1) Could you introduce everyone in Quiet Corral?
Jesse Braswell Roberts (Vocals/Acoustic Guitar/Mandolin), Isaac Flynn (Guitar/Vocals/Drums), Matt Green (Bass), Zach Mehl (Guitar/Piano), Garrett Childers (Vocals/Guitar) and Jim Barnes (Drums/Vocals)
2) How did Quiet Corral form?
Garrett Childers and I met when I was in the sixth grade. We would play covers in my parent’s basement and talk about starting a real band. Several years down the road, Garrett came to KU and met Jesse at their fraternity. At the time, Jesse was working on some solo material, and Garrett was impressed with his song writing/lyrical style. The three of us got together several times, and somewhere around then we decided that it was worth seeking out other musicians and pursuing this band.
We pieced together the rest of the lineup during my freshman year at KU (2009-2010). Jim Barnes was the last person to come into the picture. The two of us started a recording studio called The Art House in 2010. At the time Jim was reluctant to start a band while starting a new business, but I forced him into it, and he’s definitely committed now.
The last two members to jump on board were Matt Green and Eric Davis. Since then, the band has parted ways with Eric and acquired Zach Mehl. Zach, Matt and myself have been playing music together since we were 12, so the chemistry was already there. (Zach, Matt and myself are also all FSHS grads…shout out to the class of 09!)
3) How would you describe your style of music?
I’d like to think that our sound is a combination of traditional americana/folk music mixed with a hint of modern rock/pop. Since that is such a broad spectrum, we hope that there’s something for everyone to enjoy in our music.
4) Since you started in Lawrence, how has it influenced your music?
Lawrence is one of the most unbelievable towns to grow up in and to play music in. People are so supportive of the arts in this town, and they have been incredibly supportive of what we are doing. Another advantage about being from Lawrence is the university. The KU student body has backed us heavily, and it has really helped propel us into other college markets. We’ve seriously been blessed with some amazing opportunities, and Lawrence is at the heart of all it.
5) What sort of things has Quiet Corral been up to? (New releases, tours, publicity, etc.)
We have been writing, recording and touring a lot. The three of those things at once are somewhat demanding, but we’re enjoying having the opportunity to try to pursue music full time.
We recently released a new single, “City Steep”, and we have been recording a new album that will be out at some point later this year.
6) What advice would you give to ambitious young musicians?
Believe in what you are doing. A band has to have a great balance of confidence and humility to be successful.
7) How does the songwriting process usually go?
Songwriting is very tedious for us. Jesse or myself will bring the skeleton of a song to the band, and then the we will refine everything in the practice room. Jesse writes all of the lyrics, and the rest of the guys give their input to finalize the song. Everything is very collaborative for us.
8) When is your next show in Lawrence?
It looks like we will be playing Lawrence around Stop Day (last day of KU classes) this year. We are going to be out of town for a while, and then we are going to finish our new album. Lawrence is hands down the most fun city to play.
