Introducing…. The Haptics
The Haptics, a band that coalesced in early 2022, have been forging their own sonic path. Starting with a rock/blues foundation, their sound has evolved into a compelling blend of post-punk, post-rock, and a touch of grunge. In this interview, the band chats with us about their formation, musical influences, and the emotional core of their music.
Click Roll Boom: Tell me about how you got started
The Haptics: Hi there, The Haptics came together in early 2022 when we all met via a musician’s post on Craigslist. Since then, we’ve tinkered with the line up as a few members have passed in and out. Jin (vocals) and Cam (guitar) have kept things moving forward since those early jams.
CRB: How would you describe your sound, and how has it evolved since you first started?
TH: We started with an almost overdriven rock/blues sound and have started to evolve into something that’s more our own. I would describe it now as a mix of post-punk, post-rock, with a little taste of grunge for frosting.
CRB: Who or what have been some of your biggest influences, musically and beyond?
TH: I know that Jin and I were both very influenced by the Seattle sound from the early 90’s. She has also talked about bands like Bauhaus and Depeche Mode. For me Tom Petty always brings out some memories from my earlier bands, also the 00’s rock sounds from The Strokes and The White Stripes were hugely influential.
CRB: What does your songwriting process typically look like – is it a more individual or collaborative effort?
TH: It can be both sometimes. Often myself or Mike (bass) will bring in a complete song minus the lyrics of course…and then we often jam it out and make some adjustments as a band. Once we get a structure we like Jin lays lyrics over top and away we go.
CRB: How do you approach experimenting with new sounds or ideas when creating music?
TH: For me I might hear something that just sticks in my brain, or just be noodling around on the guitar and something will stick. Something that you just can’t leave alone and you need to incorporate it into a new song. Its in those noodling moments that some weird sounds will come out and present themselves.
CRB: What’s been one of the most memorable moments in your journey so far? CRB: How do you prepare for live shows, and what do you aim to bring to your performances?
TH: We always try and bring a high energy to shows, a high emotion. Its important to really feel the emotion you are trying to express in a song. Otherwise what are you doing?
We’ve had a lot of great moments in the journey so far. Played some super fun shows at the Cobalt, and the Astoria in Vancouver, BC. Had some fun roadtrips playing in BC’s interior and on Vancouver Island.
CRB: How do you balance creative expression with staying connected to your audience?
TH: On stage its all creative expression and you try and connect to your audience through the music. Once you’re off stage it’s a totally different thing and you try and connect more one on one, on a more personal level to people. We are all very approachable and friendly.
CRB: What do you hope listeners take away from your work?
TH: I hope they feel the emotion and mood we are trying to express. I think that’s what art is all about. Feeling and expressing your inner self. I hope that we touch on things that people can relate to.
CRB: What does the future hold for you – any plans or goals you’re excited about?
TH: In the short term we are continuing to work on our second album so we are very excited about that. And a bit longer out we are hoping to play some outdoor festivals this summer and in the early fall. In the long long term world domination would be pretty sweet!
