Resident music enthusiast and Belmont student Matt Reynolds chats with Rites of Spring performer Bang Bang Bang. The band shares how they got started, who are their greatest musical influences and where they see themselves in the future. <!---break--->

TBC: So you guys have been playing together officially since 2005, tell me a little about how things got together from the start?

BBB: We were all born and raised here and we all went to school together at Hume Fogg Magnet School. Ben Brown (lead guitar) and I played in a band called LLAMA in high school and Jaren and Kelby played in bands as well... All our bands had broken up and we decided to put Bang Bang Bang together.

TBC: Speak a little bit about your musical influences, and what about them influenced you all?

BBB: Man, we grew up on everything from Michael Jackson and Prince to Led Zepplin and the Stones, as well as Nirvana and The Black Crowes. I think we've learned bits and pieces along the way from everything around us.

TBC: You guys fairly recently signed with Warner Brothers Records, how did that deal go down?

BBB: We had played for a lot of labels and had a couple things in the works, but Warner Bros. gave us what were looking for in terms of freedom and time to develop some more.
We're starting our record once we get down with this tour with ZZ Top in early May.

TBC: Who are some bands that you enjoy touring with?

BBB: Shooter Jennings, ZZ Top and The Pink Spiders.

TBC: You guys are scheduled to play at this year's Bonnaroo festival which is a huge deal for music and the state of Tennessee. Have you been before and what are you expecting from that?

BBB: We have been and a couple of us played at the first one, it was a really great time. It was badass, great crowds, great party and lots of killer bands to check out and hang with. I'm sure this year will be more of the same.

TBC: What does the future hold for Bang Bang Bang?

BBB: We want to make classic records, as well as being known as a great live band. If we could have those two things I think we'll be happy with everything. Rock n' roll!