Recently, I AM TUNED UP reviewed The Wedding’s new release No Direction. The band is one of the hardest working in the industry in our opinion in their field, and we are happy to feature them. Vocalist Matt Shelton graciously took some valuable time to do this Q&A for us. Perhaps this will give you a glimpse into the heart of the band.
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At the present, what would you say is the mission statement of the band, if you had to make one up?
We aim to create the best art possible from our less than adequate hands for the cause of Christ.
There was quite a few hurdles in your way prior to the release of No Direction, what would you say most helped you to get through it all? Did you ever come close to just throwing in the towel?
I would say our sense of purpose keeps us fighting. What we do does not depend on a rise or fall in attention, money, or position. If it did, we would have quit along time ago haha. There are a million bands in the world and they can’t all be big, we just want to do our part, and share some jams with the audience we are given, whatever that looks like.
What was the highlight(s) of the recording process for No Direction?
For me it was definitely in the way we made this record. The way that we thought so much of it through, and dove into each song. It was really cool allowing these songs to decide where they should go instead of being so one-dimensional.
Where do you wish to take the band in the next 5 years?
I hope to take it overseas. Ha. But I also hope to solidify an audience that can identify with our music and we can all fight through life together for a while.
From your perspective, name the best and worst parts about being a full time musician in the current music industry. What can fans to do help? In a perfect world, what aspects of the market would change?
Best: travel, brotherhood, culture, and making new friends
Worst: No comfort of home, bad sleep
Fans: Go to shows and buy records. bands spend most of their own money trying to tour and come play for you, but they can’t do it if you don’t go. Don’t just say “Oh’ I’ll see them next time.” If you want more music, go see them live.
Changing the Market: I don’t know, maybe bands and fans could take the power by supporting each other, offering substance and not being so caught up in being “The Next Big Thing”.
Which tour has been the most fun for you thus far? Who would be on your dream tour? Likewise, what would be your dream show to attend?
Most fun tour I have ever been on was probably with House of Heroes and Wavorly. My dream tour would be with Thrice and Gaslight Anthem. My dream show to attend would be, Bob Dylan and the late Johnny Cash.
What artists are getting lots of spins on your iTunes/stereo/etc as of current?
Gaslight Anthem, The Avett Bros., Hot Water Music, Thrice, Sigur Ros
You are very proud of your southern heritage – what do you do to keep that vibe going on the road?
We aren’t that proud haha. The band in it’s early years focused a lot on their roots from Arkansas, but now that we are all spread out we don’t necessarily boast of the diamond so much. Ha. But we will always have our southern draw to adventure.
Any final words for I AM TUNED UP readers?
Thanks for supporting your favorite bands, it really does make a difference. It takes both of us to make this ship run.
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Please take the time to check out all things related to The Wedding at their official website.
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