The end of last week saw the release of ‘Everything.Now!,’ the debut UK album from The Two Romans. We talked about the simplicity of creating in a year that is anything but, the importance of art, taking advantage of downtime to recharge for what lays ahead.
Kendra: After releasing a few EPs, this year came the debut album. How do you feel you’ve grown as a songwriter and musician now compared to that first EP?
The Two Romans: The more songs you write the better you get and the more life you live the more stories you can tell. So we definitely grew over these couple of years and life gave us the needed inspiration, which often happens through difficult circumstances, but being able to write songs about it allows us to save shrink fees.
Kendra: Let’s talk about “Sky’s On Fire.” The video is simple yet striking. It gave me a more clothed, D’Angelo “Untitled (How Does It Feel)” vibe. Was the straightforward treatment inspired by the pandemic?
The Two Romans: Just watched the D’Angelo video…hahaha we would have been ridiculous. The reason we did the video like that was very simple: we had no money for more. It’s good to limit yourself at times though.
Kendra: Speaking of, the pandemic has put a halt on touring. Have you guys been able to figure out other ways to connect with audiences this year?
The Two Romans: We did some very small acoustic shows and live streaming but we are now at a point where we accept the situation for what it is and decided to allow ourselves more time with our families. So instead of trying to be on top of the game in every field we decided to recharge our batteries and take care of relationships while it’s all on halt. Whenever the lights turn green again, we will be fit to run the distance.
Kendra: Because I know for you, touring is everything. You’ve already banked over 150 shows. With that, what venue are you missing most right now both as a band and as a fan?
The Two Romans: Being on the road as a band is one of the best things in life and we are privileged to play a lot. I feel the pandemic is exposing and accelerating a problem that has been going on for a while now. So many small and mid-size venues have had to close their doors because there is none or not enough funding from the government. Even nationwide known venues are starting crowdfunding campaigns. Art is not a luxus, it’s fundamental for a civilised society.
Kendra: With all that has transpired this year, how do you feel 2020 has shaped your creativity and drive moving forward?
The Two Romans: For sure. No other year has had so many and intense ups and downs. Even though I complain at times, I like to remind myself that these times make life interesting and ultimately the beautiful adventure it is.
Kendra: Usually, this is where I ask people what they have planned in the coming months but with the world in a strange place right now, plans aren’t as concrete as they typically are. You can go ahead and let us know what you have tentatively planned…
The Two Romans: Someone told me this week: “Wanna make God laugh? Start making plans.” Good 2020 resolution. Besides the extended album release and a few shows we will work on new material. We hope to start making God laugh in Spring 2021 if the circumstances allow it.
