The band is made up of Josh Ballard, covering lead vocals and piano, his brother Dan on guitar, and Daniel Dempsey on drums. They were kind enough to answer the following questions for Suite.
1. I know Until June began with Josh and Dan playing together through high school. Was it the influence of a musical family that got you started playing, or if not, what band did inspire you?
When you're forced to play music as a kid, it's not that inspiring. I think for Dan and I, we had to discover it ourselves. We feel very fortunate to have a family that is very talented; my grandmother was a music teacher and our father played piano, so music was always around us. When high school hit, my brother and I gravitated toward bands like "The 77's" and "Oasis", that is when our music started to become something.
2. In your time on the Hollywood music scene, what have you enjoyed most?
Well, we are still very much involved here; we try and play out as often as possible. I think the most enjoyable part of playing there is the fact that it's so revered. The first time we played a show in Hollywood was the Viper Room 4 years ago. The feeling of intimidation was so overwhelming. To look back at that and see how we've grown as a band has been something I think we all enjoy.
3. What is the most important lesson you've learned in your progress toward a major label release?
This may sound trite but never giving up. Someone once told me, "Josh, you're not competing with every band in LA, you're only competing with 2%. That 2% are the artists that really want to make it, and if you make sure you're in the 2%...you'll be ok". I think that advice stayed with us.
4. Josh, your vocals are certainly unique (and cool!). Is that what sets Until June apart? If not, what does?
Thank you! The unique vocals comment is certainly one we hear often. I feel the guitars are really what set us apart though. My brother loves effects...he never sits too long without researching new gear. I honestly feel his ambition for new sounds keeps us going new places.
5. I know the postponement of the album release must be hard. What are your own responses to this and how do you deal?
The first thought is frustration. We feel awful for our fans who have been waiting such a long time, and we hate to tell them February is the new date. However, I think Flicker/Sony know what they are doing, and the February release will benefit us more in the end.
6. What is your favorite type venue and why?
I think all three of us love playing in our home town in Hollywood. Playing the clubs here are so much fun. Great sound and great fans, we couldn't be happier. It's also nice to drive home to your own bed.
Click here to find out more about this happening new band, Until June.
