Glow Becky are a powerful, melodic alt-rock band from Auckland who began in 2016 when audio tech Karl Apao decided to form his own band instead of recording others' music. Three years on, the band have played numerous sets and worked hard releasing original songs, and their latest single is Stand Up.

To promote, the band are about to play two release parties in Auckland and Hamilton; guitarist and songwriter Karl took some time out to yarn about Stand Up, their influences, and what it takes to write great music.

The first round’s on me - What’ll you be having?

I'm the boring one. On gigs alcohol makes me sleepy so I have Coke to pump me up. The rest of the band will have Jager and Bourbon thanks!

Sum up your band in five words - Go!

Energetic alternative pop rock band

How did the name Glow Becky come about? Who was Becky? And at any point in time did she glow?

Becky always glows... Well, it came from our first bass player who's quite into nerdy stuff. He wanted to name the band 'Gobekli Tepe', which is an archaeological find somewhere in Turkey. It had something to do with the first evidence of extra-terrestrial interaction with humans. Anyway, it was quite a mouthful, so we just reduced it to Glow Becky.

What performers/groups inspired the band’s stadium-sized choruses?

Foo Fighters and Incubus will always come to mind first, possibly with a dash of classic rock like Guns n Roses and AC/DC here and there. Interestingly enough we all grew up listening to different kinds of music. Joe is a big prog guy (Dream Theater). I grew up playing in church, but I was sneaking in some Metallica, Nirvana, and Bush while my parents weren't watching. Jel is very pop-orientated, so that sort of thing.

What’s the most memorable gig your band has played so far?

It's definitely our gig at Nivara Lounge in Hamilton last year. We didn't think anyone was gonna turn up coz we don't know a lot of people in Hamilton. People just turned up. We had an awesome set. We played with amazing bands that were as passionate as we are. And people just moshed during our set. It was the complete opposite of what we expected. And there was a smoke machine!

If each of the members of Glow Becky were animals, what animals would they be and why?

Damn, some hard-hitting questions! Joe (drummer) is a Gorilla - He's a beast on the kit. Remember that Cadbury ad with a gorilla playing drums on a Phil Collins hit? That. Jeremy (bass player) is a Hyena, 'cause he's always awkwardly laughing. Jel (vocalist) is a Peacock - He's the pretty boy. Ysmael (guitarist) is a Jack Russell - always full of energy and ideas. And I'm (guitarist) a Rat - 'Cause apparently I'm Master Splinter from Ninja Turtles, haha.

What inspired the lyrics to the latest single Stand Up? Was it based on any particular events or happenings?

Nothing in particular. Its whatever comes out of Jel when he writes lyrics at that moment. Weirdly enough, our message of love, positivity, and resilience seemed to have resonated more recently and for some serendipitous reason we released the single at the right time, looking back at the current situation in NZ.

As a musician, what do you think is the most important quality in creating music that captures and moves people?

We write songs that we think sound good to us first and foremost. I guess there needs to be honesty in music, a thing that seems to be lacking a lot these days. We take advantage of our individual influences and strengths, and we do minimal edits and try not to over-produce things.

What can fans and friends expect of your single release gigs at Backbeat in Auckland and Nivara Lounge in Hamilton?

We pride ourselves of having a great energetic set, hopefully people will be able to sing along to at least a couple of our songs.

Which band in the entire world would you most like to share the stage with?

Foo Fighters. Led Zeppelin. Yes please.

What/who are your favourite kiwi bands/artists right now?

Jel and I went to the Coridian vs Animalhead gig. That was awesome! Armed in Advance have been great too.

What can we expect of Glow Becky in the next few months? Any more anthems? A new album?

Oooo... another single midway through this year? More out of town gigs, possibly a tour? And new album next year, so watch this space.

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You heard the man. Keep your eyes peeled for more new music on the Glow Becky horizon.

Check out Stand Up, and be sure to catch them at their shows below:

30 Mar 2019, Auckland, Backbeat Bar
13 Apr 2019, Hamilton, Nivara Lounge

Tickets available on Eventbrite

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