Calgary-based punk rock outfit Julius Sumner Miller recently released the music video, “Leave The Key,” a track lifted from their latest album, Try It Out, the band’s fourth album.
Made up of five musicians who are legends in the Calgary music scene, not only because of their visceral music, but also due to the fact that they’re show bookers, punk promoters, and advocates of local bands, Julius Sumner Miller cut Try It Out in four days at the world-renowned OCL Studios.
The video for “Leave The Key” was filmed by @DirtySlothFilms and edited by Rich MacFarlane, with pyrotechnics by Academy Award Nominee, Guinness World Record Breaking, Fire Stunt Specialist, Colin Decker, who really is a wizard of combustion.
In fact, vocalist Darren Ollinger was, literally, set on fire for 30 seconds, infusing the song’s lyrics with actuality.
“A whole world of tears / Could not douse out these flames / Save them for someone / Who wants to feel pain.”
Tattoo.com spoke with Darren Ollinger to find out what it’s like to go up in flames, who is in the band, and the origin of the name Julius Sumner Miller.
What inspired your new single/music video “Leave the Key?”
I was given the glorious opportunity to be lit on fire… so we figured we’d film it (and if I didn’t die) we might as well make it into a JSM video for “Leave The Key,” since the lyrics “I light myself on fire, and you just stand and stare” were already in the song.
In the music video, you actually are on fire for 30 seconds. What was that like?
Yes… it actually happened. Those flames are 100 percent legit. It was absolutely invigorating. It’s bizarre to say but doing something that could kill me has never made me feel more alive.
Who is in Julius Sumner Miller and which instrument do they play?
Sean Hamilton – Guitar
Rich MacFarlane – Lead Guitar
Darren Ollinger – Lead Vocals
Scott Burton – Drums
Rob Smeltzer – Bass
What’s the story behind the name Julius Sumner Miller?
Named after the legendary physicist. That dude was an unreal personality. We just thought it would be awesome to honor him and his wild demeanor with our equally wild punk rock charm.
If you were to describe your music to the uninitiated, how would you describe it?
A frantic punk rock party that dabbles in politics and personal stuff.
How did you first get into music?
Loved it since pretty much day one… got into booking and promoting shows, then moved into band life when I found rad players that would put up with me.
Where are you from?
Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Did your hometown impact your sound?
Not really, nobody sounds like us around these parts.
Which artists/musicians had the most impact on your sound?
Tons of influences. But honestly, everyone in this band listens to completely different music, which really lends to crafting our unique sound. It creates a very dynamic writing experience when everyone isn’t on the same influence page.
Which artists in your opinion are killing it right now?
Pup, NOBRO, and Pears. Around these parts “No More Moments” rules… and up in Edmonton “The Old Wives” are the good damn best.
Who or what inspires you?
Not failing inspires me. Not letting others down inspires me. So, I guess I’m saying I’m inspired by my own actions as opposed to someone else’s.
What can your fans expect over the next six months? New material? Live gigs?
We are playing a few shows in the next few months and making some more videos. But JSM is also super stoked about releasing our 5th album. We’re just working on the mixes right now and it sounds insanely good. We’re calling it ‘Nobody Cares’ cause, for the most part, nobody does… except for you kind folks at Tattoo.com. Your interest is super appreciated.
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