POPTONE Interview (Rio Theatre)

“A New Poptone Tale To Tell”
Written by Jason Reed
June 1, 2017

Like many music fans of my generation, I grew up listening to the inspired output of Tones on Tail, Bauhaus and Love & Rockets in equal measure. Collectively, this music defined my “alt” street credentials like nothing else and gave me a sense of identity that balanced my burgeoning goth aesthetic sensibilities with my desire for music that transcended simple chord structures, pedestrian themes or pre-existing contemporary genres. There was something strangely sophisticated and worldly in the music of Daniel Ash and Kevin Haskins. A creative, emotive and contemporary approach to music making that seemed inherently “timeless.” And as the years have gone by, I never thought I’d actually witness a time in which I’d get the opportunity to see the members perform their stellar Tones on Tail repertoire live. Luckily for myself and countless fans, we now have a second chance to witness this musical magic in person. 

I sat down with Daniel, Kevin and Diva (Kevin’s daughter) before their concert at the Rio Theatre in Santa Cruz, California on May 30. I was eager to talk with all three about the circumstances behind Poptone’s very recent formation, their current whirlwind national tour and their respective childhood musical influences: Clocking in at over 20 minutes, our in-depth discussion covered a great deal of ground, proving that there are indeed many, many new tales to tell.

If you liked our interview, please share (by clicking the social media buttons below) to help promote Poptone’s current national tour. Also be sure to check out their official Facebook page here for specific tour dates.