New Violet's Beth on Warped Tour, '66, and the Punk Spirit | Hook and Bridge Podcast

Dive into the vibrant world of New Violet with Beth in this exclusive interview on the Hook and Bridge Podcast. Explore their music, Warped Tour experiences, the stories behind "66" and "Runaway," and the essence of punk.

New Violet's Beth Joins the Hook and Bridge Podcast: A Deep Dive into Music, Inspiration, and the Spirit of Rock

The Hook and Bridge Podcast recently hosted Beth from the band New Violet, offering listeners an intimate look into the band's sound, their experiences, and the creative process behind their music. In a conversation filled with insights into Warped Tour, lyrical storytelling, and the enduring spirit of rock and punk, Beth shared her journey and the inspirations driving New Violet forward.

The New Violet Sound: Rock, Punk, and Authenticity

New Violet is carving out a distinct space in the music scene, blending elements that defy easy categorization. Described by host Harley as embodying "old school, just pure rock and roll," Beth clarifies their sound goes beyond typical pop-punk labels.

• Genre-Bending Approach: While some might label them pop-punk, Beth emphasizes their music leans more towards hard rock and pure rock. The occasional vocal scream adds depth, but the core is a powerful rock sound.

• Keeping Rock Alive: The band is recognized for keeping the spirit of rock and roll vibrant and relevant for a new generation.

Warped Tour: An Unforgettable Experience

Beth's recent experience at the revived Warped Tour provided a rich backdrop for the conversation. Having been out all weekend at the festival, she shared her enthusiasm for its return and the unique atmosphere it offers.

• A Successful Return: Beth expressed strong positive feelings about Warped Tour's comeback, stating, "I'm so glad they brought it back."

• Band vs. Attendee: While New Violet attempted to get nominated for the battle of the bands, they weren't selected to play this year. However, Beth's attendance allowed her to fully immerse in the festival experience.

• The Warped Tour Vibe: She highlighted the unparalleled energy of Warped Tour, contrasting it with larger amphitheater shows. The ability to be close to the bands and the overall "alive" feeling makes it a special event.

Unpacking "66": An Anthem of Adventure and Freedom

A central theme of the discussion was New Violet's song "66," a track that evokes a sense of adventure and breaking free.

• Lyrical Themes: The song is described as an adventure song, capturing the feeling of throwing everything away for a road trip. It carries a nostalgic vibe and hints at romance, with lyrics about being close to someone as you journey.

• Broader Interpretation: Beyond the literal road trip, "66" serves as a motivational anthem. It speaks to overcoming sadness, depression, or being a homebody, encouraging listeners to "get off my ass and do something."

• Motivational Core: The song offers a message of taking action and experiencing life beyond limitations, whether it's running away with someone or simply burning bridges and moving forward with an "I don't care anymore" attitude.

"The Heat Is Getting Hotter" EP: A Journey Through Sound

The conversation delved into New Violet's latest EP, "The Heat Is Getting Hotter," highlighting its diverse tracks and Beth's songwriting approach.

• "This Is My Life": The EP kicks off with a powerful track, "This Is My Life," which Beth worked on with her producer at Red Lion Studio. This collaborative effort set a strong, energetic tone for the EP.

• "Over Again": A standout track from the EP features the memorable line, "the heat is getting hotter, I'm burnt for a reason." Beth describes the song as having a nostalgic feeling and a touch of romance, but it also serves as a broader motivational piece.

• "Conformity": This track stands out as a harder-hitting punk song, reflecting Beth's personal feelings against being boxed in or conforming to societal expectations. It's an anthem for living life authentically and for oneself.

• Adventurous Vibe: The EP as a whole is characterized by an adventurous, "bubbly," and outward-facing energy, with "Conformity" acting as a powerful counterpoint.

"Runaway": The Story Behind the Song

"Runaway" emerged from a personal place, inspired by a significant falling out with a close friend.

• Friendship and Conflict: The song was born from a heated argument, with lyrics acting as a dialogue between the two friends.

• Reconciliation and Inspiration: Fortunately, the friendship was later rekindled, giving the song a unique narrative arc. Beth's friend recognized herself in the lyrics, finding it amusing that she became the muse for the song.

• Songwriting Through Angst: Beth often writes songs fueled by angst or things that bother her, finding that the resolution of the conflict allowed her to move forward creatively.

Musical Roots and Artistic Expression

Beth shared insights into her musical journey, from self-teaching guitar to her artistic influences.

• Self-Taught Musician: Beth picked up a guitar as a child and began writing songs verbally. She later self-taught herself to play guitar as a teenager, developing her instrumental skills.

• Influences: While not strictly a pop-punk artist, Beth appreciates the raw energy and attitude of punk. She also draws inspiration from soul music and classic artists like Etta James.

• Tattoos and Anime: Her personal style is evident in her anime-inspired tattoos, showcasing a passion that also influences her aesthetic. She shared a humorous anecdote about a tattoo artist's unique, meth-induced "signature" addition.

The Creative Process: Hooks vs. Bridges

Drawing from the podcast's theme, Beth discussed her preference in songwriting.

• Hook Lover: Beth leans towards writing hooks, recognizing their power to draw listeners in and make a song memorable.

• Bridge's Importance: She also acknowledges the crucial role of bridges in elevating a song from good to great, providing a deeper narrative or emotional shift.

Looking Ahead: New Music and Artistic Evolution

New Violet is continuously evolving, with plans for future releases.

• Next EP: While "66" is out now, the band is working on new material, with a goal to enter the studio in January for their next EP. Beth aims to bring more to this release, having learned from her previous experiences.

• Diversifying Sound: Beth embraces incorporating various musical elements, even if it makes categorizing their genre difficult. She believes in artistic diversification and not being confined to a single sound, stating, "If everybody's doing the same thing, that it's boring."

The conversation with Beth from New Violet on the Hook and Bridge Podcast provided a genuine and insightful look into an artist passionate about her craft, her experiences, and the power of music to connect and inspire. Her dedication to authenticity and her vibrant creative spirit are clearly driving New Violet forward.