What does a Brooklyn-based group know about surviving in the woods? Absolutely nothing, but in some ways, everything; hence the title for the Roughstars sophomore set. "We're really well adapted to our environment, New York City, and this is our little survival kit", says producer Lars. "The title comes from an honest acknowledgment of our situation and how we create music to those conditions". "A cultural commentary, which comes from living and being involved within the New York experience", says Bullet Brown. Lars and Bullet Brown grew up in New York City during the mid-1980's, when Hip-Hop, New Wave and Post-Disco R&B began to assult the top 40 charts. All these sounds gave birth to the alternative music scene. "If you were in New York during that time, no one listened to the same music exclusively! We were all influenced by everything around us!" says Bullet Brown. And 'everything' means things like Bad Brains, Run DMC, The Clash, Prince, on to sights like ladies rocking Vanity 6 exotic fashion and underground club culture in 1980's NYC. Meeting over a decade ago through their friend Thomas Bullock (A.R.E Weapons, Rub'n'Tug) at one of the many 'White Telephone' parties at NYC hotspot 205 Chrystie, Lars and Bullet Brown found a shared understanding of music and became fast friends. A couple of years later, and after meeting up with friend Vito – vocalist, writer, and part time co-conspirator – the three started going to the studio together and Roughstars were born. "We are a New York band that is actually made up of New Yorkers", states Lars. "We are not mimicking a certain style or trying to sound like a combination of a couple of bands. We are trying to take our influences and make something of our own". And what Roughstars have made is their own style - Bump Rock – a fusion of R&B, Hardcore, and dusted Disco. So what should one expect from the Roughstars and their Bump Rock in 2008? "High energy live shows, hard beats & fine tailoring!", confesses Lars. "People singing our hooks, especially the ladies. And me rocking my Bump Rock style... Damaged elegance!" says Bullet Brown.
Thanks for performing at the Earthdriver album release on Friday. It was a great set. I'm a big fan. Looking forward to seeing Roughstars again and hearing your full new album.
Hey fellas, sorry I missed your set at Knitting Factory. But I hope you had a good one. I'll see you guys again soon if y'all are still out there to rock the crowd. Peace.
Whats up roughstars?! Haven't seen you guys in a minute - Cornelius! Where ya been man? We all need to get together soon..heard u guys are making moves...Lemme me know how ya doing. peace-m ox
