Taylor Roberts of Taproot Talks Band Dynamics and Identity Mix-Ups on Talkin’ Rock with Meltdown

Taylor Roberts from Taproot/ Riding With Killers joins me on Talkin' Rock with Meltdown.

We started off talking about RWK. He explained how the band formed, talked about their debut record, "Full Circle," and more. He said they've done some pretty big shows, but it's time to bring that band to the forefront. "We're really getting ready to launch this band in the right way," he told me.

He talked to me about being a fan of the band and finally becoming a band member. He spoke about how he ended up in Detroit through a band member coming from Mississippi.

When I asked Taproot frontman Stephen Richards and drummer Jarrod Montague to give me some questions for Taylor, they did not disappoint. They told me to ask him about meeting the Kittie in Las Vegas. He was a huge fan growing up as a teenager.

They also told me to ask him about looking like Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor. That was hysterical! I guess he's been confused for him several times.

In Taproot, he plays guitar, but in Riding With Killers, he's more upfront. "The challenge of putting myself in the lead singer spot and finally writing about things that have been on my mind and in my head and heart for years is very cathartic, and it's been a great release."

When Taproot reformed and announced they'd be back with a new album and tour, Flint's Machine Shop was one of the first dates to go on sale. Three shows sold out quickly. Since, they've booked shows in other areas of the country. But it was a sort of homecoming as the Michigan boys played the Shop Friday, Saturday and Sunday to wrap up their record release weekend.

I was up in the U.P. last week, but on the way home Friday, I swung by the venue to see the guys as they were loading in and getting ready for show number one. It was great to see them getting ready to rock the stage as their album SC/SSRS dropped the same day.

Machine Shop owner Kevin Zink told me the shows were awesome. "Three nights of Taproot, sold out! It doesn't get much better than Michigan bands and fans getting together to celebrate live music!" I wish I could've seen them all, but it wasn't in the cards. I'm glad I made it out Sunday night.

Speaking of Michigan bands, Eva Under Fire was one of the opening bands. It's been a while since I've seen them live, so it was cool to see how they've grown onstage and with their songwriting. Killer band, go see them when they play near you.

On a side note, it was great to catch up with Thom Hazaert. It's been too long, brother.

If you missed the shows, you can see them when they play District 142 in Wyandotte on December 9th!

Check out some pictures from the Machine Shop photo genius, Jeff "Minty" Mintline. Thanks Minty!

-Meltdown-

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