By: Katie Caccavale
Best described as crossover music, Crane has a sound that is all their own. Their musical influences range across the board. Critics and fans use genres such as Southern Rock, Soul, Hip Hop, Funk, and Blues to describe their sound. However, it’s impossible to pigeon hole these boys into one category. They’re often described as a mix of Sublime, The Beastie Boys, and Ben Harper. The threesome create a highly energetic and entertaining live show that displays versatility, showmanship, and raw talent. In the words of front man Anthony Crane, “We get nasty.” Their energy is contagious, and they continuously over deliver at their live performances.
We spoke to Anthony so check out what he had to say!
What is the strangest thing a fan has done for you at your show?
That’s a great question. Our people are a really fun group. We take pride in creating an exciting atmosphere, so you never know what could happen. But one that sticks out is a girl bringing a picture of herself photoshopped into our first album cover…naked…
What is the funniest moment you have had as a band so far?
Wow it’d be difficult to pick just one moment. We have a lot of fun as a band. The three of us have become brothers, and we don’t hold much back from one another. We have a lot of fun on the road. I’d say some of the Vine’s we’ve made recently have been pretty ridiculous. I’ll just say one of the most recent involved our mascot, Kilo. He’s a stuffed animal…a white pony to be exact. The Vine involved Kilo, a lightsaber, and Genuine’s “Pony” playing in the background.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
Whiskey.
If you could describe your music in one word, what would it be?
Nasty.
How do you connect with a crowd?
I always try to become personal with a crowd from the first second I’m on stage. It helps me feel comfortable, and it let’s them know I’m human. What most people don’t understand when they go to a live show, is that the energy, the emotion, the show is in their hands. If they’re giving me some of themselves, then I will without question give them every fiber of passion and love for music that I have.
What is the best way for you to write music?
I spend a lot of time in the van…and I never turn my radio on. A lot of ideas come to me while I’m driving…but I’m able to convert the ideas to music and melody when I’m isolated. Away from people and distractions. I have to create that environment on my own, but it’s always worth it.
What’s the first gig you ever played in?
My first gig was in a small Jamaican restaurant in my home town, Conyers, GA. I opened a show for some friends of mine who (at the time) were in a band called Elliptical. It’s a night I’ll never forget.
What is the best gig that you ever played or performed?
I had the opportunity to play Verizon Wireless Amphitheater in Alpharetta, GA this summer. I won a contest put on by 97.1 The River. I opened the show for Ted Nugent, REO Speedwagon, and STYX.
What is the best gig you have ever seen?
Bonnaroo 2006 I got to see some of my heroes perform. I saw James Brown, G Love, Ben Harper, The Roots, Neil Young, and many many many other amazing artists. It changed my life.
Gig you would most like to play?
I love being on the road. I’d like to tour with a larger national act in the very near future.
What would be the lineup for your dream gig?
Unfortunately, it’s no longer possible. But it might be something like The Beastie Boys, Sublime, Bob Segar, and Outkast.
Crane will be at Vinyl October 10th with The Daniels Brother! Doors open at 7:30pm and the show starts at 8:30pm. Tickets are only $6 in advance and $10 the day of the show. Online and phone sales close at 4pm day of show.
