Greenville Scene

photo by Jarrad Lister

by: Cody Fields

www.myspace.com/coltdavismusic

GS: How did you personally get started into music?
Colt Davis: Well, I pretty much grew up listening to my sisters sing. I just never thought I’d be able to do it because my musical style and preferences were so different. I grew to idolize artists like Andrew McMahon of Something Corporate and Chris Carrabba of Dashboard Confessional who could write their own music and put so much passion and experience into their music.

GS: How did the band Colt Davis come into being?
CD: The band formerly known as Letters from August were going through some necessary transitions. Mainly a new frontman was needed. Jarrad Lister (bassist/producer) contacted me through the phone and asked me to come audition. So I did, and I guess they liked me.

GS: What are your influences, and what genre would you call yourselves?
CD: Well, my 3 biggest musical influences, both in lyrical writing and in musical style, would be Chris Carrabba of D.C., Andrew McMahon of S.C. and Tom Delonge of Angels and Airwaves.

GS: With major influences from the likes of Dashboard, Something Corporate and AVA, what genre would you say Colt Davis falls into or hovers around?
CD: As far as a musical genre, I think our music would mostly fit that of a rock/indie/acoustic style.

GS: Does the band have an overall philosophy or message regarding its music?
CD: We are five Christian artists; however, we don’t wanna be labeled as a “Christian” band. Mainly because our music isn’t written for Christians only, but rather for anyone who has the ability to feel, to love, and to hurt. Our message is that of hope, redemption, and love. Through our lyrics we try to comfort/relate to the broken, while at the same time showing a little rock. Every song has a meaning and a purpose. Every lyric is there for a reason.

GS: In a music industry that seems to be polarized toward the ultra silly or ultra serious, do you feel an obligation or chip on your shoulder of sorts to include your message in your lyrics?
CD: As far as a message in our lyrics, I feel no obligation to overemphasize meaning. Most of my favorite lyrics are ones that are so vague, yet powerful enough to break through a meaning to fit/reach every individual listener with their distinct situation. Tom Delonge has some of the simplest lyrics I’ve ever heard where as Andrew McMahon’s lyrics are swimming in depth, and many times incomprehensible random feelings. I want to have both in my music, but as far a pressure goes I don’t see a need. Music and lyrics are what they are, just as beautiful as the sound and message they present. If I am doing my job both as a Christian and as a musician, then my message will be loud and clear.

GS: How is music written and put together within the band?
CD: All the music and lyrics are originally written by me. I usually record an acoustic track on my handheld recorder and bring it to the studio where I reveal the idea to Jarrad. If it’s something he thinks we could use then we’ll experiment ways to approach making it a full band song.

GS: You’re currently working on a CD now. When is that due out, and what is it called?
The current CD project we are recording is entitled This Vintage Heart. The due date has been pushed back to early June. We are looking forward to finishing up this album. This Vintage Heart will include 10 tracks along with one bonus acoustic track.