Melophobix’s new album influenced by a variety of sources
The Grand Rapids rock band, Melophobix, recently discussed its upcoming sophomore project with Local Spins, introducing tracks by Tobin Sprout, Brie Stoner, Moon Orchids, Farewell Come April, and more.
Melophobix finds it difficult to pinpoint their musical style due to a vast array of influences, leading bassist Ben Steer to suggest the term “progressive ska.” Guitarist and singer Stefan Schwartz, though amused, acknowledges that this term is not far off the mark for a band that seamlessly blends rock, funk, reggae, pop, and more.
Schwartz explains that the band draws inspiration from a wide range of musical genres. He listens to European composers, ska, metal, emo, rap, and anything else that captures his interest at the moment. This diverse palate of influences is reflected in Melophobix’s music, allowing for a unique infusion of genres.
Melophobix is gearing up for the release of their second studio album, titled “Retroactive Interference,” set to debut in March. This album serves as a culmination of the band’s evolution, featuring a blend of older, “retroactive” tracks and newer, “interference” tracks that lean towards a pop-oriented sound. The overarching theme of the album revolves around the concept of forgetting old things while embracing new experiences.
Despite a six-year gap between album releases, Melophobix has been consistently active, performing live shows, releasing singles, and working on various side projects. The band’s forthcoming album required them to shift their focus entirely, bringing their creativity to new heights in the recording process.
Melophobix hosts a monthly event called “Groovitational,” a unique open-mic night held at Turnstiles in Grand Rapids. This event, which originally began at O’Toole’s Public House, welcomes musicians of all genres to perform impromptu sets, fostering a sense of community within the music scene. The band sees “Groovitational” as a collaborative effort, inviting diverse artists to share the stage and experiment in a fun and supportive environment.
Looking ahead, Melophobix plans to tour in support of their new album, with scheduled shows at Gun Lake Casino in Wayland and The Deck in Muskegon. Throughout their creative process, the band remains committed to their core philosophy of embracing creative freedom and enjoying the music-making process.
As the release date for “Retroactive Interference” approaches, Melophobix aims to deliver an album that reflects their eclectic musical tastes and collaborative spirit. The band’s primary goal is to create music that resonates with audiences on a profound level, offering a blend of joy, excitement, and a touch of chaos.