Interviews: Blast55

On this new occasion, we have had the opportunity to interview the Punk Rock band, Blast55, from Colombia. Check out the interview and follow the band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1. Where did you get the idea for the band name? Was it planned, or did it just come up spontaneously?

The band’s name comes from the acronym “Bakana La Alegría Sin Tristeza.” There were five of us at the time, and we were big fans of Blink-182.

2. Why did you want to play this genre?

Because we loved playing Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater, we fell in love with its soundtrack. That game introduced us to so many bands, and every new version was a must-have, not for the graphics, but for the music. Back then, music wasn’t as easy to access as it is today.

3. Did you know each other before forming the band?

Yes, we were friends before starting the band.

4. Each band member’s favorite band:

Juan: Green Day

Mareo: The Smiths

Juank: No Use For A Name

Fabián: Bad Religion

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Mostly life experiences — love, emotions, and feelings. Sometimes those feelings are anger toward corruption or frustration with the government — the one we have, the ones we’ve had, and sadly, probably the ones to come, because the root of the problem is already corrupted.

6. Where was your last gig?

Our last show was in August in Bogotá. Here are some pictures https://www.instagram.com/p/DNKPTnVtp87/?igsh=YnE5M2p2enZvZ2Vl — the crowd was amazing, super energetic, and we really enjoyed being on stage.

7. Where would you like to perform?

Next year, we’d love to play at Rock al Parque and hopefully hit some other big stages around the country. Outside Colombia, we’d love to play anywhere we can — every stage counts.

8. Who would you like to collaborate with?

Our dream collaboration would be with Billie Joe from Green Day. More realistically, with David Ospina from Código Rojo / Volcán — I personally love his work and his voice. It would be amazing to make something together. Actually, I’ll use this interview to officially propose the idea!

9. Who would you not want to collaborate with?

I believe music is about sharing, so I don’t really have anyone in mind that I wouldn’t collaborate with. Maybe we’re not fans of certain styles, but even then, a crossover could end up being something interesting.

10. Have any of you ever had stage fright? Any tips for beginners to overcome it?

Not that I can recall — though we haven’t played in a stadium yet (that would be awesome). My tip would be: remember that people came to see you and to hear what you’ve prepared. Also, make sure you put together a real show — most fans are very visual; they want to see energy and feel part of the performance.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

Bad Religion, No Use For A Name, Green Day, Blink-182, NOFX, Goldfinger, Código Rojo, La Mojiganga, Tanque, among others.

12. What’s the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Haha — out of respect for our fans, we can’t really share that! But let’s just say, people can get pretty crazy sometimes.

13. What do you think of your fans?

We’re really grateful for their support — for showing up to our shows, listening to our music, and being there with us.

14. What do you think of our site?

I like that you can discover bands from all over the world and find new songs and albums. It’s a great way to stay connected with what’s happening with independent music.

15. Anything to add?

We’d like to invite everyone reading this to visit your favorite platform, look up Blast55, and follow us. We love making music and hope to play in your city soon!