After their 2018 demo and debut EP, Cleveland post-hardcore and noise trio BRAIN CAVE haven’t dragged their feet, releasing a record each and every year. So here we are today with their sophomore album “Foot Off The Gas”. The band being far too confidential, I had no choice but to chat with their drummer Matthew Ducey to learn more about the best-kept secret of the American noise-rock scene. Here’s a selection.
Brain Cave is a recent band, as you put out your first demo in 2018. I guess you already knew each other and played in various bands before. How did you guys meet and how did you start the band?
Matthew Ducey (drums): Josh (Snyder, bass) and I first met back in 2006. We were both in different bands that played shows together. Then, in 2017, I met Mike (Bellis, guitar & vocals). We were both working at a restaurant, and our conversation about music led us to decide to collaborate. I can’t recall exactly who suggested it, but in the fall of 2017, we started experimenting with ideas. Eventually, we brought Josh into the mix because I knew him and admired his bass playing. He hadn’t been playing for a while, so we invited him to join, and the rest is history.
When I hear about Cleveland, I instantly think Lebron James, the Cavs, and the Browns. I have never heard of a band from your city before, but I am glad you have now put it on the musical map! Has the rock scene just started being active there, or is it something that was already there but not put in daylight until now?
M.D.: Cleveland has a rich musical history with notable bands like Integrity coming from here. While we’re not strictly aligned with the hardcore punk scene, we’re involved in various projects adjacent to it. Cleveland’s music scene offers a diverse range of bands, which we enjoy playing alongside. We appreciate the opportunity to share bills with our friends who are experimenting with different sounds. It keeps things fresh and exciting for us.
I discovered Brain Cave through the split EP with Knub, and after listening to your previous records, I noticed a slow but impressive evolution. You started with a sound close to anything the noise rock scene has to offer, but with “Foot Off The Gas” you have developed your interpretation and a distinctive sound. Was it planned strategically, or do you see it as a natural development in the Brain Cave’s overall creative process?
M.D.: Our band has never had a concrete plan, but that doesn’t mean we lack vision. We continually push ourselves and evolve based on what we’ve enjoyed or learned from previous experiences. During the 2020 pandemic, we dedicated time to working on our first full-length album, which helped us refine our sound. Over the past few years, we’ve honed our craft, and I believe we’ve become the best version of Brain Cave we can be. As long as we maintain this drive, we’ll continue pursuing our musical endeavors.
From what I understand in the lyrics, you seem to be very disillusioned about the society we live in. Can you tell me more about what you want to address to your listeners?
M.D.: Regarding lyrics, Mike is the primary songwriter, and we trust his creative process entirely. His lyrics often reflect on his place in the world and contemplate whether he’s part of the problem or the solution if there even is one. His unique way of speaking, characterized by invented or shortened words, permeates our songs, adding depth and originality.
Let’s talk about the creative process within the band. Is it a full collaboration based on jamming, or one of you is leading the songwriting process?
M.D.: Our songwriting process is collaborative and organic. Some songs on our new record originated from spontaneous moments that we later developed into full-fledged tracks. Other times, one of us brings a riff to the table, and we collectively refine it until it fits our vision. We’re receptive to each other’s ideas and constructive criticism, prioritizing the quality and enjoyment of our music above all else.
From my point of view, signing to the Ghost is Clear Record is a step towards more exposure. But it remains a very DIY one-man venture, and even with my big respect for their catalog, it seems that we are not close to seeing you in Europe shortly. Prove me wrong and tell me you will cross the pond to crush our ears soon.
M.D.: Working with small labels has allowed us to maintain direct communication and trust with our partners. While touring Europe would be an exciting opportunity, logistical challenges and financial constraints require careful consideration. However, we’re open to possibilities, especially if established bands invite us to join them on tours. Currently, we’re focused on upcoming shows in the United States and are eager to explore new territories and connect with audiences.
Last question is a fun one. If your music was a dish, what would be the secret ingredient to make it that explosive?
M.D.: As for the vegan dish, I’d suggest incorporating chickpeas. They’re versatile and protein-rich, fitting well with our band’s ethos of adaptability and exploration. Whether blended into hummus, fried for crunchiness, or transformed into falafel, chickpeas embody our willingness to try new things while staying rooted in our identity. So, plenty of chickpeas would be my choice.
Far from having taken their foot off the gas, the Ohio trio demonstrate that they are in total control of their music, embracing the best of both post-hardcore and noise rock worlds: crafted melodies, chiseled and razor-sharp riffs, raw and punishing vocals. A band the late AmpRep Records would have immediately endorsed as their new standard-bearer!
New album “Foot Off The Gas” out now on The Ghost Is Clear Records and Head2Wall Records. Find BRAIN CAVE on Bandcamp, Facebook and Instagram.
Last modified: 9 October 2024
