On-Set with The Latency

Not even a wet, cold Vancouver day can dampen the spirit of the boys from The Latency. And why should it? Since Tommy Mac of Hedley discovered the high-school band two years ago the boys have been on the fast track to success, signing with Maple Records in June 2009, travelling across Canada promoting their EP Chomp and, most recently, filming their second music video for the song Kids.

I caught up with singer/guitarist Brandon Lehti and guitarist Ryan Stead on location for the Kids shoot at Heather Hills golf course in Maple Ridge. The guys filled me in on their ideas behind the Kids music video, they’re creative process and what it’s like to be high-school rock stars.

“Our last video [Tonight I Love You] was a little more serious, so this one’s been more fun,” remarks Ryan. “We’re at a golf course and basically we trash this golf course. We show up, we piss off all the old golfers, we party, bring our friends, set up our gear and actually play on the golf course,” Brandon elaborates. “It’s basically us reeking havoc on the golf course all day.” Havoc is right – picture a group of teens in their bathing suits goofing around in a fish pond and a guy in a hot dog suit.

Fun times aside, how important do the guys feel music videos are for a band’s career these days? “Pretty huge. Like, MuchMusic is pretty awesome to have behind you … It’s the best way to get face value,” says Brandon. “Yea, its always good to have a face to the name – like, get people to see you,” adds Ryan.

The Latency has said that the goal of their music is to “inspire and connect with their audience,” so where do their song ideas come from? “What I hope sets us apart from other bands is, that every song that we’ve written, or I’ve written, is about something, like a direct experience that’s happened to me. It’s basically about life, like, if something happens… that’s the way I vent,” answers Brandon.

With the band’s career moving so fast, it’s hard not wonder how the change from high-school students to rock stars has affected their lives, but Ryan insists that at the end of the day they’re “still just high-school students at heart.” Charisma, confidence, honest songs and raw musical talent, will set this band apart. Coming home to Maple Ridge and genuinely being happy to be surrounded by family and friends while shooting a music video clearly shows that the band’s feet are still firmly on the ground.

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