Why Tonks and the Aurors? Why not something more singular? (i.e. Molly/Ginny Weasley, Winky, etc.)
Tonks and the Aurors allows me to have the band take whatever shape I want it to. I started the band as a solo act, but hoped that people would join me when I played in the future. I still record the albums mostly by myself (save for help from a drumer and sometimes a keyboard player), but when I play live, I try to get whoever is available to play with me.
Who is the most influential person in your life?
I don't think there's any one person who influences me. My family and friends are most influential though. I've also had a few really fantastic mentors in my life, who have stuck by me for a long time, and are still around and really supportive of this project.
Who is the most influential musician/group in your life?
Bruce Springsteen. I've listened to his music since I was a baby, and his presence has always been inspirational, helpful, and is still fascinating to me. I also pull a lot of inspiration from artists like Elvis Costello, Pete Townshend, Ted Leo, and so many of my fellow wizard rock bands.
What can you tell folks about your upcoming album?
This album means a lot to me. I tried to create an album that was clearly well crafted, and thoughtful, while also growing as a musician and a producer. The album features songs that move chronologically through Tonks' life from Dumbledore's death to the battle of Hogwarts. Tonks goes through a lot during that time, so it's given me the opportunity to write in different styles and from many different emotional perspectives.
Do you have a tour in the near future?
Possibly. It all depends upon my work and school schedules. I've been playing as much as possible lately, which is great. Any weekend shows I can drive to, I'm there. And I'm always happy to get a booking in new places.
At the show, you mentioned something called Wrockstock. What is it, for those who aren’t in the know?
Wrockstock is a 3 day Wizard Rock festival featuring 15 mainstage bands, and even more playing acoustic sets throughout the weekend. It happens at Trout Lodge in Potosi, MO. It's like summer camp, but for wizard rock, and is totally awesome. I'll be playing the mainstage this year. It's Nov 6-9 this year.
As this is right around Halloween, do you have a favorite Halloween themed movie? Song? Poem? Story? Tradition?
Halloween is always a fun time. My favorite thing as a kid would be when I would get to watch Frankenweenie, a short film by Tim Burton that crosses Frankenstein with the story of a boy and his dog. It's a really great short.
A song that kind of screams halloween to me is Springsteen's A Night with the Jersey Devil. It's a great song.
Finally, you mention in your song “Aim for the Head” that it was based on a certain Muggle movie. Do you know if said Muggle director has heard the song yet?
As far as I know, he hasn't. Unless he's a closet wizard rock fan and is too shy to let me know!
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