One of the biggest perks of being a musician and being involved in a specific music scene for so long is the new music you are exposed to. That seems pretty obvious. But less obvious and even more rewarding, is watching a band grow from its infancy to great heights. I have been fortunate enough to watch from the beginning, as Tokyo Monsters started off as fresh and confident newbies to the elder statesmen of the craft they have become. Being lucky enough to share bills with them over the years, first with them as an opener and then more deservingly, an opening act for them. I approached Joseph about an interview despite the band being hard at work recording. As always, he enthusiastically accepted the offer. As humble and sweet as ever. This is Homegrown – with one of Buffalo’s best frontmen, Joseph from Tokyo Monsters. Enjoy.
Where are you from?
The band came together in late 2017.
When did you form?
We are based out of Lewiston and Niagara Falls. We choose to identify more broadly as a Western NY band.
What previous bands or artists have you worked in/with?
Steve, Chris and Myself had been playing in bands on and off for the last 10 years.
We met our drummer Nathan while he was still in Stalking Neptune.
I had been playing in my previous band Twin Lions up to that point. Nathan’s band also ended at about the same time. We decided to team up and continue making music.
What inspired your band/artist name?
Our name is inspired by our love for classic monster movies such as Godzilla and Japanese culture.
Major influences?
Our musical influences consist of a unique blend of classic and 80s Rock (Queen, Aerosmith, Van halen Def leppard) and contemporary Rock and metal such as Periphery, Foxy Shazam, The Foo Fighters and Dance Gavin Dance.
What was your first release?
Our first release is an EP called The Bitter Suite and is available on all streaming platforms.
The most challenging part of being a musician?
The most challenging thing about being a musician is writing songs to capture an audience and always trying to go above and beyond the previous release.
The most rewarding part?
The most rewarding experience as a musician is seeing an artistic vision come to life through recording, and watching people experience joy and excitement from your music and performance!
Do you have any favorite local musicians past or present?
Currently, our favorite local musicians are the Boys in Brookhaven, Before Manhattan and our very talented friend Sara Elizabeth.
Do you have advice for new musicians?
Our best advice for new musicians is to follow your heart and keep making music no matter the genre and never quit doing what you love. Also a hard truth is that music can be difficult and to never let comparison be the thief of joy.
What is your latest release?
Our latest release is our new single ‘Starcrossed’ and its available on spotify and all other streaming platforms.
Parting words/shoutouts?
We are very thankful for all of our friends and family members who continue to support us and help us grow. We look forward to the future and making more music! Stay tuned for our full length album “Long time coming” set to release this fall!
Go Bills!
To follow and support Tokyo Monsters check out these links below:
Thank you again to Joey for doing this! If you are a musician or know a musician you would like to be interviewed please let me know!
