In 2016, Leafblower was established in Omaha as a side project while each member of the band focused on their other musical projects. The styles of these other bands varied greatly, ranging from post-punk (The Fucking Party, New Lungs) to indie (Little Brazil) to old-school reimagined country (Lightning Stills).
The band’s blended sound fusion transformed their album “Burn Cruise” into a post-rock masterpiece. Maxwell concludes with expressing pride in their debut, Burn Cruise, which is comprised of a selection of songs that they have composed over the past couple of years. Over the course of our shared experiences, the record has developed a personality of its own. It’s similar to pausing in traffic to take a moment to take a look around inside. Concentrating on oneself amidst the cacophony
Burn Cruise makes a big splash with their album opener, “Long Night,” which begins with an explosive rhythm section intro that transitions into thick, forceful guitar solos. “Namaste Home” incorporates intense elements, resulting in a powerful song that conveys a significant message, banishing negative feelings and replacing them with optimism and perseverance. The title track, which is also the second single released from the album, continues to carry the concept of confronting fear head-on. Fort says, “It’s a way to clear your head and be positive, no matter what you’re dealing with.” “Finally, we will finish the remaining tasks, and life will progress.” The first track, “Unsatisfied,” explores the concept of escaping the cycle of internal adversity and finding a healthy outlet.
Craig Fort, who is the bassist of the band, answered the questions.
Have you always been interested in music?
Yes, always. I have always just been able to feel music, and it has always been so powerful. When I was in fifth grade auditioning for middle school band and choir, they told me I was no good at keeping time and wouldn’t be able to sing. It devastated me. Turns out they weren’t all that wrong, but fuck em I do it anyway cause it’s fun. – Fort
Which famous musicians do you admire?
Neil Young is my hero. King Buzzo, Dale Crover, Jarred Warren, Coady Willis – I’ve had the privilege of working stage crew and attending many of these guys various performances and they are some of the hardest working, realest dudes out there right now I feel. – Fort
Was there a particular song/performance that made you say “Woah! I want to do that!”?
I saw a Zeppelin tribute band that did all the theatrics around ‘96 that really left an impression. Seeing the original lineup of KISS on the Psycho Circus tour in ‘99 is another wild one that stands out. – Fort
When you create music, what is your personal purpose or goal?
It is usually to blow off some steam. Our practices are like music therapy each week. No matter what horseshit we are dealing with, for a few hours we can drown all that out by playing as loud and hard as we can. – Fort
Where was your current project recorded? We recorded drums and bass at the wonderful Make Believe Studios here in Omaha, and we did additional tracking at Danny’s house, Studio D. – Fort
Was anyone else involved in writing, recording, or producing the songs?
Ian Aeillo, our producer, helped record us at Make Believe to get the floor plan mapped out. We got all the materials gathered and built the house, then Ian came in and decorated everything into a sonic landscape that still makes me smile. – Fort
If you could pass on a nugget of wisdom to the next musical generation, what would it be?
It sounds like a worn out song, but practice your skill every day. I’ve been playing music for years, but I never really learned how to play or practice much outside of band practice. Now I’m trying to play catch-up. I’m loving learning new things though. – Fort
What do you think of garden gnomes?
I think of Peggy Hill .- Fort
What would you do if you had to work but didn’t need the money?
I want to buy the town bait shop/gas station and turn it into a killer mart called “The Bait Shop”. I’d probably do my own bbq pork sandwiches and smoked corn or elote on a stick there as a grab and go option. I’ve got beef with the old man who currently owns the bait shop so I wanna do it my way. I haven’t been fishing in forever though. – Fort
Are you a cat or dog person?
I have a bunch of both but I lean more towards my four goats. – Fort
How would you sell hot chocolate in Florida in the summer?
As an ice cream flavor specializing in whipped cream topped shakes/malts. – Fort
If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?
General Trash – Fort
What historical figure would you love to see in 21st century life?
Neil Young. – Fort
What is your most expensive piece of clothing?
My good overalls, Key brand. – Fort
As a kid were you ever frightened of a monster under the bed or in the cupboard?
There was a drunk guy that pounded on my window yelling for what seemed like a lifetime, then walked away giggling and stumbling. This was after I had been tucked in for the night. I never got a good look at the fella but I can still hear the sound of the white rock foot steps as he walked away. – Fort