Ricky Sans (Richard Scott Sanberg) is the co-songwriter, guitarist and backing vocalist of Orange County-based American alternative rock band, Mêlée
So who came up with the name for the band and how did Melee get started?
Chris found the word "Melee" in the dictionary, and we liked the sound
and meaning of the word. We actually started out calling ourselves
"Squirtgun Melee" , but obviously dropped the "Squirtgun"" later on.
How long did it take to record the album?
It took us about a year and half to write, record and finish the album.
what went into recording your new album?
We went through a process of rediscovering ourselves, musically and
lyrically. We also collaborated with multiple artists, songwriters and
producers, in an effort to further define our sound by learning and
working with others. When you need to constantly bring your identity
to other artists, it really helps articulate who you are and what you
want.
When you went into the studio to record the album how many songs did you have and how did you decide which ones would make it onto the album?
We had about 50 songs, and we decided, pretty much based on friends
and family reactions. We definitely plan on releasing more songs that
we wrote for this album on line.
Ryan Malloy once said to me that Melee's new album will sound like music from another dimension. what is really the difference between The Masquerade and Devil and Angel?
Our new album has much more synthetic elements, like Synthesizers,
programming and drum loops, where as our last album had much more
organic instruments like acoustic guitars and organs.
What are your favorite songs from "The Masquerade?"
I love "Someday You'll Be a Story" and "Towers"
Mike Nader has left the band, how much does this affect your music?
It has affected our music in a very positive way.
Who writes your songs?
Chris and myself.
What was your reaction the first time you heard one of your songs on the radio?
I think I was eating a pretzel and I spit it out when I heard our song.
What is the best and worst thing about being in a band?
The best thing is being able to spend so much time with my best
friends and being able to connect to people all over the world. The
worst thing would be how much illegal downloading has efffected our
art and business.
Are any of you married, girlfriends, or fiancées?
Chris and Ryan are married. Derek and myself are single.
What would you be doing right now if you weren't in Melee?
surfing.
Who is your favorite band at the moment?
Scissor Sisters
What band or bands would you like to tour with and why?
Scissor Sisters, seem like a fun band and I'd love to watch them everynite
last one, any shoutout to Melee's fan in Indonesia?
Thank you so much to everyone in Indonesia who loves Melee. We fell in
love with all of you when we came to play for Java Rockin land, and
everyone has been so kind and supportive to us. Thank you!
Interview Oleh:
M.A Rianto
17/11/10
