Exclusive: Heart To Heart Interview

Heart To Heart are just a few weeks away from releasing their debut full-length album on Anchor Eighty Four Records, but that's still not a reason to relax for the band's vocalist, Nick Zoppo. I recently discussed the funding and recording stages of the album, the band's upcoming full-US tour, and what he hopes to achieve in the future for Heart To Heart. Check out our chat below where you'll also find a stream for two new songs from the record, which can be pre-oredered here.

First off, tell us your name and role in Heart To Heart.

Nick: Hello world. My name is Nick Zoppo and I am the frontman or vocalist whatever you'd like to call it these days.

So the band's debut full-length is all set and just a few weeks away from being released. How are you feeling right now? Is the worst over and you're cruising or is there still a lot of work to do?

Nick: Well, to be honest at the moment I am a tad bit nervous. Ever since we started recording (June 1st) it has been a very long a stressful road. This was our first time recording a full-length record not only as a band but as individuals. We really didn't know what to expect. I have to say the worst is not close to over. We have been doing a lot of promoting trying to let the world know we have a new record coming out as well as getting ready for our first US tour. Which means working on getting merch, getting the van going, and working in between all of this fun stuff. So still a lot of work to do. It is a huge gamble. You never know what everyone is going to say about it. We hope everyone enjoys this record. We put everything we had into this and I believe that it shows. For any band who says they don't care what people think
about their band they are lying. What other reason would you be in a band for? Ya we do it for ourselves but we want to give something to the people that they can relate to. Gets a little scary at times.

How did the album's writing and recording processes compare to the previous EPs? Though it's not the first time working together, what was it like recording with producer Kyle Black this time around?

Nick: We started writing for the record in the winter of 2011/2012. We knew we wanted to work with Kyle. Although last time we worked with Kyle we only did 3 songs we loved how we worked together. The dude knows his stuff and together I believe we make a great team. We spent a lot more time with him (about 3 1/2 months) and it was a learning experience for the both of us. We spent a lot of time on this project making sure it was gold. We had our bad days but hey doesn't everybody? Overall we are very happy with the record and Kyle. He is not afraid to get his hands dirty. He pushes us to our max. Sometimes ya break. Only makes you stronger.



Many people have mixed opinions on Kickstarter projects, debating the lack of a DIY ethic, while others argue that it's a great way for fans to be involved and rewarded - how was the decision made to help fund the record through the website? I must admit that the goal was very realistic in comparison to some controversial projects from other bands that we've come across. The rewards were also quite generous.

Nick: It was a hard decision for us to make, but then reality had set in. There was no way that we were going to be able to afford this record on our own. We talked about many different ways to raise money to help. It is something that we really wanted to do. It was our goal to make sure it happened. We didn't only do a Kickstarter but we had a fundraiser BBQ as well and that helped us raise $1000. I am not against the Kickstarter projects if it's for a good cause. There are so many projects out there that are just insane. I believe that if you want something done you can make it happen. We are grateful to have as much support as we did. So once again thank you to anyone who helped out. I'm sure we kept our promise of making an awesome record.

The band has created a uniquely edgy combination of Pop Punk and Melodic Hardcore, but I've noticed that the new album songs sound a little more mellow. Do you feel like HTH is still finding its sound or is it just a broader balance?

Nick: Oh no, haha to be honest that wasn't the song I wanted to release second. It was tough picking a single for all of us. This record is all over the place. Just wait till you hear the whole thing. We aren't really a "Pop Punk" band. There is some of that influence but we have some songs that are a lot harder. I think a lot of people are going to be shocked when they hear this record. I believe we found our sound and we have a good idea of where we are going. We write music together. We don't try to write a certain style. We write from all the pain that we have. And that right there is what makes us Heart To Heart.

I feel like the band has been lucky enough to remain an active touring and recording band, but do you feel like the line-up changes has held you back at all?

Nick: Not at all. It took us a while to find a solid line up with members who all want the same thing. You'll find a lot of people want to be in a band but don't want to put in the behind the scene work that it takes. Not every band has that magical Disney story where they rise to the top. You have to put in those hours. Adding Taylor to the band was a great move. He fits right in and he also does a lot of singing on the record. Adds something new to the mix. We have only gotten stronger.

In relation to the band, where do you see yourselves in 5 year's time?

Nick: Shit, I hope we are hitting the road and have tons of headlining tours. By that time I'll be 30. It will be time for us to be taking out the younger bands. All about passing the torch. Sadly, we are still waiting for our shot. I think it's coming soon. I hope I'm not working some shitty day job and playing bar gigs. Hopefully, we will still be making awesome music for those who want to hear it.



The band will be hitting the road this October and November for what I heard will be a full-US tour - when was the last time you guys visited the east coast? What are some of your favourite places to play when on tour?

Nick: Yes we will be headed out this Fall. It will actually be our first time hitting the east coast as a band. We have only been as far as Ohio. It's time to cover some more ground. We couldn't be more excited. I personally love Texas. It is alwasy fun to play there. Hopefully this tour we can add to that list with some more favorite
spots to play.

With your experience to date, what are some pieces of advice that you might pass on to a band that's starting out and hopes to achieve what you have?

Nick: Never give up on your dreams. I hear it from my friends all the time. They are miserable or not doing what they always wanted to do. Ten years ago in high school they asked me where I wanted to be when I was 25. I said "singing in a touring band" and that is exactly what I am doing now. Do what makes you happy. Put in the hard work. It will show and it will pay off.

Cheers for doing this with us. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Nick: Thanks for bringing me in. Really appreciate it. Please everyone keep an eye out for our new record October 9th. There is something for everyone on this record. Also check us out at www.hearttoheartca.com for tour dates to see if we are coming to a town near you. Much love. See you all soon. Don't forget to check out all of our friends' bands. Too many to list but we post about them all the time.

Interview by Mario Parra

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