Monday, November 8, 2021

OUT OF THE CHUTE - Winterkill Band


Good morning, everyone!
We are back with Kristian Montgomery and the Winterkill Band.

Before we get in to today's interview, I'd love for you to take a minute and head over to the Boston Music Awards website. Scroll to the bottom where you input your name/ email/ city/state then you'll see the categories available. You can vote for various categories Please vote for Winterkill Band for Country Artist of the Year.

Okay, now let's see what's new that would put him in this auspicious nomination. 

Open the Chute!

 

It’s been just over a year since your last album, ‘The Gravel Church’.  You’ve relocated to Wallingford. How’d that come about and how are you settling in?

Actually, it's been 8 months since I released my 2nd album "Prince of poverty" I sold my boat and moved from the shore to the mountains of Vermont. I worked on the ocean for many years and after realizing that I could never afford a home there i decided  to put down roots elsewhere and the music scene here is amazing. I have a band of great musicians and working hard to promote my 3rd album "A Heaven for Heretics "

 

Let’s talk about this new album, Heaven for Heretics. What was your overall concept when choosing songs?

My daughter is married to a woman and today's world has become tolerant to individual choice more so then ever before in the states. Hemophilia is a thing of the past if you have more than a 3rd grade education and looking back it’s an odd feeling to think that these normal things were ever taboo in the 1st place. This record was for those people who lived on the Periphery, the artists and trendsetters who were once looked down upon. This album is our little slice of Heaven.

 

There’s a southern rock groove to this album. Different from The Gravel Church. Is it safe to say you’ve mellowed a bit?

I haven't mellowed, I've evolved I suppose. I made this record with the intent to show off more influences and to incorporate different musical eras of my past. I've learned to show hints of retro but add a modern touch to these songs in a way that I think people will find unique and real.

 

A Heaven for Heretics has 10 great tracks. If there were one that best emulates Kristian Montgomery, which one would it be?

Come carry weight with me is about my passion for the sea and everyday life on the ocean. My brother was diagnosed with cancer and this song was written with him in mind as he too is salt obsessed.

 

Last time we chatted you said you were burnt out? As I listened to the tracks, I could feel flames licking at the soul, especially on ‘Family Owned’. Have you rekindled a flame?

Absolutely, I was recognized with a nomination for the New England music awards this year. I didn't win of course as I've never been a big scene guy but getting recognized was cool but losing to a some of the mainstream artists lit a fire in me. This albums(A Heaven for heretics) is about being on the edge of the scene walking the fine line between art and still being marketable. Its important to me to make art not propaganda or background noise. I want the sounds I produce to reflect on life, real life that's hard, dirty and often disappointing and try to find the beauty in it

 

I can’t help but think your style is perfect for film. Have you thought of pursuing that avenue with your music?

I have tried but it seems like the folks with half the talent and drive but who are members of the upper class always get chosen for such honors. They tell me they don't accept unsolicited material so I have to find a sugar momma in the industry to bridge that connection.

 

Word on the street you’re looking for new bandmates. Can you give us a bit about the qualities you’re hoping to find in new team members?

Great people and players. I'm having some luck here in Vermont finding a band and slowly putting the people in place.

 

I’m really excited for this album. If you wanted folks to come away from your music with one thought, what would that be? That they felt me, that it was real and I wish they'd carry it home with then and make it part of their life.


In the mean time, here's a laid back video from his most recent release - Secret Watering Hole


We'll be back tomorrow with a review of his upcoming album - A HEAVEN FOR HERETICS




Country Blessings
~ Kelly




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