We caught up with vocalist Jeff Todd of the pop-punk band I Call Fives about their brand new single “Honest and Only” via Smartpunk Records. The song, which also has an accompanying music video, is a mark of the band’s return from their 7-year hiatus and is an introduction to their upcoming EP, Not For Everyone, set for release on March 3rd.
The NJ natives’ debut self-titled album via Pure Noise Records reached #13 on the Billboard Charts Top Heatseekers in 2012. The band also released previous projects through No Sleep Records (Balance and Composure, La Dispute, The Wonder Years). I Call Fives have also toured with We Are the Union, With The Punches, Handguns, and The Story So Far.
We asked Jeff about I Call Fives’ new music, their sound, Jeff’s musical influences, and lots more. Check out our conversation below.
What can you tell us about your new single? Any fun fact or story behind it?
Jeff Todd (JT): The fun fact is that this is one of the most meaningful songs I’ve ever written. Many of the songs I’ve written focus on troubles I’ve faced in life or things that in hindsight are not as detrimental as I once believed them to be. This song is about being where I want to be and with who I want to be, and even though I know that won’t last forever, I will enjoy every second of it while I can.
When people listen to your music, what are you hoping they get out of it?
JT: I hope they can relate to it in some way that makes their day better.
How would you describe the sound of I Call Fives’ music?
JT: I would say if you loved pop punk with heavy 90’s radio hit influences, we would be right up your alley.
“Elevator Music” is one of our fave pop-punk songs; anything you can tell us about putting that song together?
JT: I came up with the chorus while I was working my retail job at Best Buy. It was heavily motivated by a romantic relationship that turned sour.
Who would you say are some of your musical influences?
JT: My father, The Starting Line, Green Day, Blink, The Offspring, The Ataris, Yellowcard, and an endless list of others.
Did you always know that music was something you wanted to pursue?
JT: Yes, Final answer. Music has always been and will always be a huge part of my life.
What advice would you give to aspiring musicians?
JT: Be yourself. I heard this a million times when I was younger and always kind of wanted to emulate the bands I loved, and in the long run, I think that hurt more than it helped. I would say it’s always good to have people that inspire you, but you will find far more success if you are able to forge your own path.
What is your favorite song to perform live?
JT: As cheesy as it sounds, “Elevator Music” has always held a place in my heart. Not really because of the song itself, but because it usually had the most people singing along and enjoying themselves, and that was by far the most important part of all of this for me. It was nice seeing something that I wrote meant so much to so many.
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Pre-order Not For Everyone (LP) here
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