Awaken I Am have just released their highly impressive new album Blind Love via Victory Records. We honestly can’t stop listening to the album and it’s fast becoming one of our favourite albums of 2017. We caught up with the band’s guitarist Ned Jankovic to learn more about the album and find out what they have planned.
SCENEzine
Another stand out track is “Wolves” how did that one come about?
Ned Jankovic
That one is one of Luke’s favourites and one of my favourites live. Musically it actually started off as quite a heavy song but Taylor saw beyond that and stripped it down to make a really wicked rock song! Lyrically, it’s a song that looks at all those self-absorbed people and making you reevaluate what truly matters. When people are only there for you and when it benefits them, we consider them Wolves.
SCENEzine
We also really like the song “Hindsight” did that one come easily in the writing process?
Ned Jankovic
Actually yes! Originally in the demo process, I thought this one would take a while to develop but as soon as we took it into the studio that one flowed and was done in a day or two! Such a surprise since that song is the most left of centre track for us, but another big favourite within the band!
SCENEzine
You’ve toured Japan, played in the USA and supported some great bands in Australia and New Zealand. Is there any particular live career highlight for you so far?
Ned Jankovic
As a band, two things stick out for us for sure! Firstly, was our first Japan tour. We did not know what was going to happen but just being able to go overseas we were stoked. But, in the end over surpassed all our expectations. The crowds were wicked and Japanese fans are just some of the best out there.
Secondly and my personal highlight was being able to play So What?! festival. Just playing the same festival as Underoath was such a mind blown moment.
SCENEzine
A huge part of the bands’ appeal is Adam’s unique vocals, was that a big reason that made you initially want to join the band?
Ned Jankovic
100%. Adam has such a unique voice where you could throw any style of music and he can find a way to make it sound a million times better! I’m also a sucker for a soulful voice and Adam has that in spades! Which, makes me happy that he got to shine a bit of that soulfulness in the new record. Shields and Crowns have such a heavy vibe and for Adam, it was 100% intensity so with this record its cool to see him flow a bit more and take some steps back and really shine.
SCENEzine
Lastly, can you give us some insight into what the rest of 2017 and early 2018 holds for Awaken I Am? More tours, new music videos?
Ned Jankovic
Right now we will be playing around Australia 2017 but 2018 we will be more touring international and hey! hopefully some more new material 😉
(interview by Christian Ross)