Interview: Mikaela Salazar of Falling Through April

Even though they are originally from disparate parts of the country, Charlotte, NC based Alt Rockers Falling Through April have come together to form a cohesive unit in a city that is rich in music history and has a thriving independent rock scene. Their energy is abundant in their live shows and in the music from their new album “Zodiac”, which was released on January 19^th, 2018 through Page 2 Music.

Falling Through April released first single and video “Desperate Measures in September of 2017 and have gained significant visibility: Google Play Music’s Modern Rock radio channel and iDobi radio were early supporters and are playing the song. The video premiered @ Alternative Press and debuted @ #13 on the Youtube Alternative Hotlist playlist. The video will be featured on the Footlocker In-Store network in 1,835 stores in 23 countries starting January 1st as well as several other major brand retail outlets. “Desperate Measures” is playing in over 3800 Health Clubs worldwide, and has been added to syndicated shows like MusicMix USA and Sidewalks TV, among others.

Check out the video for “Desperate Measures” here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kctQFU2d_-

The band’s founders (Jim Siani, Dave Piontek, Taylor Foster, Dan Candia) have weathered the full gamut of hurdles as a startup since forming in 2011, ranging from exploding transmissions and ghosting vocalists to nearby celebratory gun fire landing Taylor in the hospital. When charismatic front woman Mikaela Salazar stepped into their lives in 2016, the road blocks were removed, and everyone found something to be excited about.

The 4 founders found each other while playing in different bands that were a part of the Charlotte indie rock scene. The band members came to music naturally, as they all had musicians in their family: Dan came from a long line of international musicians, and his dad always played guitar when he was growing up. Dave started in music early, and in his early teens he became enamored of the Electric Bass and that became his instrument of choice. Jim knew by the age of 13 that he wanted to be a professional musician, inspired by acts like Aerosmith, Alice Cooper, and his favorite band Weezer. Taylor grew up watching his Dad play drums, so you could say they are in his family DNA. Mikaela grew up in a house that was never silent, and the desire to be involved in music was second nature. She was inspired to become a singer by strong female musical role models like Alanis Morissette and Gwen Stefani.

The band has 2 previous independent releases: The “Take Flight” album in 2012; and the “Risk and Reward” Ep in 2015.

Listen in as Mikaela Salazar takes time out to talk with us about the release of their album Zodiac

In early 2017 FTA packed up and drove to Nashville, TN for a several month’s long recording binge with producer and friend Jon King(Augustana, Darling Parade). The result is their new album “Zodiac”, a powerful alt-rock collection that melds influences ranging from Incubus to Halsey.

The band has amassed a significant touring resume, having opened for The Pretty Reckless, Pop Evil, Adelitas Way, Flyleaf and more. They have also performed at major festivals including the Vans Warped Tour, SXSW, Florida Music Festival, Sonorous Music Festival, Dewey Beach Music Conference and Celebrate Fairfax. Their touring has garnered them endorsements from PRS and Reverend Guitars, among others.

FTA’s goal is to have their music reach as many people as possible around the world and for their music to inspire and encourage listeners. Becoming a household name in the modern rock community drives them forward, and “Zodiac” promises to help them achieve that goal. A second single and video will be released in early 2018.