Aree and the Pure Heart is not the first band that has reminded me of the soundtrack for the movie “Eddie and the Cruisers.” However, Aree and the Pure Heart is more punk rock mixed with a Tom Waits attitude. I will still be listening to them in 20 years. Longer than that if I become immortal.
We did this interview and now it’s time to share it with you guys. Don’t forget to check out their links and music video.
Where was your first show as a fan? As a performer?
My first show was in 1995. I went to see a band called Squad Five-O at a church in Savannah, Ga. I saw Less than Jake at a bar on St. Simons Island shortly after. I played my first show in 1996 on a sidewalk for the grand opening of a music store where I grew up. I was 14 years old. We played some originals and Operation Ivy and Suicide Machines. it ruled. You can find my first band’s demo at 57shifty.bandcamp.com
Have you ever met anyone with a pure heart – aside from children?
Yes, definitely. I think there are many saints among us. I also worked next to a special needs classroom for many years, and there were plenty of pure hearts in there!!!
Who does the best drunken street light poetry?
Probably Paul Westerberg or Bukowski? I actually haven’t drank alcohol in years. I think that I wrote that description as a sort of stream of consciousness homage to just being enamored with the love of life.
Do you think the internet helps or hurts musicians/bands?
A little of both. I think that any technological innovation is a double-edged sword, but it seems that the good tends to outweigh the bad. Two things I’ve learned from releasing music in a post internet era. 1. you can really reach an international audience very quickly 2. there are still a lot of people out there who are true music lovers. probably a lot more than one would expect.
What do you love about your hometown?
I grew up on the coast of Southeast Georgia in a town called Brunswick. When I was growing up it was dirt roads and playing in the woods. It is a really beautiful place, and I probably love the simplicity of it most. Hot as hell, though…and if you don’t know about gnats…then count yourself blessed. haha
How many $50 bottles of wine have you really broken?
hahaha. The answer is zero. In addition to being a teacher, I work part-time at Trader Joe’s. One day I was in the wine section, and I was looking at these expensive bottles of wine, and the only thing I could think of was how great it would be to just smash them all to pieces. That turned into the first song on the record.
What would you do if you were immortal?
Defend myself against the evil corporations that will try to brand me or put me in a lab to make some pill from my blood. Also, learn as much as I can and hopefully reach some sort of level purity and holiness.
What do you want people to know about Aree and the Pure Heart?
I am just very amazed to see people from around the world enjoying the music. Thank you to everyone that listens. I am very grateful.
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