HELLAPHANT – Interview

Hellaphant is a four piece angst filled, power pop, emo band from London, On. Canada, that nod to the 90’s skate punk sound. Their music is loud while groovy vocal melodies weave in and out of energetic drums and guitars. Here’s a short interview to introduce you to the band’s musical universe

Introduce your band, and describe your latest release:
We are Hellaphant from London Ontario Canada. The album “Crumble and Rise” is an angry, driven power pop/punk album about mental health and life issues. Ii’s a roller coaster from, life, loss, love and abandonment. Basically a love letter to my brain.

What’s the hardest part about being a band in this day and age?
The cost LOL. Gigs pay little, and the world is saturated with music and bands recording at home. There are so many of us out there trying to do it that there is little room especially for older bands.

When did you realize that your project had the potential to be much more than just a fun idea?
It started as a serious endeavour from the beginning. From the first rehearsal we knew it was something more than a party band.

Tell us about your latest release, why should we check it out?
“Crumble and Rise” was recorded over a few days in London, On at the Sugar Shack with Simon Larochette engineering and producing with us. It’s guitar driven emotion. Driving and upbeat. We’ve tapped into our past love of 90’s skate punk as well as other influences. You should check it out. I think it’s a great album and I hate everything I write until now. Plus we can use the support. 🙂

How does a song typically come together for you?
I (Garrington) come up with a melody for it. Then I skelton or jigsaw riffs the I like. Then Bring it to the band and we run it as is. Once the guys have an idea of what it’s going or what it’s about they throw in their parts or we arrange it to make it better. As much as I write the songs it is a complete band effort. Sometimes it’s a 5 min process and others take a lot more time.

How would you describe your sound to an unfamiliar reader?
Guitar driven punk pop. It’s your favourite bubble gum loaded with shards of glass. Delicious but leaves a mark.

What do you want listeners to take away from listening to your band?
That they are not alone.

Where would you really like to tour that you haven’t done so yet, and why?
Europe. Just always wanted to tour Europe since I started playing music in my teens. The have a different appreciation for music.

How would you say that the sound of your band has progressed over the years?
It keeps getting louder and heavier.

How excited are you for 2023, and what can fans expect from you?
Time is not something I pay attention to. But you will find us gigging around Canada this year and hoping to be in Europe next year as well as a new album.