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Louisiana-based punkish alt-rock outfit Jestr recently released the latest single “By Design”, taken from their upcoming album The Dead & Riches. Vocalist/guitarist Brett Bradley was on hand to talk us through what you need to know about the band…
What are the origins of the band, how long have you been playing together?
Jestr formed in late 2019, early 2020 as a sort of solo project. As a full band, we’ve been playing together since summer of 2021!
What should people expect when they check the band out? How would you describe Jestr?
I think we could very easily be categorized as power pop! Lots of big chunky power chords, fat drums, and pop melodies.
How did you feel performing your first gig as a band, and how was it?!
Our first show was so fun! I was pretty nervous at first being that it was my first time singing in front of people but that faded pretty quickly. We’re still all finding our legs with each other but the energy we bounce between members is magical.
The new music scene is bursting at the seams at the minute with fresh talent, in what ways do you feel that a band has to stand out to build a name for themselves?
These days I think what really makes a statement is a good personality, whether that be on stage, social media, face to face interactions. It’s always exciting for me when I find a new band and I feel more like a friend of the band than a fan. Just be yourself, be goofy, be open!
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
Our debut record “The Dead and Riches” which is set to release on February 11th 2022 is our latest and greatest! It’ll be available on all streaming platforms! New single ‘By Design’ is out now!
In terms of a similar audience, which band out there at the minute do you feel Jestr would be best suited to open for?
Rozwell Kid! I’m a HUGE fan, I think our music and our personalities would mesh really well.
Excluding yourself! which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
The Ivory Sons. Incredible band from down in the swamps, some of the best songwriting I’ve heard and I think they deserve a listen if you’re into good alternative.
What are your own first musical memories? And what was the lightbulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
My earliest memories are just of my dad playing guitar around the house, though I think watching AC/DC play some big stadium on MTV as a kid was the moment I saw someone rocking on stage and thought; “Hey I REALLY want to do that”.
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
It’s been a hot minute but Zack [Zack Guidry: rhythm guitar] and I went to a hardcore show in Baton Rouge a few months back to see DownCast. It was awesome haha.
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
Mental Health! This has been a steady topic in our music because it’s been a steady obstacle in my life. We tend to be a bit silly on social media but that is one thing I hold very close to my heart.
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
I’m a huge nerd for big band, 50s era music haha. It was my first real interest in vocals.
Although 2021 was another year to forget, there were some amazing new albums released, what would be your album of last year?
Tigercub – As Blue as Indigo.
What does 2022 hold for you?
A new album! And a lot of shows!
AND A LOT OF SCREAMING AT MY CAMERA WHILE I’M AT WORK.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
We are very active on Instagram in particular but try to keep things level on all platforms!
