With an interesting background full of big names in California’s music scene, Centershift has come into existence to be one of the most uniquely talented and creative bands to emerge in the past few years. It’s a no-brainer that musicians with such a resume would release a powerful repertoire like what Centershift already has under their name, but what’s next for this dream team? What are they planning? And what’s the drive that keeps them making more unique and fresh music? I had the pleasure of interviewing these guys right after I listened to their beautiful new single ’Fire Within’ and they were kind enough to give me an insight on what they have in store for us.
- First of all, I would love to welcome you to this interview. Thank you for joining us. First, I would like to know how your supergroup was formed at the start…and supergroup is the least I can say about such a wonderful lineup.
I’m not sure I’d call Centersshift a Super Group, but I am blessed to play with amazing Musicians and Brothers. Stefan and I were in BLüPRNT in the early nineties, when LA had an amazing rock scene happening every night. On any random Tuesday, you could see Rage, Tool, our Brothers, and SNOT at Rajis, Club With No Name, or some random Coffee House.
Ryan and I were with Nova Entertainment. Shuvel and ONESIDE were managed by Nic Adler, Nova Ent. We had always talked about teaming up someday.
Ted, well, Ted and Bemus is a whole chapter in itself….. Let’s just say Bemus, ONESIDEZERO, Tour, welding trailer axles, Amstel Light, and flip phones!
- How does your vision for Centershift differ from that of Onesidezero, Shuvel, Bemus, or BLüPRNT?
I feel the vision has always been the same, honestly.
I think now we bring a maturity in the music, not having the pressure on ourselves of, “we have to do this and that to get signed,” and keeping YOU in perspective brings an ease to the songwriting for me.
- I had a previous encounter with the band when I reviewed your track ‘Falling Into’ back in 2022, and I’ve been a fan ever since so it’s only fitting that I congratulate you now on the wonderful masterpiece that ‘Fire Within’ is. How did you get the inspiration for this song…and what’s the lyrical theme behind it?
Thank you, I appreciate your support!!!
Ryan came in with the Music outline for Fire Within, and we were all really moved by its deep undertone. We have a running inside thing when I get inspired by someone’s tune: “I got’s a melody for that!” usually in passing, hahaha.
When I had finished, or when I thought I had finished the Vocal for the Song, I didn’t feel I had my point in the Chorus yet, So Producer Jose Alcantar and I kept ripping it apart until Ted chimed in, “You should say poop” I knew then I had the Chorus.
- The production of this single is much more polished and balanced than ever. How did the recording and production process differ from previous releases, if I may ask?
It’s 100% the comfort of working in your own Studio, without the budget hanging over you or a shortage of time.
Oh, and being blessed to work with amazing producers is really all of them!
- I heard that you guys have been working non-stop at Blueprint Studios and Auspicious Recordings. How did these projects begin, and how do you envision their future?
I have always had a “give back” or “pay it forward” burn in me that I hoped one day I could put forth; with Ted having the same, the Blueprint Name was born.
From the Rehearsal studio Blueprint, there now is The Blueprint Sessions, a TV show about the Next Gen Musicians in the World, and the Non-Profit, The Blueprint Music Academy; this speaks for itself. (more to come with this!)
- It must have been hard to schedule making your own music as well as the studio and record label. How did you guys manage to keep up with all that work?
Writing and shows are the balance for the rest; without the creative, I don’t think I could be creative and put all of this in motion.
But when it comes down to it, knowing this is not about us but about doing for others keeps the drive strong.
- What, in your opinion, makes an Alt Rock record listenable and likable in 2024?
Most listeners nowadays probably don’t know what “alt” Rock is in Music, hahaha.
I try to get sucked down the rabbit hole with new music playlists all the time to, hopefully, get grabbed by a Song or Album, and I am happy to say there is a lot of great stuff out there in many Genres.
- We already had (multiple) listens to your awesome single, Fire Within, but that’s only because we get the VIP treatment, I guess…when can we expect you to go public with it?
Well, we’re getting some stuff squared away, but we should have updates soon. Thank you again for your Ears!
- Can we expect Centershift to collaborate with any other band or artist in the near future?
I would love to!!!
I have always dug collabs and personally think they’re a super cool way for fans, etc., to see the comradery and what a Family the Big Show really is.
- Your sound is heavily influenced by other popular bands, but I’d like to know which artist(s) you consider to have had the most influence on it.
Hall and Oates
- Do you plan on touring soon, and if so, where can your fans expect you?
This is the best question; yes, but I have to iron out the wrinkles, so…..
- Finally, thank you, guys, for giving us some valuable time and early access to your awesome single. I hope to catch you on tour one day and scream along to your energizing tracks. Cheers.
Thank YOU, Akram, from us in CENTERSHIFT, and xoxoxo from Ted.
