Who are we chatting to and what do you do in the band?
Trajan, guitarist/backing vocalist for CITY|OF|SOULS. Handsome guy, far left of stage.
Who are your biggest influences?
In the early days I used to be all about thrash metal and the Big Four. I must have watched Metallica live in Seattle ‘89 every day of high school. My later musical years were more chill. I draw a lot of influence from bands with anthemic songs like Deftones, Alice in Chains, Thrice, and A Perfect Circle.
What do you love about making music?
You’re in control of setting the vibes. You get to tailor songs, parts, and layers in ways that cause people to feel, and then you get to take that music and share it with likeminded people all over the world. Music is life.
What drew you to progressive music?
Growing up, my dad would crank ELP and Jethro Tull on vinyl. My brain would start to trickle out of my ears trying to pick apart all the instruments and layers.
If you could travel back in time and show one of your musical heroes your music, who would it be and why?
I would have loved to hang out with Brian May in his early days. He seems like a very down to earth guy with an incredible mind. Either him or Jim Morrison. I’d just be interested to see what he had to say, provided he wasn’t peaking and about to shank me.
What can a punter expect from your live show?
Loud, good vibes. Performing is where we really come alive. This is CITY|OF|SOULS’ first time in Australia, so we are most definitely going to bring the party.
Catch City of Souls at Progfest on Saturday January 26 in Melbourne, Sunday January 27 in Sydney, and Monday January 28 in Brisbane. Grab your tickets here.
