(Photo Credit - Mannequin Online)
We had the opportunity to interview rising alternative group Mannequin Online! They talked with us about their background, influences, and their upcoming music video! Check it out!
1. How did you come to pursue music and how long have you been at it?
Zach - Since I was 9 when I got a hand me down Dean acoustic. I took one lesson and asked the instructor to teach me Toxicity by System Of A Down and he never returned for any more lessons after that so I just taught myself. Since then I've been slowly learning new instruments and trying to improve all around.
Bridget - I've been singing as a hobby for as long as I can remember and started playing guitar and bass when I was around 9 or 10 I'd say? All I remember for sure, timing-wise, is that I participated in the 5th grade talent show with a very tiny and adorable Sheryl Crow cover.
2. Could you walk us through your process of writing music?
Zach - It varies, but typically it starts with a melody, a lyric or some kind of musical hook and then I explore/experiment from there until something concrete starts to form.
Bridget - I write lyrics mostly, and that starts with a couple phrases I jot down in my phone or my notebook. Then when it's time to put it to music, I pick one of the phrases I like and elaborate on it. I'm an excellent procrastinator so I pretty much just do that as much as possible.
3. What artists have inspired you in your career?
Zach - When I was a kid it was mainly The Ramones and David Bowie, also anything that was on the Tony Hawk Pro Skater soundtracks. Those artists still play a heavy role in my inspiration but lately I've been inspired by Dominic Fike, Sasha Sloan, GDragon, Jr Jr and Coconut Records, especially according the my Spotify recently played.
Bridget - I grew up listening to stuff on the heavier end of the spectrum and I think a lot of those influences have stuck with me. Artists like Bad Religion, Bauhaus, Primus, Suicidal Tendencies, TSOL, and lots of hair metal. These past few years, though, I've really begun to embrace and explore pop music and light rock. I can say I've recently been really inspired by Taylor Swift's Red album, an amazing Korean artist called Heize, and some classic Radiohead.
4. Do you have any favorite music gear (guitars, amps, effects pedals, keyboards, etc.) that you love to use? If so, what’s the story on them?
Zach - I've been loving just about everything about the Line 6 Helix. I usually don't put to much emphasis or thought into gear as I'm incredibly indecisive, but this thing rules.
Bridget - I'll always have a special place in my heart for the Fender Precision Bass. *heart eyes*
5. Can you describe the vibe at your live shows? Also, what do you enjoy most about a venue when you do a show?
Zach - We just have a lot of fun playing our songs, although we have only officially played live once (you can find a clip of it on our youtube so please like/comment and sub) it was for one person who was filming it for us BUT they gave us two thumbs up so take that as you will.
Bridget - Yeah we've yet to fully explore our live shows but we have so many exciting things planned. Zach has such a great stage presence and we both have a soft spot for unique fashions and immersive aesthetics. I promise when shows happen, they'll be intriguing.
6. What is one thing that you want the public to know about your music?
Zach - Mannequin Online marks a lot of firsts for me, one example being its my first time producing. I've been learning so much from my talented producer friends over the last decade so I finally wanted to give it a shot myself.
Bridget - We're having so much fun with it and really exploring genre limits and pushing ourselves. I want the public to know that we truly have something for everyone up our sleeves and that we're going into this whole project equal parts unafraid and excited. The music really reflects that, so make sure to check us out if you're looking to let go and enjoy.
7. Do you have any upcoming projects you would like fans to know about?
Zach - I'm the worst hype man of all time but just know that I've never been more excited about the art we're creating and I can wait to show it to everyone. Also we have a music video for "I Remember" coming very very soon!
Bridget - Yeah the "I Remember" video was such a treat to film and it's gonna be so beautiful. We had the best crew on the planet and lots of snacks from Trader Joe's which is very conducive to a positive work environment. Please look forward to it!