The Spotify bio for Charity Kiss is simple: “Music from a garage; you guess what it sounds like.” The Reno rockers are rooted in indie and alternative, and the band shifts between fast punk and slow heart-wrenchers. The band’s streaming numbers are rising each day, so make sure to catch on now, so you can say you knew them when. For more information on the band, visit linktr.ee/CharityKiss. Charity Kiss’ drummer is Nate Drum.
What was the first concert you attended?
The Front Bottoms in Las Vegas in 2015. I’ve always loved music, but this show sparked my love for LIVE music.
What was the first album you owned?
A vinyl of Dirt by Alice in Chains. I got it from the Sundance Bookstore when I was 14. The reason I bought it was because Alice in Chains was one of the only band names I recognized on the shelves.
What bands are you listening to right now?
The past few years, I have been unable to stop listening to the band Idles. The raspy voice of Joe Talbot, the deep pockets, the messages—everything about them resonates with me. Some honorable mentions are Cabbage, Fontaines D.C., Wet Leg, Thee Oh Sees, and Gorgeous Bully.
What artist, genre or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
This one is tough, because I can find something I like about any kind of music. But if I had to pick something, I would say Drake. I understand why people like him; he is talented at what he does. It’s just not for me.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
Growing up being heavily influenced by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, I’ve always wanted to see them perform live. Their energy onstage has always been something I admired, and I try to emulate that energy when I’m playing.
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
Every now and then, I like to indulge in a little bit of disco. Sometimes you just gotta dance, man.
What’s your favorite music venue?
My favorite music venue that I have played would have to be the Holland Project here in Reno. It’s run by some absolutely amazing people, and a Holland show is always a good time.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
“I just want this to mean something to anyone, even if they don’t know who I am.” This line is in the song “Swear to God the Devil Made Me Do It” by The Front Bottoms. This line has stuck with me over all these years, because it perfectly summarizes my mindset when it comes to writing/performing. Music has helped me through a lot of rough experiences in my life, and I want to do the same for other people.
What band or artist changed your life? How?
I would have to say David Bowie, by far. I grew up with his music, and ever since I was a kid, I always found his music enchanting. He was the first artist to transport my mind to a different place. I still remember my first time hearing “Starman.” A wave of peace washed over me, and it was like nothing I’ve ever felt.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
I would ask Alex Turner what his writing process is. His lyrics are all so well-thought-out, and I strive to be at that level one day.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
I want the guitar(s) solo from “Free Bird” played on repeat throughout my entire funeral. It’s just an absolute face-melter of a solo.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
This may not come as a surprise, as I have the album cover tattooed on my arm, and I have mentioned them several times, but I would say Talon of the Hawk by The Front Bottoms. The lyrics, the jams, everything. I first heard it around the same time I started drumming, so it will always remind me of the beginning of the happiest times of my life.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
Any song by Charity Kiss! (I had to!)
