28 Apr 2017 // An interview by Shade
Checaine are a melodic/progressive hard rock band from Hamilton. They bring powerful hooks to their songs and a progressive style that keeps the music evolving and exciting. With brand new EP Symbols out now, numerous shows under their belts and support slots for Devilskin, I Am Giant, The Deep End and Melic, as well as recognition from international acts like Sevendust, they have made short work of gaining fans. Regan answered the following questions for muzic.net.nz:

How did you become involved in music?  

I was forced to play the Piano when I was young (parents deny this LOL) and like most young 10 year old boys: hated it. I went along to a 12th B’day party and saw this electric guitar and amp. I had a tinker and was hooked. I persuaded my parents I would practice the guitar hours on end, rather than 5 minutes, once a week before Piano practice, if they let me learn the guitar.

If you could perform with anyone in the world, who would it be and why?

I would love to play music with Tool's Guitarist Adam Jones - The ‘out of it’ time signatures and evolving, story telling riffs are mesmerizing. I would also love to play with James Hetfield - The riffage king who has this seamless ability to morph one riff into another.

Which one of your songs are you most proud of, and why?

Definitely Symbols. This was one of those songs that wrote itself. Once the chord structure and accidental 3/4 time signature was established, everything else just fell into place. It really shows Checaine’s deeper, more progressive style.

How would you describe Checaine's music to someone who hasn't heard it before?

Pounding stomp riffs with a melodic spin that at times delves into emotional heavy territory, both sonically and lyrically.

What can we expect to see from Checaine in the next year?

Hopefully doing a NZ summer tour alongside some big NZ Hard Rock bands.

What NZ musicians or bands would you like to see more of, and why?

Villainy - They rock.
Shihad - They rock.

More underground bands that have enormous potential, but don’t have anyone backing them. There are a plethora of good NZ bands out there who just need airplay.  

What local albums have you been enjoying recently?

I can’t say I have been exposed to anything recently, but you can’t go past Villainy’s recent Dead Sight album and  Shihad’s FVEY.

What is your favourite NZ venue, and why?

Raglan’s Yot Club - It’s a place where you can really let your personality shine through in the music you play. All the locals and tourists are open-minded and up for anything. It’s a ‘get loose’ party vibe.  You don’t feel like you’re being judged by other musos - everybody is just out for a good time.

Have you got any tips for dealing with nerves before a gig?

Drink plenty.

How do you balance your music with other obligations; family, job etc?

It’s a tough act to balance alright. I’m a full time intermediate teacher, have a wife and 2 young kids, love to surf and of course love to create music and share it with people. You have to be a little bit selfish to follow your music passion and I am thankful I have a supportive wife. Back to your question - I do my best to have a healthy balance in life.

Where do you get your inspiration to create music from?

I enjoy music that takes you on a journey and music that tends to be more moody. Because I’m a Guitarist, I am constantly playing around with new riffs and putting melodies over top, using a looper pedal. And I would have to say analog delay is the greatest effect ever LOL.

Do you have any advice for aspiring musicians?

If you want to base yourself in NZ and grow your fan base, you need to foster resilience and be persistent. Above all, music for most is a hobby and passion so make sure you have fun along the way and don’t take it too seriously.

 

Checaine are a melodic/progressive hard rock band from Hamilton. They bring powerful hooks to their songs and a progressive style that keeps the music evolving and exciting.

Formed in 2011 by Fraser Coombes (vocals) and Regan Aspden (guitar), they are now accompanied by an exciting line-up of talented members that add to the sound and live show performance Checaine have become known for.

The band have enjoyed great exposure through their new dynamic single Bring Me Down as heard on New Zealand's The Rock FM.

Visit the muzic.net.nz Profile for Checaine

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