After a year and a half touring nationally and overseas, including stops in Asia and Australia and a performance for U.S. troops in Guam, Raleigh rock band Airiel Down returns for a hometown show in October.
We caught up with vocalist Beaux Foy to learn more about the band’s favorite local hangouts and how the international travel has affected the its perspective on the Raleigh music
scene.
How would you describe your sound?
Straight ahead rock and roll.
What do you like most about the music scene in Raleigh and what would you change?
Like: The variety in styles of bands and performers.
Change: Even though it seems radio is dead, we need a modern rock station in Raleigh, and at least for one hour a week, one that would spin all kinds of local artists.
Has performing extensively overseas changed your perspective?
It’s the same all over the world. The band’s going as hard as they can are the ones creating opportunities for themselves. Keep gigging, touring, pounding pavement, creating intelligent marketing strategies and monitoring all things physical and digital to get your music heard.
What are your favorite bars and clubs for live music?
The Lincoln Theatre and the Berkeley Cafe have always been close to my heart. Also, the Black Flower.
What is your most memorable local gig?
The first time we played Meymandi Conert Hall at the Progress Energy Center, Home of the North Carolina Symphony. Epic crowd and beautiful room/acoustics. The aura is killer!
Where is the best meal for under $10?
Solomon’s on Six Forks. The food is fresh and healthy and they support all things local.
Where’s your go-to spot for new clothes?
Vertical Urge, for sure.
What is the best place for new or used musical instruments?
Man, Guitar Center on Capitol Blvd has supported us for the past 10 years. GC is our go-to spot. Ask for Thrower!
What’s Raleigh’s best kept secret?
Project 58 Skate Park. We skate and shop there and so has Dave Chappelle, Lil Wayne, Valient Thor, Fieldy from Korn, and others. The staff is boss!
Where can we find you next?
Next stop is Los Angeles and an event for UCLA, then Africa for a Dian Fossey Foundation promo we are doing, then back here for a show at the Lincoln Theatre on Saturday, October 6th, after a year and a half of touring overseas. We finish the year back across the pond in China on a University tour.