So, to be completely honest with myself and my few readers, I have a very hard time thinking of the best thing to write about this band. I happen to be close friends with vocalist/guitarist Nick Cicchetti and I know that a relationship like this can sometimes influence one's opinion of a band. But I can genuinely say, Millions of Brazilians have the drive, skill, and sincerity that many bands lack! Nick is supported by guitarist Derek Dorey and drummer Zozzy Gruse. All three members have payed their dues and honed their chops playing in local Detroit bands since they learned how to strum a guitar and beat a drum. They formed their current project, Millions of Brazilians, about two years ago and haven't looked back. In February 2009, the band released a 7 song EP entitled "Half Horse/ Half Horse" on vinyl and via digital download from Itunes, Amazon, and Emusic. And very recently, MOB released a split 7 inch with The Gay Blades. I feel that the music is diverse but fits nicely under the umbrella of "dance punk" or "post punk". Lots of jagged guitars and fun as hell high hat beats accompany Nick's witty tongue in cheek lyrics. When watching the band live, you may feel the urge to dance, but also the urge to later look into just what Nick is singing about. This fall, the boys are hitting the road with Detroit's Electric Six. The tour marks the first nationwide trek for the band and is a coming out party of sorts. They have conquered Detroit and are now ready to take on the nation. I recently had a chance to exchange e mails with vocalist and guitarist Nick Cicchetti. Here is what he had to say...
MP3's and tour dates following the interview.
Brandon Emerick: Where did you come up with the name Millions of Brazilians?
Nick Cicchetti:George W. Bush thought that there was such a thing as " A Brazilian", as in currency. We thought that was funny, hence the name.
BE: Do you feel like not having a bass player limits your sound?
NC: Actually, no. Not having a bass player has opened a lot of doors in terms of creativity. Meaning we constantly are problem solving and/or trying new tones, pedals, ect. Often times it just comes down to raw cohesiveness; Is the composition strong? Does it translate? So in a sense, not having a bass player has forced us into becoming better musicians.
BE: What are some advantages and disadvantages of not having a bass player?
NC: Well, I guess an advantage would be just having more room on stage and less gear, haha. A disadvantage is that there are only three of us so there is no margin for error. Sometimes having that extra member gives you a bit of "cushion", we unfortunately do not have that luxury.
BE: Do you feel like being from and living in the city of Detroit influences your sound?
NC: Honestly, Detroit is a new city. It's not the garage band mecca it once was. It's diverse and up for grabs. So much good music has come out of the hardship that musically, the city has a heartbeat again, only this time it's sincere. Detroit has influenced anyone that makes art and lived there....even if they don't realize it yet. That is art in its most honest form and what everyone should strive to make.
BE: As a band, what has been your personal favorite show played so far and why?
NC: I can't really pick one show. Foals, Avett brothers, Von Bondies, and French Kicks are the shows that come to mind. Those were a blast.
BE: When you're not playing music, what are some of you favorite things to be doing?
NC: I'm really into history podcasts as of late. Also, playing hockey or softball with my friends when I get the chance.
BE: If you could tour with any band, still together or not, who would it be and why?
NC: Man, It'd be great to tour with DFA 1979, I think we would have went great together. Suicide, The Stooges, and Arthur Brown are all on the dream team list. Rock and Roll + Theatrics + Sexual Ambiguity = A Good Time! HA!
BE: If money was not an object, what would your amp/instrument setup be?
NC: Probably pretty close to what I have, with some minor upgrades. Fender combos, Telecasters, and tons of boutique pedals. Please and Thank You.
BE: Where do you draw most of your inspiration for writing music from?
NC: Lately, it's been from my experiences living in Detroit and seeing first hand what the city is all about, the good and bad. Along with other random personal experiences. Sometimes I end up writing random songs that are just made up stories. I feel like I don't have control of what inspires me, It really could be anything.
BE: (In the voice of Arnold Schwartzanager) Who is your daddy and what does he do?
NC: Papa C just opened a biker bar in Detroit. He's really a bad ass now, just ask him.
All dates with The Electric Six
10.14
Brillo Box
Pittsburgh, PA
10.15
Penny Arcade
Rochester, NY
10.16
Hiro Ballroom
New York, NY
10.17
Middle East - Downstairs
Cambridge, MA
10.18
Southpaw
Brooklyn, NY
10.20
Johnny Brenda's
Philadelphia, PA
10.21
Black Cat
Washington, DC
10.23
V Club
Huntington, WV
10.24
Cat's Cradle
Carrboro, NC
10.25
TBD
Charlotte, NC
10.26
The Earl
Atlanta, GA
10.27
Jack Rabbits
Jacksonville, FL
10.28
The Engine Room
Tallahassee, FL
10.29
Culture Room
Fort Lauderdale, FL
10.30
The Social
Orlando, FL
10.31
Exit/In
Nashville, TN
11.03
Bottle Tree
Birmingham, AL
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