Hi, how are you today? Could you tell our readers a little bit about yourself?
Hey there, I’m very well thank you. My name is Nik Taylor, I play guitar in the band Next Stop Atlanta.
How would you describe your music?
Bold, passionate, intriguing with catchy hooks and big choruses.
When did Next Stop Atlanta form?
Just over two years ago. Myself, Anthony (drums) and Blake (bass) started jamming together in Preston. After a few rehearsals we started looking for a singer. Georgia was already a good friend of ours so it all came into place during her audition.
How did you come up with the band name?
Georgia’s name! Atlanta being in the state of Georgia, it felt and sounded right! So many people think we are American from the band name. Then when they hear our Northern English accents in interviews, it stuns them!
Who are your influences?
Bands and artists like Jimmy Eat World, Bjork, New Found Glory.
I recently saw you supporting The Xcerts at 53 Degrees. How do you feel the gig went, considering the size of the crowd?
It was a good show to play. We always try to give our all at any show. The sound wasn’t great for us and it wasn’t as busy as we hoped, but that’s not a huge deal for us. We enjoyed it for what it was!
How was it working with Matt O’ Grady (You Me At Six & Deaf Havana) on your EP?
It was a good experience. We told him what sort of sound and vibe we wanted the EP to have and he got it near spot on. He offered sound advice and remained professional throughout.
Will you be releasing a physical copy of your latest release?
We will be releasing “The Things You Do Best” on CD. The release date will be finalised over the next couple of weeks!
How do you feel about the music scene in Preston?
Really positive and it has been for a while. Some great artists are breaking out and putting Preston back on the map. The live scene is thriving also. With venues like 53 degrees and the Mad Ferret offering live music every night of the week, it is looking promising.
Do you have any favourite local bands?
Failsafe and Boy Genius are brilliant at what they do. Check them out!
You’re supporting Failsafe at their album launch show next week. How do you feel about it being free? Do you think it will encourage more people to come out for it?
For me it’s an added bonus that it’s free. I can speak on behalf of both Next Stop Atlanta and Failsafe when I say, the money aspect of being in band doesn’t prioritise. We are all about the love of music and art. It will be incredibly busy either way, free entry or not.
How do you feel about things such as BBC Introducing? Do you think it helps out many local bands?
It’s a great platform to showcase your material and help build your profile as an up-and-coming musician. Any local musician would benefit from being featured on the BBC Introducing programme.
What’s coming up for Next Stop Atlanta? Are there any plans for an album?
Great question, we rarely get asked that far ahead. Next for us in terms of a release would be a full length album. We are writing new stuff now and it’s sounding big! In the immediate future, check out our music video for our new single “I’m Not Morrissey”, online at youtube and on the Kerrang TV channel. We will release a follow up single in the summer and tour like crazy throughout the rest of the year to help support the releases.
Finally, anything you would like to add?
Thanks for taking the time to read this. Check out NSA at facebook.com/nextstopatlanta
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