Interview What's In The Box

Discover the journey of 'What's In The Box' in this interview. From forming in 2017 to recording albums and touring Europe, the band shares stories, challenges, and future plans.

1. Can you tell us about the origins of the band and how you all came together in February 2017?

I got the drummer on an add. The bass player had already played with me, it wasn't that hard to persuade him.
2. The band decided not to perform until completing a full album and a 45-minute playlist. What inspired this approach, and how did it impact your musical journey?

It was to see other local bands play, just because they had to. We didn't want to play at all costs until we had at least 10 songs to play. I think it just helped us.
3. "MILK" was your first album, released in 2019. How was the experience of creating your debut album, and what themes or inspirations influenced its creation?

Our first album was composed in the original line-up. Emphasis was placed on melody and rhythm. The biggest problem was the budget, which is why it sounds the way it does.
4. Could you share some insights into the recording process of your latest album "S(T)IMULATIONS" in Hradec Králové Studio "I," and what was it like working with producer Tomáš Frode?

Recording as such was a big step forward. Whether from a musical or production point of view, we learned to record productively and most importantly potentially. And we owe it to Tomáš Frode.
5. The album "S(T)IMULATIONS" took 12 days to record. Can you tell us about any memorable moments or challenges faced during the recording process?

The hardest thing was to hit the hotel, otherwise it went on its own.

6. How did the collaboration with Treefrog company for producing 300 pieces of vinyl carriers come about, and what significance does releasing vinyl hold for the band?

Nothing terrible from our side. Treefrog is a professional company, so they have great conditions for us.
7. Your recent tour covered 12 stops in 5 states. Could you share some memorable experiences or stories from the tour, especially the humorous and desperate situations recorded by your cameraman Filip Hudousek?

Of course. We can tell all other bands straight away that in Serbia you will only be bribed at the border, otherwise the audience is great. But the question is, is it worth it... Otherwise, the more you go to the west of Europe, the better it will be, I guess.
8. The story from Serbia involving a border issue is quite intriguing. Can you share more about the challenges faced during that incident and how you managed to overcome them?

Of course. There is only corruption in Serbia. They will ask you for a so-called "Eta Carnet" and you have to get it in your country's capital city two weeks before departure. If you only have a bribe...
9. The incident in Belgium with the van breaking down 900 kilometers from home sounds challenging. How did the band cope with this situation, and did it have any impact on your performances?

Thank God it was after the concerts.

10. Traveling seems to bring a lot of experiences for the band. Can you share any other memorable or unexpected moments from your tours?

Always be prepared. Either financially or psychologically.

11. The tour culminated in a concert in your hometown, Pilsen. How was the experience of performing in your home city, and how did the audience respond to the baptism of the album?

Over 100 people came to our concert in Pilsen, which is the most during the entire tour. We want to thank them, and their reactions to the album were great!
12. With a successful album release and tour behind you, what are the band's future plans? Are there any upcoming projects or goals you can tell us about?

Our plan is mainly to bring an even better album and how to raise the concert performance even further.
13. Your band is known for focusing on performing in European countries. Are there any specific countries or cities that you particularly enjoy performing in?

Definitely England, France and Germany.
14. As you work on new material, can you provide a glimpse into the themes or direction the band is taking for the next record?

We're keeping it a secret for now