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Hailing from Tampa Florida, Calm are poised to devour the independent music scene with their insatiable emotional metal stylings. In the past year CALM have managed to emerge as one of the most impressive groups to arise from the Florida underground community, due in large to their explosive four song EP and a live show that exceeds what many deem humanly possible for 5 musicians. Vocalist Jerry Ruff took the time to sit down with The Gauntlet and open his heart and soul to us concerning everything that is CALM. What resulted was an incredibly honest, sincere look at a band that live music, mind, body and soul.
The Gauntlet: When did you first realize you wanted to be in a band?
Jerry: When I was asked to join one. Music has always been a passion for me growing up, and singing was my calling. I love to do what I do, and I wouldn't change it for the world.
The Gauntlet: How did CALM form?
Jerry: Through a lot of trial and error. We finally completed our permanent line up 4 months ago with the addition of our new second guitarist, Jay Vilardi.
The Gauntlet: What were some of the problems you ran into once CALM started taking shape? Do you feel the current line-up is ready for the long haul, through thick and thin?
Jerry: Some of the first problems we ran into was having a second guitarist that really stood out with the first. Intertwining distinct second parts that were melodic and powerful. Well, Jay is that man. We definitely are ready to take on the business. This is what we have set out to do, this is our lives.
The Gauntlet: How much of a struggle was it to write and record your 4 song EP? Was money or time an issue?
Jerry: The real struggle came from picking out what 4 songs to do. At the time we had 7 completed songs, so with our producer we did pre-production and came up with the 4 on the EP. The recording process was awesome. Tom Morris brought a lot out of us, and captured the band well. I look forward to working with him on the national CD. LOL. Money is always an issue. There are a lot of things we would like to have done, but with the restraint of a budget you have to do what you can.
The Gauntlet: How'd you decide on the 4 songs chosen? What made these songs stand out compared to the others? Looking back is there anything you wish could have been different with the album?
Jerry: We picked the 4 songs that would best represent the sound of CALM. Not that they really stood out, they were just solid. There are things we all would like to go back and do, but mainly just doubling tracks on guitars and such.
The Gauntlet: If possible, could you explain what each song on the disc deal with lyrically? They seem quite personal.
Jerry: LOL. That's insane...here we go...Affixed Aura is about my mother. She is very sick and it is my way of dealing with the emotions of the situation. My way to let her know I am here for her. Sin of Silence touches on my past of physical abuse from my step mother and how it has affected my life, and the ways to heal my soul. The Scarring of Mind is the same topic about abuse with the approach of therapy through music. Envy touches on the topic of my dealing with suicide and my experience with it; how I learned the valuable lesson of life and its precious value. I've never shared that..
The Gauntlet: Damn man, I am honored you were so willing. But I don't have to add that to the interview if you don't want, I understand totally.
Jerry: Its cool. I write my lyrics to be shared and hopefully touch peoples lives in a positive way.
The Gauntlet: So you could say not only do you enjoy singing, but it is very therapeutic for you to release pent-up emotion?
Jerry: Yes, music is my therapy. I want to assure people that I don't want sympathy, but I want people to open there eyes to the things around them. To mend a wounded soul and prosper from the gift of life.
The Gauntlet: Earlier you mentioned that singing was your calling. Have you ever taken vocal lessons, or were you just born with the ability?
Jerry: I am currently seeking an instructor to broaden my range, but prior to this I haven't received lessons.
The Gauntlet: CALM seems to be a backwards name for the group, as the music is certainly not "calm" and as you explained, lyrically there is a lot being dealt with. Was the band name meant to have this sort of "tongue-in-cheek" pairing, or is that just coincidence?
Jerry: It is actually an acronym meaning -- Creating Aspiring Living Music. It is a fun contradiction, people always comment on that.
The Gauntlet: Vocally, who inspired you to pick up a mic? What music did you grow up listening to?
Jerry: I grew up listening to hip-hop. The harder side of it, LOL ya know "gangsta rap." But eventually I got into heavier music, and veered in that direction. Don't get me wrong, I still enjoy hip-hop.
The Gauntlet: So you had no direct influence, but just liked what you heard and thought that was what you were meant to do?
Jerry: Yes.
The Gauntlet: Does the EP represent what CALM are live, or is the live show a totally different world?
Jerry: The live show is something we thrive on. To bring it to the fans and pour our hearts out is the greatest feeling in the world. Our live show is intense, we want people to leave going what the hell just happened.
The Gauntlet: What's the most surreal live experience that's happened to the band?
Jerry: We walked out to 700 kids in Jacksonville, Florida when we first started playing shows, this was a new crowd, and before we even started playing the place went nuts. It was an awesome feeling, I eagerly await the return there.
The Gauntlet: What's the local scene like? It sounds as if the crowds really embrace the groups around there.
Jerry: The scene where we are is weak. There is a lot of tension between the bands, it's foolish but you cant play God. I stress the immediate scene (Tampa/St.Pete area) But outside of that, Florida has some intense fans. All the shows we have been to out of town or state have grasped all the bands amazingly. Showing nothing but respect for what they are about.
The Gauntlet: What's up next for the band, you have some tours planned, hitting any new areas?
Jerry: We are in the early developments for tours in March and June. We are currently negotiating a deal with Eternal Artist Management , and soon will be shopping the demo. But until the big day, we are going to keep playing countless live shows and create beautiful music.
The Gauntlet: Who else do Eternal Artist Mgmt. handle, or will you be the first band?
Jerry: Factory 81, Workhorse Movement, a few other Roadrunner bands that I can't bring to mind right now...
The Gauntlet: How has the Internet aided in exposing CALM? Do you feel it's a major priority in promoting, or just a useful tool?
Jerry: The Internet is absolutely the best thing!! We have accomplished so much as far as promotion. Interviews just like this help expose bands, and aid in getting the name out. I think every band should seriously consider appointing someone to take over a computer and use the Internet for all its uses!!
The Gauntlet: CALM has a street team, do you handle that or have you appointed someone as street team leader? How has that turned out for the band?
Jerry: I have two captains that run the team and do an awesome job at it. We actually just signed up to Ear Assault (http://www.earassault.com)!! So that should help make the family bigger. As far as the contribution, the fans we have are amazing, this team works there ass off and we are forever grateful!!!!
The Gauntlet: How far does the street team stretch? You got any foreign teamers yet?
Jerry: We have the team all over the world. It amazes me every day that I speak with people over seas who love Calm. God bless the Internet!!
The Gauntlet: Any last comments before I wrap this up and start editing?
Jerry: Thank you for your support and interest in the band. Spread the word CALM - Creating Aspiring Living Music. To all our fans we love you guys with all our hearts, thank you!!! Visit our website, http://www.calmmusic.net
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