive presence of technology, which ultimately leads to a blood-stained sky and a society on its knees.
The stand out would be Promise. It is the most vulnerable song. To me, it is an anthem specifically for my daughter.
DHZ:
I believe this EP was like the debut a very DIY effort(although it sounds far from that ) what were the key creative approaches for the band on this? Any main musical influences on this one?
RH:
For our EPs, the DIY approach was crucial in allowing us to fully explore and express our creative vision. We had the freedom to experiment and refine our sound. It also helped us learn about each other musically as well. We drew inspiration from a mix of genres and artists that push boundaries in their own ways. Botch, Dillinger Escape Plan, Isis, Cog, Meshuggah, Conjurer, Today is the day and Devin Townsend inspires us in our songwriting and style.
DHZ:
You embrace art in all your approaches, the Duress video is mindblowing(although Buttons was incredible also and feel free to talk about that also)how did you match a video for one of the clear album highlights?
RH:
The visual component is very important to us. With the duress video, we wanted to create something as intense and as visceral as the track itself. The video has elements of artificial intelligence that enhance the disturbing narrative, with tentacles and wires consuming and deforming the world as we know it. Oceanic creatures invade and infect the human race, adding to the eerie and unsettling atmosphere. “When the sky is falling will we all be scrolling, ignoring all the warnings?” Buttons on the other hand was animated and directed by special effects master Ed Coy. Ed animated videos for Mish as well. Check out the clip for Red Fortune which we will cover in our live shows. His work can be seen on The Boys, Prometheus, Mad Max Fury Road, The Mandalorian and more.
DHZ:
You are on the amazing Bird’s Robe record label, how did this come about and what’s your prior connection to this label that does everything brilliantly and always delivers in the best way?
RH:
In the late 2000s, my previous band “Mish” would play shows with “The Super Florence Jam”. This was Mike Solo’s band. Mike then founded his own label, The Bird’s Robe. Mish’s first album was one of the first releases on The Bird’s Robe Records label and another followed. Being a part of this label enabled us to gig with like-minded musicians such as Meniscus, Captain Kickarse and the Awesomes, Dumbsaint and Sleepmakeswaves. We also played Progfests and supported Russian Circles, Pelican, Vamplillia and Klone which were just some of the highlights. It was bloody awesome. Being able to continue on The Birds Robe with Hence Confetti is an honour. They are like family. Mike has been a huge support throughout.
DHZ: How would you define your voice as an artist? What do you consider to be the most valuable resource for the work you do?
RH:
I see my voice as an instrument. I don’t try to mimic anyone else. It’s a blend of intensity and authenticity. I try to channel emotions and experiences into something uniquely personal. The most valuable resource we have is the creative freedom to make music that comes from a genuine place.
DHZ:
How do you feel that economic structure impacts creativity? That all makes me wonder, how does your creativity help you connect to and navigate the world?
RH:
At least here, in Western civilisation, the economic structure has little support for those with a need to be creative. So few can make a living and get out of the rat race. A lot of neurodivergent people, like myself, need to create like they need to breathe. Connecting to people through music is a highlight of my day. It keeps me sane.
DHZ: Describe your band for someone who has never heard you before? What’s coming up for the band in the next six months?
RH:
My band, Hence Confetti, is a unique blend of progressive metal noise and experimentalism that doesn’t conform to any single genre. So, it is hard to pinpoint who the music will speak to. Our music may be intense but the message behind it is one of hope. I would encourage any fan of heavy music to check it out. Our focus for the next 6 months, starting 7/9/24 at The Victoria Hotel Orange, is live gigs and getting a tight set together to showcase our hard work. We have new video clips for this EP and plan on incorporating visuals into our live shows.
DHZ: Are any bands far or wide that are floating your boat atm?
RH:
We are pumped about the new Chat Pile, Better Lovers and Opeth albums coming in October. We have lapped up the latest releases from Knocked Loose, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Yomi Ship, Zeal & Ardor, Many Eyes, Sleepmakeswaves and Ulcerate.
DHZ:
Final words and message for the readers/fans?
RH:
This is a tough industry. You must measure your success in various ways. If you hear something that speaks to you, and you want to listen to it again, support original music. Grab a copy through Bandcamp or directly from the band or label.
As promised here is an exclusive sneak peek at the new video dropping very soon:
RH:
We are pumped about the new Chat Pile, Better Lovers and Opeth albums coming in October. We have lapped up the latest releases from Knocked Loose, Sleepytime Gorilla Museum, Yomi Ship, Zeal & Ardor, Many Eyes, Sleepmakeswaves and Ulcerate.
DHZ:
Final words and message for the readers/fans?
RH:
This is a tough industry. You must measure your success in various ways. If you hear something that speaks to you, and you want to listen to it again, support original music. Grab a copy through Bandcamp or directly from the band or label.
As promised here is an exclusive sneak peek at the new video dropping very soon:
Grab the EP here:
Watch the Duress video here:
Don't miss the EP launch on Sat, free entry:
.jpg)
Comments
Post a Comment