Rock Monsters Romania

The quarantine was a really hard period for bands and artist. We talked to some bands from all over the world to see the real effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic in music.

Today we talk to Next Stop Olympus, a Salisbury based band mixing the heavy breakdowns and screaming vocals of metalcore with the guitar solos and big choruses of rock n roll.

How can you describe the changes generated by the pandemic in the band’s activity?

Obviously not being able to play shows was a big problem and it delayed the release of our latest EP ‘Heart, Mind & Hell’ but we used the time well to prepare for the release with all the stuff behind the scenes.

What daily activity did you miss the most during quarantine?

Matt: Going to the pub had to be at the top of the list! That and just not wearing a mask, I wear glasses so no matter what mask I try they always steam up!

Conor: The whole lockdown really sucked but I read a lot and went on some very long walks, so although it was a pain in the arse I wouldn’t go as far as to say I missed any daily activities.

Were there any pluses for this period without concerts?

Matt: I think it’s made us miss shows more so I guess you can class that as a plus because it’ll make sure we enjoy them even more once their back on properly.

Conor: I can guarantee that I will no longer be taking anything for granted the way I now realise I did.

How does it feel to hear the idea of returning to some normalcy?

We can’t wait! We can finally start getting our new EP out there!

What plans have you got for 2021?

We’ll just be pushing the new EP out there as much as possible and playing as many shows as we can again.

Do you have any message for the bands or artists who are still in lockdown/quarantine?

Just try use them time as wisely as you can whether it be writing, preparing for a release or even if you just need bait of break or I suppose ideally do bit of all of the above.

What message do you have for the people who are going to read this interview?

Just please check out our new EP ‘Heart, Mind & Hell’ we’re incredibly proud of how it turned out and all of the hard work has paid off, it’s got bit of something for everyone on it and we look forward to meeting more people at shows!

Interview by Radu Mihai