20 Questions With Aaron Bruno from AWOLNATION

Megalithic Symphony (2011, Redbull Records)

In so much as side projects piggyback previous accomplishments, AWOLNATION, American indie-alternative artist Aaron Bruno’s latest solo venture, makes an admirable leap forward with debut Megalithic Symphony. As names imply, the 14 track, push-pull record, synergizes the electronic undertones and rhythmic vocal lines that drew fans to Under the Influence of Giants in the first place. While the weirder, experimental nuances of the young Home Town Heroes from way back in the day challenged the ear are captured throughout.

A collection of songs exposing the variance between Bruno’s landmark melodies and range in musicality, Megalithic Symphony is firmly held together by unbound, creative mixology coupled with beams of operatic vengeance. The record dips and rises with a coating of metal heavy bass lines and reclamation of retro pop fielded by Queen in the early 70’s.  Vaguely falling short in consistency, the whirlwind story unfolds slowly and climaxes unexpectedly. Hidden between the bellows of unpretentious, well-constructed (but mostly unmemorable) front sides – including two intro tracks that are swallowed by the voluptuous concerto finale of “Knights of Shame” – “Sail” is underrated as a gentlemen among scholars.

Despite confusion throughout the album’s incline,  “People” and “Jump On My Shoulders” give Megalithic Symphony an electronic edge on progressive West Coast music. Falling somewhere between early James Murphy and the better half of De Stijl, “Burn it Down” has a ripe, heavy chorus with synth undertones whilst the electric driven, Adam Levine-ish danceable and soulful “Guilty Filthy Soul” shape-shiftand is the album’s lyrical magnetism to the traditional pop tune. Balladesque and transitionally distinct, “Killing Your Heroes” tickles a drum of irony to the past, and throwing understated tracks “My Nightmare’s Dream”, “Wake Up”, and “All I need” in the B-side basket, are an daemonic tribute to versatility and make Megalithic Symphony a project driven by repetitive measures, a spotlight for artistic integrity, and aims to reach kids who’ve got a clue.

Get the album on iTunes here!!!

1. What is your dream of happiness?

I usually discover a perfect wave to surf, but unfortunately, I never have my board!!!

2. Blonde or Brunette?

Blonde, but the insides count just as much…

3. What is the quality you like most in a person?

Humor, I believe that I have the funniest friends in the world!!!

4. What do you fear most?

FEAR and FLYING

5. 808s or 909s?

Both

6. What’s your biggest regret?

Not sticking with piano lessons in 1st grade.

7. What’s your fav bar or club in the world?

Any venue that has ever let any of my bands play there!!!

8. What’s the one thing you can’t live without?

Family / Loved ones / the Ocean

9. What are the 3 musicians dead or alive you’d like to see perform?

Nirvana, Beatles, Refused

10. What is your favorite decade in music?

I truly do not have one. I love all music of all decades.

11. If you had to choose, would you rather go blind or deaf and why?

I can’t choose, because one would allow me to continue music, and one would let me continue surfing, so I can’t say.

12. How old is too old?

No age

13. Where do you see yourself in 15 years?

Hopefully living on the sand.

14. Who’s your hero?

My dad

15. What’s your favourite colour?

Blue

16. What song could you live without ever hearing again?

Any emo/screamo song

17. Metallica or Madonna?

Metallica

18. What’s your most hated vice?

Pills

19. Who is the most tragic figure in history?

Martin Luther King Jr.

20. What are the top three live shows you’ve seen in your life?

Strife/Snapcase/Undertow in 95 in LA

Paul McCartney in 05

Radiohead on their Kid A tour