has become one of the music industry’s most notorious party bands, and although the hip-hop/rockers’ comical lyrics and live show might give the impression that their life is one constant kegger, their latest album, “American Tragedy” reflects a darker, more evolved side of the SoCal band.
Reverb recently caught up with vocalist Johnny 3 Tears to talk about “American Tragedy,” Hollywood…and buff guys?
Q: Whatap the story behind “American Tragedy”?
A: “Itap about the generation we grew up in and how we inherited a world thatap not exactly in the greatest order. But nonetheless you still have to live in it and take care of it. Itap not a concept album but I suppose some of the songs still reflect that strongly.”
The album has a bit of a darker side…
“When we’re living in times like these, your personal life is certainly affected. Itap not necessarily like, we broke up with our girlfriends and we’re depressed — everyone’s having a rough time and you can’t help but let that sink in, especially when you’re writing music.”
Why the decision to go more “rock” on this one?
“Itap not a conscientious thing to say, ‘OK, we’ll write something more rock,’ itap just kinda what we’re feeling like writing and what we’re into at the moment.”
Do you think the rock bands you’ve been on tour with have rubbed off on you?
“No, nothing rubs off on me — except for guys. Buff guys. “
How do you think you’ve grown since “Swan Songs”?
“Itap weird and vague, but you get a little older, you know? I’m not a kid — my mind is in a much different place now. For all the guys, a lot of things in our personal lives have changed and itap definitely reflected on the records. You can try and try but there will never be a ‘Swan Songs 2.’ “
Is being famous in Hollywood really that glamorous?
“It can certainly be a dark road. [“Been to Hell”] is about what we saw growing up when people would come to L.A. from Nebraska — or wherever the hell — expecting something and then getting nothing from it. The song is more sympathetic than aggressive.
Anything fans should look forward to at the show?
“Well…hopefully I’m conscientious enough to know that I’m in Denver. If you see me stumbling around looking for buff guys you know I’m in trouble. “
Hollywood Undead will play the Thursday, May 12. Tickets, $33.25, are available through .
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Paige Montgomery is a Denver-based freelance writer. Check out more of her work on Facebook.
