Carielle
The Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids
Nov. 15; 7 p.m.
$10
pyramidschemebar.com, (616) 272-3758
It can take bands years or months to write a full record, but one week is all it took for Grand Rapids-based Carielle to write all the songs on Sonder.
"We planned on writing our record from December to the end of June, but we were all in school and it was just really difficult," said vocalist Steve Kopp said. "We ended up writing the record in a week-and-a-half."
The time crunch didn't prohibit the sound of the album, Kopp said. Instead, it made each member put their all into it. From sun up to past sun down, and with a lot of caffeine in their systems, the band focused on nothing but the album.
The commencement of the album brought about mixed emotions for each member, for it would be the last time the six members would record together. The band wishes farewell to guitarist Cody Flowers and bassist Jonathan Mackey as they embark onto new adventures.
"This is a show that we are trying to make a big deal because this our bass player's and guitar player's last with us," Kopp said. "That will mean a lot of change; change maybe for listeners and friends and stuff like that. I am excited for the direction its headed with this new record coming out."
Just a year ago, the band went through a similar change when they added the new drummer, Nathan Coles. The adieu of two members, however, will not destroy the drive of this band.
"It'll just shape our sound and maybe change it a little, but four of the members are still the same so it will keep that 'Carielle' sound that we are looking for," Kopp said. "It will just bring different perspectives, which I have learned is a really great thing. I am excited to see where that goes."
With the new album, Kopp said the ideal time to introduce a new guitarist and bassist is now, as fans are still unfamiliar with the songs.
"Since it is just being released we're going to play these songs for a while until we start writing new material," Kopp said. "We are going to be playing these new songs and they will sound the same just with new people."
In the city where it all began, the sextet takes the stage at The Pyramid Scheme for a final bow in front of family, friends and local supporters, but the band said their essence will stay intact even though the faces are changing.
"I think the feel of the band, obviously with bringing in new members, will change but I think as we are maturing anyway, a change is not always a bad thing," Kopp said.
