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| Photo Credit:Kailey Adams |
Good Morning, Could you introduce yourself to the readers?
My name is Bran Merritt. I’m the lead vocalist and guitarist for the out-of-control alternative rock duo known as Sleep Nation.
How would you describe how you reached this point in your musical journey?
At the beginning of COVID-19, Sleep Nation consisted of four members. When our bassist and guitarist left, Joey and I were left with a massive decision: to quit, replace them with new members, or change course and become a duo. We chose the latter and it’s the best decision we could’ve made. It did, however, take a lot of convincing from one of my friends who are no longer with us, Brandon Hillis.
How would you describe your sound?
An alternative rock sound produced by only two people that rivals that of an entire orchestra.
Who are your musical influences?
U2, Nine Inch Nails, and Rush
What can you tell me about your latest single ‘Get Out’?
The song was inspired by a man who exclaimed “Love is all you Need” and “Give Peace a Chance,” but behind closed doors exhibited a different life. Sadly, in an interview with Playboy, published just two days before he died, John Lennon admitted, "I used to be cruel to my woman, and physically... any woman. I was a hitter. I couldn't express myself, and I hit." We hope this song inspires anyone in a terrible situation to “Get Out.” Whether you are different, weird, nerdy, or broken, no one should have to be subjected to any abuse physically or verbally. Be who you are, and if you are in a difficult situation sometimes the best option is to “Get Out.”
You have written a track ‘I’m A Werewolf, but that’s ok’ for the film ‘Hair of the Dog’. What can you tell me about that experience and how it came about?
We met director Michael Butts through a mutual friend. He directed our first video “I Want You Back.” Later, he wanted to do a short film about werewolves and asked us to do the song “I’m a Werewolf, But That’s Ok.” When the film was finished, they did a premiere and rented out an entire theatre. When the credits rolled our song was blasting for everyone to hear. It was a great experience and one that I will never forget. This is a partnership that has continued over the years. Recently, Michael asked us to do work on a film called Potter’s Ground which is available on streaming services everywhere.
How important is it to an independent act like yourself to get your music played in films, ads, tv shows etc?
We’ve seen the impact that Stranger Things has had on Kate Bush and Metallica. I believe getting your music out there this way is probably the most important thing right now.
Sleep Nation has supported Adema and Sponge in the past. What impact did that have on the band getting into the industry?
In all honesty, I don’t believe it really helped us. It looks cool on paper if you know those acts, but when it comes to gaining fans, it did not help in that way. We are in an ever-changing market, and you’ve got to change with the times, i.e., Tik Tok, Instagram, Live Streaming.
Do you plan on doing an album to support your recent singles?
Yes, we hope it will be out this year!
The band were also named in the top 25 unsigned Bands worldwide by Sunset Island Music. These are some great forms of recognition for you. What does it feel to see your music recognized in this way?
Making music in this day and age, you don’t always get immediate feedback for the work you put into your music. This was one of those rare instances where we were recognized for those exact talents.
And finally, what next for Sleep Nation in 2022 and beyond?
A new album, Comic book, Vinyl record release of the debut album, Music video with cats, and having the best year Sleep Nation has ever had!
SOCIAL MEDIA
Sleep Nation (@sleepnationband) / Twitter
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