interview w/ The International Jet Set

Formed in the Spring of 2008, Ska super group former members of The John Hardy Boys, The Smizokes, and Downbound Train, as well as a present member of Press Black. International Jet Set is a ska band based out of Easton, MD.

TF: Band members / instruments?
Chris: Cody – Guitar; Dan – Bass, Jon – Sax, Mike – Trumpet, Amanda – Trombone, Nick – sax, myself (Chris) – Drums. Jon, Cody and Dan share vocals.

TF: History of the band?
C: The International Jet Set includes former members of Blood, Sweat, & Tears, Spandau Ballet, Deep Blue Something and The Chi-Lites

Your influences?
C: Well, let's see.....ummm........whatcha got? Mostly,…Bell Biv Devoe. (ed. Note: it’s Fishbone…EVERYONE knows this.)

TF: How you were turned on to this style of music?
C: By hearing it and enjoying what we heard.

TF: Other bands / scenes you’ve been involved with?
C: Press Black, The John Hardy Boys, Downbound Train, The Venkmans, The Smizokes. That's the big 5 anyway.

TF: Best show experience (in a band & viewing)?
C: Personally. My best show:- The Smizokes opening for the Bosstones at the 9:30 was quite cool.
Worst show: The Smizokes, Laurel, DE, talent show… kids singing Celine Dion songs, strep throat, drunk frontman, beer can in face, hick cops. Do the math.

TF: How is Baltimore compared to other cities you’ve played?
C: I heart Baltimore and Baltimore hearts us.

TF: Best local venue?
C: The best- The Ottobar, My favorite has to be The Sidebar though.

TF: How do you feel about pirating (downloading) music?
C: Currenty indifferant. After playing music for almost 12 years and having only made about $43 so far. I couldn't care less if people want to steal my music. Honestly I'd be kinda into it. At least I'd know people are interested in what we have to say.

TF: Top 5 records (any style)?
C: With this particular band you'd need a top 35.

TF: Upcoming Shows to promote?
C: We gotta a website AND a myspace. All you'll ever need to know is right at your fingertips, so don't just sit there, go get it. Thrive for omnipotence! The interweb is the key to unlocking your true potential. Dammit it's magical!