We got the chance to catch up with the NYC band SUM. Check out our interview to learn more about the band, their single “It’s Alright To Be Me”, and their album release show at Rockwood Music Hall on Friday, September 28th!

upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your music and your sound?

Steve. This question is always tricky to answer. I will say first that I am a musician and was fortunate to study in some really prestigious music establishments. However, I never wanted my music to “sound elitist” like something that people cannot relate to. Therefore, whenever I write music, I try to keep in mind two things: will that be fun for my musicians to play? and will that be fun for the audience to listen to? Sometimes there is a disconnect between the two and I have to adjust. Sometimes, I have a musical idea that I feel that I can’t compromise, then I have to trust that the public will get it at some point.

In terms of sound, I will say this. I am a human being and constantly evolving. I study, listen to so many different genres of music. I love traveling and discovering different cultures.Therefore, SUM sounds will evolve for sure. Whoever try to put my music, my band, in a box/etiquette will get him/her self in an endless and pointless battle!

upfrontNY: Can you tell us about your song “It’s Alright To Be Me”?

Steve– “It’s Alright to Be Me” is the anthem of SUM.  I wanted to write a song that explains what SUM means and as well explains sonically what my band is about. In this song, you can definitely hear the different genres of  music that you will hear in our set. This song was also my way of reaching out to a vast audience.

 

upfrontNY: What was the best part of making this music video and getting to share it with your fans?

Patryce– Having the opportunity to create, co-conceiving the concept, to act and improv, then see it all come together is satisfying.

Steve – I write, produce and arrange the music for SUM, sometimes even the lyrics. I manage the band as well on the business side. So it is a lot of work. Even though I created the concept of the video, Patryce wrote the video script from the bridge to the end of the song. It was great to let Patryce managing, co-directing and leading on the day of the shooting. I enjoyed not having to do much and let her to her things cause she is an actress from training.

 

upfrontNY: What advice do you have for those who are struggling being happy with who they are?

Patryce– The beauty of going through something is recognizing that are not stuck! You are passing through it. Everything in life happens in seasons and you will have a new season to look forward to. Affirm yourself daily. Even if you don’t really believe it. If you say it enough, you will feed your spirit and the positivity will reach family and friends. Tell them what’s going on. Do your best not to be possessed by social media. Have actual contact with people!

upfrontNY: I love the positivity surrounding the band and your music. Why has this been important to share?

Patryce – Thank you! I think there’s enough going on in the world that sometimes you need a place of escape. For me music has always been a space of refuge. It’s important to me that my contribution to the world is something that can inspire others. So much is filtered to make people think that they have to be a certain way I was totally a victim of that. It gets exhausting.

 

upfrontNY: Your album is being released on September 28^th. Can you tell us what others should expect from the album?

Steve. At some point, you will hear some kids on the album. I won’t tell you where it is on the record. This is a record to listen to from beginning to end. little teaser   

 

upfrontNY: What was it like working together on this album?

Patryce– It’s a process to work with Steve. He can be a bit impatient. He wants things done quick and in a hurry and sometimes, you have to let the work breath a bit. We’ve come up with a decent formula that works for now. I think as we grow as a team, our process will continue to evolve.

 

upfrontNY: How are you feeling about getting to celebrate the release with a release show at Rockwood Music Hall?

Patryce– It’s very exciting! I feel like it’s a homecoming for us! We had our EP release there so it’s a natural fit that the album release show will be there.

 

NYC FAVORITES

What is your favorite NYC Music Venue?

Patryce– Rockwood Music Hall

Steve-Rockwood Music Hall, Joe’s Pub

 

What is your favorite NYC hangout spot?

Patryce – Fat Black Pussy Cat

Steve – hanging at my place and my friends house

 

What is your favorite NYC spot for inspiration?

Patryce– Battery Park

Steve – I actually enjoy going to the beach in Long Beach and going hiking outside of the city

 

What is your favorite thing about NYC?

Patryce– The amazing food options on any budget!

Steve – The great musicians from so many different places that I was fortunate to cross paths, work with, chat with, play with. NYC is the only place like that on Earth for sure!