“I admire anyone who is able to walk that fine line of musical integrity and pop sensibility,” said local musician Eric Palkovic, bassist and backing vocals in Orlando band Afterglow Radio. “Maintaining hooks familiar to peoples ears yet introducing new rhythms, changes, controversial lyrics or world instrumentation that make the listener a little uncomfortable, [such as] Sting, Peter Gabriel, Silverchair, Radiohead, Duncan Sheik, David Poe, Muse, Mute Math, etc., basically those who shake up the status quo through the back door.”
The local Orlando musician writes both music and lyrics. “Usually I draw my inspiration from things that I want to change. I like to present ideas in my lyrics that might make you think about what, who, where and why? I would much rather people dive into artistic work rather than be fed it by cheese ball lyrics. I’m working on writing about scenarios and less about obscure metaphors but so far, Carol Caine’s got the crown on that.”
The bass is his instrument but he said, “I sometimes inappropriately fondle the guitar and keyboard. I refuse to play drums. No human is supped to be able to have independent control over all four limbs.”
According to Palkovic, the future plans of Afterglow Radio include, “World Domination. Otherwise, we are pursuing playing as much as we can, wherever we can, to get people to hear our new material. Since the standard ‘music business model’ is out the window, we look forward to trying to find new avenues to gain exposure. I’m almost certain that a new music video and tons of new Internet content will be coming soon.”
“I think it’s our attention to detail and integrity that sets us apart. We’re slow to get things out to people and play shows but when we do, we bring everything we have! We leave everything on the stage without the need for crazy lights or stage diving. Beside the live show, I hope that we write music that gives you a double take.”
“If I had one thing that I wish people would take away from our music, it would be HOPE. It’s just such a powerful idea that I love to write about.”
When dealing with mistakes during a live performance, Palkovic takes the high road, “I just shoot a very angry look to Jorge [Alvarez – drums] and try to play it off like it was his fault.”
In describing the music business, the local Orlando musician said, “It is definitely a dog eat dog business, all the more reason why bands need to stick together. In a town that can’t identify itself, we artists need to come together to help each other in any that we can. Stop hatin yo!”
“The Internet levels the playing field. Exposure to an entire world population is possible by a few clicks. It is and will continue to be a force that is undeniable. I only hope that people eventually still want to leave their homes and go see some good live music.”
Afterglow Radio’s most recent CD, Miles Away From Anywhere, is available on iTunes and CD Baby. Their CD release show is scheduled March 16th at House of Blues Orlando. The band has two other recordings out, their self-titled EP and their debut CD, Find Yourself Again.
Music fans can follow along with the local Orlando band on their official site, Reverbnation, You Tube channel, and Facebook page.
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