I had the pleasure of sitting down with Denver-based duo Elektric Animals to discuss their latest EP, “A Bear And The Bull.” Comprised of Nick Sanders and Will Hubert, this talented duo has been making waves in the local music scene since their formation in 2018. With their unique blend of 90s chart-toppers and the pulsating energy of the early 80s new wave movement, Elektric Animals have crafted a musical time capsule that bridges the gap between cherished musical eras while incorporating modern sensibilities. Their music has garnered attention from notable publications and even made appearances in popular TV shows. Join us as we dive into their creative process, inspirations, and the stories behind their captivating new EP.

TSO: Can you tell us more about the inspiration behind your new EP, “A Bear And The Bull.”?

EA: We never had any pressure or deadline to meet with this EP. So the inspiration came very naturally for both of us throughout everyday life. The stress of losing 80% of your band members took its toll on us and I think we were really able to find our voices again in working as a duo and writing these songs. It was a very therapeutic and cathartic process. 

TSO: How did the collaboration with producer Eric Everhart enhance the overall sound and vision of the EP?

EA:  Eric has been with us since day one. Whether it was Engineering/Producing/Mixing or playing live drums with us. So the comfort level working with him is unmatched. He knows us personally, our tastes, and what makes our blood boil. So we have no problem getting down and dirty and hashing things out. 

TSO: The EP covers themes of loss, love, regrets, and life. Can you share some specific experiences or stories that influenced the songs?

EA: As I mentioned before we lost 4 out of the 6 members. We struggled for a moment on whether to continue with Elektric Animals or start up a side project. Funny enough we were going to call the side project “A Bear and The Bull.” In our song “Ready To Go” I addressed them leaving head on. On the surface it has a very self deprecating delivery but as you start to peel away the layers there is a sense of hope and acceptance. Almost a goodbye as I am “Ready To Go”. 

TSO:  One thing I really enjoyed about the EP is how you balance darker and lighter moments.  Is this a conscious artistic decision, or something more coincidental? 

EA: I’ve always had a more pessimistic way of writing. But, in that I always wanted to make sure that I sprinkled it with hope. Atleast for me I have a tendency to feel inauthentic if my subject matter is a bit too surface level. But, on the opposite side of that I never want our songs or music to feel too doom and gloom. There has to be a balance as I feel in life in general. 

TSO: As a duo, how do you ensure that your individual voices and musical styles are represented cohesively in your songs?

EA:  We know which part of the writing and creative process we excel at. I think with that we tend to stay out of each others way. So in that I think each of our voices has opportunities to shine. 

TSO: What message or feeling do you hope listeners take away from “A Bear And The Bull.”?

EA:  I’d like to think they can take something from the songs whether they are at a low point in life or they are flying high. I hope they can connect on a level that allows them to feel heard and know that we are in this life together. 

TSO:  I really enjoyed the track Dreaming/Wishing.  Is there any particular influence that inspired that one?

EA:  Yes. Epic spaghetti westerns, beautiful inspiring tales, and cinematic experiences inspired the general sound of that song. 

TCO:  What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned from sharing the stage with established artists like Third Eye Blind, The Band Camino, and AJR?

EA: The art of putting on a show. Whether it’s in front of 50 people or 500 people they all paid money to see you. You owe it to them to give your all and give them something to remember and look back on fondly. 

TSO:  It’s really cool your music has been featured in popular TV shows like Showtime’s “Shameless” and ABC’s “The Good Doctor”?  How do you feel this has impacted your career?

EA:  The excitement in hearing your song on any show let alone giant ones like Shameless more than anything keeps that drive in you going.