Interview Spitbite

Spitbite, a dynamic trio from Pittsburgh, blends influences like Jesus Lizard and Melvins into their raw sound. Their debut single "Final Form" honors personal journeys with sincerity and power.

1. Can you introduce the members of Spitbite and tell us about each person's role in the band?
Daryl Shawn plays guitar and sings, Pat Herron plays bass, Jesse Tranfo plays drums. Jesse is known for his work in the Portland-based band The Hague and currently plays in Trace Remains. Pat has been a long-time member of Aberrant Kingdom.
Daryl has released seven albums of solo guitar compositions and also plays in surf-rock group The Killifish.
2. How did Spitbite initially come together as a band?
A series of want ads over a very long time. It took well over a year for us to arrive at our final combination.
3. What are some of the key musical influences that shape Spitbite's sound?
Jesus Lizard, Replacements, Melvins, And They Shall Know Us By the Trail of Dead, Daughters

 

4. Tell us about your debut single "Final Form". Where was it recorded and who was involved in its production?
"Final Form" is our debut single, recorded at Very Tight Recordings in Pittsburgh PA. Our engineer, Matt Very, is a super talented and passionate individual, and he was very key in shaping our sound for this single.
5. Could you give us insight into the inspiration behind "Final Form" or any other tracks you've worked on?
"Final Form" was inspired by a friend of the band, who went through one of the biggest changes that anyone can go through, the transition from one gender to another. Their journey was deeply felt and entirely sincere, and only arrived at through great introspection. They're a true inspiration and this is a tribute to their personal strength.
6. Were there any memorable or amusing moments from the recording sessions of "Final Form"?
We recorded this single before we ever played our first show. It was very eye-opening to discover what we actually sounded like outside of a deafening rehearsal room.

7. What was the thought process behind choosing "Final Form" as your debut single?
We feel very strongly about the subject matter of this song, and think that the sound very well represents what we like to do.
8. Are there plans to release more singles or perhaps a full-length album in the near future?
We plan three more single releases in 2024, and hopefully a full-length album in 2025.
9. How does the songwriting process unfold within Spitbite?
Daryl writes the lyrics and comes to the band with rough arrangements. Jesse and Pat then write their own parts and the final arrangements come together as a group.
10. What do you hope listeners take away from your music?
Exhilaration from the sonic impact, and hopefully a sense of renewed insight as well.
11. Is there a particular venue or city that Spitbite is eager to perform in?
Pittsburgh is in a great era of music, with a lot of great venues. But we look forward to getting on the road and playing outside of Pittsburgh as soon as possible.

12. Can you share a personal quote from one of the band members about Spitbite's music or your creative journey?
"We are addicted to the cathartic experience of raw sound, but are equally dedicated to the art of creating songs of actual substance". - Daryl Shawn

Spitbite – pittsburgh loud