SPEAKING WITH … Marty Casey

By Jae-Ha Kim
Chicago Sun-Times
January 9, 2004

Chicago’s Lovehammers have done the shed-tour thing with Nickelback, experienced life on the road (including the requisite broken-down bus) and worked with greats like Steve Albini.

Here’s what vocalist Marty Casey had to say:

On the band’s name: We used to make fun of our name all the time. It kind of fits this band. It’s not overly thought out.

On your fans: There are some who make every show, whether it’s in L.A. or New York. It’s wonderful, but also kind of frightening. (Laughs.)

Four-way tie: We’re each 25 percent of this band in every way. I like bands that had unique individuals. Kids knew who every member of Guns N’ Roses was and not just Axl Rose.

Last good movie you saw: I really enjoyed Adam Sandler’s “Punch-Drunk Love.” It was a really dark film.

Book you’re recommending: A Brief History of Time by Stephen Hawking. I’m into the big black hole theory.

Favorite Chicago venue: Metro, Metro, Metro! There’s nothing else to do there but watch the band — no pool table, no video games in the corner. They barely have bathrooms! You can either watch the show or go home.

What the public doesn’t know: If you buy tickets to our concerts at www.lovehammers.com, there’s no service charge. Also, you’ll get a handwritten thank you note from bassist Dino Kourelis.

Your greatest band moment: Probably when we sold out a show at the House of Blues and found that scalpers were selling our $15 tickets for $75.

Most you’ve paid to see a band: $250 to see Pearl Jam when they were really hot at Summerfest in Milwaukee. I can’t afford that kind of ticket, though, and I don’t get more satisfaction if I pay more money.

Best workout: When we unload and load our equipment. We always carry way too much equipment because we dig stacking amps to the rafters. Dino’s bass cabinet is a big as a refrigerator.

On being fashionable: Our budget doesn’t allow us to buy anything we’d like, but we’re into style.

Queer eye for the straight guys: We can wear whatever we want but then we risk taking a lot of ribbing from each other. The band doesn’t let anyone stray too far. The test is when you walk into the studio wearing something and you get laughed at.

Favorite store: I like SoftCore on Milwaukee. They carry local designers that are really creative.

Best thing about being you: Being in a band with my three best friends. Most friendships fall apart after a certain age.

Best thing about being in a band: Getting to record with amazing people, see different parts of the country and sell out places like the Viper Room in L.A.

First new year’s resolution you broke: I always break the quit-smoking resolution at literally 12:01 a.m. I always resolve not to be late, too.