Band Interview: White Harbour
Games, Brrraaains & A Head-Banging Life are pleased to bring you an interview with modern metalcore band, White Harbour.
1. How did you get started as a band?
Chris (Vocalist/Songwriter) – It started out for me as a cool project that was proposed to me by a buddy of mine Tyler Ruehl posted in a URM (Ultimate Recording Machine) job posting for one of his clients. I took the audition and Tyler instantly loved and hooked me up with his client Nate. Later we talked and wrote handful of songs in a little over a year.
Nate (Guitarist/Songwriter) – It began as a passion project after a long hiatus from writing; after I stopped being an active member of Lion I Am. I was talking to Tyler (my old friend and band mate/owner of Black Gate Records) about how much I was enjoying writing again and, how it would be nice to have a vocalist to work with. Tyler posted on a forum looking for try outs and, that’s how Chris found me. The funny thing is, Tyler and I almost forgot about Chris and, didn’t see the email for almost two weeks. I’ll tell you what, I’m so glad we didn’t forget though because Chris’s try out (which was an entirely completed Die Alone) blew me away. It was exactly what I was looking for and the rest is history.
2. How would you describe your sound?
Chris – Definitely emotional and super aggressive at the same time. But that’s not to say we don’t like to have fun and make some amazing post cinematic production to make it seem like a story or a vibe!
Nate – Chris couldn’t have described it any better.
3. What bands/artists would you say have influenced your style of music?
Chris – Descendents is one of my “go to” bands I can never get sick of. I also love me some pop like Joji and Halsey when I’m in the mood.
Nate – I grew up in San Diego which has a huge influence on music for me. A lot of local bands like As I Lay Dying, In Fear and Faith, Pierce the Veil etc. were around while I was in High School and College so that’s huge for my background in music.
4. Has the rise of YouTube & music streaming helped or hindered you as a band?
Chris – I’d say it’s all about how you look at it. For me it’s made me find artists, bands and even got me to work with some artists I never would have before if there wasn’t streaming or YouTube. For that I am grateful.
Nate – It really opened up a world of possibilities for musicians and fans alike. Without the modern streaming environment there are a ton of artists we wouldn’t be exposed to otherwise.
5. What do you enjoy doing when you’re not making music?
Chris – I love skateboarding and photography. It’s a few of my other passions. I also enjoy running my studio called Half Cab Studios where I manage, schedule and work with bright artists in the San Diego hub!
Nate – Typically spending time with family. I have a 3 year old daughter Rylee and, live with my girlfriend Kate and her daughter. They’ve grown accustomed to a full day of hearing the same riffs over and over as I’m producing a new song and I appreciate their grace so much. Haha.
6. What are your future plans musically? Tours?
Our new single ‘Forever’ and the EP is out in November. Super excited to release it.