Music Q&A with Ben Disaster of Real Sickies
Photo courtesy of Real Sickies
Canadian punk rockers, Real Sickies, released their latest album, Love Is For Lovers, earlier this month via Stomp Records! Vocalist, Ben Disaster took some time to answer some questions about the album, his earliest musical memory, what he misses about touring, and more! Love Is For Lovers is available everywhere now!
Congratulations on the release of your new album! With the album discussing subjects such as tour life, friendships, relationships, addictions, and more, what does this album mean to you?
Hey thanks a lot!!! I feel this album represents the side of of the band that never wants to give up. I feel it might have been easy to just say after the many hiccups “let’s call it”. But I felt it was important to share the hard work and efforts of everyone involved. It represents that if you work through hardships and maintain vision, you’ll eventually see your way through. Like all relationships, it takes work.
Who has been your favorite band to tour with?
Ahh that’s a tough one, I mean just in case any of the bands read this, I wouldn’t wanna make anyone feel left out lol. I think our short jaunt with Subhumans UK was a great learning experience and over all amazing life experience.
What artist/band are you a fan of that would surprise people?
William Prince maybe? I don’t know? His voice is amazing and song writing and lyrics, they really paint a picture. So maybe that…it’s hard to say. People like music for different reasons. Sometimes it’s just gotta hit at the right moment of life.
What is your earliest musical memory?
I think when I was camping as a young boy, I stormed the stage and sang a song I made up about bears wearing underwear. I still remember the melody. Music has been around me since birth, the typical east coast kitchen parties really. Though I did get in shit thinking you played guitar by twisting the tuning pegs…my uncle wasn’t happy about that one lol.
If you had a chance to interview any of your musical heroes, who would it be and why?
Maybe Olga from The Toy Dolls just to find out what the Sphinx actually smelt like.
This last year has been hard for bands and music fans because tours didn’t take place. What’s one thing you've missed about touring?
I think the biggest thing is running into and meeting like minded people. When you’re kinda stuck in one area and even not really being able to see friends, etc.. all you see are the people in the markets shopping being rude to people. For a while, it felt like I couldn’t really relate to anyone outside my household. So yeah, meeting people and knowing there’s a better world out there really.
What helps you stay positive?
The little things really. A lady bug is a smile. One stick is a great stick, a broken stick is two great sticks. I’m a bit of a Pollyanna though, I still recognize the hardships of things, but look for the bright side. Someone once spilled their coffee they bought on their car. Sure it sucked for them, but at least the car was awake.
Any last words or final message for the readers?
Take time to try and listen to the ones close to you. Understand we are all trying and learning as we go.
Real Sickies on social media and on digital streaming platforms:
Facebook | Instagram | Spotify | Bandcamp