IN THE SPOTLIGHT: The Faim
Passing out flyers regularly at Perth Arena and a message on Instagram have led to worldwide fame and touring for The Faim. The Faim, formed in Perth, Australia, showcases the charisma and musical passion of Josh Raven (lead vocals), Sean Tighe (drums/percussion), Sam Tye (guitar), and Stephen Beerkens (bass, keyboard). They recently released their debut EP, Summer Is A Curse, on September 7, 2018, via BMG. Not only have they garnered more than 11 million streams on Spotify, they have collaborated with Pete Wentz (Fall Out Boy), Mark Hoppus (blink-182), and Ashton Irwin (5 Seconds of Summer). They have shared their sound at a handful of festivals, including Slam Dunk and Reading & Leeds in the UK.
They are currently journeying all over the U.S., and are set to stop at the Gramercy Theatre in NYC on November 24, 2018, opening for Hands Like Houses and Emarosa. Following the extensive U.S. tour, they will head to Australia and then Europe. Ahead of their upcoming NYC show, Sean kindly contributed some time and thought to discuss the creation of the debut EP, some tour essentials, and his favorite movie.
What’s the story behind the formation of The Faim?
Basically, we’re all from Australia. We’re all following a dream, and that dream is coming true, which is kind of crazy. It’s hard work, but it’s going well.
What was the first instrument (musical or non-musical) you started making music with?
For me, the first instrument was the drums since I was 10. I started off on my electric drum kit. It’s been an interest for the rest of my life. We’re just really passionate about music, and have stuck to it every single day.
Which song (released or unreleased) are you most proud of?
For me personally, I’m proud of every single song we’ve done. Every song relates to us and relates to people in different ways. Each song is great; I don’t dislike any songs released. That’s the beauty about the latest album we’re about to drop. Every song is different and goes with what people listen to. I’m excited about and proud of all the songs.
You released your debut EP, Summer Is A Curse, on September 7, 2018. What was the process of writing, recording, and producing it?
It was very quick. Josh was in the studio crushing vocals every single day with a lot of caffeine. We were doing two songs a day, which was very fast. The producer, John Feldmann, was getting us ready for that and what we were in for. When we got there [the studio], we were sending demos back and forth to John, and he really pushed us to the point that when we got into the studio, we could really adapt to working quickly. It was pretty crazy when we first went into it, but after every day, we got used to writing songs and sending songs.
While on the road, what are some of your essential tour items?
First, for me, it’s a lot of tea bags. I’m a big fan of tea. I’ve got to have tea bags, drumsticks in my bag, and clothes. For the rest of the boys, it’s clothes and coffee. Just the usuals.
What happens before you go onstage? Is there a The Faim pre-show ritual?
There is, but we sort of keep it to ourselves. We do different things every show, but we mainly got this one thing that we do. It gets us excited, and as soon as we’re on stage, we’re together.
What’s your favorite food and/or restaurant in NYC? Any places back home in Perth?
For NYC, I would have to say pizza. There was also this cake shop (I can’t remember the name), but the desserts, mainly the cake, were amazing. Back in Perth, probably pie and chips. That’s the best meal back in Perth, for me personally.
If there a pizza with the name “The Faim”, what toppings would it feature?
For me, it would be barbeque chicken and a bit of avocado. I’m just going to say that for the band as well.
What is your favorite superhero character, and why?
I’m going to have to say Spiderman since he can swing on buildings.
What’s a question you have wanted to get asked in an interview, and what’s the response to it?
Q: What’s your favorite movie?
A: My favorite movie is Titanic. Classic.
A tremendous thank you to Nathalie for coordinating and The Faim for taking the time and thought to respond to the questions!
Don’t miss any updates from The Faim by following on Twitter (@TheFaim) and on Instagram (@thefaim), and liking them on Facebook (/TheFaim)!