The band has seen a lot of line up changes. How have these changes
impacted on the style and atmosphere in the band?
I am sure they have. I personally think that we have only progressed as we
have evolved, so no complaints here.
What is it about live performances that are so enjoyable?
The live show is our drug of choice. There is nothing like it.
What's the best show you have ever been to and why?
Arcade Fire. I don't really see too many arena rock shows and I had sort
of lost hope in them. But Arcade Fire restored that for me. They reminded
me that you can still thoroughly enjoy playing shows and really have a good
time even after blowing up and being huge.
Your band is frequently referred to as a 'Christian band' due to the
members following this religion and the band's name (coming from
Elijah and the chariot of fire). Do you agree with this and how
important is religion when it comes to your song writing and lyrics?
I am not sure the definition of "Christian Band"......if it defines as,
"entertainment for other christians" then no we aren't. If the definition
is just that a lot of our music and lyrics are inspired by the questions,
struggles, answers and hope that come from being a believer then, "YES" that
is very much who we are. I am not trying to tell everyone that there is not
a tunnel I am simply wanting to point out the light at the end of said
tunnel. Christianity, just happens to be who we are because of the
experiences that have happened in my life. But that does not mean we are
out to judge and condemn those with different beliefs. I hope we are all on
the same voyage to try and figure out the truth and reasons we are upon this
earth.
What other things have influenced the song writing for the band?
Everything man. Life, Death, Mundane, you name it. I find it hard to find
things that aren't inspiring.
I suppose when people think about Christian bands they think of folk
bands and choirs, but you're certainly heavier than that. Do you think
that because of your sound you appeal to people regardless of their
religion or would you say that a lot of your fans also hold the same
beliefs? And do you think this matters?
People that like our band are from all walks of life. Very few share our
beliefs. That is okay, come one, come all.
You played in the UK last year, how did that go? Had you been to the
UK many times before?
We love the U.K. they are always too kind to us and we have great fun shows
there. I have probably been there 7 or 8 times or so.
If we came along to one of your live shows what could we expect to
see/experience?
A lot of energy, a lot of camaraderie. It is a good time.
The video for Daggers is pretty cool - who came up with the concept
and who produced this video?
Endeavor Media shot that. It was their idea based on my lyrics. Sort of a
war scene as thought of through a kids point of view. It is a really awesome
video, we love it.
You released some solo work under the name 'A Rose by Any Other Name'
- how does the sound and style differ to The Chariot?
It is country. The Chariot is punk rock.
What are your plans with this side project? Any plans for a solo tour
outside the US?
I would love to hit outside the states but I don't know if that would take
place anytime in the near future. But who knows?
Other plans for 2011?
We are also hitting Australia, Japan, and China which we are stoked for.
