If you’re like me, you’re always searching for rising stars in the music industry–not the ones predestined for stardom in a miraculous “shooting star scenario”, but the ones who produce music authentically, driven by a true passion for the art. It may be because I’m a DJ, but keeping your ear to the ground and discovering new music organically is an unparalleled satisfaction.

With this mentality, a friend and I hosted a podcast titled FBN Radio while attending St. John’s University. We constantly scouted the latest creatives on campus and, in many cases, interviewed the future of the music industry. One standout group we came across, but never got the chance to interview, was the New York-based alt-rock band LoudEye.

Fresh off their performance at the University’s Battle of the Bands Competition, LoudEye stood out in an era where the “traditional rock band” has slowly begun to fade. They offered a refreshing breath of life to a genre in which many young musicians may turn a blind eye.

A year later, I finally got the chance to chat with the four-piece group, comprised of bassist Erik Vera, drummer Thomas Lombardi, lead guitarist Dylan “DJ” Juarez, and rhythm guitarist Jason Katz, all of whom contribute vocals, to discuss their inspirations, creative process, and future aspirations as a collective.

Describing their music as “punchy and punk” as much as it is “ethereal and sparkling”, LoudEyes’ story begins in Lombardi’s rehearsal space. It’s in this humble setting that LoudEye honed their craft, remaining true to their collaborative spirit and ability to translate their unique perspective into “energetic and tight performances.”

Each member brings a distinct set of influences to the table: Lombardi channels the tones of Black Sabbath and Paramore, Vera, The Beatles and Radiohead, Juarez the riffs of Led Zeppelin and AC/DC, and Katz, known for adding depth and texture to their sound, is shaped by Brand New and Pink Floyd.

Using the past to create something fresh and new, the band uses their influences as beacons of guidance in their collaboration process. If one band member has an idea, he presents it to the rest of the band, allowing each of their voices to be discovered behind the layers of the track. This is evident on the introspective and raw track “Pushaway,” which the band proudly notes as a collaborative effort. Whether through testing new drum rhythms or guitar riffs, watching films, or journaling, Loudeye is always looking for ways to stay inspired and not succumb to stagnancy.

When asked what advice the band would give to emerging musicians, LoudEye shared this gem.

“Make music you want to hear, and make art that will go beyond what you have made in the past. However, that doesn’t mean you can be lazy with your art, be curious and consistently try to find new sounds!”

Although this is a lesson preached by many music heavyweights and moguls, LoudEye’s work ethic sets them apart from the masses. They are a breath of fresh air in a music industry saturated by AI and commercialization that breeds lazy creativity and music creation.

Out of the studio, the band plans to bring the same energy to intimate shows as it does to dream venues in New York City, including Irving Plaza, Apollo Theatre, and Madison Square Garden.

Authentic, honest, and charismatic in approach, if there’s one thing I've learned about LoudEye, it’s that remaining unapologetically yourself and approaching your sound with patience is a surefire way to create unforgettable tracks.

From the rehearsal space to the mainstage, LoudEye is a group you need to keep on your radar.

And Now to the Stage… LoudEye