Horace Greene is a band that defies easy categorization. While they're often labeled as Midwest indie rock, they've coined a unique genre of their own: powerlounge. This innovative blend of power pop, indie rock, and lounge music is a testament to the band's creativity and willingness to push musical boundaries. In an exclusive interview, Sam Swetlik and Tony Oakley, the duo behind Horace Greene, shared insights into their musical journey and the inspiration behind their distinctive sound.
A Musical Friendship and a Name
Sam and Tony's friendship began in early high school, around 2011, and their musical journey together started soon after. They've played in various bands, but it was in 2015 that Horace Greene was born. The name, they reveal, came from a playful brainstorming session over an old man's name. It's a testament to their lighthearted approach to music and life.
Powerlounge: A Unique Genre
Horace Greene's music is a fusion of power pop, indie rock, and lounge. They are, in their words, the first 'powerlounge' band. This genre, they explain, is a marriage of styles, creating a sound that is both energetic and laid-back. It's a unique blend that sets them apart from the crowd, and they're proud to be pioneers in this genre.
Nighttime Boi: A Gateway to Powerlounge
For those new to Horace Greene's music, 'Nighttime Boi' is a great starting point. This song encapsulates the band's signature sound, blending catchy hooks with a laid-back vibe. It's a perfect introduction to the powerlounge genre and a song that has likely resonated with many fans.
Guitar Hero and First Albums
A shared musical memory for Sam and Tony is their love for 'Guitar Hero'. The game inspired them to start playing music, and it's a reminder of the power of music to ignite passion and creativity. Interestingly, their first albums were 'Who Let The Dogs Out' by Baha Men, a fun contrast to the rock-oriented sound they're known for today.
Daft Punk and Anderson .Paak: Musical Escapes
When they need a musical escape, Sam and Tony turn to Daft Punk's 'Random Access Memories'. The album's blend of electronic and pop elements resonates with them. Additionally, Anderson .Paak is a go-to artist for a boost of energy and creativity. These musical influences showcase the diverse tastes that shape Horace Greene's sound.
Cover Songs and Small Gigs
While Horace Greene typically doesn't play covers, they made an exception for 'Take It Easy' by the Eagles and 'Everybody Wants to Rule the World' by Tears for Fears for Mile of Music last year. These covers offer a glimpse into the band's versatility and willingness to explore different musical territories. Additionally, their smallest audience, consisting of just 3 or 4 people, is a reminder that sometimes, the most intimate gigs can be the most meaningful.
Door County Brewing Co.: A Favorite Venue
When it comes to venues, Horace Greene has fond memories of Door County Brewing Co. The venue's acoustics and atmosphere were perfect for their music, and they'd love to return. This highlights the importance of venue selection in creating a memorable live experience for both the band and the audience.
Hunter Gatherer: A Door County Favorite
One musician that Horace Greene admires in Door County is Hunter Gatherer. Their performances are a testament to the local music scene's diversity and quality. This respect for their peers is a sign of the band's humility and appreciation for the musical community they're a part of.
The Power of Resilience in Music
The best musical lesson Horace Greene has learned is the importance of resilience. Being able to roll through mistakes and keep going is a valuable skill in the music industry. Most times, people won't even notice, and this resilience can make the difference between a good performance and a great one.
A Door County Performance and Beyond
Horace Greene will be performing at Sway Brewing + Blending in Baileys Harbor on May 30, offering fans in Door County a chance to experience their powerlounge sound live. Additionally, their album release show on June 6 at Gibson Music Hall in Appleton will be a celebration of their unique musical journey. As the band continues to evolve and innovate, their impact on the music scene is sure to grow, leaving a lasting impression on both fans and peers.
In my opinion, Horace Greene's powerlounge genre is a fascinating development in the music industry. It's a testament to the power of creativity and the ability to blend seemingly disparate styles into something entirely new. As they continue to push boundaries, their influence on the music scene is sure to be significant, and I can't wait to see where their musical journey takes them next.
