Interviews

AFI

Interview with Davey Havok on Oct 24, 2001 by Archive Bot

Jason has recently interviewed Davey Havok from AFI. The origins of AFI (A Fire Inside) are humble-- four high school students making noise in a garage in the early 90's, looking for some way to alleviate boredom in a small town between skateboard sessions. As they learned to play their instruments with each practice, even they couldn't imagine what the band would become. On September 26th, the band released their fifth full-length album, entitled The Art of Drowning, which showcases exactly what it is AFI has evolved into-- a band with a sound unlike any other, a sound where chilling melodies collide alternately with furious aggression and somber melancholy. While their music is firmly rooted in both punk rock and hardcore, they have effectively blasted away any distinction between the two and can claim an army of fans from both subcultures as well as virtually every other underground or extreme music genre from goth to metal. 

PB: How does it feel to be considered as the icons of East Bay Hardcore?
DH: We always considered ourselves hardcore even though we really aren't hardcore. Its funny because it was more for a lack of a better description of our music that we were thrown into the genre of hardcore music.  Not too many people are really into the East Bay Hardcore scene and its cool, but those that are into it have let it grow to a bigger scene which is cool.

PB: Everyone knows that the Misfits are a big influence in your music, how does it feel to be compared to a modern version of them?
DH: Its an extremely flattering thought they have written some of the best songs and is one of the best bands ever.

PB: How would you say The Art Of Drowning differs from that of previous albums?
DH: This album is by far our most complete album. It's extremely dynamic and it contains lots of rising and falling through out the album. It goes from heavy to soft to metal to melodic, it definitely has some of the finest transitions. It sounds nothing like "Black Sails..." but a lot like "All Hallows." I am extremely happy with it.

PB: Is there a particular song by anyone band that has special meaning to you?
DH: This is a hard question because there is so much good music out there and so many songs that have a personal bearing to me. I would have to say anything by Minor Threat, "Three Days" by Janes Addiction, and "100 Years" by The Cure.

PB: What is up with emo?
DH: The stuff that is out today is not "emo" it is basically pop-rock. Bands like You and I and Fugazi are more of an emo sound but that isn't what it is considered anymore. It used to be post-hardcore and now it is pop music. Bands like Jimmy Eat World and The Get Up Kids are extremely talented but shouldn't really be considered emo.

PB: What's your most interesting tour experience?
DH: I would have to say when a mom, her daughter, and the daughters friends all propositioned me to go to bed with them. I don't enjoy getting into situations where questions such as that arise.

PB: If you had the opportunity to tour with any band, together or broken up, who would it be?
DH: Last time I was asked this question I said Samhain and Danzing, which I have played with. But I would say Samhain again and The Cure. Nine Inch Nails would be another great show, they have a great stage presence and are great musicians.

PB: Do you guys have any upcoming touring plans?
DH: October 7th was our record release show and then starting in November we will be on tour with Rancid and the Distillers. We have toured with Rancid once before and it should be a fun 
experience again.