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New York-based Progressive Instrumental Space rock musician Pontus has revealed an ensemble music video for “Sukhothai – Dawn of Happiness,” off of his recent LP, Black Hole BBQ. “Sukhothai – Dawn of Happiness” was filmed between April 2020 and November 2020, at different stages during the lockdown period in New York City, showcasing the creativity needed to continue providing music in the pandemic new normal. Here’s everything that you need to know about Pontus; from the man himself…
What are the origins of Pontus?
This project started around 2006 or so. I had been playing in bands and freelancing doing sound and music for independent projects and wanted a purely creative outlet for the music I wrote. It started as shorter pieces of music that I wanted to build and develop further. The process was at first just me working out a combination of electronic music experimentation and guitar mixed in with visual elements on stage. Often it was me with backing tracks and a projector – playing guitar over compositions. Could be anything from cocktail lounges, art installations, dingy dive bars, bars, etc. From that I started to develop more of a band idea – but as a solo project and a backing band. I had anything from a 6 piece to a 3-piece band when putting together live shows.
What should people expect when they check the band out? How would you describe Pontus?
I guess the genre of music that is closest to the music I tend to write would be instrumental rock or progressive rock. I often take from my rock and metal influences but want to experiment with different moods and styles of music. My goal is to write music that tells a story without words. I often imagine themes or stories when writing the music. At the core is melody and guitars – I would say.
How did you feel performing your first gig as a band, and how was it?!
The first full band experience was kind of nervous since I had to do everything on my own as a solo artist with a backing band. I was trying to incorporate many different genres of music and visual components into an art space that wasn’t necessarily made for music. I am not sure the other musicians fully understood what my intentions were for this gig – but It worked out. Gave me a chance to experiment with the idea of a live band and how that worked with visual elements. I also incorporated a tabla in rock – and that is NOT easy…
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?
I think if you believe in what you do and keep working on refining and developing your craft you can find those who appreciate the same sort of artistic vision. Do a lot of listening – to all kinds of different styles of music and keep an open mind. Pay attention to other types of artistic forms of expression.
What are you working on at the minute that people can check out?
Just launched a new video that was developed – slowly – over the pandemic (being in lockdown in Brooklyn, NY).
In terms of a similar audience, which band out there at the minute do you feel you would be best suited to open for?
Maybe Russian Circles
Excluding yourself, which new band would you like to see break out and become a success?
Not sure – from New York, I would say Consider the Source – great instrumental band that blends in other genres of music.
What are your own first musical memories? And what was the lightbulb moment that made you go “I want to do that”?
Most likely watching live videos (VHS) of Iron Maiden (Live After Death) and AC/DC -Live at Donington and Live in Paris (with Bon Scott)).
What was the last gig that you attended as a fan?
The pandemic did put a stop to a lot of live shows – but recall seeing Marty Friedman right before the start of lockdown … Fun show
What current social issue are you particularly passionate about?
Mostly deeply concerned about our general trend towards authoritarianism and the rise of autocrats (removal of democratic ideas). And the failure of our leaders to do anything about our looming Climate Crisis!!
The album that you have in your album collection/Spotify playlist that would surprise most people?
Hmm – not sure. Maybe Lizzo (“Cuz I Love You”)
Although 2021 was another year to forget, there were some amazing new albums released, what would be your album of last year?
Maybe Mastodon “Hushed and Grim” or Gojira ”Fortitude”
What does 2022 hold for you?
Hopefully writing a bunch of new material and collaborate with other creative people. Planning a new album in a year or so. But need to sit down and write new music.
How active are you on social media and where can people connect with you?
I am not always there (probably not as active as I should be!) – but update when there is something new and exciting coming up.
Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/PHWGmusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pontusmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pontusgunve/
Website: https://www.pontusmusic.com
