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Days of Rona: Aaron Wall of Red Beard Wall

The statistics of COVID-19 change with every news cycle, and with growing numbers, stay-at-home isolation and a near-universal disruption to society on a global scale, it is ever more important to consider the human aspect of this coronavirus. Amid the sad surrealism of living through social distancing, quarantines and bans on gatherings of groups of any size, creative professionals — artists, musicians, promoters, club owners, techs, producers, and more — are seeing an effect like nothing witnessed in the last century, and as humanity as a whole deals with this calamity, some perspective on who, what, where, when and how we’re all getting through is a needed reminder of why we’re doing so in the first place.

Thus, Days of Rona, in some attempt to help document the state of things as they are now, both so help can be asked for and given where needed, and so that when this is over it can be remembered.

Thanks to all who participate. To read all the Days of Rona coverage, click here. — JJ Koczan

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Days of Rona: Aaron Wall of Red Beard Wall (Plainview, Texas)

How are you dealing with this crisis as a band? Have you had to rework plans at all? How is everyone’s health so far?

It has been a definite shock to the system! We’ve had quite a few amazing shows cancelled, including SXSW. Our rehearsals have been put on indefinite hold, due to the fact that drummer Brent Standifer is located six hours away. We’ve just basically had to adapt to a completely new way of operating. Our mindset basically has gone from a regular band, to more of a focus on being a social media content creator, merch salesman, etc.

The silver lining, I suppose, is we now have the time needed to focus on getting the next album done, and hopefully released much sooner than anticipated. We’re doing our best to be chameleons and adjust and adapt. Constant forward progression, no matter circumstance. That’s the motto. Now and always.

Brent, mine, and our families’ health are good so far. We’re doing our part to slow the curve, so we can get back out there, and bring the people what they want and in turn ourselves as well!

What are the quarantine/isolation rules where you are?

I live in a rural, somewhat unpopulated area of West Texas so our rules are pretty lax as of yet, in this immediate area. I and my family are being proactive and sheltering in place. Gotta do my part even though the restrictions aren’t as tight here at this point. Brent lives in the San Antonio area so their restrictions are much stiffer. Such a weird time.

How have you seen the virus affecting the community around you and in music?

Its affected our peers in so many ways! Our promoter buds, our venues, staff, and musician friends are struggling. So many are service industry peeps. Feels like the rug got pulled out from underneath us. We’re all just trying to figure out how to make things work and get by until we can get back to doing what we do. It’s our whole life, it’s who we are at the core, so it’s been extremely difficult. We just have to help each other, in any and all ways possible. Especially now, but ALWAYS!

What is the one thing you want people to know about your situation, either as a band, or personally, or anything?

What Red Beard Wall wants everyone to know is… Brent and I are here for the community. We are all about love, gratitude, and positivity. We come with hope, good vibes, and anything tangible or helpful we possibly can. We are extremely accessible to ALL. Holla if you need us. We are always willing to lend an ear, or to give words, and actions of encouragement. Be safe! Stay healthy! ALL LOVE. ALL RESPECT. ALL GRATITUDE. ALL HAIL!!!

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https://redbeardwall.bandcamp.com/
www.argonautarecords.com
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