One thing you need to know is that like many great bands that have stuck around for a decade or more, Kylesa defies convention, categorization and they are constantly evolving. This individualism, among other places, can also be found as an ongoing theme in the lyrics of Kylesa’s two core, founding members, Phillip Cope and Laura Pleasants, who share songwriting duties and often delve into the existential, frequently touching on a person’s inevitable race against time and death and search for meaning outside of the confines of society. Some people neatly define Kylsesa as “sludge” metal. This simple tag does the band no justice; nor would any other. See for yourself at The Earl on June 21.
Laura Pleasants took the time to answer our interview:
What is the strangest thing a fan has done for you?
Strange and awesome, a fan once brought us some artwork he made with our name on it out of a petrified mushroom. The carving was trippy and endearing.
What is the funniest moment you have had as an artist so far?
There have been many funny moments over the years. Funny is a great thing. One experience that will always stand out was many years ago when our bass player at the time and the guitar player from a particular Atlanta band and myself got a hold of a bunch of roman candles, drunk out of our minds, and started shooting them off into the hotel parking lot where people were hanging out. The aforementioned guitar player then started shooting them into open hotel rooms and people were running and ducking for cover and it was one of the funniest moments ever. I know it sounds in poor taste and it’s not something I would partake in now, but it really was funny. We escaped right before the cops rolled in.
Do you have any pre-show rituals?
I do. I like to warm up by playing a little bit of guitar and doing a few vocal exercises. I’ll have a beer or a shot, but generally try to be thinking straight. I like to do ten push-ups and jumping jacks to get my blood flowing. I generally stretch as well. Sounds pretty exciting, right?
If you could describe your music in one word, what would it be?
Heavy.
How do you connect with a crowd?
The energy in the room is the biggest way to connect with the crowd. If there’s room, I like to go to the front of the stage and head bang with the rockers in the front row.
How did you come up with your band name?
That’s the hardest thing about forming a band… finding a good name. Our original drummer came upon “kilesa mara” and we all really connected with the meaning behind it.
What is the best way to write music?
From the heart.
Catch Kylesa playing at The Earl Friday, June 21. Tickets below!
