Mark Nawara, drummer of The Outfit, recently took the time to answer some of my questions. The band just released their new album ‘Viking’ via Pavement Entertainment on March 27th. We spoke about their new music, getting to play shows with SOiL, and more.
The Outfit can be described in three words: original, bold, and rock. Based in Chicago, the band consists of Mark Nawara (drums), Matt Nawara (guitar), Mike Gorman (bass), and Andy Mitchell (vocals/guitar). Their first single “Soldier Boy” was released in 2018 and secured the #34 spot on Billboard’s Mainstream Rock Chart. The instant gratification track “Viking” has been received enthusiastically by crowds at the bands recent performances, including the Rock USA festival last summer. It also cracked The Billboard Mainstream Rock Indicator chart late last year and peaked at #24. Their new album, also titled ‘Viking’, was mixed by multi-platinum producer Ulrich Wild (Breaking Benjamin/Deftones/Pantera).
All questions were answered by Mark Nawara, drummer of The Outfit.
Q: Let’s start out with a question about music in general. What bands and artists started you on your journey of loving music? What about them inspired you?
A: There are many, but I’d have to say Cheap Trick and early Alice Cooper. With both Cheap Trick and Alice Cooper, I really appreciate the authenticity of the music. Nothing really complex, but great songs and a real edge to the delivery and sound.
Q: Your new single “Come Alive” is available now. Can you tell me a bit about the song? What is the story behind it?
A: Sure. The song is about connecting with loved ones in your dreams, who have passed on and are now living in another dimension. Andy, our singer wrote the lyrical content and we thought it was a really cool concept for a song.
Q: On social media, you have teased a music video for the single. Can you tell me anything about it? Were there any funny or interesting moments during the shoot, and if so, what happened?
A: Yes, the video was just released last week and is doing amazing. I think we have over 43,000 views on You Tube already. We did something a little different and combined a paper cut theme with band performances. It’s definitely different than your average music video.
Q: That track is off of your new album ‘Viking’, which will be released on March 27th. Did the writing process for this album differ than that of previous releases?
A: Not so much. But I feel the band is really coming into its own. We’ve matured a bit, but are still delivering that straight ahead rock sound.
Q: Is there anything about ‘Viking’ that might surprise fans when they give it a listen?
A: I just feel it’s a solid slab of ROCK music. Aggressive, yet lots of melody.
Q: The album was mixed by Ulrich Wild. What do you believe he brought to the record?
A: Ulrich is great and defiantly sprinkled the magic dust over the recordings. He understands our sound, and with all his expertise really brings the mixes to life. We love working with him.
Q: You guys just played a short run of shows with SOiL. How was it sharing the stage with them? Do you have any more upcoming plans of touring that you can share with me at this time?
A: It was amazing. We love all the guys in SOiL like brothers. It was a privilege to share the stage with them, and hope to again in the future. Yes, we had to cancel some dates because of the Covid 19 outbreak. But we hope to start up in July if everything is good in the country. July 10th we are opening for Puddle of Mudd in Detroit, and will do some other summer shows with them in Chicago and Southern Illinois. We’re also opening for Kings X on July 31st at Arcada Theater in St. Charles, IL.
Q: If there was a band that you guys could go on tour with to make your dream come true, what band would you choose? Is there any festival that you guys have a goal of playing?
A: We’d love to go out with Foo Fighters. Would be a great match. Also wouldn’t mind doing some shows with Cheap Trick. We played Rock USA festival last summer and are doing Rock The Fox in Illinois in August. Not really aiming for any festival in particular, but are down to doing as many as we can.
Q: What do you hope listeners gain from your music, whether they are a fan or simply stream one song?
A: Just hope they enjoy it. If it gets them away from their problems for just a few minutes, that would make us happy.
Q: Is there anything else about the band that we didn’t discuss but you would like to mention?
A: Not really. Thanks so much for taking the time to interview us. We appreciate it and watch for us coming to a town near you soon.
