Chris Neptune

A few days ago, I had met up with Chris Neptun whom I have known since my high school days as plain old Chris. I haven't seen him in a few many years, and it was great to catch up over dinner and hot chocolate. I got to get in a short interview as he's made a name for himself as a musician. Perfect starting point for my new Yes Man/music project!

Some background on him, taken from his ReverbNation page:

"Chris Nĕptūn is one of New Jersey's edgiest alternative artists on the rise. Before his debut as a solo artist, Nĕptūn was the front man of the ska band Exit 145, that he helped to form with his close friends in high school, as well as a multi-instrumentalist and vocalist of the band Epic City, that he joined during his college years. He contributed catchy originals to both bands during his membership. In addition to writing pop and rock songs since he was in junior high, Nĕptūn composed and donated classical and jazz music to schools and communities for their instrumental and vocal ensembles to perform. He has a passion for vibrant, sophisticated music with lyrics that stimulate the mind and a variety of sounds that stimulate the ears. Nĕptūn proudly records a variety of instruments and vocals on his own, in addition to engineering, mixing, and mastering all recordings himself. He has been persistently treading on various career paths, searching for as many opportunities as possible to inspire others."

Basically, a musically well rounded, talented dude who's looking out for the good of the world. Check out the interview below:


Name:
Chris Nĕptūn

Tell me about your music:
"I would say my music in terms of genre comes closest to alternative rock, alternative pop with a blend of progressive rock fusion in there as well".

Are you a band or solo act?
"I get that a lot. I am a solo act but I play with a backing band. My music usually calls for that type of instrumentation and rather than go on stage with a boom box or laptop and strum along, I like to give my listeners the full 5-6 piece band experience on stage".

How did you decide on your genre of alternative, rather than mainstream?
"I pretty much perform and write songs based on however I am feeling at the moment. A lot of the time the style will go along with the feeling I am trying to evoke, so that's why I feel like a lot of my music is eclectic. I don't try to stay within the bounds of one specific style, I just see where the music takes me and I let it take me there".


Tell me about the inspiration behind your latest EP, Shūt 4 the Mūn.
"I can tell you that my inspiration for the song 'Shūt 4 the Mūn' was based on a childhood friend of mine named Joey. We used to be best friends children and when I would hang out as his house, we would play Star Fox on the N64. We would always pretend we were part of the game's space journey and so part of the song is inspired by that nostalgia of wanting to revisit that part of my life. The overall concept of the EP is the idea of taking a journey, whereas my first EP [Chance for a New Beginning] was about developing the courage to embark on a journey, 'Shūt 4 the Mūn' is about going on that journey".

'Shūt 4 the Mūn' was released in 2013. What are your plans for future releases?
Shūt 4 the Mūn was released in August 2013, but I have released a remastered version of it and it's available on iTunes as of the beginning of November. It contains a bonus track, "Straight to the End" which is track 3, but the rest of the tracks are still there in remastered form. As far as the new EP is concerned, "Scope" is the name of the new EP and it's due to come out by beginning of December on iTunes and Spotify. As a side note, at the end of this year, I am also planning on re-releasing a remastered version of my first EP, "Chance for a New Beginning" to bring in the New Year.

You seem to have a serious passion for music. You took band class in high school, as well as did marching band, musical theater, etc. Where did your passion for music come from?
I come from a very musical family and I have a theory that perhaps being surrounded by music my whole life made a difference and influenced my passion, specifically when it comes to pop music. When my older sister was a teenager, she would be up in our attic in my mom's house, she would be recording her own pop music. I would go up there as a little boy and would be so taken away and amazed by what she was doing, listening to the amazing sounds I was hearing and watching her record and produce her own music. I remember I would just lie on the floor and listen and soak in everything. I used to be so amazed by that and at one point I realized, "that's what I want to do when I get older", so I was very hungry to learn the tricks of the trade and my sister and father both helped me with that. A lot of what I write today is still deeply influenced by what my sister first introduced to me way back when I was a kid.

Where we can find your music?
http://www.reverbnation.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic
You can stream my music for free. If you click on my discography there's a "buy" link which will direct you to the iTunes store. You can also type in "Chris Neptune Music" in the search engine of the iTunes store and find it for $4.95 for the whole EP and $0.99 for each track.

Do you have any upcoming show dates?
As of right now I have no specific upcoming show dates but I have what I called the "Series One Show" which will occur in late December/January. It's called the "Series One Show" because I consider my first 3 EPs to go hand in hand as one series: Chance for a New Beginning, Shūt 4 the Mūn, and Scope. After the series is complete and after I do my show, I'm considering taking a slightly more experimental direction with my music.

Silly question time: What are your thoughts on Daylight Savings?
Well.. I don't really think it matters that much. *laughs* I'm not gonna lie, when the Fall comes, I love getting the extra hour but I end up losing it again in the spring. It used to be a practical thing when the farming industry was more prominent but I feel bad that nowadays farmers are not as appreciated as they used to be. For their sake I think I would like to keep Daylight Savings time but personally if it were up to me, I'd say we don't really need it. *laughs*

If younger kids were to look up to you and want to make music, do you have any sort of advice for them?
Yes, my advice is to completely be yourself. There will be times when you might be provoked or persuaded to try to assimilate to some sort of trend or style that already exists simply because other people like it or because they feel that if you are too unique you might get overshadowed and people might not like your music. The truth is, most people enjoy listening to music that is genuine. When they go to see a show, they want not only to hear it, but to experience it as well. They want to get an insight to who you are, behind the scenes. If you try to be someone who you are not, you are basically lying to your audience. So be true to yourself at all times. It might take a while for people to warm up to you, but eventually they will as long as you stay true to yourself and work on improving all the time.


That's all I have for today!
Can't wait to see him perform live soon, and do a second interview! - the fuu Manchuu

Or should I say Blūĕ Room?

Headlining a benefit for the family of venue friend and local business owner, Silvio Dibello, local singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Chris Nĕptūn and his backing band served up a memorable mix of pop, electronica, rock, and even some musical theatre undertones. Regardless of the small space, the band expanded the room into an arena. From the carefully-placed banter native to seasoned vets with meticulous sets (choreographed audience clapping, singalong participation, and, yes, even a few “Hello, Secaucus!” greetings) to the seemingly improvised vocals, Nĕptūn worked it.

The concert served as a promotional appearance for Nĕptūn’s new EP, Shūt 4 the Mūn, which audience members could purchase ahead of its digital release date (slated for October 2013). In addition to handling lead vocals, Nĕptūn wielded a guitar; he also counts drums, piano and trumpet in his musical repertoire. It’s worth noting that on recordings, it’s Nĕptūn covering all parts, which is quite a feat considering how much production seemingly goes into creating such complex, lush arrangements.

Though the club was packed for other acts on the bill, it was clear that most of the eager crowd was there solely for Nĕptūn. Beginning with the new EP’s title track, the band segued into “old classics” like “Freedom” and worked in a few ballads, dedicated to Dibello. Nĕptūn removed his sunglasses for sincerity, briefly reminded the reveling room why any of them were there at all, and quickly bounced back to his synth-soaked tunes. “Seeds of Separation,” in particular, was clearly an ignition for the audience and band alike, with its pop-laced vibe, despite the title’s depressing implication.

Chris Nĕptūn is ostensibly like hundreds of other young performers on the scene attempting to carve a piece of the pie. What sets him apart, however, is the seriousness with which he delivers. First-time concert-goers could identify the craftsmanship in not only the music, but the production. Early in the show, Nĕptūn addressed his fans, asking, “Can you feel it?” There was nothing rhetorical about the question; everyone definitely could. - Allison Johnelle Boron

Musical artist and self-producer Chris Neptune hopes to send out influential messages and help others have a more positive outlook on life through his music.

Neptune grew up with a musically inclined family, his father a professional musician and his mother a piano player. Neptune recalls being musically inspired at an early age as his mother would often blast The Alan Parsons Project during car rides to Toys ‘R Us. He credits his parents with exposing him to music at an early age. As an alum of both West Orange High School and Rutgers University in New Brunswick, Neptune contributed his talents during school to composing jazz and classical compositions for ensembles. But that was his experimental path to get where he is today, for now he is an influential solo artist that hopes to reach a larger audience.

Neptune learned the guitar from his father, the piano from his mother, and also plays the drums and trumpet on occasion. He describes his style as Alternative with a blend of Pop, Rock, New Age, and Space Rock. For those of you who don’t know about Space Rock, it consists of an ambient atmospheric mood with mystical sounds mixed in. Space Rock is equipped with synthesizers, which are based off the drumbeats of Rock and Roll and are designed to take you to another realm.

Through his music Neptune hopes to spread optimism in an otherwise cynical pessimistic world. “Being optimistic should be considered a strength. It does not mean you are unaware. It is about having a positive outlook. Embrace your free will. The media focuses on stereotypes but that is not our only option. We should test the boundaries. We should be able to please others without sacrificing our self image in the process.”

Neptune hopes to accomplish this through his unique style, which is inspired by musical greats such as Journey, Starship, Angels and Airwaves, Anberlin, and mainly, Toto.

“They are very musically inclined,” Neptune fondly says of Toto his favorite band, “They are in tune and have a wide variety of different styles.” Neptune had the pleasure of meeting the band in Las Vegas during their 2012 summer tour through VIP passes. “We met before the show, shook hands, had a conversation, and I got an autograph and picture with them. They have great personalities. Behind the scenes they are incredible.”

Chris Neptune is actually the artist’s stage name and is symbolic of his Space Rock style. “‘Neptune’ is an appropriate image for the sound of the music. I also like the color of the planet. I’m a Pisces, which is the zodiac sign ruled by Neptune, so I chose it for the astrological sense as well.”

Neptune is in the process of his first 2012-2013 tour, Chance for a New Beginning. His first performance of his tour took place November 29 at Crossroads in Garwood, NJ, though right now no other locations are official because his tour is still in the booking process. The plan is to tour mainly New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania.

In addition to music Neptune plans on writing a book about solutions to social and ethical issues as one of his long-term goals. He is currently working as a public elementary school music teacher. “My fellow teacher colleague got my backing band together. If it weren’t for me teaching I wouldn’t have found my band.”

Sitting in Panera Bread having lunch with the upcoming star made me realize just how much passion and knowledge Neptune has about his craft and mission, enough to rise above the difficulty of being a struggling artist.

“It is a constant struggle, but that is part of the adventure. It tests one’s character, and his or her ability to remain patient and optimistic. You’re juggling your job and career pursuits and it’s a struggle of time and energy. You only have so much time in the day to devote to responsibilities but you make the best of it and don’t complain. It takes a lot of ability to remain positive and not make excuses when things get challenging. Devote time to self-reflect and don’t lose touch with yourself.”

The release date of Neptune’s debut album, Chance for a New Beginning, is yet to be announced, but for now you can enjoy his promo CD, which you can find at http://www.reverbnation.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic.

“Two of the songs from my Promo CD, ‘You’ll Be Surprised’ and ‘For the Common Man’, can be purchased on my Reverbnation page. A percentage of the sales of those songs are donated to the organization, World Vision. The song ‘Freedom’ can be downloaded for free.”

To learn more about Chris Neptune, check out his Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic. He also has a Twitter, Myspace, and YouTube channel, all of which can be found on his Facebook page. - Stefanie Sears

Everyone wants to know the key to happiness. For me, it’s a long drive down a winding road without a destination in mind. My windows are down and I’m feeling the soothing breeze against my face. I insert my favorite CD in the car stereo. I am contented. There’s no set formula for one’s happiness, yet certain music can take you away and help you to escape from a stressful day.

Chris Neptune, a new alternative artist, plays inspirational music (not to be confused with religious music). He creates a positive atmosphere to make the listener forget their troubles and make their worries melt away.

Neptune debuted on November 29th at The Crossroads in Garwood, New Jersey. He headlined with his backing band, which contains five other musicians: Rich Fischer (guitar), Gene Morriello (bass guitar), Keith Place (keyboards), Kevin Place (keyboards), and Johnny “Leather” Albanese (drums). They performed six songs, which included one cover and five of his songs from his upcoming debut album, Chance For A New Beginning.

During his show his promotional EP was available for sale along with other souvenir goodies. He performed to a crowd of roughly 50 men and women whose ages varied. Chris Neptune’s music, which can be classified as “space rock” or “ambient pop,” is especially unique because it makes you feel like you are being sent to a faraway galaxy.

“My all-time favorite band is Toto. Their songs have inspired me because they are the most impressive and talented musicians I’ve ever seen,” said Neptune. “Yet, I feel I sound like Angels and Airwaves, Anberlin, Starship, and Journey.”

Neptune has several musical skills, including singing lead vocals, playing guitar, and playing piano.

“I write, record, mix, and master the songs myself,” said Neptune.

He’s a one-man band when it comes to recording, yet he has his five backup musicians for performing concerts.

“I’ve been friends with him for years and this was my first concert of his I attended,” said Brandon Ellis, age 25, of West Orange, N.J. “I found his performance deep and refreshing to the ears.”

Neptune’s music has an 80’s style soft rock flow, and he matched his style perfectly with his gnarly 80’s style sunglasses which he wore that night. He grabbed the audience’s attention when he set the stage wearing a brightly colored turquoise shirt and white pants. Neptune performed proudly, as he sang loudly, and displayed confidence by using eye contact and hand gestures. He encouraged everyone on the floor to clap along to his catchy songs.

The band wasn’t in any hurry during their performance to finish. The members took their time and played gracefully with such enthusiasm. Layers of music weaved together and moved through, under, and into the listener.

“The service was slow during his singing. Guests were entertained and focused on his performance. They did not want to leave their seat to buy a drink,” said Stephanie, who bartends at The Crossroads. “His show was very up-beat and powerful. I really enjoyed it! It was a nice change and very different from other bands that performed tonight.”

During his performance, he used his soft voice to soothe the audience. The songs geared around inspiration and hardship and sent out a positive message to all which sums up an attitude of:



If I can do it, so can you!



At the same time, some of his lyrics made unusual references. For example, his opening song Freedom contained the following lyrics:



I’m sitting down at the lounge with a caramel macchiato,

your favorite drink that you introduced to me.

Then you burst through the door all dressed up like Demi Lovato.

Maybe I should’ve stayed home with Sara Lee.



He made a reference to Demi Lovato, a famous artist who’s known for her 2011 hit, Give Your Heart a Break, and Camp Rock, a 2008 film.

Is Neptune talking about staying home with a cup of Sara Lee coffee, or staying home with an actual girl named Sara Lee? Either interpretation is appropriate, and this contributes to the cleverness of his lyrics.

Neptune continued with We Can Find Our Way, I’ll Look Back On You, and Drifted Apart. All three of those songs geared around relationships. The audience cheered as each song ended and then the next one immediately started afterwards.

Neptune then closed with his hit, You’ll Be Surprised, a spiritual song that had the crowd singing along with a chorus we can all relate to:



You can run, but you cannot hide from the things that make you frown. Try not to feel so scared…Never hesitate to roll the dice. Keep your eyes on the prize and just do it! You’ll be surprised.



Shockingly, one of his songs he promotes on his Facebook page, For the Common Man, was not performed at the concert. The lyrics of the song were inspired by Neil Armstrong’s famous quote when he landed on the moon:



Just one small step for man could be one giant leap for mankind…



The song then continues…if everybody does their part. If we all take a stand for the common man, they can’t keep us in the dark.

“I was surprised and disappointed because I didn’t hear For The Common Man,” said Trisha Kern of Verona, N.J. “I find that song to be very strong and worth listening to.”

2013 will be an eventful year for Neptune, for he has ambitions to promote his debut album, Chance For A New Beginning, in addition to performing on a mini-tour.

“I can guarantee that I will play in the upcoming year,” said Neptune.

He also plans on creating a music video and settling a record deal. Later in life, in addition to writing music, Neptune wants to write a book offering solutions to modern ethical issues. He also wants to travel the country promoting a second album.

“I don’t want to limit my life to one pursuit. I have a wide variety of goals that I am eager to accomplish.”

Chris Neptune resides in Livingston and comes from a rich family heritage of music. He graduated from Rutgers State University with Highest Honors (Summa Cum Laude), and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. He teaches music to young children in New Jersey, and he is also a freelance composer and record producer.

“I would like to dedicate my music to my parents, for providing me with the confidence and skills I need to succeed,” stated Neptune, “along with my sister, Jenna, for inspiring me to become a songwriter and producer at such a young age.”

He also wants to thank his backing band, his friends, and his fans for their continuing support. To find out more about Chris Neptune and his upcoming concerts, you can visit any of the following websites:

www.facebook.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic

www.reverbnation.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic

www.twitter.com/NeptuneMusic

www.youtube.com/ChrisNeptuneMusic

www.myspace.com/ChrisNeptune

Neptune plans to perform again at The Crossroads, located at 78 North Avenue in Garwood. Along with its Chicago city vibe, the bar contains brass and wooden statues that hang on the walls. The two-toned black and red colors make a splash over the wooden paneling. Bright neon lights shine through, making the venue easily visible from the street. To read more about The Crossroads you can visit the official website: www.xxroads.com. - Julie Shilling