Ever since placing in the top 3 in the LiVE 88.5 Big Money Shot back in 2010, The Balconies have been riding a wave that has been gathering more momentum with each passing day.
2012 was a busy year for the band. Not only did they release The Kill Count EP and videos for Kill Count and Do It In The Dark, they also played Filter Magazine’s Culture Collide Festival in L.A., showcased at Canadian Music Week and toured with Gordie Johnson, to name but a few highlights.
The group is excited to keep that momentum going in 2013. They started off the year with a couple of shows in London UK. I recently had the chance to talk to Jacquie about what else lies ahead in 2013 as they were wrapping up their cross Canada tour with Rival Sons.
First and foremost on my mind was when we could expect a new album. The band is currently recording with producer Arnold Lanni (Our Lady Peace, Finger Eleven). Jacquie mentioned that “We were looking to experiment with different sounds, try something new. He’s a great producer.” Unfortunately for those of us eagerly awaiting new music, we will have to wait a little longer as the band is targeting a summer release for their next album.
With a new album, you can expect a few more videos to accompany the singles and Jacquie is looking forward to getting back in front of the camera. “I love the process and being on set. It’s cool to work with people who spend all day working with these cameras and are really good at what they do.”
Looking back on the video for Do It In The Dark, one of the tracks already recorded with Arnold, Jacquie commented on the zombie theme. “It seems like they’re everywhere now.” She added that the video was “not goofy but playful. I think it really represents our live show well.”
For any band, playing live and touring is an important part of getting their name out there, and the rest of the year is expected to be filled with plenty. As Jacquie stated, “We plan to tour Europe and Asia. Of course there will be more US and Canadian shows too. I’d really like to expand more into the US market.” Those North American dates will include this year’s Canadian Music Week and a showcase slot at SXSW in Austin.
It’s one thing to play to familiar crowds, but heading overseas can be nerve racking for a young band. When I asked Jacquie about the pressure, it didn’t seem to phase her. “We’re definitely anxious before the shows. But it’s exciting to play to new audiences. I love reaching new fans and spreading our music.”
The Balconies have ambitious plans indeed. But I have no doubt that they are well on their way to big things.
[youtube http://youtu.be/hvT6taoj83Q]