How did one local indie rock band on the rise get their start? Well, as New Chums, of course.
“The New Chums met through my Craigslist exploration. I was a singer and wanted to continue playing music when I moved to Arizona in 2013," says Seth Boyack, vocalist/guitarist for The New Chums. "I wasn’t finding what I was looking for as a singer/guitarist, so instead of joining a band, I decided to start my own.”
Along with drummer Ben Hedlund, guitarist Matt Lloyd and bassist Cassandra Clark, The New Chums were solidified in 2017—and the rest is history. Or as Seth says, they are in the process of making history.
“We played main stage at a large local festival, and we were invited to play at Apache Lakes Music Festival, which is popular for Arizona bands," Matt says. "On a national level, we’ve had many placements including having our music videos being played in Journey’s nationwide and in Canada. Our song ‘Blossom’ also made rotation on SiriusXM channel Alt Nation, which was a big thrill for us. Our song ‘Come On, Come On’ was featured in a 20 Top Summer Songs to Hear list, so those are some exciting highlights.”
Cassandra says that to her, wanting people to enjoy the music they make as much as she does can be a struggle.
“Like anything in life, when you pour your heart and soul into your passion, it can be hard to accept that not everyone else will be as pumped about it as you are,” she says.
The payoff, she says, is finding camaraderie with other musicians while making music together.
“You can be very different from the players you're in a room with, but when everyone is in the groove, it's unlike anything else I've ever experienced.”
Ben has toured, played on other indie records and just genuinely enjoyed being around creative people writing, recording and playing songs, so joining The New Chums was a logical next step. He loves to perform live and truly adores his bandmates.
“I’m less concerned with being a rock star and more focused on performing, recording and being with people who I love.”
Boyack says that regardless of backgrounds, they are each seasoned musicians who (he jokes) also look cool in band photos.
The success The New Chums have had is no joking matter, though. Their 2017 EP, See It for Myself, is an integral part of their focus.
“One of the songs we play called 'Bad Part of Town' has a significant meaning for me," Seth says. "The song basically goes into a couple of dark times throughout the verses, but the chorus is a simple line of ‘It’s OK.’ I’ve always liked the idea behind that. No matter how challenging the situation is or can be, it’s all OK; it has to be."
So, what's in store for The New Chums in 2020? "We will be releasing new music this coming summer! Tour dates and music video to follow," teased Lloyd.
Side Bar: Page 3
Favorite Love Songs for Valentines (Run Vertical Down Left Side of Page)
Ben (drums): 'This Will Be Our Year' by The Zombies
Cassandra (bass): 'The Girl' by City and Colour
Seth (vocals): 'The Blower's Daughter' by Damien Rice
Matt (guitar): 'The Luckiest' by Ben Folds
