Exclusive Interview: Pop Culturalist Chats with The Shakes

Los Angeles-based group, The Shakes, have taken over the indie pop scene. Composed of Sean Perry (songwriter/vocals), Cameron Pearson (guitar), Syd Tagle (keys/synth), Tanner Henderson (bass), and Levi Matulis (drums), the band strives to be a voice for those who can’t speak for themselves. Their powerful lyrics explore topics from the complications of relationships to the struggles with faith and identity. Their latest single, “Heaven (Doesn’t Seem Too Far Away)”, is a dreamy, uplifting anthem that reminds listeners that no matter how tough life gets, there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel.

Pop Culturalist spoke with Sean Perry about the band’s career, their upcoming release, and what’s ahead in 2019.

PC: How did all discover your passion for music?
Sean: My parents were in radio for 20+ years, so I was pretty much born into it. [laughs]

PC: Who or what has had the biggest influence on your career?
Sean: I’ve grown up on everything from Frank Sinatra to The Who to Prince. I get inspired by all kinds of music; I try not to limit myself when someone shows me a new artist/band. There is inspiration to find in all types of genres.

PC: Tell us about your new single, “Heaven (Doesn’t Seem Too Far Away)”. What inspired the track?
Sean: I wrote this song in my friend Billy’s back room one night after we played a show in Thousand Oaks. It was about a week after the shooting and the fires that were happening around the county. A bunch of kids came out to see us play and I got a chance to talk with them about their experiences throughout the course of those events. It was heavy, man. These kids were talking to me about their homes burning to the ground, cars being destroyed, and some of them even had friends that were involved in the shooting. Seeing people dancing and laughing in a time of mourning was a movie to see. “Heaven” is a song to remind people that no matter how dark the future may seem, there will always be a light ahead.

PC: The band is adding their “B Side Playlist” to From The Bedroom soon. What can fans expect?
Sean: Emotional, heart-warming, and hopeful songs. These tunes are very dear to our hearts. We’re releasing four songs, each one of them special in their own way.

PC: What is the collaboration like amongst the group? How are you able to make sure every voice is heard?
Sean: Syd is going to school at LARS and she’s getting pretty freaking good at production. We usually work up the bones to each song and then bring it to Levi, so he can mess with the beat/progression. As a whole, we work together like a well-oiled machine and we love to bring an exciting live presence to each show.

PC: What’s been the key to success for The Shakes?
Sean: Non-stop hard work and dedication. We still don’t feel like a real band yet; we have much room to improve.

PC: What’s been the biggest lesson you all have learned being a part of this industry?
Sean: Never let anyone get in the way of your creativity. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who inspire you and believe in your vision.

PC: As we look ahead in 2019, what does the rest of the year hold for you?
Sean: More music, a tour, and happiness.

Pop Culturalist Speed Round

PC: Guilty pleasure TV show?
Sean: I LOVE Broad City. I just recently got my girlfriend on it, too. We’re watching it nonstop!

PC: Guilty pleasure movie?
Sean: Bridesmaids for sure. It’s hilarious.

PC: Favorite book?
Sean: I’m a sucker for Stephen King and thriller/horror novels. I just finished Doctor Sleep. 10/10 would recommend.

PC: Favorite play or musical?
Sean: I saw The Lion King when I was ten. Shit was tight.

PC: First album you bought?
Sean: City and Colour’s Bring Me Your Love

PC: First concert you attended?
Sean: The first one that I can remember is probably U2 in Seattle with my dad. I was seven, I think.

PC: A venue on your bucket list to perform at?
Sean: The Showbox in Seattle. Playing my hometown venue would be a dream.

PC: An album that changed your life and why?
Sean: Ooof. There are so many, but if I had to choose one, it would be have to be Kid A. I remember listening to that in my Walkman walking to school when I was younger. I had it on repeat for months. Radiohead is frustrating to listen to sometimes because they are musical geniuses. I will always aspire to be Thom Yorke.

To keep up with The Shakes, follow them on Twitter and Instagram, and pick up “Heaven (Doesn’t Seem Too Far Away)” on Amazon Music, iTunes, or stream it on Spotify.