By Malya Fass
Ethan, Bat and Chris of Tesla Coil joined us in the KWVA studio for a live session and interview on Sunday, October 29. Their moody rock and absence from the internet left us wanting more — and pleasantly ushered us into feeling the Halloween spirit.
The members of Tesla Coil have been feeling the telepathic musical connection since they started playing together a year ago and feel like they’re speaking their own language.
Musical Process
Ethan, the lead singer and guitarist, heads the songwriting for the group and was the curator of the moody fall feelings in the studio last Sunday. “I’m a lifelong Eugeneian here, so I would say the weather has probably permeated my subconscious or something,” he said.
“In all seriousness, music is a very cathartic experience for me,” said Ethan. “If someone were to listen to those songs, they would probably think I’m much less content than I probably am, but that’s just the state of mind I’m in when I’m writing music.”
They shared the song “Bland” during their live session and noted that it had gone through many iterations. An acoustic version, and a more upbeat version that was “more screamy-sing-y.” “I’m too old for that now, my voice just can’t handle that,” said Chris. “And I’m not an angsty twenty-year-old anymore, so.” We heard “Bland” at its self-proclaimed “best version,” as the band reworked it to fit their sound.
Inspirations
Many of Tesla Coil’s songs are written from the perspective of a character in a short story or book. “One of my favorite things to do is to write from the perspective of a protagonist or character,” Said Ethan. “A lot of the time I’ll be able to relate to their emotions or I’ll just find what they’re going through interesting.”
The band shared a song inspired by the James Joyce story, “Counterparts,” which features dark themes from the book, like alcoholism and child abuse.
“Even the songs where I’m adopting a different persona are very dear to my soul,” Ethan said.
The band would love to record some music in the next year and they’re always looking forward to performing live.
Advice
To advise those who are just starting out in a band, Tesla Coil has some sage advice.
“You have to worry about real-life things sometimes, but never stop making music if you’re into it.” Said Ethan.
“Don’t worry about getting a job, just keep playing music,” Chris said. “And keep making stuff that makes you feel good.”
“My best writing comes when I’m not concerned about what other people are going to think about it and that’s easier said than done,” Chris said. “Don’t sweat the perception of other people. Make it as an extension of yourself for yourself and not for other people.”
Bat, the band’s guitarist, shared that sobriety was something he found on his musical journey.
“Not drinking alcohol has really cleared my head over the last few years and has really allowed me to focus on this kind of stuff more.” He said. “It’s led me to be more present, and, uh, juicing, too. Goes hand in hand. Juicing a bunch of fruit and making music.”