The Obelisk Questionnaire is a series of open questions intended to give the answerer an opportunity to explore these ideas and stories from their life as deeply as they choose. Answers can be short or long, and that reveals something in itself, but the most important factor is honesty.

Based on the Proust Questionnaire, the goal over time is to show a diverse range of perspectives as those who take part bring their own points of view to answering the same questions. To see all The Obelisk Questionnaire posts, click here.

Thank you for reading and thanks to all who participate.

The Obelisk Questionnaire: Brad Van of Droids Attack

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How do you define what you do and how did you come to do it?

I somehow feel compelled to do what I do. It is a pursuit of happiness, I suppose. I was naturally drawn to the rhythmic elements of music when I was pretty young and was inspired to play the drums. Perhaps because I could just watch people play and learn how it was done visually. I could play along to recordings after a few listens. It was fun for me. I really enjoyed playing and wanted to form an original band to write and record albums with. It was difficult finding people with that same drive, so after drumming in a few bands I decided I wanted to learn how to play guitar to try and write some songs myself. I incorporated those rhythmic elements I was initially inspired by into my guitar playing, and my music got heavier as I got more comfortable with the feel of the instrument.

Describe your first musical memory.

I remember hearing “Ace of Spades” on the radio when I was very young. I thought it was awesome, and that’s the first song I can remember that got stuck in my head. I also remember having a Fisher Price record player, and my brother had The Greatest American Hero theme song on 45. I loved hearing that one too.

Describe your best musical memory to date.

Playing the Metro in Chicago opening up for High On Fire, Torche, and Kylesa back when no one had ever heard of us. It felt like a turning point for us at the time, like we somehow broke through to the big leagues! I suppose I would call that one of my best memories. I remember playing that show, and some folks involved with the event were angry because we were put in that slot by the event organizer who wanted us on because he liked us. He wanted to give us a chance, which is rare in my experience, so he fought for us and he refused to cut us. After we played everyone was pretty nice though, so it felt cool like we won them over. I remember being a little sad after that show because I thought it was all downhill from there because there was no way any other show would be as awesome, but I was wrong. We continue to get such great shows, work with great bands, and meet such awesome people. Maybe my best memory is the moment I realized I was wrong.

When was a time when a firmly held belief was tested?

Man, so many times. That’s a hard question to answer. How about the belief that all people are inherently good? I’ve been taken advantage of by plenty of people who would have had no problem with stepping on me and my mother’s face if it meant they could get ahead somehow. It’s hard not to let situations like that get the best of you, and change you into a negative person. I do have a firm belief that you should never allow that to happen, and that gets tested quite often.

Where do you feel artistic progression leads?

In my experience I’ve found that all people are in pursuit of different things as artists. Some want to be the best at their craft, some want to get attention, some just want to party… so I suppose the pursuit determines the progression. For me, I just want to feel happy, and fulfilled in life, and I am. I want to write songs that I can enjoy playing night after night and work with people who enjoy playing out as much as I do and as often as possible and have a good time. I also want to challenge myself to be the best player I can be, and put out albums that I can feel proud of and are worth a spin.

How do you define success?

When you are able to earn enough money to make a decent living seems to be the easiest answer to that one, but it’s really hard to achieve that without being able to completely dedicate your life to it for a good period of time. I think there are other levels of success that are worth the personal sacrifice it takes to grind just enough to earn steady gigs and opportunities to collaborate with artists, venues, and promoters that you have great respect and affection for. It’s rewarding to be a part of this community.

What is something you have seen that you wish you hadn’t?

Most recently I guess would be how awful people have gotten comfortable with treating each other. This pandemic was very difficult on a lot of people, and I hate seeing all of the abuse and suffering on social media, and with some of the people around me in my daily life. I’ve reached out to plenty of people these last couple of years just to check in on them and try and help them get through some dark times if I can.

Describe something you haven’t created yet that you’d like to create.

I’d like to create a Droids Attack pinball game.

What do you believe is the most essential function of art?

To me good art makes you think. You experience it in whatever variety of ways, see it, hear it, taste it, whatever, and if it’s good then it has some potency on you. If it’s quality work it will draw you in. Maybe inspire you to dance, question your perception, maybe sway your emotions. Lift your mood, or maybe drag you down further until you hit bottom. Good art stays with you, and becomes a part of your life. Hopefully one that’s positive.

Something non-musical that you’re looking forward to?

I look forward to retiring with my wife, and going on adventures together.

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Droids Attack, Sci-Fi or Die (2016)

Two-pronged good news from Wisconsin heavy rockers Droids Attack. After the unveiling earlier this summer of their Rye Lager, the latest brew collaboration with Ale Asylum, the trio have announced intentions to hit the Eastern Seaboard next month and further intentions toward a new album thereafter. Anyone who may have heard 2016’s Sci-Fi or Die (review here) already knows this is a win.

As raucous as they are underappreciated, the sheer heart Droids Attack put into the presentation of Sci-Fi or Die was evident on every level, from the tightness of the songwriting to the crisp production, the gorgeous cover art and the actually-hidden bonus track that was on a secret mini-CD under the plastic tray holding the disc proper. Every step of the way, Droids Attack put everything they had into that record, and I’ll admit I was a little nervous accordingly it might be a final go. I’m glad to discover I was wrong.

It’s been years since I last saw them, and I won’t on this tour — Frederick, MD, is the closest stop and it’s about seven hours by car, so yeah — but if you can make it to watch them hammer out new material before they hit the studio, tell them I say hi and enjoy.

They sent the dates down the PR wire:

Droids Attack are hitting one more string of road dates before entering the studio to begin work on the follow up to 2016’s Sci-Fi or Die. Those who attend can expect to hear some new material mixed in with some familiar favorites such as Brahma Astra, Claw Hammer Suicide, & Die Glocke. Joining them on this stretch is Druids from Des Moines, Iowa, who’s heavy groove inspired hooks make for a perfect pairing.

10/9: Madison, WI – High Noon Saloon
10/10: Chicago, IL – Reggie’s
10/11: Ypsilanti, MI – West Cross Station
10/12: Cleveland, OH – Now That’s Class
10/13: Frederick, MD – Guido’s Speakeasy
10/14: Pittsburgh, PA – Howler’s
10/15: Dayton, OH – Blind Bob’s
10/16: Indianapolis, IN – Black Circle Brewing
10/17: Lexington, KY – Cosmic Charlie’s
10/18: Nashville, TN – Springwater Supper Club
10/19: St. Louis – Fubar

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http://droidsattack.bandcamp.com/album/sci-fi-or-die
http://droidsattack.com/

Droids Attack, “Die Glocke” official video

If you might be the type who likes to knock back one or more frosty adult beverages on occasion, I can think of fewer bands I’d trust more to oversee a craft beer release than Wisconsin’s Droids Attack. Not only do they benefit from the Midwest’s way-ahead-of-the-curve-on-the-whole-thing craft beer culture (Dogfish Head and Magic Hat, etc., notwithstanding), but I have no trouble believing these dudes know what they like in beer. When they say something like “soft citrus aroma finish,” I honestly think they taste it. No bullshit.

Their rock and roll operates likewise as regards BS, so it seems all the better they’re bringing the two sides together at a series of beer parties supporting both their new Rye Lager release through Ale Asylum and 2016’s righteous long-player, Sci-Fi or Die (review here). The shows are next month, and I do believe they’ll have beers along for the ride (closed container, of course) in addition to what’s on tap, so if you’re in the neighborhood, might want to stop by and pick up a sixer.

Info from the PR wire:

We did that one beer awhile ago, and it ended up selling out so fast they decided to do another. When that one sold out they decided to turn it into a series of Droids Attack beers, so we did some more. After we did four successful beers, we picked up brewer that has out of state distribution, so now we can bring our beers into our neighboring states of Minnesota, and Illinois. Because of this, we have set up beer parties in Milwaukee, Chicago, Madison, & Minneapolis.

Come experience the latest flavor in Droids Attack’s Craft Beer series. This time Droids Attack has partnered with Wisconsin craft brewing juggernauts, ALE ASYLUM, to bring you MASHENOMAK: RYE LAGER. A crisp refreshing lager with a peppery rye kick, brewed with a late hop addition to achieve a soft citrus aroma finish.

Mashenomak is the first song in a two part epic on Droids Attack’s 2016 release, SCI-FI OR DIE. Based on a Native American folk tale, Mashenomak is a fish monster that terrorizes the local tribes, and swallows the souls of all living creatures. Manabush is a brave warrior who allows Mashenomak to swallow him in order to slice open his belly and rescue all of the animal spirits. This tale is beautifully captured in the beer label illustration by artist, ELI QUINN.

To celebrate, Droids Attack and Ale Asylum are bringing the party on the road. Special guests will perform with Droids Attack, and Mashenomak: Rye Lager will be available for a limited time on tap at these venues in the following cities:

7/5 – Company Brewing (Milwaukee) w/ Shogun
7/6 – Reggie’s Rock Club (Chicago) w/ Huntsmen, Archarus, & Attalla
7/7 – Bos Meadery (Madison) w/ Shogun
7/14 – Mortimer’s (Minneapolis) w/ High Graves, & Witchden

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http://droidsattack.bandcamp.com/album/sci-fi-or-die
http://droidsattack.com/

Droids Attack, Sci-Fi or Die (2016)

Friday night, Droids Attack play a release show for what sounds like a beer strong enough to be worthy of the gauntlet thrown down by their 2016 album, Sci-Fi or Die (review here), the secret hidden title-track of which (posted here) laid it all on the line: “Death to false stoner thrash.”

So be it. The Madison, Wisconsin, trio have been steadily kicking ass for nearly the last decade and a half, and if they want to up the stakes, they’re backing it up both in the quality of their material — look, I dig Must Destroy and Fatal/Error as much as the next cat who really, really digs them, but the new record’s just at another level — and the ABV of the new, 8.2 percent double red IPA they’re producing with House of Brews, which has been dubbed Aztec Astronaut and apparently already so well received that it’s going to be the first in a series of Droids Attack-themed adult beverages. Can “The Kegger” be far behind?

In addition to this big news, Droids Attack also have a new live video for “Koko Beware” from a show earlier this year, and a round of tour dates coming up next month that will take them out to the West Coast for what I’m pretty sure is the first time supporting Sci-Fi or Die.

Much to see, much to do. Check it out:

Droids Attack – Beer & Tour

We recently had a craft beer released in our honor. It’s called Aztec Astronaut, brewed by House Of Brews by brewer Peter Schroder here in Madison, WI, and commissioned by Trixie’s Liqour who are planning to make it a yearly release. It is a 8.2% Double Red IPA. The beer is sold in 22 oz. hand numbered bottles that include a unique download code for Brahma Astra off of SFoD, and it is also available on tap at select venues. We are performing a launch party for the beer at The High Noon Saloon in Madison this Friday, May 19th.

Thanks to everyone who bought up all of the Droids Attack beer around town! Because of the success of the release, the folks who put it out are interested in doing another Droids Attack beer based on one of our other albums in the Fall! I hope you can all maintain your unquenchable thirst for alcohol until then! In the meantime, we are getting ready to party at the High Noon Saloon this Friday, & announce all of the places where you will be able to find Aztec Astronaut on tap! Come join us! More fun to be announced soon!

Droids Attack live:
06.16 Des Moines IA Des Moines Social Club
06.17 Omaha NE O’Leaver’s
06.18 Denver CO Bar Bar
06.19 Bozeman MT The Filling Station
06.20 Spokane WA The Pin
06.21 Seattle WA Substation
06.22 Portland OR High Water Mark
06.23 Eureka CA Little Red Lion
06.24 Sacramento CA Starlite Lounge
06.25 Los Angeles CA Viper Room
06.26 Las Vegas NV Beauty Bar
06.27 Tempe AZ Yucca Taproom
06.29 San Antonio TX The Gold Bar
06.30 Austin TX Swan Dive
07.01 Oklahoma City OK Blue Note Lounge
07.02 St. Louis MO Fubar
07.03 Chicago IL Township

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http://droidsattack.bandcamp.com/album/sci-fi-or-die
http://droidsattack.com/product/pre-order-sci-fi-or-die/

Droids Attack, “Koko Beware” Live at the Majestic Theatre, Jan. 7, 2017

Droids Attack, Sci-Fi or Die (2016)

Wisconsin heavy rockers Droids Attack wanted to do something special with the title-track of their latest album, Sci-Fi or Die (review here), so they hid it. No, really. It’s hidden. As in you need to go and find it. Fortunately, you don’t have to go that far. If you bought the CD when it came out at the end of February, you already have “Sci-Fi or Die” whether you know it or not. It’s in the jewel case, under the disc tray, behind a false back card on a mini-CD of its own with its own special artwork and lyric liner. “Something special” achievement unlocked.

As to what you’ll find when you dig out that mini-CD, “Sci-Fi or Die” is a departure from much of the record that bears its name, moving away from the full-thrust of songs like “New Plague” into almost proggy riffing and spacious, echoing vocals reciting lyrics that not only acknowledge the listener’s success — “You have found our hidden track/Sci-fi or die” — but then immediately express gratitude for said listener having bought the album — “Thanks for choosing Droids Attack/Sci-fi or die.” Hard to beat that as far as charm goes, and the trio of guitarist/vocalist Brad Van, drummer Tony Brungraber and bassist/backing vocalist Darwin Sampson know plenty about charm, as anyone who’s actually already bought the CD can tell you.

Below, you can exclusively stream “Sci-Fi or Die.” It’s not available digitally anyplace else. You can’t buy it except as the CD with the CD, and you can’t download it anywhere. So if you want to hear it, now’s your chance. If my description above didn’t explain properly how to find the mini-CD in your copy of Sci-Fi or Die, Van was kind enough to make an unboxing video for the album in which he not only goes through the process, but rightly takes some time to highlight the excellent and intricate artwork throughout the package by Eli Quinn, which is already in my notes for some of the best cover art of 2016 and should be in yours as well if you’re the list-keeping type.

Van also gives some comment on what drove them to handle the secret track this way under the song itself, which you’ll find on the player below.

Please enjoy:

Brad Van on “Sci-Fi or Die”:

We were goofing around at practice, and we joked about writing a hidden track song about finding the hidden track. We came up with a bunch of elaborate ways to hide it, including really dumb ideas like hiding a treasure map in the album liner notes and actually burying a box with the song in it somewhere when we went out on tour.

We definitely didn’t want to do the typical ‘tack on 20 minutes of silence’ after the final track that people would fast forward through, and we didn’t want the track to be a senseless noise jam, or anything useless that folks would just want to skip. It’s more of a missing puzzle piece that fits right in as the final song of the album. It’s also the title-track, “Sci-Fi or Die.”

Tutorial: How to Uncover Droids Attack’s “Sci-Fi or Die”

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Droids Attack on Bandcamp

Droids Attack website