INDIE BAND OF THE WEEK - FREEDOM 45

Who are you and what is your role in the band?

I am Justin Shuster and I am the vocalist.

How did the band get started?

I was looking for my next project after my last band broke up when my boy Matt Watt brought me in to try out for F.45.

Who are your influences and how do they play a role in your sound?

My influences range from American Head Charge, Lamb Of God, Emmure, August Burns Red to my favorite vocalist, Zack de la Rocha from Rage Against The Machine. They have affected my sound, writing style, lyrical content and stage presence.

What has been your most meaningful experience being in this band so far?

Probably the Barn Burner show. It’s a semi-annual event we host on private property. It was our first gig together where we shot the video for “In To The Hollow.” We put it on ourselves and it turned into to a killer underground experience we’ll never forget.

Favorite memory from a show you’ve played or a place you’ve travelled?

When we were shooting our first band photos and our then bass player Christian accidentally blew up my phone with David’s twelve gauge. The phone is now our band room mascot.

What do you hope to accomplish with your music?

I want to create visual experience at our shows to make us stand out as a band that gives unforgettable performances while at the same time shines light on the subject matter of my lyrics.