-Interview- Clumsy Words (4/11/14)

Clumsy Words
From: Akron, OH
Sounds like: Pop Punk

1. How did the band come together and form? Who thought of the name “Clumsy Words” and is there any meaning behind it?

We actually all met via craigslist. Thankfully, none of us turned out to be serial killers. The name Clumsy Words originally derives from a Blink-182 lyric, but we also liked it a lot because of the deeper meaning that is evoked...the thought that things you want to say never go exactly how you plan, or exactly how you want to say them. We're always tripping over our words and stumbling over our tongues.

2. What do you want listeners to take away from the "Clumsy Words" EP? How has reception to it been thus far?

That good music isn't always about what you say, but rather, how you say it. There are a million songs about girls and hating your parents, but we strive to create that one or couple of lines in each song that is going to make you remember us. And as for reception, I would say that people not only seem to like the EP, but seem to be in love with it. We expected a lot of people to say "It's pretty good" but we find that we hear a lot more "I can't stop listening to this, give me more!" and that's very encouraging because we totally didn't expect it.

3. How would you describe your music to the average listener?

A rich blend of melodic guitars, fast-paced drums, and sugary vocals.

4. What can people expect from your live show? What are your favorite songs to play live?

A lot of crappy jokes, terrible dance moves, and sweaty bodies.

5. Who are three bands you’d like to tour with?

Blink-182(as if you couldn't already tell that we like them), The Wonder Years, and Neck Deep.

6. Any crazy show stories?

One time, we played a show at The Agora in Cleveland, and just happened to run into an A&R from Standby Records in the restaurant next door, and after a short conversation, he seemed enthused to check out our show. Long story short, he walked out on us 2 songs into our set, so I don't think he liked us very much.

7. What’s your take on the current state of pop punk?

It's full of bands that want to be angry and shout a lot in their music. Not that it's a bad thing, but it's certainly a noticeable trend when you look at the bands getting picked up by bigger labels and management companies.

8. What’s the current music scene like there in Ohio both locally and state wide?

It still isn't as great as it once was, but it's definitely a more supportive scene now, than it has been in recent years. More kids are stealing their parents' cars to come to shows and actually enjoying the music and really getting into it. 3 or 4 years ago, it was just family, and girls standing in the middle of a moshpit, texting and taking selfies. It's nice to see people who actually put down their iPhone for something.

9. What’s your take on legal/illegal music downloading?

It's love and hate. It's very unfortunate that unless a newer band literally gives their first release or two away, nobody cares enough to buy it or listen to it. But on the flip side, free music is more accessible and therefore, by giving it away, it's more likely to gain exposure and spread that band around faster.

10. What’s next for Clumsy Words?

Definitely a little bit more touring for the EP this summer, and we are currently writing an album, so stay tuned!

11. Any shoutouts?

Our parents, friends, bandcamp addicts, and all the other internet people helping to spread our music and get us out there. We love you <3