If you think rock is dead, it’s because you haven’t heard Chestnut Grove’s electrifying ’70s throwback sound. The members of Chestnut Grove have been together since high school and are nearing their thirtieth birthdays – the sonic themes on The Album reflect this period of growth with lyrics that discuss how difficult it is to cope with getting older, the pain of losing friends and the sting of romantic breakups.Chestnut Grove was formed by John Tyler, James Daniels, Sean Murray and Dee Gerhart in 2011 during their senior year of high school. The band’s name was chosen in memory of would-be member and guitar player Matt Barber, who passed away tragically in a car accident on Chestnut Grove Road.
Dee Gerhart spoke with Adobe & Teardrops about the band’s influences, and whether coming out is even relevant anymore. While I strongly disagree with Dee, it’s interesting to see how a younger generation of queer folks approach the world.
Who are some of your musical influences?
Anything I’ve ever heard has influenced me in some way, but I’ll always go back to The Beatles. Jack White, Fiona Apple, and Violent Femmes today. But I’m all over the place. Everyday is different.
Name a perfect song and tell us why you feel that way.
“Colors” by Black Pumas. It gives me chills, makes me wanna cry, makes me wanna smile till it hurts. The vibe that song puts out is magical.
What’s the first concert you ever attended? What do you remember about it?
Cornerstone Festival in Illinois was my first big concert event. 2003? Maybe? I was a preteen and got separated from my family and wandered the fest for hours. Caught a lot of great music. Was waaaaaay too young to be on my own, especially at a festival so big. But eventually I was found and all is well.
How do you manage having a good time at shows, but also trying to stay mentally and physically fit?
Well my body absolutely hates me, I don’t know how to stand still on stage so typically the next day after a show (depending the stage size) my hips and back are ready to move out. But I’m getting a lot better at not indulging in too much booze. I’m always good for a few drinks but if we have a run of shows, I’ve learned my lesson. Hangovers on tour are the worst. It’s impossible not to miss your cats and significant other though so that gets tough. Otherwise I love how much is happening when we are out and about.
How do you feel your queer identity ties into your performance style or music?
I’m not sure it does? I’m a person and I happen to like the same sex as my own. I don’t write straight or gay music. I just make music, it’s universal. I doubt it would come into conversation first meeting someone so it’s not exactly my “selling” point. Be a little deeper than that.
How do you feel your coming out journey plays into your music?
I’m certainly not the voice for the gay community. I’ve never “come out” I think the whole idea is sad. Straight people don’t “come out” so… why should I? Just be who you are. And tell anyone to fuck off if they don’t understand. They aren’t worth your glow.