#stevebrooks

Andrew Elstner (of TORCHE, TILTS) (USA)

This time we have a story from Andrew, member of the band that doesn't need to be introduced. But anyway, he's from Torche, that awesome guys who play, as they say, "stoner pop" or "sludge pop". Actually, it doesn't matter what genre it is. What matters is their music. By the way, he's second from the left on this photo (in case you don't know). Here's the story :

"So, outside of playing in Torche and my St. Louis band, Tilts, I've had a bunch of jobs, usually whatever I can do to make money when not on tour.  

The main "problem" is trying to find employment of some kind while still having the autonomy to tour whenever possible or whenever the opportunity arises.  Most employers, understandably so, don't want to hire and train someone who's going to be gone six months out of the year.   

But, I started touring in bands around the year 2000 with my old band, Riddle of Steel. Since then I've worked in record stores, worked as a banquet server and bar tender, live sound engineer, loader at a stage production warehouse, guitar teacher, odd jobs like painting, guitar and amp repair, etc.

In Atlanta, during down time I'm currently scraping by working as a door guy a few nights a week for different venues as well as making a few bucks playing records at bars. I wouldn't call it dj'ing.  Then there's always selling stuff on eBay, selling old clothes and records at resale shops, again, whatever I can do to both make some money and have a totally open schedule. 

It's not a sacrifice at all because "sacrifice" means giving up something I don't want to give up.  This is the life I've chosen, and though it isn't perfect, I've never been more happy.  

I will say this though, the jobs where I'm happiest - outside of the band(s) - are the ones furthest away from the music scene.  Working at a venue is tough because it just makes me realize I would rather be on tour, or that I'm wasting my time.  My favorite part time gig has to be guitar and amp repair.  I enjoy working with my hands and I'm good at it.  But oh man, I would always rather be on tour!"

Torche Facebook

Torche Bandcamp

Torche Website

Tilts Bandcamp