Epicenter Music Festival is next week and 311 will be there, bringing massive hits like “Down” and “All Mixed Up” and perhaps new material off of their upcoming album, “Voyager” (out June 28). Singer and guitarist, Nick Hexum, talks to us today about their new album, the origin of their name, Epicenter Music Festival and much more.
311’s Nick Hexum Talks New Album “Voyager” & Epicenter Music Festival
EPR: 311 got their name due to a streaking incident involving one of the then bandmembers, that got him arrested. Was it a dare? Did his buddies come to his rescue or just let him think about what he had done?
Nick Hexum: Well, only P-Nut was there but as I understand it, it was daytime shenanigans because there was no school that day. It was spring and the pool was closed. Someone was dared to jump the fence and skinny dip. He got caught and was brought home to mom, naked, cuffed, and given a “311” ticket! (“311″ being Omaha police code for “indecent exposure”).
EPR: 311 has been around for many years when the majority of bands that were coming up about the same time are long gone. What is your secret to not losing that artistry and creativeness that makes it still possible to perform and make quality music?
Nick Hexum: For me, I work hard to keep that sense of wonder about exploring new music. That means you keep exposing yourself to new stuff and not become the grumpy old guy that only likes the old stuff. We stay excited about music and that makes it exciting to listen to. Cannabis helps keep that youthful sense of wonder!
EPR: Early in your career, 311 lost all of their equipment in an RV fire. How did you not just say “forget this!” and pack it up then?
Nick Hexum: Because we had a gig the next night! And then like six more left on the tour. So, we just needed to borrow instruments and amps to get through it. We rented a car on my credit card and made it back home. Then, I found a guy to lend us money to buy a much safer RV and some new gear. Our record company didn’t offer to help us so we had to do it ourselves. That’s ok they got their comeuppance. But no, we never considered giving up. We were having way too much fun!
EPR: What can you tell us about your new album, “Voyager” coming out later this year?
Nick Hexum: I feel it is another exciting step forward. We boldly go into some new territory! I think the title “Voyager” is quite fitting because we see ourselves as musical explorers.
EPR: Do you hang around to watch the other bands at music festivals?
Nick Hexum: Yes, we’ve made so many great friends with other bands. I love to watch other bands to get inspired. There is some kick-ass heavy music on Epicenter Fest!
Catch 311 at Epicenter Music Festival [5/11] and check out the rest of their tour dates here.
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Wow I love this band. I am such a big fan to them.. I love their songs. I listen to them everyday. I love the vibes their songs gave. Thank you for sharing. I am looking forward to have more songs from them.