Name: Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Formed: 2014
Hometown: Belfast
Genre: Rock
Line-up: Barry Allen (Guitar, Vocals), Tom Finney (Lead Guitar), Sean Morales (Bass) & Michael Hanvey (Drums)
◀ Q & A ▶
▶ What’s the story behind your stage name?
The band used to be called Nijinsky but after the bass player left, Sean & Tom came on board and the sound got more aggressive and beefy. So much so, a name change and a fresh start became necessary. Our name is definitely marmite, with a small majority hating it (including Rigsy from ATL). Sean (bass) was on night out with his mates and he mentioned that his new band were looking for a band name. After a few daft suggestions were explored, one of his mates, engrossed in the patient information leaflet from the evening’s (legal) drug of choice, blurted out “that’s a class band name right there”. Arguably, we should have stuck to one of the other daft suggestions.
▶ When did you start playing music together and how would you describe your sound?
As you would expect, we have each been exploring music in the years leading up to the band. Each of us have been in bands before too. In addition, Sean and Michael both currently work in the studio/live environment, which has been invaluable to the band’s DIY ethic. We’re lucky to have access to recording gear but more importantly, the experience in understanding how to produce the records we want. In terms of our recorded sound, we like the word ‘girth’ haha. So think ‘girth-rock’ and you’re there. In all seriousness, we just think of it as ‘authentic’. We made a firm decision not to use performance editing tools, such as auto-tune, beat detective, time stretching, copy/paste etc. Very generally, our favourite bands come from punk, grunge and metal genres – but ultimately the common denominator is aggression and honesty.
▶ What music have you put out so far?
At this point, we have released two E.P’s. Tidewater Stream and Two Minutes Hate. Both EPs contain three tracks and are available on www.bandcamp.com as “pay what you like”. We are constantly writing and recording so keep checking in.
▶ Is there a particular live show which stands out amongst all the rest?
We each have full time day jobs and our free time has been dedicated to writing and recording, so we have only played two gigs since we reset the band under the new name and lineup. Out of the two shows, the first was undoubtedly the best. The turnout was great, the sound guy was fantastic and we smashed it.
▶ Can you talk about a highlight and a low point of the journey so far?
Weirdly, we would need a venn diagram to describe the high and low points. When we were still a three piece and our mate Stephen left – that was a low point. Yet we gained two new mates, which has definitely been the high point so far. None of this music stuff matters, if you’re not having a blast and hanging out with friends. Mind you, hearing our song ‘Qualia’ blasting out on Radio Ulster was awesome too.
▶ You are in control of forming a 4 piece ‘super group’ – who is in it and what do they do?
Vocals/Lyrics – John Lennon (we don’t give a f*$k how obvious this one is)
Guitar – Tony Iommi
Bass – Lemmy
Drums – Danny Carey
▶ If you were to go on a world tour and you could pick any 3 acts come along, who would they be?
1) QOTSA – because we could basque in their reflected coolness.
2) Black Sabbath – because, see above
3) Rage against the Machine – to keep it all grounded and focused on the
power of music and a message.
▶ If you could make one strange dressing room demand, what would it be and why?
Balsamic vinegar. Why? Ask Mr Morales.
▶ Who has been your biggest inspiration as a musician?
Nirvana – with bells on.
▶ Is there a particular aim or goal which you hope to achieve through music?
We would love to and hopefully will put out a full album on vinyl with full artwork and all the trimmings. It would be the perfect way to document our hard work.
◀ LISTEN ▶
Facebook ▶ /Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
