[INTERVIEW] Austin Instrumental Trio Anime Set to Make Official Debut, Talks Upcoming Single "Cherry"

Jarrod Apodaca, Photo Credit: Devin A. Carrillo

Austin-based band Anime is a little bit math, a little bit rock, and 100 percent ready to let its instruments do the talking.

Comprising guitarists Emilio Rendon and Jarrod Apodaca, alongside drummer Hayden Griffis, the new trio boasts over three decades of experience between them, with each member having picked up his respective tool of the trade between the ages of 10 and 12.

Noting that “the fact that we all work in a taco shop, have similar tastes in music and all happen to play instruments” is what helped unite them initially, the three musicians finally formed as a band in 2019 under the moniker that calls to mind the distinctive Japanese style of animation that has won over millions of fans around the world. Together, the group pulls on influences that range from classic rock legends like Nirvana, Black Sabbath and AC/DC to modern bands like Dance Gavin Dance and Palm, and the result is an enveloping, spontaneous, but carefully crafted sound that simultaneously oozes with frenetic energy and infinite oceans of tranquil frequency. And yes, it’s even reminiscent of the soundtracks laced through anime films, in case anyone was wondering.

Hayden Griffis, Photo Credit: Devin A. Carrillo

Anime is now preparing to release its debut single “Cherry,” which will give listeners a gratifying taste of what the up-and-coming act has to offer. “This song was one of the first ones we wrote as a group,” Rendon told Musical Notes Global. “I had this beginning intro riff that I played for Jarrod and Hayden, and they liked it, so we just focused and worked each part out. It wasn’t complete until we went into the studio, then kind of solidified the ending from there.”

“Cherry” is set for release on October 31 and will also serve as the lead single off Anime’s upcoming EP, which is due out in 2020.

Emilio Rendon, Photo Credit: Devin A. Carrillo

The magic of genres like math rock is that the music created under its liberating yet complex guidelines falls generously to the interpretation of whoever lends an ear, and even though lyrics don’t play a starring role, it’s the emotion behind the notes that continues to resonate. Sometimes the tones created directly from feelings—not the words—are what speak to those parts of the soul that need to hear them most, and through the emotion poured into its first collection of songs, Anime is striving to impact the lives of its listeners, if only for a moment, but with any luck, for a lifetime. “To hopefully make someone’s day better with a song or two of ours,” Rendon mentioned when asked what the band hopes to accomplish with their work. “And to influence more kids to pick up instruments! Hopefully they feel what we feel through these songs we’re getting ready to release.”

Anime will perform live this Saturday, October 26, at the Arrowhead House for their Halloween House Show.

For all of Anime’s latest news and updates, follow them on social media:

Facebook: facebook.com/animebandtx

Instagram: @animebandtx

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