A Skylit Drive interview done by Mike De Man. Questions answered by Michael Jagmin (vocalist).
A Skylit Drive has come a very long way in the last ten years as a band. Forming in 2005, the post hardcore collective has always had an eclectic sound that set them apart from others in the genre. What was it that made the band focus on heavier tunes primarily instead of dipping into another type of music?
We never make a conscious effort to write any specific kind of song. We just write what comes natural.
At the moment, the band only has two members who have been active over the course of the band’s lifespan with the exception to Jag, who came back after leaving in 2005. Do you think having a slightly different lineup since the earlier days of the band has affected the long term goals set out?
It’s funny you mention the part about me leaving and coming back. I’ve heard that rumor a couple times, and have always wanted to put it to rest. I joined ASD in January of 2008 plain and simple. Prior to that I was in the group Odd Project, and prior to that I delivered pizzas, haha! But to answer your question, I do think having a different line up benefits us. In this business people become jaded and can lose their passion. Everyone that is in the band now has nothing but passion for what we do, and that’s what we need.
A Skylit Drive has been on tour with almost every band ranging from metalcore acts such as Greeley Estates and August Burns Red to I Set My Friends On Fire, Before Their Eyes, and Woe, Is Me. What were some of the coolest tour stories you guys can remember?
The top one that comes to mind would be befriending the group Thursday. We all looked up to them seeing as they were our heroes since high school. To not only tour with them, but to also be able to become friends with them was more than we ever imagined.
You’re part of The All Stars Tour this year playing alongside post hardcore greats, Dance Gavin Dance. How does it feel to be back on tour with them after so long?
We’re very excited to hit the road with them again. It’s been a long time and we’ve known them since the start so it’ll be a fun reunion.
While we’re still on touring, the bands you guys have been on tour with is a limitless number. What bands would you like to head out with on the road in the future?
All of them, ha!
A Skylit Drive has had connections with two labels who are renowned to be very solid in their business capabilities, Fearless and Tragic Hero. Which opportunity that one of the labels presented to you guys stands out the most in terms of making a career both livable and enjoyable?
We’ve done great things with both Tragic Hero and Fearless. What landed us back with Tragic Hero Records really comes down to us wanting to have more of a one-on-one relationship with the team behind us. It’s a great comfort to know the people running the show are the ones making the decisions alongside you.
The band has had a really solid fanbase over the years, which has continued to grow endlessly off of the inspiration. Do you think that fans are able to inspire a band the same way a band is able to inspire their fans?
Absolutely, the one constant in this business is the fans are what make you. As soon as you forget that everything goes wrong. I have the utmost respect and appreciation for our fans. The only way I know how to repay them is to keep writing music. It’s what binds us.
Three months ago, you guys released your newest song, “Within These Walls” which is not only the single for your new album, but also showcased your two new members. How do you think the new lineup will take to the vigorous dreaming and touring done by A Skylit Drive?
They are more than ready to do it all. They are hungry for it.
Of all the albums the band has released, which one stands out the most to the members?
All that is on our minds at the moment is the one we just finished recording, and we are more than excited to share what we’ve made.
A lot of fans, or at least the older ones, state Wires as their favorite release, and have been awaiting something to bring back the essence and nostalgia of the 2008 greatness that was The Concept of Breathing. Should fans expect some of the earlier roots from your debut album to show in the next release?
We took a lot of wild risks on this new album, but one thing that’s for sure is we kept our fans and what they want in mind the whole time.
Finally, the last question I’d like to propose to you guys. With music comes feeling and emotion aside from many other thoughts and mental occurrences. What is the most inspiring thing A Skylit Drive has ever done?
We make music for the people that want to hear it. We make it for the people that got us to where we are. Nothing is more inspiring than being driven by absolute passion and love for what you do.
