EX-VOTO Shifting gears a bit — how do you personally define Deathrock and Goth Rock, having witnessed their birth firsthand? Given that both genres have their own distinct origins and vibes, howwould you describe these genres to someone who missed the dawn and is just now stepping into their twilight? The name ‘Deathrock’ actually started out as an insult! It's what the Punk Rock guys would call us, making fun of all of us. But that's happened all throughout history - a derogatory name gets adopted and embraced by the group. And ‘Goth’ at the time was called ‘Gothic Rock’ and we associated it primarily, but not exclusively, with the bands coming out of England.To me the Deathrock stuff is more apparent that it was born from Punk Rock and Gothic Rock is a little more polished. Moving forward from‘Don’t Look Back’, Ex-VoTo's journey continued with a series of compelling albums —‘Anno Domini’ (1995), ‘The Light of Day’ (2003), ‘Doloroso’ (2006), and Antioch (2009). That’s an excellent discography. Are there any particular albums or moments in this discography that stand out most to you? ‘Anno Domini’ is a collection of the original songs from the 80s, the stuff we were playing around L.A. at The Krypt, Zombie Zoo, The Scream, Helter Skelter, Anti-Club, Blitz Club, etc. Two of our biggest songs are on that album, "Falling Apart" and "If I Never" as well as "I'll Wait Forever" which has become a huge fan favorite in the last 20 years. During the 90s we did a lot of work for Cleopatra Records' various Goth compilations and goth tribute albums, like The Goth Box. In the 2000's after releasing ‘The Light of Day’, I wanted to focus on more guitar driven songs that really reflect the Deathrock aspect of our music.‘Doloroso’ is the result of that. ‘Antioch’ holds a special place in my heart because it's the first time I actually set out to write an entire album, instead of just writing individual songs. I had never done that before and I was a bit apprehensive but I'm pleased with how it turned out. Some of my personal favorite songs are on it. If you could collaborate with other bands, even from completely different genres, whether for remixes or maybe entirely new material, which bands do you look up to that would be your top picks? Tommy James (and the Shondells). I've always loved their music. I would have loved to work with David Bowie. I think he was the only person I've ever been starstruck over when I met them. Johnny Thunders is another one who is no longer with us that I would have loved to work with - listening to The New York Dolls is where I learned to write music! But back to reality - I do love collaborating. Especially sitting down with others and coming up with song off the top of our heads. I used to do that a lot. I'd have guys from different bands come over and we would set up a tape recorder and just jam.A number of Ex-VoTo songs were inspired by bits and pieces of those improvised sessions. Focusing now on the present, what is Ex-VoTo currently involved with? Any upcoming shows, projects, or plans fans should keep a bat-eye out for? We have some exciting things coming up.‘Don't Look Back’ will soon be re-leased on vinyl and will include a bunch of rare material from that era.Next year ‘Anno Domini’will be released as a double record gatefold album, with even more rarities. Next month we are playing in Santa Ana, CA and in October were are finally playing in Mexico City. People have been persistently inviting us to play there for over 15 years but it has never worked out with our schedules until now.We are thrilled to finally visit! We are currently trying to put together a 2026 tour. Fans everywhere can also be on the lookout for new merch on our website featuring a mix of new and classic designs. To bring this conversation to a close, on behalf of PeekA-Boo, we thank you, Larry, for sharing your journey with us tonight. Before the last note fades, is there any final whisper you’d like to share with your fans or those just stepping into the world of Ex-VoTo? Here’s to a fantastic future, shining ever brighter in the darkness! I want to say thank you to all our amazing fans.You're the reason we have been able to keep making music for over 40 years.We're honored that our music means something deep and personal to you. Even after so long I still get nervous each time we release new music or we play a show. I think"This song that came frommy heart...Will you like it?". It can feel like a dangerous thing, sharing a piece of yourself with others, but you've made it a wonderful ride. As for new fans, it's exciting to see so many younger people discover Deathrock and Gothic Rock! It reminds me ofwhat it was like back at the beginning of the scene,with it's sense of excitement and possibility. If you're just now discovering us, I hope you enjoy what you hear! - 28 -
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