ASkySoBlack, a Philadelphia-based band known for their blend of shoegaze and post-hardcore, are preparing for the release of their debut album Touch Heaven later this year via New Morality Zine. The band have recently released its lead single, Boy Like A Bruise. In an interview with bass player Norman Staley, we explore the equipment used, the songwriting process, and their preparations for the upcoming tour.
When asked about the bass used for the new album, Norman Staley shared, “For the new album, we ended up using a Warwick bass which we actually used on the last EP, ‘Autumn in the Water.’ Not sure if it’s the same exact bass, but a similar model. So for me, when I saw Adam (shoutout Timber Studios) had one at his studio, I was definitely down to use it, being somewhat familiar with how they play and sound. Every time I’ve got a chance to play a Warwick, it always sounds massive. I think it definitely adds to the metalcore/post-hardcore type of edge we have. I always want a tone that cuts through the mix enough while still covering the low end of things.”
“Using that heavier style and tone really makes us kind of stand out as a band.”
Norman, who isn’t particularly gear-obsessed, explained his simple setup: “I play like a $200 Dean that I got from my uncle when I was like 14 and just stuck with it ever since. It’s got one pickup, a volume, and a tone knob and that pretty much does it for me,” he laughs. “Definitely took care of it over the years but it’s been through a lot. I’ve pretty much kept the same setup I had when I was playing in heavier bands with my Microtubes head and Alpha Omega pedal. Since we all kind of come from a heavier background, I think using that heavier style and tone really makes us kind of stand out as a band.”
Discussing his approach to writing bass lines, Norman said, “Pretty much just start with the root notes and see where I can pop out. I try to play for what I think the song needs. Definitely always learning. Especially with this genre of music where I’ve been listening to stuff like this forever, but never really playing in a band like it. With every song and every trip to the studio, I try to learn as much as I can and apply that to the next thing we do. The heavy parts are very natural to me. It’s all the other stuff I never got to play in a heavy band that feels a bit foreign but it’s also super exciting to get to write.”
On how Boy Like A Bruise sets the tone for the album, Norman remarked, “I think ‘Boy Like a Bruise’ shows off that we are still bringing the heavy side from previous releases while also showing that we have some softer parts coming up throughout the album. Definitely feel like it’s a good indicator of how the rest of the release will go.”
The song’s message is left open to listener interpretation: “Crank it in your car and how it makes you feel is what it means. What the listener takes from the song is just as important as what we intended when writing it.”
With an upcoming tour, Norman expressed excitement about bringing new music to life on stage. “Definitely going to be playing newer songs that I think will bring more energy and movement to the set that was much needed in some of our older releases while still playing the older bangers. I think you can expect a lot more movement from us on stage because of that. The shows this summer are going to be super fun to play. We have a stacked tour lineup so there’s a little bit for everyone on all sides of the genre. A whole lot of energy, a whole lot of vibes.”
ASkySoBlack will be touring the United States with Soul Blind and Stand Still. All dates are listed below.
