Finger Eleven’s Journey Through the Heart of Rock: Blending Tradition and Innovation While Touring Across America.

September 21st, 2024

As Finger Eleven embarks on their latest tour, the band finds themselves navigating the vibrant and often humid landscapes of South Florida, a stark contrast to the dry heat of their previous stops in California and Phoenix. In a candid conversation with Rick Jacket, one of the band’s founding members, we delve into the evolution of their music, the collaborative nature of their songwriting, and the unique experiences that come with touring.

“First of all, we’re Canadians,” Rick emphasizes, highlighting how the warmth of South Florida presents a new challenge for the band. “We get warm summers, but nothing like down here.” The humidity, coupled with the occasional thunderstorms, offers a refreshing break from the relentless heat, making it a welcome change for Rick, who recently enjoyed a vacation in the Florida Keys with his family. It’s moments like these that make the band appreciate not just the music they create but also the experiences that shape their artistry.

Reflecting on the sweeping changes in the music industry since Finger Eleven’s inception, Rick notes the shift from a landscape where artists wrote and recorded their music independently to one dominated by outside influences. “The idea was to show up, do your version of the music… now, it feels like it’s about figuring out what other people are doing,” he explains. However, he remains hopeful, believing that musical trends are cyclical. Just as previous generations have witnessed the rise and fall of various styles, he feels that the resurgence of unique sounds is on the horizon, echoing the sentiments of many artists looking to reclaim their individual voices.

In today’s digital age, social media has transformed how artists interact with their fans, providing immediate feedback that can sometimes be overwhelming. Yet, for Finger Eleven, this external influence does not dictate their creative process. “We don’t really know what we’re going to make next; it just comes out of us,” Rick says, reinforcing the band’s commitment to authenticity. Their collaborative songwriting approach—where every member has an equal voice—ensures that their music remains true to their collective vision. This dedication to artistry allows them to craft songs that resonate deeply, both with themselves and their audience.

As the band prepares for their electrifying performances, they engage in a series of pre-show rituals that, while not extravagant, create a sense of camaraderie. Before each show, the band clears the bus and spends an hour preparing individually. While some members prefer solitude, others listen to music to get inspired. Rick shares a light-hearted moment about the different eating habits of band members before performances, highlighting the unique dynamics within the group. “Scott and I usually skip a meal right before a show, but the others dive into their favorites,” he chuckles, adding a touch of humor to their preparation routine.

The creative process for Finger Eleven is deeply rooted in collaboration, with Rick noting that while Scott, the lead singer, takes the lead on lyrics, the band’s collective brainstorming often leads to the best outcomes. “Usually the best stuff happens when all of our brains collectively come together,” he states, emphasizing the power of their teamwork. This synergy not only fuels their songwriting but also enriches their performances, allowing them to connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Looking ahead, the band is constantly writing, and Rick reveals that they are eager to release new music, with four songs already completed. They are excited about the potential for future music videos, envisioning creative concepts that might incorporate elements of film, such as an apocalyptic theme or exaggerated performances reminiscent of a kung fu movie. This artistic vision speaks to their desire to push boundaries, both musically and visually, creating an immersive experience for their fans.

In addition to their music, Rick expresses pride in the Canadian music scene, describing it as honest and humble, in contrast to the larger-than-life personas often found in the U.S. “There’s a definite rock community,” he notes, citing the strength of various Canadian bands and their unique contributions to the music landscape. This sense of community not only fosters creativity but also builds lasting relationships among artists who share similar journeys.

As the conversation wraps up, Rick conveys gratitude to the band’s supporters: “If you are a fan and you’ve listened, I can’t thank you enough.” He encourages those who haven’t yet experienced their music to give it a listen, emphasizing the joy the band finds in creating and sharing their art. It’s this connection to their audience that fuels their passion, driving them to continue evolving and exploring new musical landscapes.

With new music on the horizon, Finger Eleven remains committed to their roots, valuing collaboration and authenticity while embracing the challenges and inspirations that come with touring. As they zigzag across the country, they invite fans to join them on this exciting journey.

For more information and to keep up with their latest news, visit their official site at Finger Eleven. You can also check out the band’s recent concert coverage at West Palm Beach’s iThink Financial Amphitheater HERE.