Words: Ray Cobra//Picture: Evan Dell

Every once in a while I come across a band that just resonates with me. Last year that band was Capstan. From the moment I heard their EP, Cultural Divide I was hooked. It was one of those releases that hit home in every possible way. That Ep help me get through one of the toughest years of my life. And I thank them for that. I love that about music, that at any given point we can hear something and it has a lasting effect on us. That it offers us hope, something to believe in.

When I saw that Capstan was coming back to Columbus I knew right away that I wanted to interview them. So I reached out to them and was able to sit down with singer Anthony DeMario. This is how that afternoon went down, hope you enjoy and as always see you at the rock show. J

TUNED UP: Is there a story behind the name Capstan?

Anthony DeMario: Our name actually has multiple meanings. On old wooden ships, before electronic lever and pulley systems, rope was tied around the “capstan” to tighten and loosen the mast of a ship, turning the sails to coincide with the wind, therefore steering the ship in a particular direction. Capstan is a term that also comes from analog recording – it’s the spool that powers the tape heads on a two-track recorder to move the tape while recording. Therefore, in a general sense, “capstan” creates direction; it powers the music.

TUNED UP: Who are some of your musical Influences?

Anthony DeMario: Protest The Hero, Between the Buried and Me, Brand New, Every Time I Die, The Wonder Years, Queen, The Eagles…The list goes on…

TUNED UP: Is there a theme to Cultural Divide?

Anthony DeMario: Cultural Divide is a work we put a lot of collective thought into. There’s so many layers to the messages and themes we’ve tried to convey. Throughout life, you don’t always have to follow suit, and do what everyone else is doing. Too many people these days walk through life with their heads down and lose sight of the real point in finding happiness. It’s about finding what defines you, what makes you go, who you really are at the core. Everything that’s laid out in front of you, the path, the system; it’s all meaningless and bullshit unless you’re invested in something bigger than yourself.

TUNED UP: When you listen to the EP now, how does it make you feel?

Anthony DeMario: I personally am very proud of the EP. As an artist, there are always small things I wish we would have done differently, but that’s what helps you grow as a person, an artist, and a band moving forward. With that being said, I am so happy that the EP has brought joy or helped anyone that’s taken the time to listen.

TUNED UP: You guys have received a little more attention with Cultural Divide, how has this affected the band?

Anthony DeMario: It has definitely been a learning experience for us but in so many good ways. It’s made us more aware of how things work in the industry and created an overall awareness in every decision we come to, collectively. Also, just being able to get on the road more often has been incredible in itself, so we’re excited to continue moving forward, playing more shows in new cities, and meeting new people all over the country.

TUNED UP: Cultural Divide was my number one EP of 2016, what was yours?

Anthony DeMario: Evermore by Homesafe

TUNED UP: What would your dream tour be?

Anthony DeMario:Capstan, Every Time I Die, Between the Buried and Me, The Wonder Years

TUNED UP: ANY PLANS FOR THE SUMMER/FALL?

Anthony DeMario: We recently announced a tour with Belmont coming up in August! Grab your tickets right here: www.capstanband.com

TUNED UP: WHAT IS YOUR ULTIMATE SUMMER JAM?

Anthony DeMario: Right now? State Champs – Slow Burn…. song is a jam

TUNED UP: Sweet Tea or Lemonade?

Anthony DeMario: Lemonade