Famous Strangers is a dynamic and innovative band known for their dark, moody, and mysterious sound that blends atmospheric, visual storytelling with powerful, intense music. Formed in 2023, the band came together through a shared passion for creating music that pushes boundaries and evokes deep emotions.
The band consists of members with extensive past experiences in other bands, bringing a wealth of talent and diverse influences to the group. Their combined expertise and creative vision have shaped the unique sound of Famous Strangers, characterised by haunting melodies, a blend of melodic and aggressive vocals, and atmospheric instrumentals.
What advice would you give to people just starting out in the music industry?
Just go for it. Don’t let anything stop you, especially not yourself. Doubts and fears will come, but say yes to opportunities even if you don’t know what you’re doing yet. Take risks, put in the time, practise hard, but don’t forget to have fun. Create a healthy and creative environment with people you bond well with. You don’t need to know everything—you’ll learn by doing. That’s how I got where I am.
What were your musical influences growing up?
All of us grew up on the classics. For me, it was that ‘80s rock and metal energy—Judas Priest, Ozzy, The Beatles, Pink Floyd, The Doors. Jeff and Beej would both say their dads were major influences. That era shaped us all in different ways.
Who did you watch at your first ever gig you attended?
I went to a lot of theatre early on—Phantom of the Opera, Cats. I couldn’t even sit still. But my first real concert was Sum 41. We were front row and I learned quickly what crowd surfing was. It hurt. But it also lit something inside of me. That shared energy in a crowd is powerful.
What was the hardest obstacle you had to overcome to get to where you are now in music?
Myself. Self-doubt, inner critics, overthinking—all of that was the biggest hurdle. I’ve also stayed in situations way too long with people who weren’t right for me or my creativity. Some people want to put you in a box. It took time to free myself from that and now the creativity is pouring out.
What was your best performance?
That’s tough. I’ve never come off stage and said, “That was perfect.” But some of the biggest moments stand out—like touring in China and India in front of 10,000 people. Lately, with Famous Strangers, I’m singing better than I ever have. But as artists, we’re never fully satisfied. We’re always chasing that next level.
How do you feel about sampling? Do you use sampling?
I think it works for some bands. When I was with Into Eternity, it made sense—there were so many harmonies and intros that needed structure. With Famous Strangers, we’ve started using samples at the beginning of some songs to set the mood. But I also love it when a band plays raw, no tracks, just pure live energy.
If you could choose from a historical gig from any era, who would you have seen and why?
So many. Alice in Chains, Chris Cornell, Etta James, B.B. King. Even further back—Beethoven. Every era had its magic. Every concert you attend, big or small, leaves you motivated and inspired. That’s the beauty of live music.
Do you have a moment you could share with the magazine from your previous gigs or recording experiences?
Our second show ever as Famous Strangers was opening for Three Inches of Blood at Midway. That crowd was wild. I was nervous, but it turned into a highlight show. And recording with these guys has been incredible—Jeff is our guitarist and also our producer, so tracking in his basement has been a relaxed and creative experience. We’ve also had sessions at The Audio Department and are working with Maor Appelbaum and Joel Weinstock right now. It’s been such a cool process.
Where and when is your next gig?
We’re opening for Danko Jones on February 6 in Sherwood Park. We’re stoked—it’s a huge one for us.
What’s your favorite song and why?
It changes all the time. Right now it’s a hair metal ballad week. I’ve had “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner and “Is This Love” by Whitesnake on repeat. And of course, “Purple Rain.” Stranger Things brought that back into the spotlight and I’ve been spinning it nonstop.
Why do you make music?
Because it lights a fire in my soul. The second my foot hits the stage, everything else disappears. It’s healing. Music pulls me out of dark places. I want to write lyrics that speak to people, that lift them up and make them feel seen. I want someone to blast our song in their headphones and feel stronger, more loved, more alive. I want to create connection through sound.
Talk us through your songwriting process.
The boys usually start with a riff. We jam, drink a couple beers, and freestyle. We record everything and I take it home, sit with it, and let it move me. Sometimes the words pour out, like I black out and wake up with a full song. Other times, it’s slow and deliberate. Lately, I’ve started writing lyrics first, then adding music. It’s been amazing to explore new ways of writing and have the freedom to go wherever the song wants to go.
If you could offer one small bit of advice to your past self, what would you say?
Don’t you dare dim your light for anyone. Don’t stop being yourself. Walk away from places where you’re not loved or respected. Know your worth. Say yes more. And practise your ass off.
