In the dizzying array of indie styling, Clark Thurston & The Sleepy Hallows emerges as unique relief. Through rough-hewn guitar & drum, pierces attractive, melancholic, and lyric centric melodies. With details of emotionally charged grunge and subtle southern gothic charm, the group is no stranger to its indie upbringing. With the rationale of connecting with their listeners through vulnerable expression, it is easy to resonate with the storytelling of each song.
Beginning through the songwriting of frontman Clark Thurston and the energetic addition of Alex Hicks on drums, the group has grown from its humble beginnings to a showcase of unfashioned presentation. Based out of Upstate of South Carolina, the two are no strangers to the music scene. Both have built their craft from previous projects and have come together to create a novel styling.
What first got you into music?
Alex: For me, it was listening to the new Four Year Strong album in the car with my older brother. I was 14 at the time so he would take me to and from school. In those brief car rides though we would bond over the fast-paced drums and melodic guitar riffs. It was such an enjoyable moment. I feel that was when I knew I wanted to learn an instrument and make music that other people would experience in the same way.
What is your biggest musical challenge?
Alex: I would think our biggest challenge is finding a bassist. Honestly, we have had the hardest time tracking down an available bassist to perform with. Our songs have rich full bass tones but, unfortunately, we can’t replicate them on stage yet. If you know a bassist Mr. interviewer, I’ll pay him $2 to play with us.
What is your creative process like?
Clark: For me, I begin writing everything on an acoustic guitar. It’s how I have been doing things since I was in high school. I will play various chords until I begin hearing something in my head and try a few different melodies to toy with. I honestly spend the most time on lyrics. That’s what has always been the most important factor for me when I listen to music, so I try to do it myself. From there, I will record the track and send it to Alex and let him work his magic.
Would you have any advice for would-be artists or songwriters wanting to follow in your footsteps?
Clark: Write, write, write. Never stop creating. You don’t even have to finish an entire song, because you may come back to it later down the line. You keep getting better each and every time. Sometimes you may write complete dumpster fire, but if you get out on the other side, you’ve already done more than you have previously. Perseverance is one of the best traits for an artist.
What is one message you would give to your fans?
Clark: Thank you. For everything. We wouldn’t be able to do this if it weren’t for all of the support we get. It is such a driving force for artists in general. Getting to share our music with others makes every difficult step along the way worth it. Our gratitude knows no bounds.
What was the last TV series you watched on TV?
Alex: I tried not to watch it, but the internet dragged me to it. The last show I binged was Stranger Things Season 4. After one episode, I knew I was going to be up all night. Now I’m counting down the days till the finale on July 1st.
Who would you want to play you in a movie of your life?
Alex: Easy, Ryan Reynolds. He’s got the charm, the looks, the humor. All the things that I want movie watchers to think I had. But if he was not available, I’d take Jake Gyllenhaal. He’s got an amazing beard.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Clark: Every time. I usually sing songs that I would never be able to perform live. I’m a sucker for the early 2000’s emo music, and I still can’t hit any of the notes those artists do. Listening to Haley Williams from Paramore is one of my guilty pleasures, and I love trying to sing those songs.
What historical Figure would you love to see in 21st century life?
Clark: Frédéric Chopin. I think he was the most incredible composer to have ever lived. His music makes me feel so many emotions and I get lost in it. There aren’t even any words, just notes, but I feel like he is speaking through his playing. If I could just pick his brain, I believe that I would learn so much.
If you could learn any language fluently what would it be?
Clark: Japanese. Hands down. I’m a huge weeb. Usually, If I am watching TV, it’s anime. If I’m reading, it’s manga. My tastes may be trash, but their culture fascinates me. They have the best food and beautiful traditions. I’m taken aback by all of it. So really, I just want to watch anime without subtitles.
