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.

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 **

Behind the Music: An Inside Look at Altamadum with Guitarist Cam Thomas

AA: I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Cam Thomas from Altamadum. We talked about his music journey, the band, and his hobbies. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

AA: We would love for you to share your background with us more. Please tell us about your origins—where you were born and raised, the environment you grew up in, and how your family traditions and cultural heritage have shaped your identity. Additionally, we’re interested in any significant life experiences that have profoundly impacted you. How have these moments influenced your values, beliefs, and who you are today? Your story is important to us, and we are eager to learn about the unique aspects that have contributed to your journey.

CT: We were all born and raised in Thunder Bay Ontario, Canada. Our environment Definity helped shape our unique and original sound. Our different back grounds and experiences are heard within our music, as we are inspired by art, people, experiences, and our environment. For myself (Cam – Lead guitar), I have a very broad musical taste, and this has helped inspire different genre influences and styles within our music. We all have different inspirations and beliefs but that’s what makes our band so dynamic.

AA: I find your musical journey captivating and would love to explore it in more detail. Could you share the specific moment or pivotal experience that ignited your music passion? What elements of that moment resonated with you deeply and made you realize that this was something you wanted to pursue?

CT: I knew that I wanted to pursue the guitar the moment that I put one in my lap. I loved the way that it felt and saw it as a challenge that very quickly became a healthy obsession. This paired with the passion that was ignited by my old school friend, Tommy Wong and my Dad’s passion for music and rides in his truck listening to different artists, helped me explore new sounds and understand who the different bands and players were.

AA: Additionally, I’m curious about the challenges you faced along the way. Were there obstacles that tested your dedication or would-be setbacks that made you reconsider your path? How did you navigate these challenges, and what strategies or steps did you take to transform your love for music into a successful and fulfilling journey? Your insights would be incredibly inspiring!

CT: I think that any band who is passionate about what they do and is together for any considerable period faces challenges and creative differences and we are no exception to this rule. I think the most prevalent is when people either don’t like a song or are super critical about what we do. We side-step this by believing in what we do to the point where it completely overrides and negative criticism. The other obstacle would be differences of opinion within the band. We have a solid respect and way of communicating with one another that we have built up over the years. This helps not step on each other’s toes when it comes to making creative decisions.

AA: Is there an artist whose music and life story have significantly impacted your decision to follow your passion for music? Their struggles, successes, or unique perspectives inspired you to take the bold step of forming your own band. I would love to hear how their experiences and artistry influenced your musical journey. What specific aspects of their story resonated with you, and in what ways have they shaped your approach to music? Your journey sounds fascinating—please share your insights!

CT: Artists who made the biggest impact on me early on were players like Jimmy Page, Slash, Alex Lifeson. Lifeson from Rush was probably the most impactful as a young Canadian boy from Ontario. He made everything seem attainable and within reach. I really enjoy watching music documentaries to find out more about artists, but I don’t necessarily get as involved in their personal struggles, as I like to interpret the music by itself and let their art resonate with me separately. Now, any artist has the ability to impact me, as I am the most openminded towards music that I have ever been, as long as it has depth and layers.

AA: Could you provide an in-depth look into your band, Altamadum? I'm intrigued by the journey that led to your group's formation—what were the pivotal moments or experiences that united you all as a collective? Additionally, I'd love to hear the story behind your band name "Altamadum" and its significance to you.

CT: It started when Brendan and I hit those first notes and understood that we have a unique musical chemistry together. In grade 10 science class, we were trying to come up with an original band name, which proves to be one of the hardest tasks any band is called upon to do. Brendan came up with a large list of names. Some were great and some were awful. Of the bunch Brendan had written, “Ultimatum” was included in this list. I thought that must have been used before (It was), so I took an eraser to the title and switched it to something unique and different, “Altamadum.” This name was fitting for us as we were aiming to be the antithesis of anything that was happening in the local Thunder Bay (Ontario, Canada) music scene at the time. This proved to be a good choice as it allowed us to be original and creative and set us apart as a distinct entity, not only locally but eventually internationally. Shortly after, we asked James Cole to be included in the lineup, followed by Russ Elder, and most recently, Dre Mollicola.

AA: How many members make up the band, and what distinct roles does each individual play within the group's dynamic? It would be enlightening to understand how each member's unique contributions and talents enhance the overall sound and identity of Altamadum

CT: We consist of 4 musicians and 1 producer – Cam (Lead Guitar), Andrea (Dre) Mollicola (Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar), Brendan Byers (Drums), James Cole (Bass), and Russ Elder (Very Most Senior Executive Producer, as he likes to be referred to lol). It differs each time but for this latest album, it usually started with a riff idea from either Dre or I and that begins the creative process. We all build from that one initial idea. There have been other times that I have had fully composed pieces of music that I brought to the studio for the others to hear and add their ideas to. There is even one song on the forthcoming album that Brendan wrote the drum composition for initially. The continuity is the most important part of any album that we make, and we all play a crucial role in ensuring this. If something doesn’t make sense, we either alter it or swap it for something new that does.

Band members: Brendan Byers (Drums) Cam (Lead Guitar), James Cole (Bass), Andrea (Dre) Mollicola (Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar) and Russ Elder (Very Most Senior Executive Producer

AA: how would you characterize your music? What influences or themes do you explore in your work, and how do those elements combine to create your distinct sound?

CT: Altamadum is a blend of many different musical styles, most prominently rock/hard rock/alternative. Our influences can range anywhere from 1950s and 60s music, all the way to modern day music. We have carved out our own signature sound and style over the years, both through writing and performing original music. In the early days, this was primarily under the influence of our rock heroes and those who inspired us. Like most bands in early development, we learned and included a lot of covers in our set lists. Through this process, we were able to build something unique and special that is our very own.

AA: Could you provide a more in-depth exploration of your latest single, "No One In the Sky," which you released last year? I'm genuinely intrigued by the inspiration and narrative that shaped the single. Please share your connection to this track; what emotions or life experiences influenced their creation?

CT: “No One In the Sky” was an instrumental idea that I had from years ago. This was placed in our vault and I wasn’t sure if we would use it. I ended up re-examining it and re-working it and it became (more or less) the completed version. This inspired Dre to write lyrics. He ended up creating an honest and sometimes hopeless view that we all feel at some point in our lives. This song is probably one of my personal favorites on the forthcoming album, as it goes through different moods and is incredibly dynamic, both stylistically and in the overall production.

AA: Additionally, I'd love to delve into the behind-the-scenes aspects of the production process. What specific sounds and riffs did you incorporate to enhance the overall auditory experience of each song? What techniques, tools, or equipment did you utilize to craft the unique textures and atmospheres that characterize the music? Any insights into your creative approach and the technical choices made during recording would be greatly appreciated!

CT: Speaking to the writing process, we were able to collaborate in our studio more on this album than the past couple of albums, as we were able to share ideas and work together building each song out. We were intentional with how we approached the writing process and wanted to fuse our different influences together. An example of this would be on our single “Call to Me.” This was the first song that we wrote with Dre and has a good marriage of our signature style and Dre’s Pop Punk influences. We are very fortunate to have our Producer (Russ Elder) execute the actual production process. The studio helps us capture ideas and some of the ideas on this album were written and captured a few years ago so we were able to grab them from our “Vault” and add polish to them. This was a lot of fun as well. This album is one of our greatest achievements as a band, in terms of our discography.

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?

CT: Our first live performance as Altamadum was in our Highschool and consisted of James, Brendan, myself, as well as a few friends. There were approximately 300 people in attendance, and it was for a charity fundraiser called “Net 141.” This fundraiser assisted in the purchase of mosquito nets, assisting in the prevention of disease in Africa. We love playing shows like this because it’s for such a great cause! I remember being incredibly nervous for this show as we were 16 years old at the time and had never played a show as a band before. We Played 3 songs: “Sgt. Pepper” and “Revolution” (Beatles covers) and closed with the infamous “Free Bird.” This was a big milestone for us and the beginning of our discovery of our live personas.

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

CT: We have many haha! The one that always comes to mind is when Brendan threw his drumstick at our ex-singer’s ex-girlfriend’s head (tongue twister). The crowd was applauding after our final song, and she picked the wrong time to turn away from the stage. The conversation afterward was fun to witness LOL! Brendan said he watched the whole thing happen in slow motion as the drumstick left his hand.

AA: Could you tell me 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!

CT: We are going to release the 3rd single off of our forthcoming album this month (January 2025). The 3rd single is called “Living in Your Shadow” and will be released on all streaming platforms Jan 28th and the album titled “Through Darkness Through Fire” will be released on all streaming platforms Jan 31st. We are going to continue to release music videos and promo videos on YouTube/Instagram and continue our latest press run. We are currently practicing a new setlist for upcoming shows, this year in Thunder Bay.

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? Consider the musical styles, the energy of their performances, and how their artistry resonates with you personally. What unique experiences would come from collaborating and sharing the stage with these artists?

CT: If I had to speak for the whole group, I would say Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Tragically Hip, Green Day, Trivium, or any hard rock band from the 80’s. This is a tricky one as we listen to a lot of different music, but these are some of our influences (as a group) and that’s why we would select them.

AA: What does success look like to you?

CT: : This is a great question, as I know it’s different for most people. For us, success is when we get to share our music with people all over the world and they share how our music impacts them. We are fortunate as we currently get to do this, thanks to support from our listener and technology. When someone shares the impact that our music has had on them, it never gets old and is always a very humbling experience, as music has meant so much to us throughout our lives.

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

CT: Happiness is a state of mind that usually comes from finding joy and purpose in what we do. In relation to our music, happiness is finishing a song or album and getting to sit down and listen to it and having that “goosebump” feeling, hearing it together in the same room. At this point, we know that we have something special that we are excited to share with the world. It can also come in hearing the crowd sing our lyrics back to us and watch how our music moves them, in that particular moment.

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

CT: I enjoy many things! I enjoy Playing/listening to music, all lines of business that I am currently involved in, working out (weight training), travelling, spending time with my amazing family & partner (Chelsie) at the lake, being an Uncle to a gorgeous little girl (Lina), reading and drinking coffee (mostly philosophy, phycology, social science, and business leadership), video editing, playing Nintendo Switch and doing things around my house on weekend afternoons.

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

CT: Geez, these are tricky questions! There are too many people to name here, as I have been fortunate enough to have had many mentors in many areas of my live over the years but a few names that influenced me very early on (and still very much do) are my Dad, Mom and all 4 of my Grandparents. They laid the groundwork for who I have become today. They are all to thank and to blame LOL!

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?

CT: I am a big horror movie fan, but my all-time favorite movie is The Godfather I & II. I love everything about these 2 movies, and I think they are perfect in every way. I love the character of Michael and how Al Pacino portrays him. Goodfellas is also a personal favorite watch of mine. I like Rocky 1-4 because who doesn’t like an underdog story? For horror movies, I love The Exorcist and The Omen from the 70’s, all 80’s slashers are a guilty pleasure, and most modern horror movies.

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?

CT: My partner (Chelsie) and I just finished “What We Do in The Shadows”, which is a “turn your brain off” kind of vampire comedy. We are currently binge watching “Always Sunny in Philadelphia.”

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?

CT: I can’t select just one. I am currently reading “The Trail” by Franz Kafka and it’s quite good and thought provoking. I’m about to read “Crime & Punishment” by Fyodor Dostoevsky. I’m not sure that I could choose just one but “The Plague” by Albert Camus and “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell would be on my list. Gladwell is one of my favorite authors and he is a fellow Canadian! I have been leaning more towards the poetic philosophical authors (like Camus) lately.

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?

CT: I’m not a huge listener of Podcasts but I like “philosophize This” or any and all of the Podcasts that have featured us over the years. We have received tremendous support from all of these amazing podcasts, and we are incredibly grateful. People can find them/follow them, through our Instagram.

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.

CT: My favorite bands change daily. I’ll go with 3 that I am currently listening to, that are newer (All for different reasons) – Drab Majesty, White Lies and Architects. The most memorable concert experiences that I attended were probably Guns n’ Roses, Fleetwood Mac, Avenged Sevenfold and Tame Impala. The first 3 bands inspired me to take guitar playing seriously and Tame Impala was one of the better shows that I have witnessed, due to it being in London’s O2 Arena and the lighting/sound was phenomenal.

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

CT: Firstly, very flattered! I would say that I seem to have my own distinct style (so I’m told) that people seem to be able to pick out from other guitarists. I have been told that I have a good ear for melodies. I like to work with Russ to create a guitar symphony throughout most of our pieces. Thirdly, I listen to everything from Jazz to Metal Music, so I think all the styles seep into my playing, both consciously and subconsciously.

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.

CT: I used to deal with anxiety, and I think overcoming this and other obstacles has helped me see things differently and ultimately, helped my creative vision in some way. I will have to give this more though, as it is a great question that might take more reflection to gain an accurate answer that truly reflects this question correctly.

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

CT: I’m responsible for managing our Instagram and Public Relations for the most part. My strategy has been to network and meet as many people as I can, both virtually and in-person. I try to cast an image of the band that I am proud of and that the other members are proud of too. We have the benefit of the studio, editing equipment, photo editing software and the following that took us years to build. My biggest advice would be to market yourself as a band/artist that you would want to see, that currently isn’t completely represented. Uniqueness can sometimes be lacking from commercial radio so finding a way to merge the two, while keeping the art intact is a good strategy. It’s like the “Trojan Horse Method.” Find something that catches and let the rest of the work follow.

AA: Imagine you can step back in time and live in any historical period. Which era would you choose, and what draws you to it? Dive into the allure of the past and let your imagination wander!

CT: I would either choose the 60’s in England to experience the music scene at the time (British Invasion) or earlier to understand how language was created. Someone else answered this question with the latter answer and I thought it was a brilliant answer!

AA: If you were allowed to explore a completely different career path, what would it be, and what motivates you to choose? Consider the aspects of this new profession that intrigue you, such as the skills you’d like to develop, the impact you wish to have, or the personal fulfillment you seek. What experiences or passions drive you toward this alternate career, and how do you envision it aligning with your values and aspirations?

CT: I honestly don’t know, as I have had the luxury to explore most things that I am passionate about in my current career paths or past career paths. I might like to write a book at some point around an idea or topic, similar to the books I have outlined above.

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

CT: I usually take goals in bitesize pieces. “I work today, for my success tomorrow” is how I see accomplishing goals, meaning I am investing in myself and those around me so we can succeed tomorrow and beyond. I’m a very driven/motivated individual but on days that I’m not, I fake it. I have a clear vision for the things I want to accomplish, and I am willing to sacrifice as much time and energy as it takes to achieve all of my goals. I like impacting and inspiring other and this helps fuel me 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?

CT: I wouldn’t tell him anything except “Enjoy the ride - You got this, kid.” I wouldn’t want to divulge too much information that could change the trajectory of the path that I have created. I also know that I had to learn lessons through experience, and I wouldn’t want to deprive “Young Cam” of those experiences.

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

CT: We are fortunate, as we don’t have many creative blocks. We also use music as our escape, so we don’t often face burnout either. The best way to avoid burnout is usually to shift dates of release or reevaluate our order of priority on curtain items in flight.

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

CT: Life is too short to live it by someone else’s agenda or expectations. Today, we have the power and ability to influence and impact others. We shouldn’t waste this opportunity.

AA: We are grateful to Cam Thomas from Altamadum for graciously sharing his story and interests with us.

Please access the link below to find detailed information about Altamadum .

https://www.instagram.com/altamadum/

https://www.youtube.com/@Altamadum

*** All photos and video by Altamadum , unless otherwise noted **

Unveiling the Musical Journey: A Conversation with Guitarist and Podcaster Kyle Matovcik

I recently had the pleasure of engaging in a conversation with Kyle Matovcik, exploring his musical journey, podcasting adventures, political viewpoints, and hobbies. It is my hope that you find this exchange as captivating and pleasurable as it was for me.

AA: Please tell me about your background, where you're from, your upbringing, cultural heritage, and significant life experiences that have shaped who you are today.

KM: So, I was born and raised in Southwestern Pennsylvania in a small town called “Kinloch”. My mom and dad split up when I was pretty young, and my mom, older brother and I moved around quite a bit. My mom also had a myriad of health issues when I was a kid, so things weren't always ideal. I tend to think back on that and realize it really did shape a lot of the way I look at the world, and what I should be able to. That being said, I still tried to spend a lot of time with my dad. He bought me some Cds when I was a kid of Slipknot, Green Day, System of a Down, and my mom's boyfriend in my teenage years had always listened to Pantera and Metallica, so that really shaped who I was musically.

AA: Tell me about how your musical journey began.

KM: My musical journey probably started off like a lot of kids in the early 2000s. I was in band in elementary school for a few years, my grandfather got me a clarinet, that I hardly ever played. Come middle school, everyone was playing guitar hero. There were some songs I knew in the games, and some I didn't. But I loved playing it and I loved the heavier tunes. So that got me into looking into all sorts of artists. I used to sit in the living room and browse the music choice channels for hours and then go look at the artists that would come up on the channel's entire discographies almost immediately. It was always a lot of fun to learn that kind of stuff. One thing that sticks out to me was hearing Pantera's “Cemetary Gates” and being drawn to the pinched harmonics that were in the intro to the song. From there, I knew Pantera was my favorite band, and seeing their lives performances on Youtube just confirmed that for me. From there, I just kept expanding and growing the music I listened to. Country, blues, rock but mostly heavy metal.

AA: When did you first realize that the guitar was your true passion?

KM: My dad got my younger brother a guitar about 2 years after I got my first one. I had no idea what I was doing with the guitar. So, I surely broke the strings and just lost interest. So, whenever my younger brother got his, I just couldn't put it down. I can remember my stepmother yelling for my dad to get me strings for mine. I don't know why I felt the way I did about that, but for some reason, I got really hooked at about age 12. I just hit the strings until they made noise, and until I could figure out what sounded cool. I started picking up tabs for different bands, which are a simple way to learn songs. So, I just started learning all these different riffs and songs. That started to teach me how to play and how to write.

AA: Were there any specific guitar players you admired and initially sparked your interest in playing the instrument? Did their influence eventually inspire you to pursue playing the guitar more seriously and professionally?

KM: Biggest 2 influences for me are undoubtedly Dimebag Darrell and Zakk Wylde. They both as guitar players and people really lit a fire under me to get as good as possible. I watch videos of both those guys just jamming still to this day, all the time and just admire it.

AA: Do any of your family members or friends share your passion for music?

KM: No, unfortunately, I'm really the only one who is as die hard a music guy as I am.

AA: Before you joined A Common Crown as their guitarist, were you part of any other bands? If so, could you share some of your experiences with those bands? What were the positive and negative aspects of being in those bands? Also, what lessons did you learn from your previous band experiences that have helped you in your music career and business endeavors with A Common Crown?

KM: I played in 4 bands total across my musical career. So, my first band was called “Wretched Hive”. We called ourselves toner metal/sludge metal. It was a blast, and we played some cool shows but ultimately, the people I played with were good guys, but we weren't a good match for me. I also played in a cover band called “Ezekiel”. It was fun, but that was only a year and a half. Towards the end of my time in Ezekiel and Wretched Hive (circa 2018) A Common Crown was looking for a new guitar player and I had greatly admired the people in the band at the time, loved their music, and always loved playing shows with them. So they invited me to try out. I learned all their stuff off of a god awful youtube video that someone got and tried out. They decided I was good enough, so here we are! As far as lessons learned from prior bands, biggest lesson I could say, is that just find people you love and that love you, and that you can write naturally with. I also had a brief stint in a cover band called “Just Playn Nasty” although I believe I only played 2 shows with them. It was fun, but it was a task for me to get to their practice.

AA: How did the opportunity to join A Common Crown come about for you?

KM: I had been friends with all the members for a few years beforehand, and we would always have a good time when we hung out before and after a show. They liked me enough to give me a shot, thankfully.

AA: As a guitarist, I'm curious to know more about your creative process for crafting guitar parts that stand out while also complementing the lyrics and drums. For instance, when you were working on the song "Cry," I'd love to hear about how you approached creating your riffs to ensure they fit well with the song's overall sound.

KM: So one of my favorite things about A Common Crown is that we all come from different eras of music. With me being the youngest guy, I have the biggest heavy music influence. All the other guys like heavy music too, but it's what I grew up with. In reference to “Cry”, that's definitely a groove influenced song. So I had a few riffs and we all kind of came together and stitched it together. There some things that worked, and some that didn't. At the end of the day, when we finally figured it out, we knew it was something crusher.

AA: Can you describe your experience with live performances?

KM: Live performances for me, and I probably speak for the whole band are really about the performance. We want to have a good time and bring the audience along for the ride.

AA: How do you handle mistakes during a performance?

KM: If I mess something up live, the strategy for me is to try and brush it off without making it noticeable. Does it always work? Meh, probably. But I think most people want to see you do well when you're playing and aren't listening to every intonation of every note. So as long as you seem happy, they're generally happy too.

AA: What has been the most memorable moment of your journey as a guitarist? Please share a specific experience or performance that stands out in your mind."

KM: Off the top of my head, the one thing that stands out the most was probably in September of 2020 when we opened for Steel Panther. Sold out show in Butler, Pennsylvania. Over 1,000 people in a field, in front of a huge stage, in the middle of nowhere. I remember doing the sound check and feeling my drummer's snare shake my chest on stage and feeling the same thing from my guitar. That was surreal.

AA: What are your thoughts on bands that appear to have contradictory behavior, accepting payment for performances while also publicly denouncing companies on social media due to differing viewpoints on specific issues?

KM: People are generally going to do whatever feels best or is financially best for themselves. Cognitive dissonance isn't a solid deterrence when someone's paycheck is on the line. Contradictory statements and actions seem to be more of a feature, not a bug of human existence. That doesn't make it right, but it does mean sometimes, we gotta try to work a little harder to hammer our own stuff out.

AA: I'm curious to understand the specific events or realizations that have contributed to your belief that politicians prioritize money and power over the well-being of the people they represent.

KM: I'm not sure I could think of a specific event, but it's more of noticing patterns. You see bills get passed and notice they generally never have the intended effect and quite often, the opposite of intended effect. See that enough times, and eventually you learn that it's not about “We, the people”

AA: Will the implementation of stricter gun control laws, such as background checks, waiting periods, and restrictions on high-capacity magazines and assault weapons, effectively contribute to the prevention of mass shootings in the United States?

KM: No, I sincerely don't believe so, because the vast majority of mass shootings are committed by small capacity guns. Stricter gun control only works for people willing to obey the law. If someone is planning to murder, then I don't think a piece of paper or arbitrary requirement is going to stop them.

AA: To what extent does reality television present a distorted and sensationalized version of real life? Is it more focused on entertainment value rather than accurately reflecting everyday experiences? Additionally, in the context of cancel culture, does the practice truly encourage individuals to take responsibility for their actions, or does it often lead to hasty judgments and mob-like behavior?

KM: I don't watch a lot of TV in respect to reality TV so any comment of mine would be speculation.

KM: As far as cancel culture goes, there are some people that just get completely crushed unreasonably. The time of that has mostly passed as people are somewhat uncancelable because of the rise of Alternative media.

AA: I see that you're really into fitness! What are your favorite workouts? I'd love to hear about the exercises and routines you enjoy most.

KM: So I am a big advocate of strength training, and your traditional barbell movements. Overhead press, deadlift, squat, and bench press. Those exercises can really hit a lot of your body and give you a great sense of progression because they're simple to program to progressively overload. I'm also a big fan of full body sessions as well as the Push Pull Legs split.

AA: Is intermittent fasting a safe and effective dietary approach for managing weight and enhancing overall health?

KM: I believe intermittent fasting is safe, but perhaps not the most effective for everyone. I used to do IF but it wasn't right for me after a certain point. Some people it's great. If you're getting the same calories as someone who isn't doing IF, your results will be the same.

AA: Any advice for someone who's finding it hard to get started with working out? Could you offer some advice for an individual who is finding it difficult to initiate a workout routine and stay consistent?"

KM: Sure. I would just recommend they make small changes that they can be consistent with. Walks are always a low barrier to entry and something that everyone can do. As far as resistance training goes, same deal. Small but consistent. Do a full body workout a few times a week. Once you feel good enough and like you can handle more, turn up the intensity and volume, and you'll likely see better results. It takes some time to form habbits but you gotta look at the potential upsides.

AA: I'm interested in learning more about your podcast, "In Liberty and Health." I'm curious to hear about the inspiration behind the name of your show. Could you also elaborate on the primary focus or theme of your podcast? I'm also interested to know your favorite guest on the show and why? Additionally, I'd like to know who your favorite guest on your show has been so far.

KM: Sure, so the In Liberty and Health podcast came about because I thought there was something missing in the libertarian sphere, and that was someone advocating for health in a reasonable way that's backed by science instead of quackery. I mostly discuss foreign policy, politics, health and fitness, and sometimes psychology. I didn't want to niche down because I enjoy learning and talking to all sorts of people.

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?

KM: My favorite movie is probably Pulp Fiction, as Samuel L. Jackson is my favorite actor. The plot was very dense and hard to follow on a first glance, but it's so entertaining and has so many memorable moments. Jackson's character along with John Travolta's characters are just very entertaining characters. It was just the scenery and the vibe of the movie, if you will.

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?

KM: Lately, my wife and I have been watching suits which has been a lot of fun. I've always watched all the star wars cartoons and shows which are fantastic. Character development is usually a big one for me. I can get past production if the story is good.

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?

KM: I don't read an insane amount but “Ordinary Men”

was a fascinating read for me. It was about the psychology of how to make the human mind justify atrocities. I also really liked “The Rational Male” series, as well as Rian Stone's “Praxaelogy” books.

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?

KM: For me, my favorite podcasts are probably Media Roots Radio, Part of the Problem, and the Peter Schiff show. Those are the few that come to mind. Media roots has amazing production value and they offer a very different perspective. All 3 mentioned though have unique insights that I don't think you hear from many others.

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.

KM: My favorite musical artist is hands down, Pantera. The raw energy that they had back in the 90s was just unmatched. I got to the tribute, and it was just absolutely incredible. It was a very emotional experience for me, as silly as that sounds. I also always liked GWAR because of the madness of the whole show. It's always a good time.

AA: Tell me the story of how you and your wife first met." What was her personality, character, or actions that made you realize you wanted to spend the rest of your life with her?

KM: I met my wife after my band played a charity show in 2018. I was absolutely hammered, and I saw her standing next to my now drummer. I walked up to him to say Hi, but I really wanted to check my now wife out. My wife was with one of her friends at the time, so I walked up to her friend and mentioned I had interest. She encouraged me to go talk to her, so I did. The rest is history, as they say.

AA: If you could live in any historical period, which would you choose and why?

KM: I'm not sure really. Maybe the early 1900s because it was a very high trust society, and it was a whole different world. I don't really have a great answer.

AA: I'm interested in learning about your experience as an auto mechanic. What initially sparked your interest in this field, and what steps did you take to pursue a career in auto mechanics? How many years have you been working in this industry, and what are some memorable moments or projects from your career? Can you also share your favorite car models to work on and the reasons behind your preference? Lastly, what specific aspects of your work do you find most fulfilling and enjoyable?

KM: My dad, his dad, and my grandfather's dad were all mechanics so it's kind of in my blood. I started by going to vocational training in highschool for automotive technology. Funny enough, the teacher went to college with my dad. I've been in the automotive industry now for 12 going on 13 years. Sadly though, you don't really remember the times you made a lot of money. You remember all the cars that stood out to you as cars that really bit you. Cars that cost you a lot of time and money. But at the end of the day, that makes you a better and wiser tech. I've been with General Motors for about 10 years, and have a preference for them, much like my family being automotive technicians, they're all General Motors people. Biggest of all these things though possibly, is that what brings me the most joy in the automotive repair field is finding broken things and fixing them. Every time I chase a wire for hours and finally find it, fix it, and see the car almost entirely change.. It's a great feeling. Also I can't overstate how great it is to work with great people, and most of the time, for great people.

AA: What are some of your favorite activities when you have free time?

KM: Honestly, playing Xbox and watching sci-fi movies now. I also really enjoy cooking.

AA: If you had the world's attention for five minutes, what message would you share with everyone?"

KM: Enjoy every moment with every person that you can. The world is a beautiful and wonderful place, if you choose to believe that. It's a choice. So, love and treat people well because you believe it's the right thing to do, not because you want something.

AA: Kyle Matovcik, thank you for sharing your personal journey and experiences as a guitarist and podcaster!

Kyle Matovcik- Guitarist and Podcaster

To access all information about Kyle Matovcik, please visit the link provided below:

https://linktr.ee/KyleMatovcik

*** All photos and videos by Klye Matovcik unless otherwise noted **