12:01 AM Friday, 10/14/11
|
|
When Aaron Bruno formed AWOLNATION two years ago, it was at a time when his experience with the music industry had been deflating and his career uncertain.
His previous bands, Home Town Hero and Under the Influence of Giants, had some success but circumstances led to both acts disbanding.
That’s when Bruno moved out of his comfort zone to go solo and everything changed. The songs he’d been writing found their place and the public responded.
(AP Photo)
|
APA’s Corrie Christopher, along with manager Berko Pearce of RM 64 Media, were already aware of Bruno’s talent through previous projects.
“When Aaron was between bands deciding what his next project would be, I told him I was there regardless because I believe in him,” Christopher told Pollstar. “I knew that whatever it was he was going to put together, I wanted to be a part of it.”
AWOLNATION’s debut, Megalithic Symphony, dropped in March and its first single, “Sail,” became a hit shortly after. Headlining, support slots with Young The Giant and Fitz & The Tantrums and performances at South By Southwest, Austin City Limits and “Jimmy Kimmel Live” added to the buzz.
(AP Photo)
|
But Christopher said it’s AWOLNATION’s live shows that are bringing in sold-out crowds along the way.
“I think a lot of people are surprised when they see them live. They hear the single, and there’s so much more to the record, but when they see the band, it’s so much more powerful, engaging and intense. It usually blows people away,” she said.
Bruno, guitarist Christopher Thorn, Kenny Carkeet on keyboard, drummer Hayden Scott and bassist Dave Amezcua will be on the road through mid-December.
--Tina Amendola