Other Side of Clearview
It is the final round for the contest and it’s down to the nitty-gritty. So who is left standing? Foma* , Will Rockit , Other Side of Clearview and Sitomi are battling to win the biggest slice of cheesecake. They are all locally-grown and let’s be honest; winning the contest is all about being total babe magnets from here on out. Just think about telling people, “Yeah, baby. I am actually in the best new band in Denver,” as you swing back and puff your chest out like it’s no big deal.
Metromix sat down with the lead singer of “Other Side of Cleaview,” Matt Luizza, and the band "Foma*" to get their thoughts and feelings on the contest…..and Lindsay Lohan.
So how is it going these days?
Matt Luizza: It’s great. Musically speaking, the city [Fort Collins] is picking up speed. There are a lot of bands in the area and there are plans to build a huge 4,000 seat indoor/outdoor amphitheatre. We are playing out frequently and getting involved with the big local festivals like Ramble on the River, Brewfest and New West Fest. Plus, the new Fort Collins Musicians Association was just created in the fall to be a resource for bands to attend workshops, network and have quasi-union status. I know what you are thinking, and yes, you are right. Fort Collins is a “hip” town.
Foma*: Fantastic, thanks.
Are you getting nervous about the upcoming finals at Herman’s?
ML: It doesn’t usually hit me until about 2 minutes before loading on the stage. Then I have a mini freak-out, questioning everything. “What am I thinking? We didn’t practice nearly enough for this show, I’m gonna forget all the lyrics, why did I wear this stupid bandana, only two types of people wear bandanas, bikers and pirates…and maybe metrosexuals (so three types)…Why am I in a band? I could be working a real job with a real salary and benefits! Oh the sweet glory of benefits…” These are the things that go through my head before I step on stage, but once we’re up there it all just makes sense.
FM: Sure, we’ve got a few nerves about it, you know, as much as the next guy. We’re really just excited to play.
We noticed that you have been commenting on each other’s Myspace. Are all of the bands competing in the finals really being nice to each other or is it just a bunch of crap?
ML: I’ve only talked with Foma* (I’m curious what the * is for if you talk with them I’d be interested to know) When I saw we had a message from them I thought “Here we go…let the ‘smack-talking’ begin.” But they were really nice. We try not to be jackasses to other bands because it’s really awkward when you talk a big game and then get jumped in the parking lot. I also feel like generally bands get into a mentality that “It’s us against the world man” and they often view any other band as competition.
FM: Definitely not a bunch of crap. Ultimately, it’s about the music and not the prize. We’re all local musicians trying to better the Denver music scene.
This next one is for Foma: Your competitors, “Other Side of Clearview” were wondering what the asterisk is all about on your name. Want to explain it?
FM: Foma* is a concept from Kurt Vonnegut’s novel “Cat’s Cradle.” The asterisk is noted by Vonnegut as meaning “harmless untruths.” Specifically, “[l]ive by the foma* that makes you brave and kind and healthy and happy.”
What kind of things are you doing differently to prep for the contest?
ML: I’m on a high fiber diet and exercising a lot. People are getting sick a lot and I’m trying to not catch anything. It’s easier for the other guys considering they can get through a show with the flu. We’re also doing a lot of commuting for promotions in Denver. Technically it’s the “Best New Band in Denver,” but we’re from Fort Collins.
FM: There seems to be a lot more cigarettes and Diet Coke strewn about our practice space.
Who is your biggest role model?
ML: That’s a tough one. I have a few people that really inspire me. In my personal life my mom has been the biggest role model for me. Being strong and independent, but finding joy in helping others. She also was a rock star too! She would get in to see Led Zeppelin front row for free by flirting with a security guard and hanging out with Queen at the show. And she dated Ray Liotta (from Goodfellas) in middle school in New Jersey. How much more of a rock star can you be? Musically, my role model is Bruce Springsteen. ‘The Boss’ is the man.
FM: Whoa, too many to list. Here’s a few: Wilco, Jeff Buckley. RHCP, Beatles.
Have you guys ever had an embarrassing moment during a show?
ML: Our first show ever was in a bowling alley just over a year ago and we blew the power out of the house system because we were so amazing…or loud. So I had to sing a cappella, while Matt and Evan (the bass player), kept going through their amps and our keyboardist, Corey, just danced. That was a near-embarrassing moment.
FM: Rodholm has IBS.
If you could make out with any celebrity, who would it be and why?
ML: Condoleezza Rice. And I want to make it clear upfront that it has nothing to do with being attracted to her. I hear any physical contact with her gives you some of her power, so I figure making out with her has gotta be worth something…Like being able to see into the future, and I would make out with Condoleezza Rice to see into the future. Also, if it was somehow leaked onto You Tube (everything is)…Instant coverage for the band. Now that’s multi-tasking at its finest.
FM: Joe: The cast of Saved by the Bell – Why: “Three words: Slater, Screech, Sandwich.” Jim: Chelsea Clinton – Why: “?” Jace: Carla from Cheers – Why: “I like a girl that can give me lip and beer.” Rodholm: Johnny Depp: - Why: “I heart pirates.” Hinds: Bea Arthur – Why: “Shoulder pads, Channelle musk, I’m there.”
Let’s say you bumped into Lindsay Lohan up in Ft. Collins. What would you say to her?
ML: Shouldn’t you be in rehab? And please stop vomiting on my shoes.
FM: I like that thing you did with what’s his name…well…good luck?
For all your fans out there, give out a “word of wisdom” before we sign off.
ML: Be in it to win it! Wait can I try again? That was lame… Don’t lose sight of who you are and what drives your passion in life. We are only here for a short time so aggressively live every moment of life, wildly, passionately and at moments with a touch of insanity. That sounded like a hallmark card... Other Side of Clearview rocks!
FM: Touch your face for Foma*.
