Strength for a Reason Interview

1. Hello, tell us a little about the history of your band. How did SFAR get together?
SFAR started back in 1997 when the guys from Out 2 Win (Mushmouth at the time) and our singer Karl got together and began fooling around and writing songs. They wrote two songs together, Strength For A Reason and Never Knew, played a show or two together, and then Karl got his own permanent members. The story goes from there to where we are today. Lots of great times, great friends, and more to come!
2. What are some key elements and influences that have shaped the band over the years?
I would say the key elements and influences would be our own personal experiences in our everyday lives. When we write songs, we incorporate what we are going through at the time, which relates to alot of people out there as well. We've stayed true to our sound and message and I think that is what keeps our fans loyal and brings us close to the new kids out there.
3. Were there specific musical influences for your last album?
Not really. We have been just progressing and evolving on what we have been doing over the past 13 years. We strive all the time to take things to the next level, while not stepping outside the bounds of the hardcore sound that we are known for.
4. You've shared a stage with a wide range of bands. What were some of the memorable gigs you’ve played?
Personally, I'd have to say probably Warzone in our early years, just because of the message Raybeez had and how much I personally admired him for overcoming the struggles in his life. Their shows were always fun too! We also had the privledge of playing CBGB's a few times, which is a honor. More recently, I would say probably Pressure Fest this past summer. It was insane and the kids there were awesome. They showed us lots of love and we appreciate it alot. It helps us to keep this thing alive!
5. You had a successful Euro-Tour in 2009.What do you think about the euro HCscene?
Right now, the Euro hardcore scene is where its at. I love how the kids are really appreciative of the music and what they have over there. They don't take it for granted and give every band on the show a chance and help them out in any way possivle. We are missing that over here in the States. Its all about fashion and popularity over here right now, which I hope Europe can stay away from.
6. Last Saturday your tourmates from Cheap Thrills had the last show. Do you want to say any words about them?
Those guys were for real! Awesome guys and we miss them alot. Cheap Thrills was one of the best bands we've had the privledge of touring with and we wish them well in the future endeavors and careers. Its a shame that they had to call it quits, but sometimes life can step in the way. We will see them again though and have a blast! Can't wait..
7. What can we expect from SFAR in the future?
You can expect alot because we have no plans on quitting what we love. We are looking forward to coming back to Europe in 2010, so keep your eyes open for news on that. We have a new guitar player too, his name is Nate and yes ladies, he is single!
8. Any good, upcoming bands everybody should check out?
Nate's other band is Concrete Reality. Awesome guys and definitely worth checking out. Our boys in Not Without Resistance are keeping things alive in central Pennsylvania. Steel Nation hail from Pittsburgh and are hard as hell! And of course, Wisdom in Chains. If you don't know, now you know..
9. Thanks for the interview, anything you would like to add?
Thank you SIB for taking the time to consider us for this interview. We appreciate it. We'd also like to thank Axel and Nils of Filled With Hate Records, Jamey Jasta and Stillborn, the Euro HC scene (We love you guys!), Martijn and No Heroes Bookings, the rest of the crazy guys in No Turning Back, Gerwin, and all the friends we've made in Europe and the world. Keep your eyes on http://www.strengthforareason.com and follow us on Twitter, http://twitter.com/SFARPAHC to find out what we are up to. See you again in 2010!