(Photo Credit - Krit Upra Photography)
We had the opportunity to interview New York indie pop duo Roses & Revolutions! The duo features Alyssa Coco (vocals and keys) and Mat Merritt (guitar). With catchy beats and powerhouse vocal performances, they are a group that is making a name for themselves having songs that have busted past 1,000,000 Spotify plays as well as being featured on Spotify playlists such as "Alternative Beats". They are a group you need to check out, read more about them below!
1. How did you come to pursue music and how long have you been at it?
Alyssa: I knew I wanted to do something with music since I could practically talk. I loved 90’s pop (as most young girls did!), and then Titanic came out - and it was all over. Celine Dion singing “My Heart Will Go On”… I wanted to be a singer! Haha
2. Could you walk us through your process of writing music?
It’s always completely collaborative between Matt and I. Typically, he’ll come to me with some lyrics and phrasing and then we’ll sit there
with the keyboard and guitar and come up with chord progressions and melodies. I love writing melodies, so this is super fun for me.
Another way that we often write is in the car. We like doing this because there are no distractions. No phones, no computers, no TV, etc. It also takes you out of your comfort zone of playing the same chord progressions that you’re used to!
3. What artists have inspired you in your career?
So many. Everything from Paul Simon & Fleetwood Mac, to newer artists like Lord Huron, Chromactics, & Phantogram.
4. Do you have any favorite music gear (guitars, amps, effects pedals, keyboards, etc.) that you love to use? If so, what’s the story on them?
Alyssa: I just recently got a NORD Electro 3D keyboard, and I’m in love. I decided to make the switch from a Yamaha recently, and while I love both, the NORD is just so gorgeous. AND it’s a carry-on on the plane! Total bonus.
Matt: I’ve always played Fender guitars. My first guitar was a Fender Squire. Every guitar part has been tracked on something Fender.
5. Can you describe the vibe at your live shows? Also, what do you enjoy most about a venue when you do a show?
Alyssa: Our goal is that people leave our live show and have had an experience. We have drums, tracks, electric guitar, keyboard, and vocals. I only play the piano on a few songs live, so I’m able to jump around the stage and have fun! We also like to throw in one or two acoustic songs and maybe a cover, just to balance out the vibes.
As a support act, my favorite thing about a venue is when they open the doors an hour before the show. :-) That way people are in and ready for music! As a headliner (and support act), I find it’s super important to have a good spot for merch! We love meeting everyone and chatting after the show.
6. What is one thing that you want the public to know about your music?
We’re a female-fronted band, and while we love making music in the studio, the live show is where it’s at for us. Hope to see you out at a show sometime!
7. Do you have any upcoming projects you would like fans to know about?
We have a remix EP and an acoustic EP coming out this fall. We’ve also already started writing for EP numero 2.