Having first seen these guys in a small venue in Broad Ripple I knew right away that they had potential to make it in this industry. They have been making their way through this competitive market and have been sharing the stage with some of the industry’s finest. Getting ready to rock the stage with Indyconcerts.com favorite, the Last Good Year, I am happy to introduce to you AutoVaughn.
Where did the name come from?
Word Salad.
How long have you guys been performing?
For about four years.
Where did you guys all meet?
We all met here in Indiana.
How do you guys like it living down in Nashville?
It’s awesome. There’s a great community of artists here. Nashville has a pretty progressive attitude but still keeps it’s small city / southern charm feel.
Where are you guys all from originally?
Three of us are from Indiana and one of us (Ben) is from Ohio.
Do you guys write all your own lyrics?
Indeed we do.
Who is the ringleader of the band?
It depends on what needs to be done. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. If it is a transportation or touring issue Andy is usually on it. It it’s a press thing, I, (Darren) am usually on it. So it all depends.
Where do you guys practice?
At a rehearsal space called Diamoind Studios in Nashville.
How do you guys know the guys from the Last Good Year?
(Thinks) I knew Ryan Burnwell from my previous band where he played drums for a few shows before Andy stepped in full time. I know a couple of other guys now from seeing them around shows and living La Vida Loca in Indiana. Their new drummer, Darren, is also a good friend of mine.
Let’s say that you are offered a $250,000 record deal but it is someone else’s lyrics and it is a country album. Do you do it?
Is it an exclusive deal? I’ll do it as long as I can keep AutoVaughn as a number one priority. Side projects are fun sometimes.
Who are some of your biggest influences?
Radiohead, the Police, Prince, the Beatles, and Nirvana.
Where do you get inspiration for new tracks?
Everywhere. Sometimes from a book I have read or something I have seen on TV or online. Sometimes from science, philosophy, religion, current event, etc. We like to say that we are just recording observations in the form of music.
Where can I get some of your merchandise?
At www.autovaugn.com or any of our live shows.
Tell me about the Fender Road Worn Competition.
It’s a competition that we would really like to win. The winner gets $15,000 cash, a new tour vehicle, a trailer, all new amps, guitars, drums, and a $1,500 gas card. Winning this content would be amazing because we would be able to hit the road again without having to worry about all of our shit from breaking down. Visit www.getroadworn.com if you don’t mind!
What is the biggest crowd that you have ever played for?
(Thinks) Maybe 6,000 people.
The smallest?
The soundman.
Do you guys have a favorite venue?
A lot. The Bluebird in Bloomington, Indiana is one. The Walnut Room in Denver, Colorado. Belly Up in both Aspen and San Diego, California. The Canal Room in New York City. The Earl in Atlanta and the Social in Orlando. The Vouge right here in Indianapolis. The Double Door in Chicago. The list just goes on and on. It’s easy for us since we enjoy touring so much.
Do you guys have any thoughts on a nation wide tour this year?
Most definitely. We’re writing and recording over the next couple of months and then we will start touring heavily again.
Is there any song that appears in every set list?
Not really. Well, I guess Hell of Place usually makes an appearance unless it’s a really short set.
Who designed your MySpace page?
One of our managers does it all. Although, as you read this, we have a new graphic designer designing us a new page.
What are you drinking on stage?
Water and occasional beer or whiskey.
Let’s say that you guys are head lining at Verizon Wireless Music Center. Who is your opener?
Cage the Elephant.
PC or Mac?
Mac.
What are your thoughts on MySpace?
I think it’s great. It’s a little slower with everyone jumping over to Facebook and Twitter but it’s still the best source for bands to promote themselves.
Are you guys on Twitter?
Yep. www.twitter.com/autovaughn.
Where do you see yourselves in five years?
Playing music somewhere.
What do you want to be remembered for when this is all said and done?
I would like to be known for a band that worked extremely hard to better themselves and to keep revolving and to challenged the current trend of “pop music” both musically and lyrically.
I always let the artist get the last word. Go.
“Believe those who are seeking truth, doubt those who find it” – Andre Gide
