In an exclusive interview with Loyalcore, the music group Stuck In Neutral bares their essence. Since their formation in 2020, these artists have evolved, refining their sound and expanding their musical palette. Their upcoming EP, titled "Moving Forward," embodies confidence and the potential for success. Immerse yourself in their poignant single, "Art of Disaster," which delves into vulnerability and resilience. And let's not forget their very first track, "Dreamcatcher," born from a riff created by Andrew Koeber and DJ Everett. Dive into the world of Stuck In Neutral** and discover how they strive to leave a positive mark on the world. Don't miss this opportunity to delve into the musical universe of Stuck In Neutral.
1. What inspired the band to choose the name « Stuck In Neutral »?
The name « Stuck In Neutral » came from a point of frustration. We had been making music together for many years, trying to make something of ourselves and bring our music to the public.
We chose this name, because we felt like a vehicle that was « Stuck In Neutral » trying it’s best to hit that gas pedal, making a hell of a noise, but not really moving forward. Name of our EP.
2. How would you describe the evolution of the band’s sound from their initial formation in 2020 to their current lineup?
Our lineup from the original set has changed massively. From complexity to feel, the way we’ve changed in the last 2 years has not only brought a feeling of progression to us, but a feeling of success and purpose. We’ve become heavier, and more « full ».
Our EP « Moving Forward » really reflects our feelings thus far. It’s hard to find people who are both dedicated and able to put in the work to make a serious successful project, and we couldnt be happier with this family of people that we have now, who are wonderful musicians and even greater friends.
3. Can you discuss any major themes or messages that are present in the lyrics of the upcoming EP "Moving Forward"?
The main message featured in the album, is one of confidence. If we can do it, you can do it. It's a message to anyone going through a rough time, or feeling unheard. With the right amount of effort, anything is possible. We believe that, given this opportunity, we choose to use this medium of art to share our perspectives on how we can not only make the world better but better ourselves.
4. How do the lyrics of the song "Art Of Disaster" tie into the overall message of the EP?
We consider the lyrics to "Art of Disaster" a portrait of our vulnerability. The song is the confirmation of sadness and almost (keyword here is almost) surrendering to the inevitibility of being hopeless. The lyrics in this song kind of set the stage for the beginning of the story. As you progress through the EP, you begin to understand, through the lyrics, that even though things can get tough and seem hopeless, there is so much we can do with our time to better this world. That alone is a reason to continue.
5. In what ways has the band grown and matured since their first single release, "Dreamcatcher"?
Dreamcatcher stemmed from a riff we had been playing around with for years. Even before stuck in neutral, this was a riff that Andrew Koeber and DJ Everett put together and you can consider this intro riff to the song the base point for us to get together and work on. Its hard to start from nothing and begin writing your first song, as there are a lot of variables that come with the collaborative art, that is being in a band. We all loved the riff from the beginning so we decided to flesh it out as an entire song so we had something to focus on first and foremost. It was nice to put it into practice.
Since then, we've dynamically improved our riffs and harmonies. As we have grown as musicians, and learned to implement our influences and what we would like this band to become. The way we write together has changed, we believe, for the better. We are continually looking to better ourselves as musicians and we are always trying to push ourselves to produce a better product and a better example of what we believe we could be.
6. About the song of your compilation, what message does the song "Night and Day" convey about taking action and making a positive change in the world before it's too late?
Night and Day is about not turning a blind eye to the state of the world but taking charge and doing whatever is possible to "make the world a better place to be" (as the song says). Especially the line "who I see, and who you are, I see the difference like night and day" this depicts the fact that everybody wants to see the world change for the better but it seems as thought nobody is actually doing anything. The first step to any sort of meaningful change is that people need to become aware of this complacency.
7. How does the band navigate the challenge of incorporating both melodic and aggressive elements in their music?
We really are not the first band to try to mix these two concepts together nor do we pretend that we are the ones to invent it. If you listen to any of our main influences you can see that this concept has been done many times almost to the point that it has become its own genre. However, we do lean toward this sort of style as it fits with everybody in the band and what we like to hear in the music that we listen to.
Check out some bands like; Wage War, Amity Affliction, Killswitch Engage, etc. We draw some heavy influences from all these types of bands.
8. What role does emotional vulnerability play in the lyrics of Stuck In Neutral's songs?
Honestly, a lot of the lyrics come from a point of vulnerability. Our lyrics come from the deepest parts of our collective soul. All of this is well thought out. We believe that music should be a window, not a door. You can observe but not always participate. Every song has a message that means a lot to us and it's up to the listener to discern, navigate, interpret, and find that message for themselves. It means what you think it means. All great art should be viewed in this way.
9. How do you balance personal experiences with broader social issues in your lyrics?
When it comes to personal experiences it is difficult to see things objectively at times. You kind of have to put yourselves in a different position and even play the devils advocate to truly get an educated opinion from both sides. We all have our beliefs that may contradict one another in this world. When it comes to important social issues, we believe in that everyone should have a voice and be able to portray their side of things. At the end of the day, we all know deep down whats right in the world. Follow your heart. Really, we are all here to enjoy ourselves through music and art.
10. Can you discuss any specific philosophical influences that have shaped the band's lyrics and music?
Allister Crowley said: "Do what thou wilt".
11. How has the band's experience in Battle Of The Bands impacted their growth and success?
That show will always have a spot in our hearts, on our deathbeds that is a moment that will flash before our eyes. This was a pivotal experience and, this was, in a way, our confirmation that we COULD do this, that people ENJOYED this. Without that show I dont think that we would have the drive that we do today to keep pushing ourselves for the better, and through this, create better art for people to enjoy.
12. Can you share any behind-the-scenes moments from recording the EP with producer Mike Wood?
Our instagram @stuckinneutralband actually does have some behind the scenes footage that you can view. It was a really fun and eye opening experience and that the end of the day we are really proud to have learned and grown with the assistance of Mike Wood Music Productions. Shout out to Mike Wood Music Production, get in touch with him if any of you guys are musicians and want to get some quality work done.
13. What can fans expect from the upcoming EP release and how does it represent the band's growth and direction?
As of January 1st the EP has been available on all major streaming platforms. It is the culmination of all of our hard work and sacrifice over the first two years of our band being together. From listening to our first single "Dreamcatcher" to "11:59" you can see how we have all changed and grown for the better over time.
14. How does the band's dynamic and chemistry contribute to the overall sound and message of the music?
We are all very receptive of each others ideas and there really is no wrong answer when it comes to creating music. One of our philosphies when it comes to writing is: if you have two ideas that are equally good in their own respects, the answer is ususally... why not both?
Above all of this we are all very good friends and we all respect eachother and know that at the end of the day its all about making a great product.
15. What message do you hope listeners take away from Stuck In Neutral's music and lyrics?
The best thing you can take away from our music is to always move forward, never look back, own your choices and your beliefs, and always persue your goals if you believe them right. Never compromise on integrity.
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Stuck In Neutral is an electrifying force to be reckoned with! Their passion and commitment are downright contagious, and mark my words: they're destined to ignite the music scene. Don't even think about missing their next performance—this group is cooking up something truly extraordinary.
