1. Can you share something about your band that most may not know?

We're all huge Siouxsie and the Banshees fans. We actually cover a song by The Creatures (Siouxsie and Budgie's side project) on our debut album Gas Station Carnivals.

2. How would you describe your sound or genre as opposed to, perhaps, how a snotty music critic might classify you?

It's basically folk rock but with the volume cranked up to eleven. We've been compared to everyone from Neil Young to R.E.M. to Lord Huron. We're not sure how accurate any of that is, but we're ok with it. That's good company to be in!

3. What do you consider to be the biggest obstacle or challenge for an independent artist right now?

The biggest obstacle is getting people's attention. There's currently so much noise out there and even the biggest music fan is having a difficult time weeding through the drivel to discover the good stuff. Also, the idea of treating art as content is a sad challenge. Content is disposable, art is not.

4. What NC artists/bands are you currently listening to?

There are so many! Currently, we're listening to: Certain Seas, Heavy for the Vintage, Jphono1, Megayacht, Open Field, Rabbit Fighter, Scivic Rivers, Verity Den, and lots of Angel Olsen (just to name a few).

5. What advice would you give to younger, local artists just beginning to create and share their music?

Make the music you want to hear, not the music you think others want. Also, be kind but not gullible.

6. Is there a particular upcoming NC show or event you’d like to promote?

Our debut album, which was created with the help of the lovely Matt Douglas (of The Mountain Goats), will release on October 20th. We're throwing an album release party on Saturday, October 24th at Local 506 in Chapel Hill. Advance tickets are only $10!

Follow Neon Ruins on Instagram at www.instagram.com/neonruins.