Behind the Music: An Interview with Geordy Shallan from No Kings

Image by Katherine Seibert of Curious Kat Photography.

I had the opportunity to do a Q&A session with Gerody Shallen, the lead singer of No Kings. We talked about his musical path, his band No Kings, and his personal hobbies and interests.

AA:  I would love to hear more about your background and personal journey. Could you tell me where you grew up and how your upbringing influenced your values and perspectives? Additionally, I’m curious about your cultural heritage and how it has shaped your identity. What specific experiences or milestones have particularly impacted forming who you are today? Your insights will provide a deeper understanding of your unique story.

GS: Happy to dive into that! I moved around a fair bit when I was young, but I spent

middle school and high school in San Diego. I went to a high school that was

known for having a specialty arts program, as well as for having a huge naval

presence due to its proximity to a few bases. Growing up in the midst of two

communities like those, which often have diametrically opposed opinions,

becomes a huge catalyst for seeking out your own opinions.

GS: In that type of environment, you have to be able to back up what you say, so

there’s really no use in being anybody but yourself, and no use in holding true to

anything but what you fervently believe. It’s definitely a big reason I don’t fear

confrontation or debate in general, as well as the reason I’m always so intrigued

by the opinions of others. I fiercely believe most people want to be good, but it’s

also, so easy to be misinformed.

GS: My cultural heritage is pretty simple, actually - both sides immigrated to the US in the early 1900s, and I’m ethnically Scottish and Jewish. Being from a household of two different cultures wasn’t too crazy, but it did mean a lot of additional holidays and history lessons. Oh, and a lot of memories tied to drastically different food. Scottish shortbread rules, and so do latkes. There’s definitely

some dicey moments where I dealt with instances of anti-semitism or being told I

“wasn’t Jewish enough”, but like I said earlier, I’m not one to fear confrontation,

so those encounters didn’t really drag on. I’m proud of the families I come from,

and both sides taught me to be kind and accepting, but to never be afraid to

stand up for what you believe in.

GS: It’d be really hard for me to name every milestone that’s impacted my current self

greatly in a timely manner, but I think there’s definitely a few worth noting! When

my first “real” band’s music debuted on Alternative Press’ Facebook was a huge

one, finding out that a No Kings show was someone’s first show was big too,

getting Davey Havok from AFI’s approval about making music when I ran into

him at a goth club was life altering, and I think I’d also have to go with when I

adopted my dog, because he’s taught me empathy, responsibility, and

unconditional love in a way I will forever be grateful for.

AA:  I'm eager to explore your musical journey in depth. Could you share a specific moment or experience that ignited your passion for music? I’m curious about what led you to commit to this path sincerely.

GS: There’d be 3 that really ignited it - watching my grandfather, who’s a folk and country guitarist and singer, play was the first spark. My dad showing me American Idiot by Green Day got me obsessed with listening to and exploring music, especially if it had high energy, or thought-provoking themes about stuff like politics or religion. Then in middle school, when I beat Guitar Hero III for the Nintendo Wii, I realized I needed to start playing and writing music. From there, writing and performing have been what have brought me the most joy in life, and it’s been a journey of nothing but passion and love.

AA: Is there a particular musician whose creativity and life story has greatly influenced your decision to pursue music? Did their narrative inspire you to take the leap and form your band? Please describe how their journey and artistry have shaped your musical path.

GS: In terms of creativity and pursuing music, definitely, it’d be either Billie Joe Armstrong from Green Day, Bill Kelliher from Mastodon, or The Rev from Avenged Sevenfold. They all write incredible songs with incredibly unique songwriting styles; they’ve never been afraid to tackle hard subject matter, like Armstrong’s writing on politics, Kelliher’s writing on his mother’s death, or The Rev’s consistent themes of writing about the afterlife until his own untimely passing.

Image by Katherine Seibert of Curious Kat Photography.

AA:  I am eager to delve deeper into the story of your band, No Kings. Can you share the unique journey that brought each of you together as a collective? What pivotal moments or experiences acted as turning points, helping you forge a strong bond and operate as a cohesive unit?

GS: No Kings started out as a rebrand of a separate project I’d created, but as the sound shifted, it became a fully different band altogether, with new members and a new name. When that happened, Syd, our bassist and the only other founding member of the band, joined. She’d previously been in the band I’d started years prior, and when we had the opportunity to work together, we jumped at it.

GS: From there, our guitarist Zach joined about a year later, who quickly became an integral part of the band and our sound, as well as swiftly becoming a close friend. Following that, our dear Felipe, the newest member with a penchant for jumping on unstable structures during performances, joined after seeing us play a show in 1720 in the middle of last year. Then we hit the ground running, doing everything from shooting music videos in ice cold industrial warehouses to playing shows in 114-degree weather. That’s left us where we are now, a group of friends playing shows, making music, and making the worst jokes you’ll probably ever hear along the way.

AA:  Additionally, I would love to hear about the inspiration behind your band’s name, “No Kings.” What led you to choose this name, and what meaning does it carry for each of you as individuals as well as for the group as a whole?

GS: Initially, I presented it to the band as the concept of not letting anyone or anything rule your life, that it’s up to us to take care of ourselves and our communities, because the people in power couldn’t seem to care less. Since so many of our songs deal with either socio-political issues or emotional turmoil and growth, it felt extremely fitting.

GS: It was also an accidental reference to Bioshock - I originally wrote down the title years ago when one of my best friends was playing Bioshock Infinite after I lent it to her. In one of the first scenes, there’s a banner that says “No Gods, No Kings, Only Man” or something like that, and for some reason, that middle part really stuck with me. Not enough for me to remember it was from Bioshock originally somehow though, apparently.

AA: How do you find inspiration for your lyrics, and what does it feel like to perform your creations in front of an audience?

GS: Usually, it’s lived experience, whether it’s mine or someone close to me. Often I try to channel it through a unique imagery, like the dystopian violence of our song Red, or some type of literature, like the Faustian picture painted in our song Mephistopheles. I always elect to have the lyrics come from a place of personal honesty, even if it’s channeled through a drastically different aesthetic.

AA:  I am genuinely excited to dive deeper into the music your band has released so far. Each single you've put out tells a unique story, and I'm particularly interested in understanding the motivations and experiences that inspired them. I would love for you to explore your relationship with each track in-depth, including the creative process behind them, the emotions they evoke, and any personal anecdotes that influenced their development.

GS: I’m not sure when this interview is coming out, but at this point, I believe our sole single from the new release is Sisyphus, which is an unique song in the sense that it was written over two years ago, in a writing format I rarely utilize these days. Normally now I write the lyrics and a chord progression together and build a song around that as a uniform piece, but Sisyphus was a way different story. I wrote the instrumental as a love letter to some of my favorite bands growing up, bands like Killswitch Engage, Atreyu, In Flames, and Trivium. The lyrics I wrote completely separately, but as I was forming the melody for the song, I realized that the rhythmic cadence of the lyrics matched what would be the first draft of the song. Then everything was tightened in the recording process, and here we are today, with a full song.

GS: It’s a song that’s ultimately about two things, recognizing that the only decisions you can make are your own, and that no matter how much you care about someone, their choices are theirs to make.

GS: It’s about a friend who thinks the worst of themselves, so they continue to put themselves in the worst possible position, because they think it’s what they deserve. Try as you will with someone like that, and they’re still only going to make changes when they’re ready to. Though that sounds pretty dark, it’s very much a song that’s meant to highlight that no matter how dark it gets in life, you always have the choice to try to turn it around, that people care about you, and that you can get through whatever you’re going through.

https://youtu.be/F56CTp9JUB4?si=HB9LnZjVeS4nwkXU

AA: What is it like to be your band's lead vocalist, primary songwriter, and booking agent?

GS: Busy! Very busy. But that’s something I take pride in. I’d always rather be busy than bored, if given the option. I’m literally always writing songs and bouncing ideas off the guys, and they’re such good sports about it.

GS: Booking as a DIY Metalcore act is odd, because some people are so excited to work with you because of their love of the scene, and some won’t give you the time of day because you don’t have 100,000 monthly listeners - but it’s always worth it, because playing shows with your friends and engaging with the awesome community is one of the best parts of the human experience.

AA: Could you share your experiences and challenges in balancing these three roles?

GS: Being the lead singer and songwriter is a very easy balance, but booking and management requires me to access a separate part of my brain, so switching into that mode is a fair bit harder. 2024 was easier on me because we elected to take the year to focus on recording our new release and play less shows, but now that we’re in a new year, with releases having already begun, and a handful of shows already booked, balancing becomes harder. The nice thing is that I know that all of it leads to the something I love, so I make it work.

GS: That, and I’m so thankful to my bandmates for handling other avenues of what we do - Syd handles merch and is stellar at it, Zach maintains so much of our live stuff, from tones to cable management, and Felipe is always trying to find business opportunities like endorsements or partnerships.

AA: What three standout qualities make you truly exceptional as a singer?

GS: Normally I try to stay pretty humble about that kind of stuff, because I think there’s a lot of amazing talent out there, and I’d rather lift people up with my commentary than talk about my own talent. That being said, I can definitely say I’m proud of the fluidity between singing and screaming vocals, the distortion and power I’m able to add to my singing, and my range, which I constantly work to maintain control of and grow to its full potential.

AA: I would like to explore the behind-the-scenes elements of the production process in greater depth. Specifically, what vocal techniques and innovations did you integrate to elevate the overall auditory experience of each song?

GS: I don’t think there were necessarily any “innovations” to what we did, it was just a combination of using high quality gear and working with a producer we trust to get the best out of everybody in the band, myself included. Besides that, I double track all of my lead vocals as tight as possible, which is pretty standard in Rock and Metal, and I track additional octaves and harmonies for vocal parts wherever we feel they’ll benefit the song - sometimes that means they’re barely in a song at all, and sometimes that means almost an entire song has harmonies.

GS: I’m a quality over quantity guy. If you can’t give a solid performance of a well written vocal, adding a billion layers really isn’t going to help.

AA: When evaluating the vocal aspect of a song, beyond just performing the lyrics, what particular technical skills must you employ with your voice to attain the intended sound in the final version?

GS: That’s hyper specific to the type of vocal and how it fits into the greater arrangement, so it’s kind of hard to answer that without specifics. In general, though, you always want to make sure that you’re relatively even in terms of volume when possible, so tools like vocal compression are integral. Not hardware compression, which it often gets confused with when I mention this stuff, but rather your own regulation of your volume and power when vocalizing. Obviously, there’s also tone placement - you don’t want to belt the quiet part or fry scream the mixed voice part by accident.

GS: Ultimately, if you’re a vocalist, you have to be hyper aware of your body and energy, as that is your instrument.

AA: Can you recall the details of your very first live performance?

GS: Honestly, no - I think it was maybe in elementary school as part of a class thing? Possibly middle school? Nothing all that exciting, I think it might’ve been for a fundraiser for the public school I was going to.

AA: Describe the setting, the crowd’s energy, and the anticipation leading up to that moment.

GS: I would if I could, but I barely remember it. I got into music and theater and the arts in like 7th grade, which was definitely after whenever my first time on stage was. Perhaps a bit of a letdown, but I’d rather be honest, you know?

AA: What were your thoughts and feelings as you stepped onto the stage, and how did it impact you both during the performance and afterward?

GS: Knowing me at that point in my life, I was probably thinking about food, as most of those school events had free food of some sort after the main event. I can’t say that the first performance had a big influence on me - but I know that I was on air during a telethon in like 5th grade cracking jokes, and I got the host to break down laughing from one, so that was pretty rad.

AA: Please tell us about any upcoming projects, tours, or collaborations you look forward to. I'm eager to hear what you're most excited about and any details you can share about these initiatives!

GS: Happy to! We’ve got 6 more songs that’ll be coming out this year, ranging from the heaviest Metalcore track we’ve ever written to our first attempt at a softer song, and everything in between. Outside of that, I can’t talk about tour specifics just yet, but I can say we’ll be playing regionally a lot more this year, including our first time in the bay area, which I’m incredibly excited for.

AA: If you were presented with the incredible opportunity to open for any band or embark on a world tour, which bands would you choose to join on this exciting journey, and what specific reasons drive your passion for touring alongside them?

GS: That’s a list that could easily be hours long, but my top 10 would probably be Avenged Sevenfold, Killswitch Engage, Alexisonfire, Mastodon, Bring Me The Horizon, Trivium, Bullet For My Valentine, Cane Hill, Beartooth, and Gojira. With bands like Spiritbox, Breaking Benjamin, Malevolence, and In Flames right behind them. All those bands had a massive influence on the new music we’re releasing, as well as most of them influencing me a lot from childhood onward. Without them, No Kings wouldn’t exist in its current form, so opening for any of those bands, learning from them and showing our gratitude, would be such a huge honor.

AA:  What are some of your all-time favorite songs to perform live, and what makes them so special for you?

GS: Right now, probably Sisyphus because it’s the newest and people seem to be enjoying it a lot, Red because it’s the heaviest and gets people moshing, and Rusted because it’s the one that people sometimes know the lyrics to, and seeing people sing along to your song is one of the coolest things ever.

AA: Can you share a funny or interesting behind-the-scenes moment from a music video shoot or recording session?

GS: In the pre-production demo of one of our new songs, there was a dog barking in the background of a vocal take, and Syd got so used to it, that when she heard back the final mix, she was convinced something was missing for 3 days, and didn’t approve the mix until she realized that was why.

Image by Katherine Seibert of Curious Kat Photography

AA: Can you share a funny or embarrassing moment from a live performance that stands out in your memory? Perhaps a time when something unexpected happened on stage or a slip of the tongue turned into a hilarious moment? I would love to hear about the atmosphere, the audience's reaction, and how you or the performers handled the situation!

GS: In our first show of 2025, I slipped on a random wrench on stage and Zach’s pickup fell out of his guitar midway through a song within 5 minutes of each other, that was pretty wild. The audience laughed it off with us and we got right back on with the performance. These things happen, it’s part of life!

AA: If you could collaborate with any musician, dead or alive, who would it be and why?

GS: Probably the Rev from Avenged Sevenfold, as he and Billie Joe Armstrong were the two people who inspired to start writing songs. A chance to work with and learn from him would be game changing.

AA: Can you advise musicians on dealing with rejection or setbacks in their careers?

GS: Sure - I think the simplest way to put it is that if you give up now, when things are bad, that’s it, you’ll never see the good part, there’s no chance for it to get better. But if you keep going, things can only get better, because now you know better, and you have an even better idea of what you need to do to get to where you want to be.

GS: The bad makes you appreciate the good. Life is a complex journey, enjoy the ride when you can - allow yourself to feel the bad emotions, but don’t let them control you.

AA: Share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and explain why.

GS: Well, AJ Minette, my college guitar professor, laid the foundation for my success in what I love by teaching me proper technique for guitar, the foundational principles of composition, and the basics of recording and mixing music. I owe him so much and I can’t thank him enough.

GS: Brendan Collins too, the producer for our new release, he’s a close friend, but he never lets that cloud his opinions or keep him from unadulterated honesty on everything we worked on. He firmly believed in my potential and held me to the highest standard as a vocalist and songwriter, and for that I am so grateful. Oh, and he was also one of AJ’s students - years before I was, but still crazy to think about.

GS: Oh, and Syd. Being in a band with one of your closest friends who accepts you on your best and worst days is something I am so so grateful for. That goes for all the dudes in my band, but she’s been there since day 1, so I gotta give her special props for that.

AA: What are your favorite movies, and why are they significant for you? Is it the story, the characters, the visuals, or something else that resonates with you?

GS: It changes a lot, but growing up it was Jurassic Park, Wayne’s World, and stuff like Van Helsing or Underworld. I’ve always been a fan of unique concepts, dark aesthetics, and layered humor. These days I love stuff like What We Do in The Shadows, Tucker and Dale vs Evil, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent, or Werewolves Within - I love absurd concepts and horror comedies because they make you question the absurdity of life in between laughter, and you often end up thinking deeply in a way that still leaves a smile on your face.

AA: Which TV shows do you look forward to watching? What captures your attention in these shows—perhaps the surprises, character development, or the overall quality of production?

GS: Oh man, there’s a lot - whenever I do vocal and guitar practice, which is most days, I usually have something on in the background, sometimes new, sometimes old. As of now, What We Do In The Shadows - the show, Demon Slayer, Supernatural, Hell’s Paradise, Castlevania: Nocturne, Wednesday, Preacher, Evil, Dad Da Dan, Make Some Noise, Gamechanger, Delicious In Dungeon, Doctor Who, Aunty Donna’s Big Ol’ House of Fun, any of the Channel 5 stuff, AP Bio, Invincible, and The Boys. Stuff like Gamechanger and Make Some Noise are definitely intriguing for the surprise and production quality, but I enjoy how all of the shows I mentioned examine the human experience, whether that’s through the lens of comedy, adventure, absurdity, fantasy, or otherwise. That and I’m a sucker for good character development too, I suppose.

AA: What books do you enjoy the most, and what makes them special to you? Is it the writing style, the themes they explore, or the emotions they evoke?

GS: I’m currently reading Joe Trohman from Fall Out Boy’s book, which has been cool! I tend to read more business books than books for pleasure in the past few years, but “None Of This Rocks”, Trohman’s book, has been a welcome departure from that. I’ve always been a fan of candid honesty in storytelling, it’s relatable and you learn a lot from that, which I think is why I’m enjoying it so much.

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

GS: The Riffhard and Unstoppable Recording Machine podcasts with Eyal Levi are great if you want to learn about recording and songwriting from some of the best in Rock and Metal. I used to curate events for URM, and Eyal’s a good guy. Oh, and the Downbeat with Craig Reynolds! I love Stray From the Path, Craig’s band, and he’s easily one of the funniest people in music. It’s a goal of mine to be on both of those podcasts.

AA: I want to know about your favorite bands or music artists that you like. I’d also like to hear about your most memorable concert experience. Please share details about the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

GS: I’ve talked about a good chunk of them so far but I’ll spout off a bunch of my favorites: Killswitch Engage, Avenged Sevenfold, The Human Abstract, Adestria, Alexisonfire, Bring Me The Horizon, Green Day, Alkaline Trio, Bad Religion, Bleed From Within, Mastodon, Three Days Grace, My Chemical Romance, Issues, Trivium, Architects, Paleface Swiss, Parkway Drive, Bullet For My Valentine, Cane Hill, System of a Down, Dragged Under, Beartooth, and Gojira, Khemmis, Spiritbox, Dying Wish, Spiritbox, Thrice, Breaking Benjamin, Alice In Chains, Malevolence, Sylosis, Bilmuri, In Flames, Fall Out Boy, and Loathe.

GS: Man, that was a lot, but I like a lot of bands. But, as you can probably tell, it’s very much Punk, Metal, and Metalcore for the most part.

GS: As for my most memorable concert experiences, the first time I got to pick a show, I saw Green day, when I was like 11, and that was life altering, even if it was a huge amphitheater show. I was with my family, and I quickly realized that I loved shows more than most things. Otherwise, seeing Avenged Sevenfold pretty soon after The Rev died - that was such a viscerally heavy show. Not musically heavy, but more in the sense that you could tell everybody there was mourning an icon. It was the first time I’d seen a concert be cathartic for so many people.

AA: What does success look like to you?

GS: Success looks like being able to make comfortable money solely from music, No Kings being at a point financially where we can consistently make music and tour how we see fit, and where our message of catharsis and community are spread far and wide to the people who need to hear it.

GS: Oh, and playing some DWP festivals and Download. Those are more bucket list items for me though.

AA: How do you define happiness in your own life?

GS: I don’t, I try to embody it. Taking too much time to define an emotion tends to lead to an endless cycle of overanalysis for me

AA: Can you take some time to reflect on your personal experiences with mental health?

GS: Sure, my approach has always been introspection and therapy, when I can manage that. I think of therapy more like the equivalent of a personal trainer for your mental health, so I go when I can fiscally manage to. In that time, I’ve tackled issues like anxiety and past trauma, and I highly recommend taking that route if you’re able - we all struggle, whether we like to admit it or not.

GS: Having music as an outlet obviously helps quite a lot with any mental health struggles too.

AA: Consider how these experiences have impacted different areas of your life, such as relationships, work, and personal growth. What specific insights have you gathered through these moments?

GS: It all works out, one way or another.

AA: Additionally, how have you managed the challenges you face with mental health? Share any strategies, coping mechanisms, or support systems that have played a role in your journey.

GS: Like I said earlier, introspection and therapy - being honest with yourself and your loved ones is really the only way forward.

AA: What insights would you share with others your age who are grappling with mental health challenges?

GS: If you’re approaching 30 and struggling with mental health, there’s no day like today to address it. The best way to start healing is to, well, start. Otherwise, it’s going to be more of the same until you start working on yourself.

AA: What hobbies or pastimes do you find particularly enjoyable when you’re not immersed in your music? Are there specific activities that allow you to unwind and express yourself differently?

GS: I livestream on Tiktok, I livestream on Twitch with my dear friend Reed Sights, I’m a huge coffee guy, I go to a lot of shows - concerts, comedy shows, and plenty of other stuff. That and I like finding new spots for food or drinks with friends when I have the time. I pretty much always wind down with my dog, sometimes playing acoustic, usually by watching TV or a movie though.

AA: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?"

GS: We’re all in this together, we might as well learn to act like it. Take care of yourself, and take care of your community. If we all did that, we could be in a much better spot than we are now. That, and go listen to my band No Kings please. I hear we’re pretty cool, apparently.

AA: We appreciate Geordy Shallan from No Kings for kindly sharing him story and interests with us.

Image by Katherine Seibert of Curious Kat Photography.

Please access the Beacons link below to find detailed information about No Kings and Geordy Shallan.

https://beacons.ai/nokings?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYVWcYq2bx_VdSRORsSUyJfvdZo4RmDNC_d-aK01jEsszRqNTIb7GvSSdU_aem_IbH_iLW7Ju-8j2HTsAoSDw

*** All images are by Katherine Seibert of Curious Kat Photography and, unless specified otherwise **

Behind the Pages: Exploring the Mind of Ravi Gandhi Author of Red Pill Rhymes & Hope in the Black Hole

I recently led a Q&A session with Ravi Gandhi, the author of "Red Pill Rhymes & Hope in the Black Hole." We explored his artistic journey, key moments in his poetry career, and his experiences as a writer, including the challenges and successes he has faced. Ravi also offered insights into his personal interests and hobbies, emphasizing their influence on his work. I hope you find this discussion as enlightening and inspiring as I did.

Amit Ahuja: Please share your background with us. I'd love to learn about where you're from, your upbringing, and how your cultural heritage has influenced who you are today. Also, what significant life experiences have played a crucial role in shaping your identity?

Ravi Gandhi: I was born and raised in a small town in Ontario Canada to East Indian immigrants parents. I attended elementary school as an ESL student, as my parents only spoke Gujarati at home. This experience of having to assimilate and make friends with a language barrier was important. It may have even been my first initial appreciation of language. In fact, it’s one of the reasons I am a teacher now, because of all the hard work educators put into teaching me English. I always share this story with my own students and show them a picture of me in Grade 1 with my tiny ESL group, children of all backgrounds. This gives our many new to the country students hope, and a

role model for future success.

Amit Ahuja: Could you share more about the specific type of educator you are? For instance, do you specialize in a particular subject area, such as

Ravi Gandhi: I teach grade 5 language. Normally I would teach all subjects but have taken half time to pursue writing a bit more. I have taught Grades 2 all the way to 7 in my career, but for the past few years it’s been Grade 4 and 5 mainly.

AA: I remember you mentioning your role as an educator, and I’m intrigued by your journey. I would love to hear more about your experiences and what has shaped your path in education.

Ravi Gandhi: I think being an average student, with ups and downs, including some really terrible marks in specific subjects in high school that make me cringe, it gives me better perspective on students. Those students that perhaps struggle in certain areas, I can absolutely relate to them a bit better because of my own struggles. I kind of fell into teaching after volunteering at a local school, and being excited about the creativity within lessons. To be able to get kids enthusiastic about learning in unique ways appealed to me.

Amit Ahuja: How does poetry contribute to the educational experience you offer your students? In what ways do you incorporate poetic forms, techniques, and themes into your teaching methods to enhance their learning and creativity? How do you believe engaging with poetry can influence their critical thinking, emotional expression, and appreciation for language? Would you share examples of specific activities or discussions that highlight the impact of poetry in your classroom?

Ravi Gandhi: I truly love teaching poetry to my students every year. What’s interesting is that so many of them have really no prior experience with it than maybe the previous grade. So when I introduce someone like Shel Silverstein, many have no idea who he is. I grew up reading Shel Silverstein and so it’s such a joy to bring his work into the classroom. Once I show them poetry doesn’t have to be about roses, or sound so robotic, that you can be silly and slightly dark with the words, they really get into it. Also helping them understand that singing, spoken word, and hip hop are also forms of poetry, opens their mind to possibilities.

Amit Ahuja: Now: What specific experiences or pivotal moments ignited your passion for becoming a writer, and how did that journey evolve into writing poetry? Were there particular events that left a profound impact on you, overwhelming emotions that you felt were difficult to express, or influential individuals, such as mentors or fellow artists, who significantly shaped your path as a poet? I would love to hear about the moments or encounters that first captivated you about this art form and inspired you to explore its depths.

Ravi Gandhi: Most times, when we look back on how we arrived at this juncture or path, it’s either an experience or a relationship to someone, or a combination of both, that alters trajectory. For me, it was about 8 years ago now, where my life was full of anxiety and depression. Life came to crashing halt when at one point I had lost 40lbs over the course of a few months and couldn’t sleep for 3-4 days in a row. I curled up into a ball in my house and had no hope.

Ravi Gandhi: Somehow, I had found the will to get up and start finding answers beyond prescriptions or temporary fixes. With a combination of taking time off work, understanding root causes and using personalized functional medicine, I realized one key thing that was missing in my life was my writing. Which I had abandoned for decades because of the daily hustle and bustle of life. I had written as a child often, short stories and even just definitions of words from the dictionary, but I suppose I found new hobbies and such, not realizing writing itself was not just a hobby, it was my livelihood. This was the self-realization I had over the course of a few years on my path to self-healing.

Amit Ahuja: Additionally, how have these influences evolved, and in what ways has poetry not only become a vital part of your creative expression but also an outlet for your thoughts and feelings? What changes have you noticed in your writing style or themes as you grew and matured as a poet?

Ravi Gandhi: My writing had certainly evolved. When I first started back to it during my adulthood, I quite enjoyed short stories and prose. Ironically, I never really enjoyed poetry. I found it fragmented and fractured and didn’t understand it. Once social media took off, I was reading Insta poetry and scoffing. Mainly out of jealousy that no one was reading my blogs or longer form writing, they were choosing these snippet bits of emotion posted online. So, I started writing insta poetry almost out of spite. When I first joined Instagram, I was writing witty and playful word poems almost half joking about the artform. This got some traction, and I quickly I had something. I continued writing and eventually, the themes evolved to satire, politics, heartbreak, mental health, etc. Stuff I really just needed to get off my chest and express. Once I started reading some of the greatest poets of all time, like Frost, Rilke, Mary Oliver, Whitman, etc, my writing took another turn. These writers really did feed my soul, and so I went deeper personally, and in my writing.

Amit Ahuja: How do you typically start the process of writing a poem? Do you have a specific routine or method that you follow? You begin with a particular theme or emotion or draw inspiration from nature, a personal experience, or even a line of dialogue you overheard. Do you find yourself jotting down random thoughts or images before shaping them into a structured form? Additionally, do you have any favorite techniques or prompts that spark your creativity at the outset?

Ravi Gandhi: I have a notebook beside my bed but find myself jotting notes or texting myself words all the time when inspiration strikes. This could be something I think about on a car ride, or after reading a piece of writing that really makes me take pause. I start writing poems at 5am in the morning until about 7am. This is the closest people will get to dream state, and for, the best time for creativity. Once I made the shift to become a 5am writer, the words have continued to pour out ever since. It’s quiet, no devices, the world is asleep so to speak. I never ever throw any pieces out. Sometimes I circle back to poems that at the time, just didn’t work for me, only to finish and expand upon later.

Amit Ahuja: I would love to hear about some of your favorite poems that you've written. What themes or emotions do they explore, and what inspired you to create them?

Ravi Gandhi: It’s hard to say which is my favorite. I’m constantly learning and shifting. We all are. And the poems represent a certain moment in time. I suppose I really enjoyed a poem called ‘Everything in Between’. I take pride in writing pieces that don’t sound like other authors. I wanted to write a love poem that didn’t sound like a love poem from that traditional sense. The overly mushy over the top writing that sure some people enjoy, but other’s get repulsed by. So in this particular write, a man is looking out onto a beach and just seeing the ugliness humanity, in everything. The food the people are eating, the consumerism, etc. But it speaks to the wild thoughts the person has that he thinks the worst things about anything and everything. Nightmarish in a way. Only to be interrupted at the end by his love, who kind of nudges him from this daydream on the beach. He looks into her eyes and realizes her happiness is all that matters. But it reslly highlights my own struggles of anxiety and overthinking, and where a mind can wander. All those tiny moments. So again, it may not sound like a love poem while reading it, but by the end, and I love twist endings, the reader realizes it is. Even with all the madness of the world, that one person and love supersede all.

Amit Ahuja: What inspired the concept of a "truth seeker," and how does this idea translate into the creation of thoughtful and evocative poetry? I’m curious about the process of exploration and discovery behind these poems and how the pursuit of truth influences the themes, emotions, and imagery woven throughout the verses.

Ravi Gandhi: Over the past 5-6 years our world has gone through some wild changes. One of the biggest changes that I found extremely detrimental was an attack on our free speech in Canada. Laws and actions were put into place during pandemic that really highlighted government overreach. I wanted to write a book that would serve as a beacon of hope against such tyranny. But truth seeker goes beyond just what is being hidden in our society, it’s about finding true purpose and soul. So while Red Pill Rhymes does touch upon some politics, government, dystopian themes. It does have an underlying messaging of searching within, and of hope.

Amit Ahuja: What is the book "Red Pill Rhymes"? What is it about, and what can readers expect from it?

Ravi Gandhi: Red Pill Rhymes is a collection of poems and rhyming stories that takes the reader down a journey through the inner workings of the mind and soul, eventually arriving at a truth and awakening about themselves and the world. It is the shedding of identity, and self-realization of how to overcome challenges, while blowing the lid off our own perceived realities. Very honest in its tone, Red Pill Rhymes touches upon topics such as anxiety, trauma, spirituality, politics, creativity, government, media, and much more. It ultimately asks of the reader one key question...'are you awake?

Amit Ahuja: How do you think poetry nurtures impactful dialogues across diverse cultures? In what ways does it serve as a powerful catalyst for confronting urgent social issues, amplifying the voices of those often marginalized, and igniting essential conversations?

Ravi Gandhi: I think art unites us all, and so poetry is simply another leaf on the same branch or tree of humanity. Much like music, or painting, poetry too acts as a bridge for us to get to learning more about ourselves and others on a deeper level. Past the level surface and skin.

Amit Ahuja: I have an exciting challenge for you! I’m going to give you two words: “hawk” and "obedience." Your task is to create a poem inspired by each word. Let your creativity shine and have fun!

Ravi Gandhi: On a branched resting place, lies an ease in the storms of unknown, wings wet so i preen them. scanning, anticipating prospects in the medium- wanderers don’t test gale winds for immediate. so i wait, for visions within my third eye median. stillness will not be mistaken for dull or tedious, nor my self-control, as some form of obedience. for just like patience, is part of a falcon’s genius, discipline can be both foresighted and expedient. peregrinus

Amit Ahuja: What valuable insights, tips, or inspiration would you offer fellow poets and writers looking to enhance their craft and find their unique voice?

Ravi Gandhi: Read. Read, and read, and read. When you’re done, read more. My writing really elevated after I read the greats. This includes writers not even in the genre like Orwell, Chiang, Murakami.

Amit Ahuja: What is your perspective on the belief that poetry represents a true form of artistic expression? In what ways does the intricate use of language, rhythm, and imagery in poetry elevate it to an art form? How does poetry move us, evoke deep feelings, or capture the complexities of human experience and thought, allowing us to connect with the essence of life itself?

Ravi Gandhi: I firmly believe poetry is just one other way to listen and speak to your soul, or something beyond. The rhythm and imagery is like meditation. It doesn’t matter what the theme or topic is in, we have an innate calling to express. And writing is one of those ways. I think this is why people appreciate it. Readers will understand that the author is tapping into something extremely personal and perhaps even divine.

Amit Ahuja: What valuable advice would you offer to someone who is just beginning their journey into the world of poetry? Are there particular techniques, inspirations, or resources that you think would help nurture their creativity and refine their skills as they explore this expressive art form?

Ravi Gandhi: I do highly recommend being consistent when writing. Daily practice. Some writers prefer late at night, I like the mornings. But either way, write every single day. Beyond reading regularly, I would also jump on social media and make some friends. There’s always little contests you can enter that are free online. Instagram does have a lot of poetry accounts that have prompt contests, and that’s an easy way to challenge yourself as a writer but also get some exposure.

Amit Ahuja: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

Ravi Gandhi: Film has a large influence in my writing. Some of my favorites are The Matrix, Fight Club, and Interstellar. I like all of these films because they challenge perception and beliefs. Not only that, they challenge the viewer and command attention. These films have deep meaning, and really do lend to watching multiple times. I want my writing to have those layers, where a reader can interpret the poem multiple ways after reading it a few times.

Amit Ahuja: As you reflect on your journey as a poet, which of your poetic creations fills you with the most pride, and what makes it stand out for you?

Ravi Gandhi: The poetic creations that fulfill me the most are poems that show my own evolution as a human.

Amit Ahuja:  Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke?

Ravi Gandhi: This list is constantly changing. Like week to week. Last week I swear my favorite book was Mary Oliver’s American Primitive, and now I’m all about that Robert Frost life. A month ago it was it might have been Rilke’s Book of Hours, and before that The Prophet. As for novels, I think Fahrenheit 451 still is on tops for me. It’s such a wide array of themes and emotions felt in all of these books, from fear all the way to the peace felt from God.

Amit Ahuja: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

Ravi Gandhi: Some of my favorite bands are Radiohead, Sigur Ros, and Odesza. I’ve been lucky enough to see all of them live. The Radiohead concert was especially wonderful because I wasn’t sure if they would ever come back to Canada again, and it had been a decade or so since they last performed here. All these bands have such an interesting sound. Sigur Ros is an Icelandic band, and while I have no idea what they’re saying, it doesn’t matter. We talk about how poetry transcends, so does music. I can feel something that stirs me when listening to these bands.

Amit Ahuja: What are some activities you enjoy doing in your free time?

Ravi Gandhi: When I’m not writing, I love getting into nature, walking, jogging, working out, and being in community.

Amit Ahuja: We appreciate poet Ravi Gandhi for kindly sharing his story and interests with us.

Poet and Educator: Ravi Gandhi

Please access the Linktree below to find detailed information about poet Ravi Gandhi

https://linktr.ee/rkgandhi?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabax-Cv1RFD5Z82Q7rmcVXg_wUNlrhIqi_wZCizljHeloyseJg0slVGLxg_aem_QhYNo9Y2trp0z4MPxbWCUg

*** All images are by Ravi Gandhi, unless specified otherwise **

Unveiling the Musical Journey: An Interview with Bass Player Lindsay Manfredi of Cold

I recently had the exciting opportunity to engage in a Q&A session with Lindsay Manfredi, the talented bassist of the band Cold. Throughout our conversation, we delved deep into her musical journey, discussing her early influences, the experiences that shaped her as an artist, and her role in the band. In addition to music, we explored some of her personal hobbies and interests, which added another layer to our dialogue. I believe you will find this insightful discussion both informative and enjoyable!

AA: Please share your background with us. I'd love to learn about where you're from, your upbringing, and how your cultural heritage has influenced who you are today. Also, what significant life experiences have played a crucial role in shaping your identity?

LM: I grew up in a very religious household, where everything was about serving God. There was a lot of fear and judgement around God, and I always felt like it was all bullshit from a very young age. This belief caused me to rebel in just about every way you possibly could. My escape was music.

AA: I am eager to explore your musical journey in depth. Could you share a specific moment or experience that served as the catalyst for your passion for music?

LM: The music of the 80’s and 90’s shaped me as a kid. I went from dancing to Debbie Gibson, Madonna, and Milli Vanilli to being a teenager of the 90’s. I immediately fell in love with Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Hole, Tool, and Soundgarden. I remember smoking weed with my friend Krista after school at her house and just sitting in front of the speakers of her stereo and dissecting the music, hearing every part in perfect detail. I would picture myself onstage playing. That vision actually started when I was very young in the 80’s as I listened to my favorite Debbie Gibson songs. But when I first heard Hole and Courtney Love, I knew what I wanted to do. I started playing my dad’s Alverez acoustic, learning chords from a Mel Bay chord book and started writing my own songs.

AA: I’m curious about what led you to make the decision to pursue this path seriously.

LM: I constantly wrote and constantly played. I moved out of my hometown at 20 years old to start a band and play music. I was working in the tattoo industry as a body piercer after having done an apprenticeship. That career allowed me to get a job anywhere I went. I ended up moving to Tampa at 21 and that’s when I put my second serious band together and did my first studio recording. I was always the front girl and played guitar. In 2003, I gave up on music after that band broke up and moved back to Indiana. I had my trans son and got my degree in Comm Arts and Business. I figured I’d go into marketing. I got married and that’s when my then husband bought me a bass. We put a band together and I fell in love with the instrument. That was in 2006. We ended up divorcing, but I never stopped playing.

AA: Additionally, what challenges did you encounter along the way, and how did you navigate them?

LM: The music industry is tricky to navigate. I’m so grateful I got back into music. I never knew if I would “make it” per se. I just knew I loved to play and tour. I was in many bands before Scooter hired me for Cold.

AA: It would be great to hear about the specific steps you took to transform your passion into a successful career in music.

LM: The key here was being in the right place at the right time. I was a huge Cold fan from the very first album. I saw them open up for Kid Rock at the Metro in Chicago and immediately was drawn to them. That was before I even moved to Florida. When 13 Ways came out, I got the spider tattooed on my arm. It was also featured in the Year of the Spider album. I happened to be playing bass in a band called Picture Yes, and we were on tour with Saving Abel. A Cold fan was there and saw my tattoo. It eventually got back to Scooter and that started my journey with them in 2014. I honestly just never gave up on playing. I was touring the country in a van, and I was living my best life.

Cold Bass Player- Lindsay Manfredi

AA: Can you share the names of the bands you were a part of prior to joining Cold?

LM: The first band I was in was called No Strings Attached, aka NSA, then a band called 33 because that was my favorite Smashing Pumpkins song (that was in Gainesville FL), then a band called Pretty Machine Gun (Tampa), then We’re Not Mexican (Indianapolis), then Neon Love Life (Indy) and Picture Yes (Indy), Chasing the Sun (Indy), and then Cold hired me.

AA: Additionally, I'd love to know what experiences you gained from those earlier projects and how they helped you enhance your skills and grow as a musician once you became a member of Cold.

LM: Practice, practice, practice.

AA: Can you walk me through how you initially got involved with Cold as their bassist player? What factors influenced your decision to join this band and its various projects?

LM: I immediately said yes to Cold.

AA: Additionally, are there specific experiences or memorable moments from your time with them that have significantly impacted you or shaped your musical journey?  

LM: Every tour is an incredible experience. I love our fans and the cold army, and I love my bandmates. We all have such a mutual respect for one another, as artists and humans. We are very lucky in that regard.

AA: As a bassist, what are your favorite songs to perform live, and what significance do these songs hold for you?

LM: Some of my favorite songs to perform live are Ocean, Don’t Belong, Whatever You Became, Insane, Anti-Love Song and With My Mind.

https://youtu.be/tEJe4RiuHsU?si=PwW-luqkN_6IEa8D

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1H6NGScDv8I

AA: What makes these particular pieces stand out in your experience as a musician?

LM: These pieces stand out because they’re very bass driven. Most Cold songs are, but these are some of my faves.

AA: Could you provide some behind-the-scenes insights into your role as the bass player during the music creative process?  

LM: Scooter is the main writer and creator in the band. We get to add our flair, and I got to help write Better Human. I wrote the chord progression of the chorus. My job is to serve the songs. Whatever sounds best is what we do.

AA: What specific techniques or approaches do you use to enhance the music? We would love to hear about your experiences and how you collaborate with other musicians to bring the songs to life!

LM: It’s all about working together to make the songs sound their very best. Cold is very dark and grungy. So that’s the sound I go for. I achieve it with my Dark Glass Alpha Omega preamp.

AA: Can you recall the details of your very first live performance? Describe the setting, the crowd’s energy, and the anticipation leading up to that moment. What were your thoughts and feelings as you stepped onto the stage, and how did it impact you both during the performance and afterward? I’m sure I was nervous.

LM: I’m sure I was nervous. I’m always nervous for the first week of tour, but then we typically get into a good flow.

AA: Can you share a funny or embarrassing moment from a live performance?

LM: I once was playing a show and forgot the bass rhythm. I walked to the side of the stage and pretended to have a gear issue until I was able to recall it. No one ever knew, and I was immediately able to get back in it. I’ve shared that story on a few podcasts. It was years ago, but it’s still funny when I talk about it.

AA:  What three standout qualities set you apart and make you genuinely exceptional as a guitarist? Please elaborate on each quality, providing specific examples of how they contribute to your unique style and proficiency in playing. I don’t consider myself of “great” guitarist.

LM: I do what I do humbly and practice nonstop leading up to tours. My job is to serve the song. Not myself.

AA: How do you personally define and visualize success in your life?

LM: Success to me is living in alignment with purpose. I’m very spiritual and believe we are here to love, serve, and find what makes our soul ignite.

AA: What specific achievements, feelings, or milestones come to mind when you think about what it means to be successful?

LM: Being asked to be in Cold was a huge milestone for me, along with publishing my first book Unfuckwithable: A Guide to Inspired Badassery in 2020. I am currently working on my second book while preparing for this tour. I’ve been working on it since I got back from my spring tour in 2024.

AA: How would you describe the concept of happiness in your life? What specific experiences, relationships, or achievements contribute to your sense of joy and fulfillment?

LM: Happiness is a gift you give yourself. It’s a choice. My priority to myself and commitment to my own boundaries and what I want to accomplish are the things that are important to my happiness. And a good night’s sleep. And sobriety. All those things.

AA: Share three individuals who have significantly influenced your life, positively or negatively, and explain why.

LM: There are too many people to mention here. Some of my key teachers have been the late Dr. Wayne Dyer, along with Dr. Joe Dispenza, Gabrielle Bernsein, and Mel Robbins.

AA: When it comes to movies, what are some of your all-time favorites? What is it about these particular movies that resonate with you? Is it the storytelling, the characters, the cinematography, or something else?

LM: One of my all-time favorite movies is Garden State. The soundtrack is incredible. I also love horror films and thrillers.

AA: As for TV shows, which ones do you find yourself eagerly tuning in to? What about these shows captivates you—could it be the plot twists, character development, or the overall production quality?

LM: I love so many shows. Some of my favorites are OA, Sense 8, Handmaid’s Tale… I love a great story

AA: Regarding books, which ones are at the top of your list? What makes these books stand out to you? Is it the writing style, the themes, or the emotions they evoke? I’m always reading.

LM: Most of what I read is personal development, but I love a good graphic novel.

AA: Which podcasts do you highly recommend and why? What sets these podcasts apart from others, in your opinion? Do they offer valuable insights, entertaining content, or something else that keeps you hooked?

LM: I am a regular listener of Lewis Howes School of Greatness, Mel Robbins, and I love Marc Maron WTF.

AA: I'm interested in learning about your favorite bands or music artists that you're passionate about. Additionally, I'd love to hear all the details about your most memorable concert experience - the atmosphere, the performance, the venue, and anything else that made it special for you.

LM: My favorite bands and artists are Manchester Orchestra, Dead Poet Society, Taylor Swift, Gracie Abrams, Banks, Sir Sly. I love so much music, and it is all so different.

AA: Could you delve into your experiences with mental health and share how those experiences have influenced and shaped various aspects of your life? I'm particularly interested in specific moments or challenges, how you've navigated them, and the lessons you've learned.

LM: My mental health is very protected these days. I have a small circle of people who add so much magic to my life. I spend a lot of time alone. Peace is very important to me, and I place that above anything else.

AA: If you had a different career path, what would it be, and what motivates you to choose it?

LM: I am an author and a life coach. So, my life is as diverse as it can be. I would like to get into speaking more, and I plan on starting a podcast this year after the book is done.

AA: What experiences or passions drive you toward this alternate career, and how do you envision it aligning with your values and aspirations?

LM: I write every day, and I do all the small habits daily toward the big picture. I take time to create my life in my mind and body and take the necessary atomic habits toward those things every single day.

AA: What's your strategy for networking and forging connections in the vibrant world of the music industry?

LM: I don’t have any strategies for this. I’m not a dick and don’t have an ego. I think that’s the best strategy in dealing with anyone every day.

AA: How do you stay motivated and focused on your goals during times of uncertainty or change?

LM: I have complete faith in the Universe that everything is always working out for me no matter what. My motivation is in my ability to let go and focus on what I think about and project. I believe everything in this Universe is energy based. You attract what you are. I believe completely in the Law of Attraction and Abraham Hicks. Change the way you you look at things, the things you look at change. It’s all about emotional intelligence and knowing who you are and the power you have to create the life you want to build.

AA: What hobbies or pastimes do you find particularly enjoyable when you’re not immersed in your music? Are there specific activities that allow you to unwind and express yourself differently?

LM: I am very active. I work out or move my body every day. My sobriety is very important to me. So, I do everything I can to be in healthy environments to take care of my health.

AA: In addition to your talents as a bassist, you are also a published author, which is quite impressive! I would love to hear more about your book, “Unfuckwithable: A Guide to Inspired Badassery.” Could you share the inspiration, the themes you explore, and what readers can expect to take away from your insights?

LM: That’s all in the book. I’d highly recommend reading it.

AA: I recently discovered your impressive, handcrafted candles, Inspired AF, and was intrigued by your work. Candle-making is such a fascinating craft! I'm curious to know what inspired you to start this journey. Could you share a bit about how you got into candle-making? What challenges have you faced along the way, and what have been some of the most rewarding moments in your experience?

LM: My best friend was making candles and taught me how to do it. When I came off tour in 2019, I told her I wanted to create a Cold candle. When it completely exceeded all sales expectations, we knew we were onto something. We ended up doing candles for Motley Crue and Jonathon Davis. Then Covid happened and it was a perfect way to pass the time. I’ve been doing candles for almost 6 years now. And decided to brand the company in 2022. That’s where Inspired AF came in, and here we are. I absolutely love creating them. I’m working on growing that company as well.

AA: If you had the opportunity to sit down with your 18-year-old self and share some wisdom, what advice would you offer? Are there particular experiences or lessons you knew earlier that could have shaped your journey differently?

LM: I don’t think I’d do it any differently. I’ve had so many amazing experiences, lessons, wins and failures and each of them has made me who I am today. I wouldn’t take back anything. As I’m in my mid-forties, I am more focused than ever on my mental health. I’m learning to love and accept myself and speak my truth even more than I was able to a year ago. With life comes wisdom. Everything is in how you choose to see it. I choose to see everything as something for me, whether things stay in my life or leave. The Universe always has my back.

AA: How do you stay inspired and motivated during creative block or burnout?

LM: There are times I'm not inspired or motivated. I have learned that in these times, I can relax. I don’t always have to be doing something. It’s okay to rest and binge-watch a show and take it easy. There is a time and place for everything. When you manage to stay in Source alignment and in love with everything you are and that’s around you, magic happens. I listen to my heart and my body and live in loving energy.

AA: What message would you share with everyone if you had the world's attention for five minutes?"

LM: The key to happiness and fulfillment stem from the inside. Self-love, self-acceptance, and self-worth are key here. And it takes determination and practice. Taking time to learn, move your body, meditate and create with love will help you manifest so much. This is all covered in my book.

AA: We appreciate Lindsay Manfredi from Cold for kindly sharing her story and interests with us.

Cold Bass Player- Lindsay Manfredi

Please access the Linktree below to find detailed information about Cold and Lindsay Manfredi.

https://linktr.ee/LindsayManfredi?utm_source=linktree_profile_share&ltsid=33bb656e-1311-4685-9a7a-329885de18a8

Be sure to catch Cold live in concert this spring as they commemorate 25 years of "13 Ways to Bleed OnStage" and 20 years of "A Different Kind of Pain."

Purchase your advance tickets at the link below:

https://tix.soundrink.com/tours/cold

*** All images and videos are by Cold and Lindsay Manfredi, unless specified otherwise **