The DC scene interviewed the American Grammy nominated, comedy influenced pop punk band originally formed in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1994.
Now based in Denton, Texas, the band is best known for their singles "Girl All the Bad Guys Want" (a 2003 Grammy Award nominee) and "1985." They have sold over a million copies of their studio albums, including a compilation of their covers and movie/TV soundtrack songs.
The DC Scene talked with Jarret, Reddick lead singer of the band.
DC Scene: You originally formed in Wichita Falls, Texas in 1994. Had you guys been friends before that or did you kind of just meet with the goal to put together a band?
Jarret: Chris and I knew each other a bit as kids, but for the most part, we met playing around Wichita Falls in other bands. Chris used to run a coffee house that had bands, and we all played there. Erik and Chris actually had a couple of bands together and were all fans of each other -- it was kind of a fluke that everyone disbanded (no pun intended) at the same time.
DC Scene: What was life like for the six years before you released your major label debut (1994-2000). Was it challenging as a band as far as trying to make it successfully and were you constantly touring?
Jarret: Actually, those were the "fun" years -- we could all work, or play acoustic for money or do cover shows, and there was no pressure. Everyone thinks you sign a deal and life is roses, but 2000 to 2003 was the hardest times of my life. I wouldn't trade those years for anything, but we all made 100 bucks a month, lived in the van, and ate whatever we could afford -- really tough times.
DC Scene: One of your hit singles, "Girl All the Bad Guys Want" was a 2003 Grammy Award nominee. Were you into a girl that all the bad guys wanted?
Jarret: It was nothing like that. It was more a song about angry musicians that all seem to have dad issues tan the girl at first......she came later.
DC Scene: Another of your hit singles, "1985" was worked on with Mitch Allan from SR-71. Why did you team up with him on this song?
Jarret: He had the original idea and it sounded more like my band than his -- ha -- we were old friends. He called and said,"Got a great idea for ya" and I said "I like great ideas" -- the rest is history.
DC Scene: You have had a lot of success over in the UK and have toured there in the past. Any plans soon for another tour over there?
Jarret: Yes, October will be our biggest tour ever! We are taking the "Get Happy Tour" over there for the second time this year. Bloodhound Gang, Zebrahead and Army Of Freshmen are supporting us.
DC Scene: What are you often doing when your not touring?
Jarret: Spending time with the family, writing and producing.
DC Scene: Do you have any pets?
Jarret: 1 dog, a border collie named Cappy.
DC Scene: What bands are you currently listening to?
Jarret: Alkaline trio, Hank III and flashlight brown
DC Scene: Any advice for young aspiring musicians?
Jarret: Have fun. When it stops being fun, do something else.
DC Scene: Thanks Jarret
