As the Voodoo Music and Arts Experience celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, so does punk-rock band Rise Against.
The two will come together for the first time as the band plays at one of Louisiana’s biggest festivals on Halloween night. The Daily Reveille sat down with Rise Against bassist Joe Principe to talk about playing in the Crescent City and the band’s ability to remain relevant.
The Daily Reveille: How does playing in New Orleans compare to other cities?
Joe Principe: The last time we played in New Orleans was the House of Blues a while ago. There’s a different vibe in New Orleans and a certain history. It’s great to walk around the city — I just like to soak it in and walk around.
TDR: What is your favorite place to go in New Orleans?
JP: That hasn’t been decided yet. We always try to find good vegetarian or vegan restaurants when we tour, and we haven’t found that in New Orleans yet, but I want to.
TDR: Is playing in a festival environment different than playing as the headliner of your own tour?
JP: Absolutely, but it’s just as fun. You have thousands of music fans there, and it’s a chance to play for new fans. It’s great exposure, and it’s always fun.
TDR: What songs can be expected from the Voodoo set list?
JP: With any show, we try to have a good mix of the different sides of Rise Against. We have our fast songs and our slow songs. We just want the kids to come out and sing along with us and enjoy.
TDR: You’re playing on Halloween night. Are you prepared?
JP: I’m not sure what we’re going to be in store for, but I’m ready to take it all in. Maybe we’ll dress up too, or maybe we won’t. I know it’s going to be crazy. I guess we’ll see when it happens.
TDR: What are your favorite songs to play live?
JP: Our newest single, “I Don’t Want to Be Here Anymore,” is really fun for me because of the bass in the song. “Chamber the Cartridge” is a great crowd interaction song, and I love that it shows more of the sound we had in the beginning of our career. It’s one of my favorite intro songs we’ve ever recorded.
TDR: The band has been around since 1999 — that’s just as long as Voodoo has existed. How does the band remain relevant and connected to younger and older fans?
JP: I think because of lyrical content, a 16-year-old can relate to us just as well as a 38-year-old. We sing from the heart, and anyone can relate to that. Bands that I listened to at age 15 or 16 are the same way. We started this band for our love of music and our frustration to get out our opinions, and everyone can use that in their lives.
TDR: Any last words for the readers?
JP: For our existing fans, thank you for all of your support. For people who don’t know who we are, please come check us out at Voodoo and have a good time with us.