CHIODOS

*I'll be posting the interview later ...

The Collegian
SDSU, Brookings So.Dak.
Issue date: 10/8/08
Section: Juice

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With two breakout albums (2005's All's Well That Ends Well and 2007's Bone Palace Ballet) under their belt and one more on the way (Bone Palace Ballet: Grand Coda out at the end of the month), Chiodos has hit the music scene with bone-shattering velocity (pun intended).

Although the Michigan natives have been thrown on some odd tour bills, Craig Owens (vocals), Radley Bell (keyboards), Pat McManaman (guitar), Matt Goddard (bass), Jason Hale (guitar) and Derrick Frost (drums) continue to gain speed (and fans) through their travels. Although the variety in shows can add some spice to the job, Bell admits that touring so often can get a little dull.

"It's a little monotonous at times, just like any other job," says Bell. "But we do get to go to different places, which is always cool."

Not even a month ago, the band traveled up to Alaska to play a couple shows. And while more and more cities get added to their tour calendar, Bell explains that he really only wants the crowd to have fun.

"We want them to feel comfortable and just have a good time," said Bell. "That's what our music is all about, just forgetting your problems and singing along and having fun."

With catchy riffs and head bobbing melodies, Chiodos captures your attention. Songs like "Lexington (Joey Pea-Pot With A Monkey Face)" and "The Words 'Best Friend' Become Redefined" could even make your monotonous chemistry teacher want to thrash around in a mosh pit. Owens offers a ridiculously expansive vocal range over heavy guitars mixed with melodic keyboard trails to offer the perfect mixture of punk-pop-hardcore.

Chiodos may feel pressure to keep creating new, better sounds, but Bell admits that playing with new ideas in the studio is one of his favorite parts of being a musician. Another is playing live for hundreds of fans.

"It's awesome to see the kids' faces," says Bell. "They have a glow in their eyes and we know some of them have been waiting a long time to see us live."

While the job offers many perks, Bell admits that handling the bad aspects, like all the negative criticism, is something you learn to deal with.

"As much as you try, it's really hard to avoid," says Bell. "Especially with the internet being so popular. You just have to channel your positive energy and forget it."

Keeping a positive attitude towards their lives doesn't only come into part when reading a bad review. Back in July, Owens admitted on his personal Web site that he had tried to overdose on Xanax, due in part to a struggle with bipolar disorder and anxiety attacks. After recovery, Owens stated that he had amazing help from friends and family and was excited to continue on with Chiodos. Besides depending on one another, the fans also provide a huge support system to the band.

"No matter what minimal problems we have, our fans are always there," said Bell. "Anytime you surround yourself with a certain group for so long like we do, it gets frustrating and you don't always get along. We just stay positive and keep looking forward to all the opportunities we have."

Chiodos is currently on tour with Silverstein, Escape the Fate, Alesana and A Skylit Drive. You can catch them at Epic in Minneapolis on Oct. 12. The all ages show starts at 5 p.m., with tickets running at $25 through Ticketmaster outlets.
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