Tell me about the origins of Contrast. How did it all happen?
I met Mat.at a Mod Club in Chatham, Kent, and realised that we enjoyed similar music. We later formed a band, but didn’t do much until Richard joined us in June 2004, as a last-minute replacement for our previous drummer. Bearing in mind we had only spoken to him once before, and had never seen him play, it was actually a good gig - he fitted in straight away. And the rest is history (as they say).
Who are the members of Contrast?
James Dand - Vocals / lead guitar
Mat Stanley - Bass
Richard Sage - Drums / backing vocals
How long have you been together?
With the present line-up, since June 2004
How would you describe your sound?
I always find it hard to answer that question. I sometimes describe it as ‘mod rock’ - influenced by a cross between mod bands of the ‘60’s and rock. Some of it is quite like ‘The Who’, whereas other parts are much more melodic. Generally, people who like ‘60’s music, indie or rock can relate to our music in various ways (and people who remember what a guitar solo is!!!)
Which artists do Contrast look to for inspiration?
‘The Who’ are generally our biggest influence. Various bands of the ‘60’s - The Kinks, The Stones, The Small Faces, Cream, Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles etc. Also rockier bands such as Deep Purple, Aerosmith etc (and others that Mat won’t allow me to mention!!!), plus a number of current bands - Ocean Colour Scene, Oasis etc.
What would you consider your image? Is it important?
We
do have a smart ‘60’s mod image. I think it is good to have an image.
It shows you are together and believe in something, and separates you from the
rest (that’s why we are ‘Contrast’ - different). We often get comments
about our clothes, such as the bowling shoes that we sometimes wear. Although,
some people get turned off by the ‘mod thing’ before they’ve even
seen us …… my advice is …… don’t. Although we are influenced
by the clothes and music of the ‘60’s, the audience don’t have
to be mods to enjoy our music and performance!!!
Are
there other influences Contrast look to? Such as films, books, fashion…etc
For those of you who don’t know what a mod is, check out the film ‘Quadrophenia’ (soundtrack by The Who), or read ‘Modernism, a Very British Phenomenon’ by Terry Rawlings. We all own various biographies of our idols as well.
Are there any other bands that you can recommend, signed or unsigned?
I won’t recommend any local bands, in case I miss some out! Check out Chart newcomer Mark Joseph, who we worked with recently. Also, we’ve played with The New Age Jam (Jam tribute band) a couple of times, they’re great blokes, and put on a really good act.
Listening to your album 'Right Equation' there is a cool variety of songs, from powerful snappy mod tunes, to more melodic guitar pop. The shade and variety of songs is one of the albums strengths. Can you tell me about this variety and what your general thoughts are about the album?
We feel strongly about the album, but feel that there is still room for improvement. We recorded it only a couple of months after Richard joined us, so it was a rush to get all the songs prepared. There is variety on the album, with something for the majority of people - If you don’t like the heavier songs, then there’s the odd light relief with the slower ones! I like a wide variety of music myself, and this is reflected in my songwriting. I like albums that aren’t just one dimensional with the same guitar sounds and tempo on every track, I think it’s important to show variation. It also depends what mood you’re in, again I think the album caters for this - if you want cheering up ……. stick on ‘My Religion’, if you want to chill out ….. listen to ‘One Heart Broken’, if you enjoy crashing drums, rolling basslines and energetic guitar solos …… turn the volume up and listen to ‘Time Machine’.
Do you have any set method for songwriting, or do you just blow with the wind?
It does depend on the song. Often I get a tune in my head (which usually just appears out of the blue), which I quickly record onto a dictaphone (with or without guitar), so that I can return to it later. Other songs develop from a guitar riff. Occasionally I write some words about a certain subject, and then put a tune to them, but I don’t often do it that way. I generally try to match the theme of the song to its tune. Often the lyrics are quite topical, I like to write about life as I see it.
How many releases does the band have?
So far we have released one album - ‘Right Equation’ which can be purchased at gigs, or via email. We also feature on a National Single release alongside such greats as Ron Wood (Rolling Stones), Steve Craddock (Ocean Colour Scene), Reg Presley (The Troggs), Mark Joseph, Chris Farlowe, PP Arnold, Jimmy Winstone, Steve Rinaldi, and a number of other artists. The single is a cover of two Small faces songs, and is called Mod Aid 20 (BBP002). The single contains a video of the recordings, so if it reaches top 40, we could be shown on Top of The Pops!!! Proceeds go towards the Band Aid charity. This should be due out by the end of April 05.
Are there plans for getting more recordings out?
We have actually just recorded our second album, but we are not releasing this for quite a while yet. We feel pretty confident about it though!!!
Have you had any interest from labels?
We had interest from a record company that wanted to use ‘Time Machine’ from the ‘Right Equation’ album on a compilation CD. We chose not to take the deal at the time. It was the same company that set up the Mod Aid single, and asked us to take part. There are certain other companies that have shown interest, but that’s all we are saying for the moment ………. Watch this space.
Do you have a website and can music by Contrast be purchased through the site?
Our website is www.thecontrast.co.uk which contains information about the band and releases, with contact numbers and our email address through which you can purchase the album. You can also join our mailing list, and write messages on our messageboard.
Do you think there is a possible revival of interest for all things mod in mainstream culture?
I think there has been a mini-revival since about the mid 90’s, although it’s pretty much an underground thing. Both fashion and music always goes round in circles, so mod will be in then out like everything else. Bands like Ocean Colour Scene have helped the mod scene in recent years.
What are your plans for the near future?
We’re just going to keep playing and getting our name around. We’re making good progress, and have received so much positive feedback.
Name your favourite alcoholic beverages
Not
sure about Rich, but Mat normally judges how good a venue is on whether it sells
Newcastle Brown. For me, I always stay clear of alcohol before a gig because it
affects my voice (don’t laugh). On other occasions …. Jack Daniels and
Coke does the trick!
