In Shallows took a moment to answer our questions about their music and their songwriting process. Let’s see what they have to say!
First off, What’s up with your name? Is there a story behind it?
We landed on “In Shallows” because we see it as a name that can be metaphorically interpreted through different perspectives. We try to write our lyrics in the same way; leaving it to the listener to visualize what might relate to them when they hear the name. The story behind it came when Bobby and Colin were spitballing names in the studio after recording for the first time. Once In Shallows was said out loud, we knew it was the start of something great.
Tell us about your musical past, or early years.
Bobby: My parents bought me my first guitar in high school. I didn’t really know what I was doing at first but with the power of Youtube I was able to learn a lot about the guitar and a little bit of music theory. After I got the hang of things I started covering songs from other bands which ended up teaching me a lot about song writing.
Cam: I learned guitar from my uncle when I was four years old. Later on in life I started to love singing and took it more seriously. The band has been a great outlet to be experimental.
Colin: My older brother got me into metal when I was around 13. Once I started expanding my horizon, I wanted to be able to find my own voice. My parent’s minivan became the practice space when I got my license. During parties, some friends and I would pile in for a “scream sesh”, everyone would just go hard on whatever song was playing. I’ve refined my technique over the years with formal lessons.
Nick: My neighbor used to be in a band and I was amazed by his drumming. I started teaching myself how to play with simple, easy beats. My drumming has evolved with the band as we write new songs and I’m having a blast!
How would you describe your sound?
We’ve been compared to bands, but we’re just looking to make music that sounds good collectively to us. A lot of inspiration comes from our own favorite bands. We try to mold all of our favorite elements to create the sound, with a touch of IS grease. We hope our listeners enjoy and stay engaged in what we have coming in the future.
Which artists have the biggest influence on your sound?
Some of our biggest influences that come to mind: TDWP, ABR, Underoath, Texas in July, Currents, Wage War, etc.
What’s the last song you listened to?
Cam: “Never Enough” by Wage War
Bobby: “Demons” by If Not For Me
Colin: “Mr. Rager” by Kid Cudi
Nick: “Thick as Blood” by Hollow Front
What’s your source for hearing new music?
Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, Liquid Metal, word of mouth, and local shows.
Who is your dream producer?
Will Putney, that dude is insane!
What led you to music, and what motivates you to keep making it?
Cam: My uncle inspired me watching him play guitar when I was younger made me realize it was something I really wanted to do. The rush I get of being on stage is what motivates me and feels like one of the best things to happen in my life.
Bobby: I went to my first metal show back when I was 15. It was Underoath and The Devil Wears Prada and I remember just being completely mesmerized by the entire show and I knew from that moment on I wanted to do something like that someday. The support we get from our fans is what keeps me pushing forward. I’ve met a lot of cool people because of music and I’m excited to meet more!
Colin: The first album I had on repeat was Alive or Just Breathing (KSE), it just spoke to me. Shortly after I remember walking out of my first show at the Palladium (Black Dahlia Murder) thinking “I want to do that’ and here we are. Releasing new music and playing shows keeps me stoked!
Nick: I always wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself. After my first concert, seeing how the crowd was literally just “one being”, made me want to move people like that. What stuck with me most was the energy of the performance and seeing a crowd have fun like that.
Tell us about the songwriting process. How does it all come together?
We haven’t quite yet dialed in a regular process. Sometimes the lyrics will come first then the music or vice versa. No process has been the same. It feels like a blessing when things do click and we’re able to just run with it, hopefully more of that to come soon!
How do you connect with your audience?
We’re always listening. As a relatively new band we welcome feedback or ideas of what people want to hear. We love reading comments and are strive to connect with our fans at shows and through social media.
What’s next for you?
Studio Grind.
Anything else you’d like to add or let us know about?
Our next show is on Saturday, July 15th at Jewel Music Venue in Manchester, NH. We hope to see you there!
