Kid Theodore: Interview with Ryan Darton

Three years ago I was given a burned CD from an old boyfriend. The boyfriend came and went, but the CD stayed with me. After a few listens I was instantly hooked to their unique sound and catchy beats.

The CD was Kid Theodore's first album, Goodnight...Goodnight featuring personal favorites, Sunken Ships and I am a Moth. Later I saw them open for Ben Kweller at In the Venue and purchased their latest album, Hello Rainey, and a T-shirt before the concert even began. I am a Kid Theodore fan.

I had the glorious opportunity of interviewing Ryan Darton, lead vocalist and Bass player (he has been known to lift it over his head while performing). The band decided to create their own gunslinger name and came up with indie pop-rock band Kid Theodore, comprised of four members, Ryan Darton, Cole Barnson, Brandon McBride and Gardner Stevenette.

Changes and Transitions

Originally based in Salt Lake, Kid Theodore has recently relocated to California. I asked Darton how he felt the the move to California has benefited the band. "California has been a great experience for us. We moved out here because this is where the music network is. And we have networked, and we have made some great friends/contacts in the music business here. It's been amazing!" says Darton.

Kid Theodore creates a positive and fun energy at all of their shows. It's nearly impossible to not lose all inhibitions and dance the night away to their unique beats and entertaining performances. California has been no exception, every show has broadened their loyal fan base.

The band has not always been made up of the same four members. There have been a few transitions with old band-mates saying goodbye and new band-mates saying hello. "It's kind of like shedding some skin to have a fresh layer, but the skeleton and flesh remain the same" Darton said of the changes. Although each time has been a challenge, it has been a great experience with each new member.

Song Writing and Musical Inspirations

Although Darton and Barnson are the main song writers, they bring each new song to band practice for the input of the band. Darton said, "...they get picked to pieces like a cow in the midst of piranhas. In the end, the band as a whole writes the songs."

They are currently recording a new album set to be released mid to late September. They are excited about the concept they have created and are eager to share it with the world.

Although each band member has their own favorite musical inspirations, Darton listens to Spoon, Louis Armstrong, Electric Light Orchestra, and Steve Miller amongst many others.

Listen

Kid Theodore encourages you to visit their site www.kidtheodore.com and sign up for their email list to stay updated with upcoming shows and the official release date of their new album. As a reward for signing up, Kid Theodore will send you a free MP3 download, truly priceless.

Visit their website and buy their album, you won't regret it.

Listen to Greetings From the Grave, This Scene is a Play, and Syncopated Heartbeat.

Their next show in Salt Lake will be held at The Velour in Provo on August 13 at 8:00PM.

images via: www.kidtheodore.com