Following up a string of bold and blistering offerings these last few months, New York-based outfit The Vigilance Committee now kick off their new year with this anthemic new single 'Reflections III'.
Channeling a mix of intense indie-rock and pop-punk aesthetics throughout, 'Reflections III' makes for a fresh and exciting return for the four-piece. Filled with euphoric hooks, an energetic pace, and a brilliantly catchy chorus, expect to have this one rattling around in your head long after you've first heard it.
So with the new track available now, we sat down with the band's drummer Phil Corso to discuss his origins and influences over the years.
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What was the first instrument you fell in love with?
My father played drums his whole life. So naturally, I grew up around them, too. My mother, who was a dance teacher, also enrolled my siblings and me into dance classes since before I could walk, basically. So I was learning rhythm in dance class while also fiddling around with drums at home.
What was the first song that inspired you to make your own music?
'Dumpweed' by Blink 182 - Enema of the State came out when I was in 4th grade and just started thinking about being in a band of my own.
What kind of music did you love as a teenager?
Punk rock. Loved Blink 182, NOFX, MxPx, Thursday, etc. I also listened to some rap as well. Eminem was one of my favourite artists back then.
What do you find is the best environment to find inspiration for your music?
The real world! Anywhere, everywhere. Authentic art comes from authentic places.
Who are your favourite artists you have found yourself listening to at the moment?
I’ll name drop Blink 182 again here. But I’ve also been listening to a lot of new (to me) artists this past year like Somos, Ways Away, Kayak Jones, Souvenirs, etc. The new Touche Amore record is phenomenal. The latest He Is Legend record is also insane.
How many of your songs have you written about people in your life?
Most of them! Except.. one of our records is based on a true story of the vigilance committees of San Francisco in the 1800s - we never met those people, obviously.
What has been the most unusual moment in your career so far?
Opening up for Jounce, which is Danny Tamberelli’s (of the Adventures of Pete and Pete) band.
If you could open a show for anyone in the world, who would it be?
Smashing Pumpkins, Yes, Blink 182, Built to Spill, Spoon.
If you weren’t a musician, what other path do you think you might have taken?
I’m also a journalist. That’s how I pay the bills. (Said sarcastically because journalism and money are clearly enemies.)
And what is the best piece of advice you have received as a musician?
Anyone who conveyed, or reiterated the notion that there are no rules, and that music can be whatever you want it to be - those are the people whose advice sticks with me.
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The Vigilance Committee's new single 'Reflections III' is available to stream and download now. Watch the new video for it in the player below.