In the dynamic realm of music, the synergy between artists and producers often sparks transformative creativity. Velour Fog, a rising force in the music scene, embarked on an extraordinary journey shaped by the legendary Music Producer Nick Tauber, renowned for his work with Thin Lizzy and Def Leppard. Velour Fog’s fusion of hard rock, funk, grunge, metal, and hip-hop sets them apart in a crowded musical landscape. The catalyst for this unique blend was an unexpected encounter during a leisurely stroll through the streets of London. It was here that fate intervened, aligning the paths of Velour Fog and Nick Tauber.
Initially, Velour Fog stood as an instrumental powerhouse, exploring the depths of musical intricacies. However, the introduction of Nick Tauber into their creative orbit marked a pivotal shift. Encouraged by the legendary producer, the band transitioned from instrumental virtuosity to vocal-driven, purposeful songwriting.
Nick Tauber’s influence didn’t just refine Velour Fog’s approach; it encouraged them to push the boundaries of genre. The collaboration prompted the band to blend various musical styles in a contemporary way, creating a sonic tapestry that defies conventional categorization. The result is an intricate fusion that captivates listeners with its freshness and authenticity.
Building on the anticipation surrounding their imminent EP and album release, Velour Fog continues to be a beacon of sonic innovation. In a recent development, the band opened their doors to Exposed Vocals for an in-depth interview. This meeting of creative minds promises to shed light on Velour Fog’s musical journey, collaborative experiences, and the intricacies of their evolving sound.
Randy Morano, the Founder of Exposed Vocals, engaged in a conversation with Velour Fog to peel back the layers of their musical tapestry. This exclusive interview not only provides a glimpse into the band’s collaborative journey with the legendary Music Producer Nick Tauber but also sets the stage as Velour Fog prepares to unveil their creations to the world.
Exclusive Interview
Exposed Vocals: With the imminent release of your EP and upcoming album, can you give us a glimpse into what listeners can expect in terms of musical style, themes, and overall vibe?
Velour Fog: It’s a blend of hard rock, funk, grunge with elements of metal and hip-hop.
Exposed Vocals: Working with legendary Music Producer Nick Tauber must be an incredible experience. How has Nick’s influence shaped the sound and direction of Velour Fog’s music?
Velour Fog: When we started out, we were just an instrumental group. Nick encouraged us to start adding vocals and to focus on writing good songs with purpose instead of technical music for the sake of it.
Exposed Vocals: Nick Tauber has produced for a diverse range of artists. How did the collaboration between Velour Fog and Nick come about, and what aspects of his production style do you find most resonant with the band’s vision?
Velour Fog: It’s a funny story actually. A random encounter. Jake’s family was taking the dog for a walk in London, and he and (Vinnie- the dog) walked up to Nick and made an attempted robbery for Nick’s sandwich! Nick’s worked with the greats, and some classic rock and metal bands. Yet with all that experience, he has encouraged our vision to bring a blend of genres in a contemporary way to create a unique sound that is ‘Velour Fog’.
Exposed Vocals: Being touted as the next big sound carries a lot of anticipation. How do you handle the expectations and pressure that come with such high praise, and what do you believe sets Velour Fog apart in the music scene?
Velour Fog: We don’t let egos delude ourselves. There’s no reason to hype ourselves up and succumb to any pressure. What we do believe is that we have the ability to make some kick-ass music in a world of bland artists. It’s not just nostalgia, the music world has changed and the type of music that gets popular now is usually devoid of originality and soul. A lot of rock and metal bands have a similar problem, they try to follow the trends, or try to imitate the past without innovating.
Exposed Vocals: Can you share some insights into the creative process behind the EP and album? Are there any specific stories or inspirations that influenced the songwriting and production?
Velour Fog: Well, to be honest, most of what the band writes doesn’t have a crazy backstory. Usually, Jake will just pick up an instrument and play, and we all add our magic touches to it, and it develops from there. We have our individual influences, and if there’s a certain piece of music Jake particularly loves, it gives him inspiration for his own playing style and compositions.
Exposed Vocals: As part of the promotional campaign, what exciting plans or strategies do you have in store to connect with your audience and introduce Velour Fog to new listeners?
Velour Fog: Honestly, we are just going with the flow and taking it step by step at the moment. We have people around us helping with the marketing strategy, merchandise is being talked about, and we are regularly posting on our Instagram. Speaking of social media, is something the band holds a very negative opinion of, and in the current climate of the music industry, it’s sadly something everyone is forced to do. It’s awful. There was a time when musicians were all about the music, nowadays you have influencers calling themselves boxers or rappers, and the worst part is they are more successful in those areas than people who dedicate their lives to the trade. It’s a big popularity contest, the whole thing is a big mockery.
Exposed Vocals: The EP and album mark significant milestones in Velour Fog’s journey. Looking back, what have been some of the most memorable moments or challenges you’ve faced in the process of creating this music?
Velour Fog: Firstly, any EP or album is still in the making. However, we have a third single due to come out next month so an EP is definitely on the horizon. A recent challenge we faced was parting ways with our drummer. This made rehearsing and writing new material difficult, but Jake started out as a drummer when he was a kid before moving to guitar and has been recording the drums himself and writing parts for any new songs. We are currently auditioning for a permanent replacement. Any drummers out there – give us a shout!
Exposed Vocals: How would you describe the overall sonic landscape that Velour Fog aims to create, and are there specific genres or artists that have inspired the band’s musical direction?
Velour Fog: Yep, we’ll name them. RATM, RHCP, Van Halen, Alice in Chains, Yngwie Malmsteen, James Brown, Sublime, Korn, Limp Bizkit, The Beatles, Stone Temple Pilots, NWA, the list is honestly endless.
Exposed Vocals: In addition to your musical pursuits, there’s the promise of interesting stories from Nick Tauber’s extensive career. Are there any anecdotes or experiences working with Nick that stand out to you and the band?
Velour Fog: It’s a foggy memory, but during a frustrating recording session, we remember Nick telling us about a time Gary Moore threw his guitar through the control room window.
Exposed Vocals: Nick Tauber has a rich history in producing iconic rock acts. How has his expertise in rock music influenced the sonic identity of Velour Fog, and are there elements of classic rock that you intentionally incorporate into your sound?
Velour Fog: Wazza Wuzzle
Exposed Vocals: With the EP and album on the horizon, how do you envision Velour Fog’s musical evolution in the coming years? Are there specific goals or aspirations you hope to achieve as a band?
Velour Fog: We wanna be doing this for a living, playing to thousands of people in arenas worldwide, selling overpriced beer to fans, and of course making a ton of sweet, sweet money. Capitalism, F*** yeah!
Exposed Vocals: The band’s name, Velour Fog, carries a certain mystique. What’s the story behind the name, and how does it reflect the essence of the music you create?
Velour Fog: We wanted something that creates a certain kind of atmosphere, something a bit mysterious but at the same time very sensual. The name came to us shortly after Bone joined the band while we were hanging out at VF studios.
Exposed Vocals: As a band, what role does storytelling play in your lyrics, and are there recurring themes or narratives that listeners can expect to encounter in your songs?
Velour Fog: As the late great Jonathan Lennon said ‘lyrics are a bunch of bollocks anyways,’ an anecdote later paraphrased by Kurt Cobain. Two of the greatest lyricists on the planet said this…
Exposed Vocals: For those who may be discovering Velour Fog for the first time, how would you introduce the band’s sound and style, and what message do you hope your music conveys to its audience?
Velour Fog: “What makes a man turn neutral? A lust for gold? Power? Or were you just born with a heart full of neutrality?” – Captain Zapp Brannigan
The conversation marks a milestone in the band’s journey, inviting listeners to anticipate not just an EP and album but a sonic revelation that encapsulates the essence of Velour Fog’s artistic exploration.
