Shaman’s Harvest – Smokin’ Hearts and Broken Guns

All Questions Answered By Singer Nathan “Drake” Hunt

Q) Who are some of your musical influences?

A) Really all genres have influenced this band. Some of the more prominent being Allman Brothers, Stevie Ray, Pink Floyd, Mastadon, Clutch, Howlin Wolf, Queen and on.

Q) You recently released your album  Smokin’ Hearts and Broken Guns. What is the feel and vibe for it? 

A) Smokin’ Hearts and Broken Guns is a bit of a cathartic piece for me. Without it being too gloomy, it’s dark, but uplifting too. I tried to capture the full spectrum of emotions with this one. Its sound is organic and sometimes heavy, sometimes swampy. And I think it is always heavily blues influenced.

Q) How much hand did you have in the production of the album?

A) Richie Creighbaum and I worked hand and hand through the development of this piece. We both had a vision for it that sometimes rubbed against the grain and sometimes was harmonious. The combo, I feel, made for a record that has listenabillity all the way through.

Q) What is your process for writing songs? Do you need music to write the lyrics?

A) There’s really no process. Sometimes a riff can be the catalyst. Other times, it’s a lyric or a melody. It can be a late night jam session. Sometimes even an interesting beat can fire up the ole noggin. I feel like if there’s a go-to formula the music will get stale so I tend to try to let it happen when it will.

Q) Your new single is “Dangerous.” What is it about the song that listeners will connect to?

A) I think “Dangerous” just gives an anxious feeling. Not in a bad way, but more of a driving force. When someone listens to it, I think it empowers them with a vibration. It’s our little anthem for anyone who has lost or given up everything and realized they’re still here, ya know?

Q) What are some of your favorite songs on the album?

A) “In Chains” is a fun song for us to perform. “In The End” is another powerful piece for us. “Blood In The Water” has a bombastic swampy riff feel that never fails to get the blood movin’ after a night of debauchery.

Q) What can fans expect from a live Shaman’s Harvest performance?

A) There are not a lot of bells and whistles. There is no computer shit, wardrobe changes or pyro. But we do promise to throw it all out there every night. It’s the way rock n’ roll is meant to be played; with respect for the passion in it.

Q) How can fans help promote your music?

A) The best way is to buy the record and tell all their friends and neighbors about it. Come to the shows and call your local radio stations to request “Dangerous.” It really does take a massive, badass village. Or a nut house. Either way.

Q) You are a part of social media. Why is it so important for you to connect with fans that way?

A) I hate the ever-lovin’ shit out of social media. It has completely destroyed any sense of community, not to mention anonymity. That said, it is an awesome tool to be in touch with fans and respond to questions from the people who dig what you do. It’s a catch twenty-two  we are trying our damndest to get comfortable with.

Q) What would you like to say to everyone who is a fan and supporter of you and your music?

A) Just thanks for giving us your ears and hearts. We are touring now and will soon be coming to see as many of you as we can. And with you rock can’t die!