Answers by Clint Culberson
Interview by Rebecca Del Castillo
We all grew up around East Central Indiana and attended Ball State University in Muncie. Being fairly active in what little music scene Muncie had at the time, the four of us inevitably played in the same bands and ran in the same circles. After becoming closer friends and then eventually roommates, we decided we wanted to do something that we all had in common, which was playing a style of rock and roll that wasn’t really being done around there at that time.
You guys have a unique sound. How would you describe your sound and how did it come about?
Thanks! We’ve always been advocates of writing about whatever we are feeling at the time. We’ve never really set out to write in a specific style as long as the songs were good and we had the instruments we needed! Being in a band with your best friends really adds to the chemistry, as well as freedom in the writing and production process. We like to play loud rock and roll with melodies.
We know that you guys just released your new album. What was the writing and recording process like for that?
We write a lot. At any given time, each of us probably has five or six ideas floating around in our brain, hard drive, phone or whatever we can get an idea down on. We collaborate on everything we do. And at end of the day, the best songs win – that’s ultimately how the songs are picked for our records. We were able to record this new album on our own, which meant wherever and however we wanted to do it. Caleb engineered and mixed, while we all had a hand in the production. I know it was a little grueling for Caleb at times, having all that pressure to help create our debut record as a signed act, but it’s definitely paying off. We’ve been having a lot of fun since recording this last record.
Which song off of the new album would you guys say holds the most meaning to you, collectively or individually? Why?
“Coward.” It’s the epitome of how we write songs. It came together so quickly and each of us contributed our own vital parts to that song. Its fun to play, and also some of my best lyrics, I think.
We’ve heard a lot of great things about your band. How does it feel to have such big and positive things being said about you guys?
It feels good, thanks! We’re always excited to read positive reviews or just have people come up after the show and want to hang out or buy us a beer. It keeps us motivated and excited about the future. When we stay focused and meet the goals we set for ourselves, its very rewarding.
What does the future, short and long-term, hold for MODOC? In terms of goals, aspirations, plans, etc.?
We’re going to continue to play as many shows as possible to as many people as possible! We’re looking to be in Europe early next year, and plan to play even more major festivals here in the States – we’ve had some real fun doing the festivals this summer. We’re going to continue to promote this record for the foreseeable future, and I wouldn’t be surprised if we find ourselves recording another record next year, as much as we write!
What would you say has been the most difficult part of your career for you all personally and collectively?
When you decide to make music your career, you sacrifice a lot of other things. Money, relationships, jobs, etc… It’s a juggling act when you’re out on the road; it’s where you learn a lot about yourself and those relationships inside and outside of the group. It’s pretty much a constant battle to stay positive and inspired to do the thing that you’re absolutely, without a doubt, sure that you’re supposed to be doing for the rest of your life. But who said it was easy?
How did you, or do you continue to, overcome these struggles?
In the words of Jack White: “Be like the squirrel.”
What is the ‘highlight’ of your career so far?
This record. We are very proud of it and we know that it’s a vital ingredient to our future success. It’s really opening doors for us.
What is the one dream, the moment at which point, either personally or collectively, you would be able to say yes I’ve achieved this, I’m living my dreams?
The induction to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame- that’s when we’ll sit back and say “look at what we’ve done”!!!
