Entertainment World
Exclusive: Interview With Relient K
Geoff Dellinger - August 11, 2005
After meandering all over Tinker Field getting sun burnt and trying to see the so many great bands I finally broke down and had to take a break. Upon finishing my ice cold Gatorade (it was far too early and hot for a beer) I headed to the press area. In the beautiful back stage luxurious press area, ok so we were under the bleachers of the Citrus Bowl in folding chairs, I managed to trap John and Matt of amazing group Relient K. We shot the shit for a little bit and I managed to see what made them tick, was corrected upon calling them a "new band", they have been together a while, yet a lot of people are still learning about these rising superstars. Here's your opportunity to learn more about them, and a certain weird antic that took place later in the day.
Entertainment World: Who is Relient K and what have you set out to achieve with your music?
Relient K : We are Matt Thiessen (lead vocals/guitar/keyboard), John Warne (bass/vocals), Dave Douglas (drums/vocals), Matt Hoopes (guitar/vocals) and Jon Schneck (guitar/vocals). What we're trying to achieve is simply extend the longevity of the band and to be a positive influence on people.
Entertainment World: You're a relatively new group to a lot of people, is there a band or artist you look up to and strive to achieve a career similar to theirs?
Relient K : I'd have to say our friends and a band that also has been like mentors to us Switchfoot. We not only enjoy them as people but their music as well. We hope to emulate what they have accomplished.
Entertainment World: You recently opened for the Nokia Unwired MTV taping for Simple Plan and Good Charlotte. MTV then asked you to go back to Orlando to do your own taping, how did it feel to know the fans are showing a lot of support and the station has recognized your growing success?
Relient K : It was very flattering and unexpected. We are anxious to see how it turns out because we feel like it really wasn't our best of work.
Entertainment World: Speaking of fans, what's the weirdest thing you've experienced from one of your fans, especially being labeled as a Christian rock group?
Relient K : Well nothing really comes to mind, although we could possibly
have the weirdest thing ever this evening at our performance when we pass
out fresh lobster.
Entertainment World: (They really did pass out fresh lobsters during their
set, mainly to anyone situated smack dab in the front row)
Entertainment World: What can the world expect next from your band? (any new albums in the works, DVDs, tours, etc)
Relient K : We should have our new video completed by the end of summer as well as a six song EP. We also are taking off on tour this fall with Rufio and MXPX.
EW Hot Seat
Entertainment World: Favorite movie?
Relient K : Harold & Maude or The Graduate
Entertainment World: CD you cant live without?
Relient K : Beach Boys "Pet Sounds"
Entertainment World: PS2 or Xbox?
Relient K : PS2
Entertainment World: Ipod or actual CD?
Relient K : Ipod
Entertainment World: Sitcoms or reality TV?
Relient K : We are into Curb Your Enthusiasm and The Office
Entertainment World: Better fans on the east coast or west coast?
Relient K : I'd have to say the west coast.