After spending much of the last year releasing a flurry of bold and vibrant pop-rock belters, Cincinnati-based duo Alíco have now unleashed their stunning self-titled debut album.
Channelling a wonderfully warm and diverse aesthetic that borrows from both alt-pop and pop-punk textures, their new full-length makes for a brilliantly enticing listen. With its pounding production, killer hooks, and memorable vocals layered throughout, these two are certainly showing they have mastered their craft on this one.
So with the new album available now, we sat down with them to find out more about their origins and influences over the years.
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What was the first band or artist you fell in love with?
The All American Rejects were the band that got me into music. They changed everything for me. The music video for “Move Along” was playing in my uncle’s living room during a family party. I was absolutely mesmerized. That video planted the seed for my entire musical journey. Honorable mention - Simple Plan’s “Don’t Wanna Think About You” from the Scooby Doo 2 soundtrack was an absolute game changer.
Did you ever form a band when you were younger and if so, what did they sound like?
Haha, I made many attempts. I actually was successful in booking a performance l in the 5th grade, we were a hard rock band with bongos instead of real drums. Bass guitar, 2 Electric Guitars, and a set of bongos, and we played a Bullet For My Valentine sounding metal song I had written. It was absolutely wild. The video is locked in a vault somewhere where no one hopefully ever finds it.
What has been your primary inspiration in writing music?
When it comes to writing, I love to play. I love to get creative and get so excited about an idea that it makes me feel euphoric. That feeling of hearing a great song in my head, and the ability to bring it to life is pure joy to me. I think that so much of songwriting lies in imagination. Each song is a new world to explore, and I get to create it however I want.
What is a song you wish you had written yourself?
What a great question! It’s “Odds” by NIKI. That song is just incredible. I love lyrics that come off sophomoric and almost sarcastic, but also have a hint of sweetness and honesty. Niki Zefeneya is so good at creating those tongue-in-cheek moments.
If there was any moment in your career you could relive, what would it be?
I would love to relive the recording process for our album. I wouldn’t change a thing, I would just love to have that 20/20 hindsight-esque gratitude for all those beautiful moments.
Which artist would you most love to share a stage with?
Green Day 1000%. Billie Joe is my hero. His charisma is legendary.
And is there an artist you would love to collaborate with as well?
I would love to write a song with Alex Gaskarth from All Time Low. His lyrics and guitar playing have influenced my musical taste heavily, and his excitement and enthusiasm for writing songs is infectious.
Where do you see yourself in five years time?
This is definitely an easy answer for me. Touring worldwide, playing shows to thousands every night, and creating and releasing my favorite music. That’s always been the dream for me, to connect profoundly with fans, have a ton of fun with friends, and make music that means so much to me and our audience.
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Alíco's self-titled debut album is available to stream now. Check it out below.