The rock group They Fought Back is all about making loud music. The Jersey City group released their debut album Resist on 87 Records, which was recorded at Watermusic Studios in Hoboken. Lead singer Tree has a commanding and melodic rock voice that is exciting to listen to. And indie rock and hardcore musicians Romel Espinel on guitar, bassist Jon Shell and drummer Sean Patton collaborate to create a unique sound and perform quality live shows.We recently talked to Espinel to catch up with the band:
EM – How did you guys come up with the name for your band?
RE – Our band name is based on a book of the same title by Yuri Suhl. The book is about the contradicting view that working class Jews and leftists didn’t do anything during Nazi occupation. Actually, they fought back in many ways, which is documented in Suhl’s book. I always thought it was a great title and then later I always wanted to name my next band after it.
EM – Where is the band from?
RE – Jon and I are from Jersey. Sean and Tree are from Lexington, Kentucky. Our home base is Jersey City – that’s where we all live.
EM – How would you describe your music?
RE – That’s a tough one. I like being in bands where it’s indescribable and working toward our own style. I always cross us with a harder-edge Fugazi mixed with Tool. It’s intense fighting music.
EM – Who are your musical influences?
RE – Too many to list. I won’t speak for the other members, because our influences vary greatly, but mine are Soulside, Fugazi, Black Sabbath, The Clash, Sonic Youth, etc. Those are bands I call home.
EM – Where have you played, and how long has the band been together?
RE – We’ve almost been together for two years now; in April to be precise. We’ve played basically everywhere in this area: CBGBs, Maxwell’s, Continental, Tobacco Road, Meow Mix, Court Tavern, and Uncle Joe’s.
EM – What are the band’s professional plans for the near future?
RE – To tour, that’s our big plans for right now. We spent the last year and half playing a slew of shows in the area and some outside the area. We just released our record in October called Resist and we want to get out and promote it. We’re also in the process of writing new material.
EM – What are your thoughts on the music scene in Hudson County, New Jersey?
RE – Well, like always, there’s a lot of potential. It’s great that we have two great clubs like Uncle Joe’s and Maxwell’s, so that national touring acts come and play. And I think the last year has been great for Jersey City with bands playing Uncle Joe’s. Having a place like that offers musicians a chance to experiment and be exposed to different kinds of music. That should be the main concern for the bands, instead of how many tickets, shirts, or CD’s you can sell.
EM – What can people expect at the show on Dec. 31 at Uncle Joe’s?
RE – Rock and more rock. We’re happy to be playing with Rye Coalition who is one of the best bands to come out of New Jersey, period. And it will be nice to play for our hometown to bring in the New Year.
They Fought Back will play at Uncle Joe’s at 154 First St. in Jersey City on Dec. 31 at 9 p.m., along with Rye Coalition. Tickets are $15. For more information call (201) 659-6999 or visit www.theyfoughtback.com. q