13th Sky » Funeral Rain

Jan 292010

Interview with 13th Sky

First up, tell me about yourselves. What kind of journeys have the individuals in the band made to end up on the same path of 13th Sky?

13th Sky was originally formed and based in the San Fransisco Bay Area. The original line up split in two. Myself (Steve Jennings), and original keyboardist Ken Ginnard moved here to Los Angeles in 2001. The other half of the band stayed in S.F. and wanted to pursue a more electronic sound.

You define yourselves as Goth/Rock on MySpace, with influences that are definitely in that area of music, as well as an (amazing) sound that is so goth it hurts. But what else influences the sounds and styles of the individual members of 13th Sky, as well as collectively

Our sound is based on our musical influences. The bands that we like and listened to growing up and still enjoy today. Richard Coal is the newest member and does most of the lyrical content based on his own experiences and reflecting the emotions our audience.

How does being from Los Angeles contribute to the sound of the music? Do you feel that being from one of the most important cities in music is an influence in itself?

Living in Los Angeles definitely creates a vibe to the music. There are a million bands around you and it keeps you active to promote and keep going.

Are there any side projects readers should look for? Or are all the band members 110% committed only to 13th Sky?

Side projects or cover bands etc., are PROHIBITED in 13th Sky. Side projects are a sure way to confuse the audience and become lost in your own work.

What bands in your numerous shows across the U.S. have you shared the stage with, and are there any cities in particular that are a pleasure to do shows in?

13th Sky has played a lot of shows over the years. It’s always a blast to get out of town regardless of where we are headed. Over the years playing in the South (Texas especially) has been very rewarding and well received by the fans. San Fransisco, the old hometown, as well.

13th Sky

In touring, have you ever gotten the pleasure of sharing stages with any personal or professional heroes?

In 2004 we had Bari Galvin (Christian Death, Mophisto Walz) filling in with the band. He had worked with us in the studio and did a magical job. That was a special time.

In respects to the making of 13th Sky’s music, what kind of gear do you use? I myself am particularly interested in Brian’s gear, as I am a bassist primarily. But by all means, if you wish to share any insights into particular effects, amps, guitars, etc., please do.

We use Fender, Gibson, and Gretsch guitars and basses. We also stick with the old Boss effects. There is a lot of killer new stuff out there but we tend to stick with what we know.

Why is it that Hollywood and the Sunset Strip seems to be a breeding ground of industrial, goth, and hard rock bands?

A lot of bands aren’t from here and they come from all over to showcase their band because this is the music capitol of the world. There are a lot of clubs and venues in the area that cater to Industrial, Goth, and Hard Rock music.

Finally, what can present and future fans of 13th Sky expect for the next 12 months?

13th Sky is writing and recording new music as well as pushing our CD, The Sin Sessions (you can purchase it on our MySpace profile or Amoeba Hollywood). Along with that, we are working on a few videos showing some of our past performances.