Interview: Bounders

Bounders is (Band Members & Instruments They Play): Matt Basilotto- guitar, Rob Bost- guitar, Drew Duddy- vocals, Jason LaRaia- drums, Rudy Meier- guitar/ programming, Justin Sanford- vocals/bass

We Formed In: 2015

We’re Based Out Of: Brick and Point Pleasant, NJ

The Story Behind Our Name: Well, the name has quite a few meanings. First and foremost, it means to be a cad of some sort… But we chose to relate it to our never ending cycle of having to read, write and perform music.

You’ve Seen Us Before in Other Bands: We are a collaboration of Breathing Blue and The Vinyls. Drew was the vocalist for The Vinyls and the rest of us were in Blue at one point or another.

New Music Coming Out: This fall we plan to release our debut EP. And our demo is up everywhere. (All streaming services, iTunes and soundcloud).

Our Sound Has Been Likened To: Dredg, As Tall As Lions, Death Cab For Cutie and respectfully, Radiohead.

Can you tell us the story of how Bounders came together, and why you wanted to play with them and form a band with them?

Our bands had been apart of the Asbury scene for years and had played many shows together. After both projects moved on, a few of us decided to collaborate. One thing led to another and before we knew it, we meshed two lead vocalists into one project. Matt and I actually grew up going to Drew’s old band’s shows (Blackoutskies) and definitely idolized his presence for a long time.

Think about the first time you were on stage with Bounders — how do you think you’ve evolved since that date, and what’s been the biggest mistake you’ve learned from?

I like to think that we evolve every rehearsal, show and writing session. However, being in a band isn’t that easy. Especially with six people. The truth is is that none of us are perfect, we all come from different inspirations musically, bring a different idea to the table and make mistakes constantly. We’ve only played a handful of shows… but I think our biggest mistake would be to stop.

You took part in The Break Contest to get a spot on this year’s Skate & Surf Festival, let’s talk about the competition a bit…talk about the mind state you’re in coming back for multiple shows to perform to fight for a spot on a big show. Is there a lot of pressure? Also, can you talk about the experience of performing at a big fest like Skate & Surf.

We were actually asked to play the Break Invitational Show, of which we were very honored to be apart of, and that was just a one-off contest. There’s always pressure in a contest. I personally don’t agree with the theory behind competing over sound given that music is preference. However, it was a great opportunity to get a jump start for this new band and we couldn’t be more grateful. Festivals are always fun regardless of your set time, stage, or date. So many people to connect to and chances to promote yourself.

What’s been your proudest accomplishment in Bounders?

Keeping the six of us together and starting fresh after all of these years.

What do you love about being in Bounders?

We’ve always wanted to be something different. And I believe people will hear and see that in our music. So far, we’ve gotten that reaction. Definitely love that vibe.

There are so many bands performing in the Asbury scene right now – what separates you from everyone else?

We’re a fearless six-piece with edge, ambient tones and we only write about the truth. Drew and Justin dual lyrics about their lives, their perspective and their stories.

If someone has never heard Bounders before what song would you recommend they check out in order to fully understand what Bounders is all about, and why?

“Aphasia.” It holds all the aspects that defines the start of this band. Lyrically, instrumentally and emotionally.

What are your plans for the rest of the summer? For the rest of 2015?

We plan to play as much as we can in the Asbury scene, as well as the tri-state area. Also, we will be releasing our debut EP this fall.

Bounders performs tonight at Happy Mondays at The Wonder Bar with Grand Mariner and Denizens of Soil. There is no cover.

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