Interview Conducted on May 01, 2018
By Daniel Locke
That something is the essence of Stitched Up Heart – a band built around the strength that comes from realizing we are the only ones that control our lives, and focused on the hope that reminds us there is always light at the end of the darkest tunnel. It’s something heavy and powerful, jarring the album’s epic closing track “I Can’t Breathe” from a piano-paced ballad that would do Lady Gaga proud, to a metallic onslaught of drop-tuned guitars that is sure to see the band sharing a stage with the hardest of their hard rock peers. And it is something undeniable, Mixi’s voice taking flight amidst anthems of self-awareness that bridge the unrelenting confidence of In This Moment’s Maria Brink and the soulful transcendence of Adele. = FBBand Members
Decker – Drums
Merritt – Guitar
Randy – Bass
Nick – Guitar
Unratedmagazine: Your band started in 2010. How did you get your band together and developed your sound?
Alecia Mixi Demner: I created the band after a musical heart break. I picked up the pieces and tried putting together something I musically was drawn to. I created the vocal melodies for me to sing and screams originally for someone else. Then at rehearsal realized I was able to scream myself! I’ve always loved vocalists with a unique sound, so I wanted to feature my signature sound over heavy low tuned guitars. We love to evolve and grow as time goes by with our music.
How do you stay healthy on tour?
It’s a little tricky! I usually try getting healthy before I leave then kinda eat anything there is to eat on the road. I drink lots of water (and Monster Energy Drink) and take multivitamins everyday.
Over the years you have gotten quite a few wonderful tattoos. How long ago did you start. And which is your favorite one? Any stories behind them?
I got my first tattoo when I was 16 at a tattoo party in Florida. It was a whale tale I drew in art class. Over the years I keep painting myself in permanent ink, but I think I’ve finally gotten to the point where I’m ok with the amount I have. I just love the art of tattooing.
Are you ready for Rock on the Range? What are you doing to get ready for that weekend long fest?
I am ALWAYS ready for Rock on the Range! We’ve been a few times and played acoustic one year, but this will be the first time we play plugged in on a stage there! It’s soooo exciting! We can’t wait to watch all the other bands on the bill as well!
It seems like anytime you are in the Chicago area, you play just the HOME Bar. Why?
We have played a ton of venues in Chicago but somehow we have ended up there lately! I love the HOME bar though. It’s a great venue with amazing sound and hospitality!
What is you’re feeling about the Vans Warped Tour and this being the last year?
I think it’s kind of sad. I went to warped tour all through my high school years and it was always so much fun. I’m curious to see what evolves out of that entire scene. There must be somewhere for it to go.
Any endorsements?
The band is sponsored by Monster! They have literally saved our lives on the road! We love them. Also, Sabian, Yamaha, ESP, Ibanez, Dunlop, Ernie Ball, and Dream Earz! With how much gear we go through and need, these companies have helped us sooooo much! It’s incredible!
How would you explain your live performance?
I personally have a spiritual and emotional experience. I give everything I have up there and pour my heart out for the world to see. And there is definitely a lot of hair flying!
If someone was listening to you for the first time, what 3 videos or songs would you tell them to look/listen to and why?
“Finally, Free” – it’s our first single that broke us into radio. It’s one of my favs!
I am personally a fan of 2 other songs that didn’t go to radio for their emotion, dynamics, & artsy-ness. Those are “Event Horizon & “I Can’t Breathe.”
Any guilty pleasures your fans would be surprise you listen to?
It’s not really a guilty pleasure but you might be surprised that my favorite singer of all time is Louis Armstrong. He has an incredibly unique voice and you just know it’s him. I strive to remember that when I sing.
What music are you currently listening to?
I’ve been listening to the new Godsmack record! It’s siiiick!
Anything in closing you would like to say?
I learned a lot over the last year from a very thematic experience. At the time I didn’t know what the reason for this was and why I had to experience it. It was very difficult. My dreams were crushed. But I kept pushing and fighting and rising above it. And 7 months later because I didn’t give up and I persisted through the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced I made it to the coolest tour of my life! I realize now why I went through this. To show people that if you believe and fight for your dream you will get there. Just never give up!
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