Despite lineup changes and label changes, Smile Empty Soul and founding member Sean Danielsen (vocalist/songwriter/guitarist) has always remained perseverant through it all, leading the band’s way for more than two decades.
The California rock, post-grunge band, known to many as “Smile,” are constantly on the road and will soon release a new EP titled Swan Song (TLG|ZOID / Virgin Music Group), the first release since 2021’s LP Black Pilled and the 2022 EP The Loss Of Everything.
The second single from Swan Song, “The Rope,” was recently released, which follows “Savior.” “The Rope” stays true to the hard rock roots of Smile Empty Soul with a standout chorus and sincere, honest lyrics with Danielsen’s distinct vocals.
Smile Empty Soul perform with (Hed) P.E. at The Winchester in Lakewood, Ohio on Tuesday, Aug. 27 and at The King Of Clubs in Columbus, Ohio on Wednesday, Aug. 28.
In this OOTB interview, Danielsen talks about a recent lineup change, the new single, his artwork, the tolls of touring and more.
Watch the lyric video for “The Rope”
Watch the music video for “Savior”
With the new song “The Rope,” what things in life does The Rope itself signify to you?
In a nutshell, the song is about being on the run from the authoritarian wave that’s been sweeping over the world lately. Our freedoms are diminishing and the rope is getting tighter around our necks by the day.
What can you tell us about the upcoming EP Swan Song? Is there a release date? Has most of the writing been done on the road?
It will be released at the end of 2024, or the beginning of 2025. It’s completely done and I did most of the writing at home between tours. It turned out great and I’m excited to hear what the fans think of it.
As always, you’ve been on the road practically nonstop and up next a jaunt with (Hed) P.E.. What’s your favorite parts of touring and your least favorite parts about touring?
I love being on the move, seeing cool places and eating at great local restaurants all over the country. I do miss a lot about home though, and the older I get, the harder the toll takes on my body! I’m no spring chicken anymore.
What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve encountered in the music industry and how did you overcome that?
The biggest challenge is adapting to an ever changing industry and the fact that rock music is so sadly dead these days.
Do you still paint? Who are some of your favorite artists and why?
I do still paint and it’s been a great outlet for me for a long time now. I don’t really have favorite artists, I just just appreciate anyone with either an awesome unique style, or with a lot of technical talent.
With the upcoming departure of drummer Ty Del Rose and adding Tantric drummer Jon Loree, how will this affect the future of Smile Empty Soul?
It doesn’t really. Ty was great, but he wanted to get off the road and I respect that. I’ve been through so many band players over the years, it’s pretty normal to have change occur in the lineup, plus Jon is an awesome drummer and person.
Anything else you’d like to add?
Thanks to everyone you has stuck with us over the last 21 years and I hope you all dig Swan Song.
Follow Smile Empty Soul
https://www.smileemptysoul.com
https://m.facebook.com/smileemptysoulmusic/
https://www.instagram.com/smileemptysoulofficial/
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