Imagine a concert where laughter and raw emotion dance hand in hand, where personal stories become shared experiences and every joke is a piece of heartfelt vulnerability. Welcome to a Minds Eye show, where humor and honesty blend seamlessly, creating an unforgettable live experience that bridges the gap between artist and audience.

To many, Minds Eye’s rise to fame may seem sudden, but the band insists it has been a long journey filled with challenges. “It has been pretty wild, but it’s definitely never felt overnight to us,” they reflect. The road to success was paved with numerous trials and tribulations, each one a lesson that strengthened their resolve. The band is grateful for the overwhelming support from fans, which has made the trials and tribulations worthwhile. “We never expected to get as much support as we’ve gotten from the fans,” they say, highlighting how the community around them has been a crucial part of their growth.

In today’s digital age, platforms like TikTok play a significant role in discovering new music. Minds Eye, however, doesn’t mind being labeled a “TikTok band.” They see it as a positive, much like the MySpace era of the late 2000s. “Ultimately, we don’t care how people find the music,” they assert, embracing the diverse ways their songs reach listeners. “People said the same thing about MySpace bands in the late 2000s, but at the end of the day, it’s just another way for people to find the music. We’ll gladly take the ‘TikTok band’ title.” For Minds Eye, the focus remains on creating music that resonates, regardless of the medium through which it is discovered.

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Recently, Minds Eye played at Viva! Pomona, an experience they describe as “awesome.” The event featured a variety of local bands and genres, and the venue, The Glass House, provided top-notch sound and staff. “The crowd was absolutely nuts,” they recall, emphasizing how everything fell into place that night. The diverse lineup and energetic atmosphere created a memorable night that highlighted the band’s versatility and ability to connect with different audiences.

Looking ahead, the band is excited about new music. They have just finished tracking a new EP with Eric Palmquist and are eager to continue writing and recording. “The new material is coming together really well, and we can’t wait to share it,” they reveal. Their dedication to evolving their sound and exploring new musical territories keeps their work fresh and exciting, both for themselves and their fans.

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Performing live often means sharing personal stories, and for Minds Eye, this vulnerability is a significant part of their shows. Despite the raw emotions behind their songs, the band chooses to infuse humor into their performances. “Joking about our past traumas and experiences is also a form of vulnerability and a way of coping,” they explain. This approach helps them connect with their audience while reminding everyone that “it’s never that serious.” This blend of humor and honesty creates a unique atmosphere at their concerts, allowing fans to both feel deeply and laugh heartily, bridging the gap between artist and listener.

Among their many songs, “Modern Fear” stands out as a favorite to perform live. The band enjoys the energy of the crowd as they sing along and jump to the beat. “It feels like such a mentally ill people anthem,” they say, highlighting the song’s resonance with their audience. The raw, honest lyrics combined with a powerful melody make it a cathartic experience for both the band and their fans. Each performance of “Modern Fear” becomes a shared moment of understanding and release, strengthening the bond between Minds Eye and their audience.

Fan interaction is one of the most rewarding aspects of being in Minds Eye. Whether it’s meeting people who share similar interests or experiencing the camaraderie at shows, the band cherishes these moments. “Even when we are in a completely new place, it feels good to have that sense of community,” they share. Audience participation, particularly in Vince’s on-stage bits, adds a unique and enjoyable dynamic to their performances. These interactions make each show unique, turning every performance into a collaborative experience with the audience. The band’s genuine appreciation for their fans is evident, making their concerts feel more like gatherings of friends than mere performances.

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When it comes to dream tour lineups, Minds Eye would love to tour with Carly Rae Jepsen, Sweet Pill, and Mannequin Pussy. These artists are regulars on their playlists and inspire their work. “A tour with Carly Rae Jepsen would rip...” they say, envisioning the dynamic energy such a lineup would bring. Hopefully she calls them...maybe.

Each member of Minds Eye draws inspiration from a diverse range of influences. Vince is influenced by ‘80s new wave and post-punk bands like The Smiths and New Order, as well as Interpol and Tame Impala. Jack finds inspiration in emo-adjacent bands from the Northeast U.S. and contemporary indie/R&B artists like McGee and Nick Hakim. Kelli combines their Bay Area punk scene roots with Broadway show tunes and Carly Rae Jepsen. Jacob's drumming style is shaped by Prairie Prince, Chad Smith, and Brendan Yates, as well as the energetic drumming in Turnstile and Title Fight records. Andrew is inspired by ‘90s and early 2000s rock and metal, along with bands like Beach Fossils and Nothing. This eclectic mix of influences contributes to the band’s unique sound, blending elements from various genres to create something distinctly their own.

As they look to the future, Minds Eye has a message for their fans: “Keep your head on a swivel because we have some good stuff coming your way.” They also encourage fans to enjoy some downtime with a nostalgic favorite: “If you can play SSX Tricky on PS2, do it. It might be the best game ever made.” This playful and relatable advice encapsulates the band’s down-to-earth and approachable nature, endearing them even more to their fanbase.

With a blend of humor, vulnerability, and a deep connection to their audience, Minds Eye continues to carve out their unique space in the music world. Their journey, filled with passion and resilience, promises exciting new chapters ahead. As they continue to grow and evolve, both as individuals and as a band, their dedication to their craft and their fans remains unwavering, ensuring that their future is as bright and dynamic as their music.

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