"We never considered ourselves to be a good band or anything, we just thought we were playing for fun and we wanted to play music that sounded like Black Sabbath or Soundgarden or the music we were into at that time"

Daniel Johns speaks candidly about the origins and intentions behind his band’s music, emphasizing a sense of humility and authenticity. Rather than setting out with grand ambitions or measuring themselves against any objective standard of greatness, Johns and his bandmates approached their craft from a place of genuine enthusiasm and personal enjoyment. Their early motivation was rooted in fun, camaraderie, and a sincere appreciation for the music that inspired them.

The reference to Black Sabbath and Soundgarden illustrates the band’s admiration for the heavy, iconic sounds that shaped their formative musical experiences. These influential groups are known for their pioneering approaches to rock and alternative music, characterized by powerful riffs, dark themes, and innovative songwriting. By expressing a desire to play music "that sounded like" these bands, Johns reveals both a formative aspiration and an acknowledgment of their musical heritage. Their creative process did not begin with the intention of carving out a unique or revolutionary path, but rather with the simple joy of emulating their heroes.

This perspective also highlights a broader ethos often found in early musical endeavors, a focus on friendship, experimentation, and exploring one’s influences, rather than on competitive success. Self-doubt and modesty are evident in Johns’s words, suggesting that external validation or commercial achievement was not their primary concern in the beginning. Instead, the motivations were personal and intimate, connected to passion and the shared excitement of making noise together.

Johns’s reflection underscores how many successful bands start with subtle beginnings, more focused on expression and enjoyment than on accolades. His words serve as a reminder that creativity can flourish when pressure is set aside and when musicians allow themselves the freedom to experiment, imitate, and evolve. The honesty in his statement offers insight into the organic, unforced roots that often underpin truly authentic artistry.