The Swellers are a four member band from Michigan. Band members are: Nick Diener (vocals/guitar), Jonathan Diener (Drums), Ryan Collins (Guitar), and Anto Boros (Bass).
The band is currently out on tour with Less Than Jake.
Mr. Nick Diener was kind enough to answer a few questions for Double Dance.
How did the band start?
In 2002, Jonathan (my brother and our drummer) decided that we wanted to start a band and write our own songs, on our own terms. Called up our buddy Nate to play bass, started as a 3-piece, and played locally for a few years.
Where did the name “The Swellers” come from?
We needed a band name, it sounded catchy, it means nothing, and the other guys gave me the OK. It really came out of nowhere!
What bands are The Swellers most influenced by?
When we started, we kind of vowed to stay true to our punk rock roots as well as delve into the 90’s radio rock we grew up listening to. That formula stuck around even till this day. So bands like NOFX, Lagwagon, Millencolin.. all the way to Weezer, Jimmy Eat World, etc.
Who writes the songs in the band?
Jonathan and I write the lyrics and the music together. The chemistry seems to get better and better with every record, too, since we know what we want to try next.
How did you guys end up getting to tour with Less Than Jake?
I met the LTJ guys when I was recruited in early 2006 to play bass on their tour for the band A Wilhelm Scream (our good friends and mentors). They were all really cool, and I told them about my REAL band, The Swellers, and they seemed interested. We stayed in touch, and as our band grew, they noticed, and wanted to help us out. Vinnie (LTJ’s drummer) puts out all of our vinyl on his label, Paper + Plastick.
Do you have a favorite venue to play shows at?
The Metro in Chicago is quickly becoming one of our favorites. We play there in a few days! Also, the Fillmore in Detroit is super gorgeous and really big.. so that was awesome to play.
After this Winter tour, what are the band’s future plans?
We’re touring the states with Motion City Soundtrack, Set Your Goals, and This Providence in Jan/Feb. Really excited about that. Maybe some Canadian dates are on that but I’m not sure. And after that, maybe some more in North America, then Europe hopefully in the Spring. Can’t wait!
What is something about the band, that most fans might not know?
I think what I’m about to say is actually true for a lot of bands… it’s that we spend most of our time driving. In a van. No chicks, no parties.. just driving. And after the shows, we’re so tired that we just sleep on our friends floors in our sleeping bags. That’s the rock and roll lifestyle we lead.
Where would you like to see the band in 2 years?
In 2 years, I’d like to have our next record out. Big plans for big tours. Big videos. Big radio. Everything big and awesome. We shall see!
Once again, a huge thank you to Nick for the interview, you can check out more information on The Swellers current tour with Less Than Jake here.
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