The Spotify bio for local band Lol What? is absolutely truthful, as it says the trio writes songs that make you “laugh, cry or dance.” Their debut demo EP Stool Sample offers a mix of both emotional moods and musical realms. “Lego” is packed tight with feel-good punk that is angry yet bright and poppy, while “Blank Face” utilizes heavier riffs and more emotionally charged vocal deliveries for a grittier vibe. For more information, visit www.instagram.com/lolwhatnv. The band is set to perform at the Holland Project at 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, July 23. Tickets are $10, available at hollandreno.org. Lol What’s guitarist/vocalist is Tony Deputy.
What was the first concert you attended?
I come from two musical parents, so I’ve been going to concerts since I was a baby. The first time I traveled to go to a concert was in 2015, when my friend Evan and I went to Warped Tour in his mom’s minivan. It was a chaotic adventure, but we got to wear khaki shorts and see rad pop punk bands. The big one for us that day was seeing Knuckle Puck for the first time.
What was the first album you owned?
Licensed to Ill by Beastie Boys. I heard one of their songs at a family friend’s house when I was, like, 8, and had to get my hands on their CDs immediately. It’s been time to get ill ever since lol.
What bands are you listening to right now?
Bilmuri, Sunfo, TRSH, Carly Cosgrove, Shortstop, Everglade, and Wall Carpets.
What artist, genre, or musical trend does everyone love, but you don’t get?
I’m not a fan of how a lot of bands are having to push their songs on social media. Hearing the same 10 seconds of a song put across almost every single one of their posts just feels like overkill.
What musical act, current or defunct, would you most like to see perform live?
Current: Bilmuri. Defunct: Transit. RIP, Tim Landers.
What’s your favorite musical guilty pleasure?
As of late, it’s been this band called Aight Bet. It’s hardcore and rap. It rips!
What’s your favorite music venue?
The Holland Project. I think every city on Earth should have a place like it. We’re blessed to have such a rad place in our community.
What’s the one song lyric you can’t get out of your head?
Usually the first three words of “Ravenous, Ravenous Rhinos” by I Set My Friends on Fire.
What band or artist changed your life? How?
The band Into It. Over It. changed everything for me. I found out about them when I was 16 and immediately knew I found the music I wanted to make. I was a drummer for my whole musical career at that point, and they got me to pick up guitar and try open tunings, and led me down the path to finding myself as a songwriter.
You have one question to ask one musician. What’s the question, and who are you asking?
I’d ask any of the homies coming through Reno on tour if they need a place to crash.
What song would you like played at your funeral?
Probably something out of pocket like “Sandstorm” by Darude.
Figurative gun to your head, what is your favorite album of all time?
52 Weeks by Into It. Over It. It’s a 52-song album that’s beautiful front to back.
What song should everyone listen to right now?
Go listen to “DOWN” by EVERGLADE.