Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Posted by Nick On May - 14 - 2009

1. Where are you from?


I grew up and spent much of my life in Old Orchard Beach, Maine of all places, and recently transplanted to San Diego, California which is probably one of the most crazy, yet best moves I’ve ever made in my life!


2. Where aren’t you releasing your songs as an album like every other band out there?


A few reasons.. First of all, I like the instant gratification that comes from getting new songs out there right away. Second, there may be a time where I *do* release an entire album, but only when it makes sense to me to do so. I don’t really want to release an album for the sake of releasing an album. It has to have a purpose, be it artistic or convenience.


3. Why aren’t you charging for your music?


Actually, I did at first, but thankfully I quickly came to my senses! The reality is, I took a long hard look at my priorities and what I really want to accomplish with my music. This led to the realization that it’s FAR more important to me to have as many people LISTEN to my music as possible, than to attempt to earn a few bucks off of it. I’d much rather be known as the e-famous musician who gave away his music for free than the unknown musician who attempted to charge, made a few bucks, but only a few dozen people ever heard.


4. Do you ever play any live shows with a band?


Not yet with this material, though I’m not opposed to it in the future. There a million and one logistical issues to work out before that can happen though, not to mention plenty more songwriting!


5. What kinds of equipment do you use in your recording studio?


SONAR 8, M-Audio Axiom 49, Line-6 PODxt, Ibanez and Schecter guitars, Propellerhead Reason and a myriad of refills, etc. etc.


6. Is it ok to share the music with friends?


YES!! Please feel free to share as much as you’d like! Just make sure to let folks know that they can follow me on Twitter (@nickmclaren) and get updates on the band here on the website. Other than that, I’m all for having as many people experience the music as possible! Thanks for asking! :)


7. Who are your musical influences?


That’s a tough one, but perhaps the most obvious are Trent Reznor, Chris Vrenna, and Charlie Clouser, given the sound and vocal style that seems to radiate from me. Less obvious are bands like Metallica, Apocalyptica, Sentenced, Nightwish, Lordi, The 69 Eyes, The Rasmus, HIM, A Perfect Circle, Tool, The Dresden Dolls, Depeche Mode, and a great myriad of lesser-known bands/musicians like Billy McDaniel, Ted Warner, and Twisted Roots (all from the Portland, ME area) etc. etc. I like bands that have an interesting and unique sound. In listening to music, I have a broad appreciation (well beyond the bands/genres I’ve described) and very little limitation as to what I’ll hear. Name a style and I’ve probably listened to it on a number of occasions! You *might* even find it on my iPod!


8. PC or Mac


Mac mostly, but I’m a huge gamer, and PC still has more selection so I have both.


9. Oooh.. video games? What do you play?


What *haven’t* I played? I’ve probably played nearly every MMORPG in existence, but have settled in to EverQuest II and Free Realms as my favorites.. the latter since it requires so little time investment, which is a big problem for me. Other than that, I’ve got a Wii and a PS3, each with a slew of games to keep me occupied when I have a few moments. DS and iPhone too of course!

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