The Obelisk Questionnaire: Brad Van of Droids Attack
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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