LAVISHER interview
Chicago-based rock outfit LAVISHER returns with Aligned & Vital, a record that moves confidently between heaviness and introspection, distortion and restraint. Drawing from a broad emotional palette-grief, recovery, frustration, and release—the album places songwriting first, allowing each track to develop its own identity rather than serve a single rigid narrative. With roots touching grunge, space rock, and atmospheric heavy music, Aligned & Vital feels less like a statement of intent and more like a natural evolution shaped by shifting lineups, lived experience, and a desire to keep the process honest and therapeutic.
We spoke with LAVISHER about the writing process behind the album, the role of mood and visuals, Chicago’s music community, and what lies ahead as the band continues to follow the most organic path forward.
1. “Aligned & Vital” is described as blending beauty and decay within lush, distorted dreamscapes. What themes or emotions drove the songwriting for this album, and how did you translate those ideas into the music?
L: During writing, the music came always first and always dictated the direction of the lyrics. Every song has its own meaning or story. There are a couple recurring themes throughout the album for sure, but there is a wide range of subject matter. Themes touched on include grief, addiction, recovery, discovery, politics, frustration, letting go, it's all over the place. I dont like to delve too deep into back stories because I like people to connect with songs however they like and find their own meaning or value.
2. LAVISHER’s sound has been compared to bands like QOTSA, A Perfect Circle, Deftones, and Failure. How do you balance these recognizable influences while still carving out your own identity in the modern rock landscape?
L: In the process of writing a song, sure, sometimes we can hear influences. But I think by the time we finish writing a song, it sounds like us, because we wrote it haha.
3. This album is your second full-length release. What lessons or evolutions from your debut carried into Aligned & Vital, and what feels completely new this time around?
L: Not too much has carried over from the EP, except maybe the same drive to just keep doing this, because it's fun and therapeutic for me. The first EP had 3 drummers on it including myself. The 2nd LP and 3 singles had a different drummer/co songwriter than the current album, so it feels completely different now.
4. The press release mentions that LAVISHER fuses grunge, space rock, and heavy atmospheric textures. How would you describe the band’s sonic chemistry when writing and arranging these layers?
L: I’m not really sure how to answer that!
5. There’s a strong visual and emotional tone implied—“the future of heavy, heartfelt rock dressed in velvet.” How important is mood and imagery in shaping the sound of LAVISHER, both in the studio and on stage?
L: As far as that tagline, it just sounded fun. As far as the artwork, I am happy that I was able to find an artist to accomplish the vibe I had in mind. I do take pride in all visuals translating somewhat defined and strong. On stage is a little less important but I do try to create a vibe with lights when I can. In the studio nothing matters except trying our best to make things sound good.
6. What role did Chicago’s music scene play-if any-in shaping the direction or energy of this new record?
L: I love Chicago's music scene and have made so many good friends here. Some bands you should check out: Bosses and Highdiver (we share a rehearsal space with them), Snooze, Nequient, Blood People just to name a few.
7. Your music creates a balance between riff-driven heaviness and melodic introspection. Is that contrast something you deliberately pursue, or does it happen naturally when you write together?
L: A bit of both.
8. With the album now set for release through Nefarious Industries, what do you hope listeners take away from Aligned & Vital once they experience it from start to finish?
L: The whole album flows wonderfully from start to finish, and the best way to enjoy it is on vinyl for sure.
9. Looking ahead, what does the next chapter of LAVISHER look like? Any plans for touring, videos, or continued exploration of this “grunge/space rock” identity?
L: We released a video for Sultry (on youtube), we have another 1-2 music videos in the works that will be released next year. We’re currently booking more live dates for next year as well as continuing to write, wherever the most enjoyable natural path leads.
Aligned & Vital stands as a record that rewards full immersion-best experienced front to back, without interruption, letting its contrasts breathe and unfold naturally. Rather than forcing meaning, LAVISHER leaves space for listeners to connect on their own terms, whether through weight, melody, or atmosphere. With new videos on the horizon, live dates in the works, and fresh material already taking shape, the band remains firmly in motion - guided less by expectation and more by instinct, enjoyment, and the simple need to keep creating.
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