Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with Leather Bound Crooks

Formed in 2011 in Las Vegas, NV, Leather Bound Crooks have worked their way through the local music scene and through various lineup changes, evolving into the four-piece quartet it is today. Comprised of members, Jawaun B. (vocals/rhythm guitar), Ryan S. (lead guitar), Timmy P. (percussions), and Jeremy H. (bass), the band recently released their full-length album, Breach. The ten-track collection is an honest depiction of experiences often underrepresented in popular music. It covers themes including real life trauma, heartache, and closure. Pop Culturalist caught up with Jawaun “Jaba” B. to chat about all things Breach.

PC: How did you all discover your passion for music?
Jaba: Honestly, just listening to music. I’ve been listening to rock my entire life. I was in band and orchestras as a kid, so it’s been in me since the beginning.

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your careers?
Jaba: The need and passion to create love and awareness has had a huge influence on my career. Jesse Lacey, Conor Oberst, Tim Kasher, and Ben Gibbard are my biggest musical influences.

PC: You all just released Breach. What was the inspiration behind the album?
Jaba: The inspiration for the album was Brian Scott Sherman, as he tried out many different bands to get his message across. He approached us and we were all ready to take that step.

PC: We read that many of the songs were created in a group setting. How important is that for for the creative process? Is it a challenge to have so many diverse voices?
Jaba: It’s exciting to me because I’ll write lyrics for a song and when I bring it to the band, I have no idea what the song is going to sound like. Okay, I have an idea, but it usually doesn’t turn out that way. That’s really fucking exciting. My favorite composition we’ve done is “Not You”.

PC: If you had to pick one song off Breach that best encompasses you all as a band, what would it be and why?
Jaba: “You Are the One” because it’s rugged and industrial. It’s dark and inspiring. It’s honest and driven.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: A band or artist that fans would be surprised to learn is on your playlist?
Jaba: Danger Incorporated

PC: First album you bought?
Jaba: Green Day—Dookie

PC: First concert you attended?
Jaba: Mariah Carey

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Jaba: Bright Eyes’ Cassadaga because I started writing songs after that.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Jaba: Red Rocks Amphitheater

To keep up with Leather Bound Crooks, follow them on Twitter and Instagram. Pick up or stream Breach on Amazon Music, iTunes, or Spotify.