INTERVIEW: Dean Roland of Magnets & Ghosts

How would you describe Magnets & Ghosts to those who have never listened to the band before?
Melodic music just trying to understand where it all begins and ends.
How did the two of you come together and how did you settle on your sound?
Ryan was going to Berklee [College of Music] in Boston. We worked together on a couple of Collective Soul projects and realized we had [a] similar taste in music. We bonded over that and that was the genesis.
Speaking of Collective Soul, how would you say the music you’ve created with the group differs from your current work with Magnets & Ghosts?
Collective Soul has a 20-year history, which I’m super proud of. MAG has very little history and no musical expectation – clear canvas.
You released your new EP, be born, last month. How would you describe its sound?
It’s all over the place. Some songs happen fast and are revealed quickly, some are more of an expedition. Anthony J. Resta was huge for us through that process.
Which song would you say is your personal favourite off it and why?
“Off My Mind” is my personal favorite. I’m proud of it because of the vulnerability of the lyrics and the soundscape around [it]. Our goal was to make that song a tiny journey through heartbreak and empathy.
I can definitely hear the Radiohead influence while listening to the EP. What is it about the band that inspires you?
You never know what you’re gonna get from them… Go see them live.
What would you say were your personal highlights from 2014?
Recording be born and working with Anthony J Resta.
Is there anything fans can expect from you both in 2015? Possibly a tour or even more new music?
More music, more shows.
Social media is a major tool for up-and-coming bands. How would you say it has helped Magnets & Ghosts’ rise?
Accessibility to one another.
You can find Magnets & Ghosts’ music on iTunes, and be sure to follow the band on Facebook and Twitter.
By Clare Fitzgerald
