Getting to Know: Prog-Metalcore act, The 49th Parallel
In today’s Getting to Know, we meet The 49th Parallel, a progressive metalcore act that doesn’t shy away from frisbees, or the socks and sandals combination. If you are an indie artist or in an indie band that would like to partake in a Getting to Know feature, contact editor@riffyou.com to receive the questionnaire and instructions. Thanks!
Band Name: The 49th Parallel
Band Members: Victor Wiercioch, Jesse Kieley, Norik Alexanian, David Hanula and Sheldon Lopes-Pereira
Years Active: 3
City of Origin: Burlington, ON.
Latest Release: “Purgatory, Lust, & Other Scriptures”
Who are you and what do you do?
“We are The 49th Parallel and we just do… or do not… there is no try.”
In 20 words or less, how would you describe your band?
“We don’t create music; we create energy and our main goal is to make sure that you feel it.”
Why should people care about your band?
“The 49th Parallel is one of the few honest and truly passionate bands that you will listen to and watch perform. We don’t concentrate on any current trends and will always write music that comes from our weather-beaten souls.”
What is the most hilarious, frightening, or weird thing you have seen from the stage or while on the road?
“One of our favorite memories is of our bassist, Dave, accidentally tossing his bass at eye level towards the audience. After weeks of practicing the classic ‘around the world’ stage move where a guitarist’s instrument revolves around the person (only held on by the strap), Dave was absolutely amped and ready to show it off live. Finally his chance comes and, right on cue with the song, the strap detaches from the instrument and sends it flying towards the audience. Luckily no one in the audience got hurt, but from that point on we adapted a more natural stage presence. Once you see us live you will see exactly what I mean.”
If you become a band that eventually fills stadiums or arenas, what would be the most ridiculous thing you’d require backstage?
“Walmart sells a Wilson Frisbee & Volleyball combo. You can keep the volleyball but that Frisbee is ours. Something about the weight distribution on that baby… we could toss that around for days (and we have been.)”
Which band could your band defeat in a street fight? What methods would you use to ensure victory?
“Don’t consider us keepers of the peace in any way, but we’re not too big on causing fights. Relax, grab a Miller, and let’s toss the old disc around. That being said… I’d love to kill a man with a trident.”
What is the most pretentious thing you’ve seen or heard from another musician/band? Did you love it or hate it?
“I think all musicians and bands are guilty of trying really hard to look like they are, in fact, in a band. From the tattoos to the car keys that dangle from their skinny jeans (with the addition of their ‘tour pass.’) It’s pretty hilarious going to shows and seeing how everyone in a band looks identical. Luckily we’ve got Jesse wearing his socks and sandals, which really sets us apart from the rest of them.”
How do you feel about smartphones lighting up concert venues instead of lighters?
“If you’re taking the time to be a part of the audience, you’re alright in our books. Support the bands you like in any way possible and you can do what you want. The music is made for the audience to own and enjoy.”
If you had to be a tribute act for just one band, who would it be and why?
“This question would take months if not years for us to decide on. Individually, we’d prepare presentations on ‘Why we should cover x’ and still be separated by our own dreams of playing our most beloved songs. The truth is, our favourite bands are amazingly diverse and we’d like to keep it that way. You can hear it in our songs – we’re a melting pot of a band.”
Is it better to burnout than to fade away?
“I’m sure the general consensus is on Neil Young’s side when he sang ‘Rock and roll is here to stay / it’s better to burn out than to fade away.’ Although it would be funny to see us release a polka folk record 30 years down the road.”
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