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Band page - Thought Chamber
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Band Profile
What is your name and your current position in the band?
Michael Harris - guitar; keyboards; piano, harmony vocals
Ted Leonard - lead vocals
Derek Blakley - bass
Rob Stankiewicz - drums
Bobby Williamson - kybds
Tell us about the history of the band. More specifically, when was the band formed, how did you meet, and have there been any particular highlights or low points in your career, any crucial events that have taken you where you are today?
MICHAEL HARRIS: We are a brand new band. Ted and I hooked up through an ad on the internet. We tested our material by sending demos through the mail and recorded our debut CD mostly in our home studios.
Was there ever a time when you wondered if your band would remain just a local outfit and never make it in the industry?
I'm sure every band and musician has had that thought. Early on in my career I didn't really care though; I was just into the music. But eventually it's human nature to try to move forward.
What is your latest album and why should people buy it?
The debut CD from Thought Chamber, "Angular Perceptions", is now out worldwide and we feel people should buy it for songs, originality, and musicianship!
How would you categorize the style of the band? And did you ever consider or try playing other styles of music than the one(s) you are playing now?
I have always played and composed many styles of music and would classify Thought Chamber as "progressive". Our music has much more dynamics that your average prog metal band, so I think to call it "progressive metal" is a little misleading, although it definitely has many metal moments.
Can you share with us one or two of your favourite moments with the band?
The best moments in our short lifespan have been finishing the record and getting together for the photoshoot, which was the first time we were all in the same room.
How is the writing process in the band?
I am the guy to blame for most of the music and lyrics. I demo each song, then the guys replace the parts and make me realize how much my demo sucked:-)
What brought you on the path to becoming a musician? Did you ever consider or take any other paths through life besides music?
I was more into sports as a kid and for awhile wanted to be a pro baseball player, but after I discovered guitar, I was hooked.
Do you have any idols? If yes, who?
Anyone who has had it in their heart to help others in their lifetime.
Do you have any regrets looking back at your career? For example any songs or even full albums that you regret recording? If so, what made you regret it?
I would change something in about every song I've ever recorded, although I'd rather look forward.
Are there particular songs in your catalogue that the fans love but you're not particular fond of yourself?
When I was in ARCH RIVAL, our fans used to rave about our song, "God Bless America", which was basically a rock parody on the original. (I remember laughing when I originally wrote the hook line.) We're all haunted by our songs I guess. In the songwriting world, there is a cliché to "throw away your first 100 songs" (meaning not necessarily recorded work, but the 1st 100 you write period) It's pretty much good advice. Well, 50 at least.
How important do you rate the lyrical side of your albums?
Very important. I spend a lot of time on lyrics, much like music. You can ruin a great melody with a tacky lyric.
What do you think about the state of the music industry today?
The industry is in a state of flux, with the CD itself being threatened with extinction. As I say, no one guaranteed anyone a job in this or any business. You have to be ready for change, whether you are an airline employee, auto mechanic, or a CD.
What do you think is the best way to fight music piracy?
Stricter punishments for violations and better education to the public that a song is a sacred thing, a true creation for which its creator should be compensated.
Do you have a life philosophy? If yes, what is it?
Do what you want as long as it doesn't harm others.
Can you describe a typical day in your life?
Yes.
What do you like to spend your time with besides music?
I enjoy reading, movies, TV, sports, computers, and thinking until it hurts.
What's the craziest thing that has ever happened on a tour?
That I could still live with myself at the end of it.
You're heading off to live on a deserted island for a couple of years with your portable entertainment system... Which albums, movies or books would you bring? (Max. 3 of each)
Albums: Rush "Hemispheres"; ELP "Brain Salad Surgery"; Kansas "Masque"
Movies: "No Way Out"; "Stranded"; "Cast Away"
Books: "How to Get Off a Deserted Island"
What is your favourite joke?
My first record.
Can you tell us about any future plans for you and your band?
World domination!
Thanks for answering these questions. Now you are free to write a few lines to our readers.
Thank you for your support. Here are some relevant links:
www.michaelharrisguitar.com
www.myspace.com/thoughtchamber
www.thoughtchambermusic.com (coming soon)
Added by Steen - 4/22/2007
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