Nexus Meets… FireBug
Known for their unique fusion of 70s rock, grunge, blues and folk-rock, US-based FireBug is not to be pigeon-holed. Sharing stages with iconic artists like Iggy Pop, The Cult, Alice in Chains, and Rage Against The Machine’s Tom Morello, FireBug is a force to be reckoned with. We speak with multi-instrumentalists Juliette Tworsey and Jules Shapiro about their latest release ‘No Return’, future plans and more.
How did FireBug come about?
Juliette: After meeting Jules in Chicago (where we’re both from originally), we decided to form a band.
Jules: Yes, we formed in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighbourhood. After a few years, we decided to take the band to LA and then New Orleans. We are now based in Joshua Tree, California.
What do you hope people take from your music?
Juliette: We hope that our music adds that little extra something to each listener’s day.
Jules: A vibe and a sound that resonates and communicates on some level. Achieving that connection is an amazing feeling, bonding with your audience and fans!
What can you tell us about your single ‘No Return’?
Juliette: It was recorded at Clocktower Recorders in Joshua Tree with the very talented engineer Charlie Stavish. It is the first single off our latest album release, which is set to become available in March.
Jules: I really love this song, definitely a personal favourite of mine. The day Juliette came up with the idea, I knew right away there was something special going on. The recording process was wonderful and I’m very happy with how it turned out.
Did you face any challenges when recording ‘No Return’?
Juliette: The biggest challenge that we faced was coordinating schedules and finding the time to travel back and forth to LA so that we could rehearse our rhythm section. Other than that, everything went smoothly. Everyone that contributed to the making of ‘No Return’ demonstrated a level of professionalism that made the whole process easy and enjoyable.
Jules: Our recording process went very smooth. The best thing to approach making records is to go in with a plan – always a better outcome.
What can you tell us about the official music video for ‘No Return’?
Juliette: ‘No Return’ was filmed and directed by the very talented Matthias Schubert who also happens to be a great friend that we have known for years. This video would not have been possible if it were not for him. We had a great time filming it. California has some of the most beautiful landscapes around. It was a real treat to have such an amazing backdrop.
Jules: Everything that Juliette mentioned, and I will also add the amazing editing work by Matthias Schubert. Special thanks to Claire Promua make-up artist, she is the best!
Did you face any challenges when recording the video?
Juliette: Someone cut us off on the road as we left our house. We almost got into an accident on our way to the coast from the High Desert as a result. Thankfully, nothing happened. Jules’ quick thinking saved us in what seemed like a matter of seconds. Other than that, everything went fine. The people that we encountered on the beach were all very friendly.
Jules: The weather was challenging as it was cold and windy both up in the mountains and at the beach which is why we are so bundled up.
Why did you choose to make an official music video?
Juliette: Because it helps to tell our story. Attaching some form of imagery to a song is so important when it comes to engaging new and old fans alike.
Jules: When you are working with great people, the whole process is an amazing learning experience and the end result is magic!
What was the most exciting part about recording ‘No Return’ and filming the video?
Juliette: Hiking in the Angeles National Forest while taking part in the creative process simultaneously. We love music, good company, and we love to hike, so it was a win-win all around!
Jules: Filming at Leo Carillo State Beach in Malibu was absolutely beautiful, so very unique. Watch the video to really take in the surroundings.
Do you have future plans for FireBug?
Juliette: Yes, to continue on creating and playing music while getting our songs listened to by as many people as possible.
Jules: We want to take our band on tour, especially Europe and South America. Let’s go!!!