by Craig Newman
Guest Writer —
Carlos Bates Cruz of STONEBREED, a Los Angeles based rock band with a southern taste, sat down with Craig Newman for a brief interview.
Hardrock Haven: When was the band formed?
Carlos Bates Cruz: Around September or October 2009. And first show was at Paladino’s.
Hardrock Haven: What does the name mean?
Carlos Bates Cruz: We went through many names and had a contest on MySpace where people sent suggestions. One of the names was STONEBREED and we Googled it and no info. So we thought about it and the stone is a rock. Our type of music is almost a dying breed of hard rock with the 80’s southern flare to it and a cool name to it. A stone is rock and we are different breed so that is name we came up with (laughter). Not a lot of bands playing our type of music which is a breed of stone (laughter).
Hardrock Haven: That is good to, that is fresh and keeps it alive too. Are you are working on debut album?
Carlos Bates Cruz: We are finishing the mastering of it.
Hardrock Haven: When do you expect to release it by? Have chose a title?
Carlos Bates Cruz: We are just calling it STONEBREED for first album. The mastering is being done artist Matthew Masterson who also working on our art and CD cover. And will probably release it at the end of July with a release party at Crue fest. This will be for sale on our own label and looking for major distribution as well.
Hardrock Haven: You are working hard and playing many shows here at various Southern California venues and opening for many artists. Hopefully one of the major labels or distributors will sign you. You should also inquire for Europe and Asia distribution too. I worked for music distributor for Asia during the 80’s. Who writes the songs for the band??
Carlos Bates Cruz: It is a collaboration effort though I am the main song writer for the lyrics. Some of the songs for the album I wrote acoustic guitar.
Hardrock Haven: The band performs all over Southern California. Any shows planned away from So Cal?
Carlos Bates Cruz: Yes, occasionally we will perform at Phoenix and Las Vegas. We are waiting for the record to be done and get some funds to hook up with friends and do some touring and inquire about European tour too.
Hardrock Haven: Some bands have a trademark logo that catches the eye. To me it is your hat, who designed it?
Carlos Bates Cruz: (Laughter) I have a lot people tell me that. And coming from Texas and I have long hair so when on stage performing, I like to wear a hat so the hair doesn’t get in my face.
Hardrock Haven: Carlos thanks for your time and will see at a show again taking photo’s.
Carlos Bates Cruz: Welcome bro! Thanks for your support.
Visit the band on the web: http://www.stonebreed.com
