21 Taras

Julian Fulco Perron’s powerful vocals bring a dynamic element to this 70s influenced rock band. Mix Perron’s incredible range with true rockstar-style guitar solos and the result is the instant classic “Illegible.” 21 Taras plays with the theme of salvaging a love that’s lost in this funky new single that’ll make you want to get up and dance. - 303 Magazine

21 Taras begin their new album Change with Change Is Gonna Come , an introductory effort which immediately showcases the band’s technical ability. The dynamic established by the bass, guitar, and drums during the first half-minute ensures that the vocals have a tremendous bit of momentum as they enter into the equation. The driving dynamic between the vocals and guitars call back to the heavy rock of Thin Lizzy and The Cult.

21 Taras are crafting their own style by the time that Gettin’ Hungry begins. Gettin’ Hungry has a unique style that effortlessly links together blues, jazz, and 19th-century piano rolls. The robust production ensures that both sets of vocals, the rockabilly-infused instrumentation are able to gel into something cohesive and endearing. The Ego and The Universe is a high-water mark for the band on Change. Sizzling guitars and ropy bass lines unite to tell a dense and detailed story. Each second yields something additional as the harmonica is included in the mix.

I’ve Been Better, I Be Worse is a fantastic track that is simultaneously able to bring 1970s soul, 1960s rock and the epic sound of Billy Joel and Elton John to bear. While the song may stop before the five-minute mark, the magnificent sound that 21 Taras builds up here will stick around with listeners long after the album ceases to play. The guitar work reaches new heights here as the lively bass and splashy drums enter in. Change concludes with From A Distance, a track that is able to touch upon on the trends and approaches previously broached on the disc while spinning the band into a bold new direction.

For additional information about 21 Taras, check out their social media profiles. A full-length listen to Change can be located at the act’s Bandcamp.

Top Tracks: Change Is Gonna Come, The Ego and The Universe

Rating: 8.2/10 - NeuFutur

Denver is a huge city known for many things. Denver is known for omelettes that it didn’t invent. It’s not known for cheeseburgers, which were possibly invented there. It’s also the type of city where if you live in the suburbs, you just tell people from other states that you live in Denver. 21 Taras is a hard rocking band that hails from Littleton, CO. They just recently released their latest album, Change. - Fuel The Scene

IPM: What inspired you to write music like you do

I (James) think we write music the way we do because we want to make something unique. There is so much music in the world today that sounds very cliché. I for one hate being in the comfort zone. Everyone in 21 Taras loves stepping it up a notch to push their boundaries.

IPM: Tell us about the other members of the band, and of your chemistry.

Some of us like to take more of a zeppelin approach to the band while some of us see it more as The Beatles. Each member comes from a different background of music. Julian our singer came from a grunge background like Pearl Jam and Tool, but more recently he has turned to bands like The Beatles, Sugar Candy Mountain, and even Queen. Julian is a chef for Alamo Draft House and enjoys basketball. His favorite team is the Dallas Mavericks. I came from a background of heavy metal and classic rock. I really enjoy bands like Ozzy, Mötley Crüe, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Led Zeppelin. My top guitar idol has to be Randy Rhoads. I work as a plumber during the day. I also enjoy collecting sand from other states and countries. Austin’s background comes from bands like Tame Impala, Dead Kennedy’s, Joy Division and Mac Demarco. In more recent years Austin really enjoys King Gizzard And The Lizard Wizard. Austin works as a tech for BMW. He enjoys working on his car in his free time. Jim’s music background goes from Smashing Pumpkins all the way to Dillinger Escape Plan. Jim works with animals and sleeps a lot in his free time. Alec comes the classic rock era. He really enjoys bands like Deep Purple, Little Feat, Led Zeppelin and even CCR. Nowadays, he’s really into bands like KNOWER, Bad Suns, and Paul Revere & The Raiders. Alec works with his dad at their auto shop. Alec enjoys video games.

IPM: What are or were some of the challenges for you in producing or performing while keeping true to your vision of your music.

There may be writing differences from time to time, but overall I think it was a matter of just trying to get out an album we could all believe in. We found it hard to get attention when we didn’t have any music out at the time.

IPM: Tell us about some of your recent shows / performances.

We recently played the RAW Showcase in Denver at The Church Nightclub. Tons of art and cool people. We have a few shows lined up. We’ll be co-headlining with Float Like a Buffalo at Larimer Lounge for the River North Art Showcase on November 25th.

IPM: Any Albums coming out soon or shows you are looking to promote

We’re currently in the process of releasing a single, new music video and album 3. We have more shows TBA soon. - IndiePulse

The last member of 21 Taras to join is the one who’s answered all the questions for today’s BotD. Take it away, Julian…

Simple things first – where are you guys from?

There are 5 of us in 21 Taras, 4 of whom grew up in Littleton, Colorado where we currently all reside. I grew up in Anchorage, Alaska and made my way down to Colorado a few years back in 2014.

How did you meet?

James and Alec; lead guitar and drums respectively: met back in high school and began playing together. Alec was originally on bass guitar and they had a different drummer playing with them. They eventually moved on as Alec switched to drums and they added bassist Jim Williams to the lineup. Rhythm guitarist Austin Salazar joined shortly thereafter. All four of them went to high school together in Littleton. I came into the equation when I met James online on a band finder site of sorts. It proved to be an instant match as we had a few rehearsals and then even played a couple shows in just a matter of weeks. - Moshville UK

Review Fix chats with 21 Taras’ Julian Fulco, who discusses the band’s origin and goals for the future.

Review Fix: How did the project start?
Julian Fulco: We were just finishing up an EP at the time and we knew we were ready to take on our next full-length album, but it had to be different from the last. I think what helped was us all sitting down together and discussing not only the direction of the music but also just addressing some in-band conflicts at the time. Things from that point on have been very clear and communication has been focused on. It led to us being closer as a group, and as friends really.

Review Fix: What’s your creative process like?
Fulco: Every song is a bit different. Sometimes we all just get around and start playing and many songs have been written like that. Sometimes, however, a song is based more around the idea of one or two people and the rest of the members help to make it more of a finished idea. I think both ways prove to be important as it allows for things to stay fresh and it really dives more into the minds of those who are the main contributors to the song. This, in turn, allows a different sound than we could all write as a full collaboration.

Review Fix: What’s your standout song? How was it written?
Fulco: I think part of what makes Change so good to us is that there are several standout songs. It’s really hard to pick a single. That is part of the reason one was never released. I think if I had to pick one at the moment it would be Gettin’ Hungry. The song started as a guitar noodle that James was playing and it really struck some inspiration within me. I soon came in with the piano part and bass followed shortly after. The same way the song starts is ironically how it was written. The song can be heard here: https://21tarasband.bandcamp.com/track/gettin-hungry

Review Fix: How do you want your music to affect people?
Fulco: We always want to reach as many people as possible with our music, and ultimately want to impact them in a positive way as I’m sure most others would. But it is more than just that, I remember all the times music got me through so to be able to be that band for another person would just come full circle. We want to invoke all sorts of emotions, not just the pleasant ones. We really want to make you think as it can lead to growth. Music really is the best therapy, as well as sometimes a teacher.

Review Fix: What are your goals for 2018?
Fulco: To finish off the year we have a new music video to debut on November 30th. This is actually for a different song than what some would call the de facto single of the album in Gettin’ Hungry. We also have a brand new single coming shortly after that in December to finish the year off strong. - Review Fix

21 Taras has been described as everything from alternative or hard rock to metal and even grunge. Regardless of whatever category you decide to label them as it’s clear that the band has certainly found their own niche in Denver’s music scene. Formed by members Alec Lister and James Steinbach back in 2014, the band has since gone through some lineup changes but are steady today with a solid crew. Lister is on drums while Steinbach holds a steady presence on lead guitar, and they’re joined by Julian Perron on vocals, Jimmy St. James on bass and Austin Salazar on guitar. Their debut album Seize the Ocean was released in 2016 and features twelve tracks all available on Spotify. Their sound feels emotional yet controlled — which doesn’t mean they lack energy but instead they’ve had time to develop and strengthen their sound. - 303 Magazine

21 Taras are a Denver based five piece rock band deriding influence from the 60s and 70s who strive to send the listener on a journey through the best musical periods of the past and the present. They have recently put out new album ‘Change‘ and with plans to tour this year, it is currently an exciting time for the group, who BG spoke to about what exactly makes them who they are:

What is 21 Taras all about?
21 Taras is all about pushing our capabilities as performers and song writers. We are always trying to implement new things, as we get bored rather quickly. With each new release we try to bring something new to the table that has not been heard from us before.

Who would you say are your biggest musical influences?
The Beatles, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Beach Boys and The Zombies to name a few.

What inspired you to start making music?
Making music has always been very natural for me. It is sort of an escape as well, but the music makes me feel part of something. I hope we can enable others to do the same when they listen to what we are doing.

Tell us about the latest project?
Our newest album ‘Change‘ marked a new process for us as far as writing goes and really the whole band dynamic shifted. Having a recording studio at our disposal has led to a more experimental approach.
It led us to try some things that we may have never attempted in the past. The new record is very 60s and 70s rock influenced as well as some 50s blues and jazz. It also has some soul and country sprinkled in. I really think we did a great job at keeping things interesting for the listener and really masking the whole album a listening experience. We are very proud of it and are excited to show everyone what we have coming. - Bloggers Gamut

Use Link - WeRockMagazine UK

We recently sat down with a bunch of bands from the Stencil label to see how their year has been going so far. One of our last interviews of the year was with 21 Taras – check it out below:

By Jane Howkins

How is 2018 treating you so far?

2018 has been a very productive year for us, having released our second full length album Change. We also have a new music set to be released on November 30th and a new single that will be out before the year is done. Lots of cool stuff planned for early 2019 as well!

Have you released any music so far this year? If so, what can you tell us about that?

Our new album Change is a diverse palette consisting of many influences. It is heavily 60s and 70s rock based, but also contains some 50s jazz sprinkled in. This can be heard most prominently on our single Gettin’ Hungry.

Are you working on any new music at the moment? What are you working on, and when will it be released?

Currently we are working on some new songs for album 3 and potentially some more singles to be released along the way. We have a late 70s disco feel type of track, and we also have this new 50s jazz type of piano ballad. There is another 6 minute musical escapade that is all over the place in terms of influence and sound. Plenty of exciting things on the way. The first of those new singles will be released in December to finish off 2018.

Have you got any upcoming tours planned? If so, where are you playing and where are you looking forward to going most?

We just got back from a small tour of a few southwestern states back in august. Nothing planned for the rest of this year, but we hope to venture out in early 2019. More details and dates can be found on our website.

Who/what has influenced you the most as musicians?

Some of our biggest influences are The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Queen and The Doors. For Austin it would be more of a Tame impala and the Strokes kind of influence. For James, Earthless and Randy Rhoads. Alec loves Little Feat and Deep Purple, while Jimmy has a huge hip hop background with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Death Grips as influences.

What have you been listening to recently that you can recommend to our readers?

Satanic Panic in the Attic by Of Montreal. That is a killer album that is very retro, yet also has some modern flare. I just started listening to Awaken, My Love by Childish Gambino. It is very much a retro album to me. It feels of mid 70s funk and soul and is very well done. Absolutely worth the listen.

Why do you think people should pick up one of your records or come and see you live, and what can people expect from one of your shows?

Our music represents the growth that can be achieved when you aren’t afraid to fail. We love to take risks, so you never know what you can expect to hear on our albums and we love that. In terms of our live shows, we take pride in bringing a true performance each and every night. With our new album Change, some of the songs prove to be challenging to represent live since they contain an abundance of layers. It is something we embrace however, and every show brings more layers into the mix.

Any last words for the fans?

Thank you for listening to our music, we hope it challenges you in more ways than one. We will be releasing a new music video as well as a new single both very shortly. - York Calling

Introduce us to your band!

We are 21 Taras. We are a 5-piece rock band from Littleton, Colorado. Our new album “Change” will take you on a journey through some of our favourite periods of music from past to present. With influences from early 50s jazz to mid-60s and 70s rock, the album will keep you guessing from track to track. Covered in layers from head to toe, Change serves as an audiophile’s dream and is just the beginning of what is to come for 21 Taras.

2. How did you guys start out?


The band started with James and Alec and dates back to their high school years. The foursome of James (lead guitar), Alec (drums), Jimmy (bass) and Austin (rhythm guitar) all shared the same school grounds which later developed into a full-fledged friendship as four out of five soon to be members of 21 Taras. I (Julian – vocals/keys) joined in 2014 when the band was still at its earliest stages; before the final name change to 21 Taras would ensue. I met James online on a band finder site and we later quickly met up for a band rehearsal. They had a few songs written that still needed vocals and lyrics. You can hear a few of these tracks on 21 Taras debut album”Seize The Ocean”.

3. Describe your band’s sound.

That is a very loaded question. I approach it rather simply, however, as we just tend to have an open-door policy when it comes to our songs and ideas that we bring to the table. Nothing is off limits. I think we all prefer to not stay in one box musically, so to speak so it is rather freeing to have that mindset even within the confines of a typical album structure. Our last album dabbled in the 60s and 70s psychedelic and classic rock as well as some soul and jazz influences. We have a new single set to be released at the end of next month (December) that is more of a late 70s disco feel. We have some more tracks upcoming that I don’t even know how to describe. Couple tracks with some ragtime influence with a bit of craziness spread throughout.

4. What influences your craft?

Bands like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Queen, The Doors and the Zombies; just to name a few. For Austin, it would be more of a Tame Impala and the Strokes kind of influence. For James, Earthless and Randy Rhoads. Alec loves Little Feat and Deep Purple, while Jimmy has a huge hip-hop background with artists like Kendrick Lamar and Death Grips as influences. These all come together and form one big musical love fest.

5. What makes your band different? Why should people listen to you?

Well, we try to give the listener something new every song. Something unexpected. But we also want to make them think. There can betimes for a simple joyous feeling throughout the music, but we also want to give off a sense of general anxiety with some of the tracks. Whatever we can do to give a true sense of how we view the world and our current mindsets at any given time. We will keep you on your toes.

6. When introducing people to your music, what song should I show them first? What is your quintessential track?

Off of the last album, I would say Getting’ Hungry, but this always changes for us. Gettin’ Hungry is a bit of a jazz-rock-influenced number featuring backing vocals by the lovely Mia Klosterman. sleep softly from the same “Change” album is another one. This song features a few older instruments like mellotron and electric piano as well as the bountiful amount of vocal harmonies.

7. What has been the biggest struggle in your career so far?

We have had some internal clashes that I am sure most bands deal with as well. Communication is a huge part of the band dynamic. Weare always talking to each other and looking out for one another. This is truly a family, and we have been through a lot together.

8. What has been the biggest highlight in your career so far?


Just going on our first few tours as a band. The feeling you get from going on the road for the sole purpose of playing your music is just an inspiring and adventurous time. Each time we go out is more exciting than the last. The biggest highlight for sure would have to be changing a flat tire on the side of the road during our last tour.

9. How bright is the future of your band – what are the plans?

We just released a new music video for Sleep Softly; a track off of our new album. You can view that here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XA751d1y26I&fbclid=IwAR1Qi-3aguuNkEPEB9wwQ366E3vW3p8FC_AgUNVm6l6ca9O1u1HQ7wFCYzU

We also have a single to be released at the end of the year. We are always writing so look forward to some new music to start 2019 as well.

10. When all is said and done, how would you like to be remembered?

That’s not really for us to decide. Plus, it is much too early for that. I guess just to be remembered as a band that ultimately had fun and did what they wanted to do. And if we can impact some other people’s lives along the way then that is awesome. Everyone has their own idea of success, and there are smaller successes on the way to a larger one. You always have your eyes set on that, whether it is attainable or not.

Find out more about 21 Taras on their website: https://www.21tarasband.com/?fbclid=IwAR1Tve5ns42f49sAVfne_RdF8Kj9RjyTXiNE-pS-xf6_oCw0UzSD6XoXe2Q - Wave Byte UK

21 Taras is a rock band from Littleton, Colorado which having sparked keen attention through previous releases has ventured into new directions in sound and adventure. This evolution is at the heart of their new album, Change. Wanting to now more we recently chatted with the band learning…
Can you first introduce the band and give us some background to how it all started?

4 out of the 5 of us went to school together. James and Alec shared some classes and started the band, then shortly after recruited Jimmy. James went up to the first person he saw; who just so happened to be Jimmy; and asked if he played bass. Austin was later introduced to the band in a similar fashion. I (Julian) moved to Colorado in 2014 and met James online on some band finder website. They sent me some songs to throw some vocals on and we played our first show just a couple weeks later.

Have you been or are involved in other bands? If so has that had any impact on what you are doing now, in maybe inspiring a change of style or direction?

We all have been playing music for a while now in one way or another, but this is pretty much our first real band. I had a project back when I lived in Alaska with one of my good friends Rio, but it was just the two of us. James and Alec had gone through a few other line-ups under a different band name, but as of late 2014 the line-up has been set and that is when the final name change to 21 Taras ensued.

What inspired the band name?

It comes from Buddhism. They have 21 different forms of Tara, all based around self-empowerment and self-enlightenment. The name stands for how we try to continually grow as not only musicians, but also as people through our music and songwriting.

Was there any specific idea behind the forming of the band and also in what you wanted it and your sound to offer?

We just want to continue evolving. Just about four years in, and we have changed so much already. I don’t think we ever try to plan for where things go; it just sort of happens. We’ve tried to dictate things before but that is a good way for things to end up forced.

Do the same things still drive the band from its first steps or have they evolved over time?

I think now having a full music studio at our disposal has greatly changed everything. It allows us to be more creative as we are working on our time. Our mentor/producer Jim Boyd deserves a lot of credit for our last record. With him opening up his studio to us, it really led to the growth of the songs and the overall freedom the album possesses. - The RingMaster Review

Time for the next edition of Metal Anarchy’s “new music showcase,” the feature where I introduce you to up and coming bands that readers of this site may find interesting. This time I have an exclusive Q&A with 21 Taras. - Metal Anarchy

Firstly, introduce yourselves and tell us a little bit about the band and how you came to be?



We are 21 Taras, we met back in 2014. I (Julian) met our lead guitarist James online on some band finder website and we arranged a rehearsal shortly after. We then played our first show a few weeks later.



What were you all up too prior to the band, was this always the chosen path or did you have other dreams and aspirations?



We were all pretty much involved in music in one way or another for a little while while before we met. The 4 other guys all went to school together in Littleton, Colorado while I lived in Alaska up until moving here in 2014. I think we all knew music was what our path was pretty early on, it was just a matter of what medium.



Tell us about your latest Album and why our readers should check it out.



Our newest album is called 'Change'. It marks a time in the band where we completely shook things up. Our goal with this album, and for our other releases that follow is to take the listener on a journey through our favorite musical periods. This album focuses on mid 60s and 70s Rock. Big influences on this album include the Beach Boys, Led Zeppelin, Queen and The Doors.



Have you ever come face to face with someone within the music scene who has left you awestruck and why?



So hard to pick just one experience, there have so many bands and people we have met playing music. Ultimately for us, it's all about making friends and changing people's lives with our music so anytime we can meet other band's that share that same mindset it is a special thing. Special shout out to our friends in Float Like A Buffalo who we will be sharing the stage with on November 25th at Larimer Lounge in Denver, Colorado. Love those guys.



If we were to head out to one of your live shows what can ourselves and others expect?



We take great pride in our live shows. It is a time for us to do something different than the record, but also a fun challenge to represent the songs. There are so many layers on the record, especially vocals so it a fun challenge to bring these recordings to life. We always try to things differently from show to show as well. I get bored easily so mixing it up is essential for me.



If you had one artist/band that you could go on tour with tomorrow who would it be and why?



I am currently really digging the sound of Sugar Candy Mountain so I would go with them. They are from Oakland and just seem like cool guys that also are inspired by a lot of the same music from the 60s that we are.



You can spend an hour with a musical icon living or dead, who would you pick, why and what would you speak about?



I would like to talk to Brian Wilson about his Smile project. Smile was the album Brian was writing right after Pet Sounds and I'd love to pick his brain about his writing process and just about that time in his life in general.



And finally and most importantly is Die Hard a Christmas Movie?



Yes. Definitely a Christmas movie, no question.



Website - 21tarasband.com



Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/21tarasband/ - 3 Songs & Out

Unsigned Spotlight: 21 Taras
Denver based 60s and 70s influenced rock band 21 Taras takes you through the greatest periods of music from past to present.

Please list all of your band members and their roles in the band.

Julian Fulco - vocals/keys

Jim Williams - bass

James Steinbach - lead gtr

Austin Salazar - rhythm gtr

Alec Lister - drums

For starters, what bands were you guys a part of prior to 21 Taras?

This is all our first main project/band.

How long has the band been around?

The band began in 2014 and after a few name changes, eventually settled on 21 Taras late 2014.

What’s the origin of that name and have you changed the band’s name before?



Our name comes from Buddhism. They have 21 different forms of Tara, all based around self empowerment and self enlightenment. We have gone though a couple different names before all of the members we in the band. Once we assembled our now current line up in late 2014, our final name change ensued.

Who writes your songs? What are the main themes or topics for most of your songs and do you think these topics will change over time?

All of our songs have different writing processes. Sometimes it starts with just a riff when we are all together just playing, while other songs are brought to the band near completion by one or two members. Every song is just a little different. I do believe the topics will change, as will the music. It's impossible to say where they will go, but that isn't for any of us to dictate.



What bands are currently inspiring the music that you’re making?

A lot of classic bands like The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, Queen and the Beach Boys. Also some newer bands like Tame Impala and Sugar Candy Mountain.

Was there a particular band/artist or concert that inspired you to start a band?

I (Julian) am inspired by the greatest to ever do it. Whether in sports, music or any profession really, you can learn and absorb so many things from the greats. I try to pick up any little thing I can and build upon that.

What do you do to prepare for a show? Any flexing, exercises, ect ...

You know, we never really ever developed a pre-show ritual or anything. I think a lot of the preparation comes in the days leading up to the show, just making sure we are all on the same page and well rested.

What has been the biggest highlight of the band’s career so far?

This new album was pretty big for us, just in terms of demonstrating our growth. This album really allowed for us to spread our wings, in a sense.

If you could tour with any bands, past or present, who would they be and why?

We of course would love to have played with Zeppelin, and some of those guys from back when. In all honestly, we would love to play with anyone who shares our same love for the music and are just genuine performers. We take pride in our live shows, and are very personal with our performances.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Our new album "Change" has something for everyone on it, we take you on a journey through mid 60s and 70s rock with a bit of jazz sprinkled in along the way. You can check out Change here: - Kill The Music

21 Taras are a 60s and 70s influenced rock band from Denver, Colorado that formed in 2014. Their goal is simple; to send you on a journey through the best musical periods. Past to present.

​The band began with James Steinbach (lead guitar) and Alec Lister (drums) and soon grew with the additions of bassist Jim Williams and Austin Salazar (rhythm guitar) shortly thereafter. The four met in high school in which they all shared classes. In late 2014 singer Julian Fulco was added to the mix when he moved to Denver from his hometown of Anchorage, Alaska. Fulco encountered Steinbach on an online web forum and a rehearsal was immediately scheduled . The band went on to play their first performance; consisting of a few original songs as well as covers; just days after their first rehearsal.

​The band’s new album “Change” is reminiscent of the mid 60s and 70s. Featuring horns and strings, as well as vintage keyboards in the Fender Rhodes and Vox Continental; the making of Change truly served as an open playground. The no limits, outside of the box approach to writing and recording as demonstrated in this album truly opens them up to push the boundaries as to how many sounds they can encompass as a band; and they feel their options are endless.

“I like to say that nothing is off the table.” says lead singer Julian Fulco. “The variety in our music is what continues to keep me going. We don’t play by any rules when it comes to what we write and record. Every day sparks new feelings and opens new doors for who we are and what we are capable of.” Change was recorded by the band themselves, while being mixed and mastered by astute engineer Mark Derryberry (ELO and various sound design projects ) in Arvada, Colorado. Julian; along with Mark and Jim Boyd; made sure that even the smallest of details came across in production. With the diverse sounds of 60s Spanish influenced throwback tune “Time Traveler” and the layered vocals and mellotron sounds of “Sleep Softly” to the raw rockers “Change Is Gonna Come” and “Fatal Farm”, the band makes sure to represent a wide range of styles that keep you intrigued and enthralled to reabsorb the many layers that construct the tracks.


The band hopes to continue this growth when they return to the road later in the year and are eager to play for larger audiences in as many areas as they can reach. The band takes pride in their live performances, citing that their energy on stage is very personal and authentic. They love to bring the songs that they have created to life in ways that they have never done before. They believe that this is only the beginning, and they are excited for what lies ahead as they continue their tread towards prominence. - PETE'S ROCK NEWS AND VIEWS

Use Link - Vents Magazine

In this new occassion we have had the opportunity to interview the Rock band 21 Taras from USA. Check out the interview and this band on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

1.Where did you get the idea for the band name, you planned it or came out just like that?

Wasn't exactly planned, there was a time in the beginning when we knew our previous name wasn't going to stick so we all just started to brainstorm. 21 Taras comes from Buddhism. I was listening to a lot of Alan Watts at the time and that is where I picked up the idea for the name.

2.Why did you want to play this genre?

Well actually for us, we are sort of all over the place as far as genres go. Our new album Change covers a lot of different sounds, mostly focusing on mid 60s and 70s rock. We all pretty much grew up listening to such a diverse pallet so it is just very natural for us to work in different genres.

3. Did you know each other before the band was formed?

The other four guys did. James, Alec, Jimmy and Austin all went to school together. I (Julian) later joined the band a year or so before James and Alec graduated.

4. Each band member favourite band?

That's tough. Our favorite's tend to change often. Daily even. But some of our biggest inspirations include The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Doors and Queen.

5. Who or what inspires you to write songs?

Inspiration can come from anywhere really, mostly when you're not looking for it.

6. Where was your last gig?

We last played at Moes BBQ in Englewood, Colorado. Great food.

7. Where would you like to perform?

We'd like to make our way to the UK actually, care to fund us? I think you guys would really dig what we have going, and it would be great to go and play where a lot of our favorite bands originated from.

8. Whom would you like to perform with?

Personally, I'd like to perform with Queen. I could take over vocal duties. Sorry Adam Lambert. In terms of current bands, Tame Impala would be a blast to play with.

9. Whom not?

We'll play with anyone, until we have a reason not to. We just respect anyone who shares the same motivations as us in terms of performing. Just a genuine love of music and making people feel something.

10. Any of you has ever suffered from stage fright? Any tip for beginners on how to beat that?

Oh yea, still happens on occasions. I personally like the nerves, I think it affects how I perform in a good way. To beginners I'd say to not let it overtake you, and don't try and stop the nerves. They are natural and can be used in a positive way to generate a sort of energy into your performance.

11. What bands have inspired you the most?

The Beatles, Queen, Led Zeppelin, The Beach Boys. Bowie. So many bands.


12. What's the weirdest thing a fan has ever asked you for?

Well let's just say our drummer Alec is pretty popular with the older women that listen to us.

13. What do you think of your fans?

I think it's rather special to have loyal listeners today, being that there is so much music at our disposal. It is so easy to find a band, enjoy them, and then never listen to them again. So we appreciate those who have stuck with us and listened to what we have to offer. There is more coming soon.

14. What do you think of our site?

I think it could use some color mate. All jokes aside I like the support of local bands that is shown. We are the future.

15. Something to add?

Our new album "Change" is something very different. Our goal is to send you on a journey through some of our favorite periods of music. We hope you give it a listen and enjoy the ride. You can listen to Change here: https://21tarasband.bandcamp.com/album/change - Breathing The Core

Use Link - Rox Rock & Metal

A fledgling hard rock outfit that only settled on its band name in March, 21 Taras has made the most of its first ten months. Besides gigging throughout the Denver area, the band shared with AXS during a recent chat, “During our time as a band, we've learned how to keep our egos in check and work as a unit, be more efficient and engaging performers, and how to conduct ourselves as businesspeople in the music world.” Playing the Pit Stop Tavern on Wednesday, October 14, this up-and-coming rock quintet discuss their inaugural year in this exclusive interview.

AXS: Are you Denver natives? If not, where is everyone originally from?
21 Taras: We are all from Denver except our singer, Julian Perron, who is from Anchorage, Alaska. He just moved here about a year ago.

AXS: What brought 21 Taras together?
21 Taras: Our drummer [Alec Lister] and lead guitarist [James Steinbach] started playing music together about five years ago. Then our rhythm guitarist [Austin Salazar] was introduced to the band through a mutual friend. Our bassist [Jimmy St. James] joined somewhat out of nowhere; James asked a random kid with a shaved head if he played bass, the kid said "Yeah," and voila, we had a bassist. Our singer joined the band about a year and a half later, once he moved to Colorado (Julian reached out to the band first via a Bandmix post). The band sent Julian a few instrumentals, and a few practices later we played our first show.

AXS: How long has 21 Taras been together? What have you learned during that time?
21 Taras: This particular incarnation of the band has been around for about 10 months, and the 21 Taras name has only been in place since March of this year. During our time as a band, we've learned how to keep our egos in check and work as a unit, be more efficient and engaging performers, and how to conduct ourselves as businesspeople in the music world.

AXS: Where was your first show in Denver, and what was the experience like? Who else did you play with at the show?
21 Taras: Our first show with all the current members was at the Gypsy House Cafe in October 2014. We played with the Velveteers and Savage Cabbage. However, James and Alec had played live for a couple years before the rest joined.

AXS: Have any Denver musicians inspired 21 Taras?
21 Taras: There were a lot of bands that inspired us, but the most prominent among them are Branded Bandits (now known simply as Bandits), Blakk Mantra, and The Woodies.

AXS: What projects are 21 Taras currently working on?
21 Taras: Right now, we're currently finishing up a run of several shows through mid-September; after that, we plan to focus more heavily on writing for our debut album, which is currently untitled.

AXS: What else is 21 Taras involved in locally, either as individuals or as a group?
21 Taras: James supports local music in the Denver Metro area. Jimmy donates monthly to Planned Parenthood. Alec helps out at his dad's auto shop occasionally. Julian chefs at a local restaurant. Austin works on his car most of the time.

AXS: Does 21 Taras have a goal in mind for the sound the band produces? Are there certain influences or themes the band tries to inject into its own music?
21 Taras: We're a very eclectic group of musicians, and we all pull from our separate tastes when we write. Julian pulls mostly from Tool, Pearl Jam, and 90s hard rock bands. Austin draws on Tame Impala as far as his gentler stuff, and Black Sabbath and Dead Kennedys for his harder music. James writes from a place inspired by Randy Rhoads-era Ozzy and Nirvana. Jimmy draws from mostly progressive rock/metal bands like Coheed and Cambria, as well as Smashing Pumpkins. Alec writes in the style of Deep Purple and Styx.

AXS: For someone who has never seen or heard 21 Taras, what would you tell them to entice them to watch your set?
21 Taras: We bring a lot of energy and passion to the stage, and that is only enhanced by the awesome energy that Denver live crowds bring to shows. We don't put on an act; we are authentically ourselves and genuinely invested in every song at each and every show.

AXS: What would your ideal live show look like? Where would it take place? Any particular time of year? Would a specific band/musician share the bill with or open for 21 Taras?
21 Taras: Our dream show would take place at Red Rocks in early fall. There are a huge number of bands we'd like to share a bill with, but we'd be far happier playing a show where a massive crowd is enjoying our music, singing along and feeding us their energy.

AXS: What shows are you looking forward to over the next few months?
21 Taras: Jimmy and Austin are both psyched as hell for Ghost at the Summit in late October. Julian is excited to see Puscifer at the Bellco Theater in November. James and Alec are going to see the Who at the Pepsi Center in December.

AXS: What do you enjoy most about Denver’s music scene, and why?
21 Taras: It's really cool playing practically a new place every show due to the incredible number of different venues in the city. We also love the energy that the crowds in this state bring to every show - they're very supportive of the scene, and that's only going to make it flourish. - AXS.com

Released this September, Seize the Ocean is the first full album of Littleton-based band 21 Taras, and I can say with conviction that this is one of the finest works of classic hard rock from a local band. There is absolutely no doubt that a huge amount of effort went into making this album.
“Black Iron” and “Hat Trip (Story Of My Life)” offer a strong start to the album; they set the stage for the well structured and flowing rhythms of just about every track. Instruments include an orchestra with guitars instead of violins, an electric bass instead of cellos, and keyboards and drums instead of grand concert pianos. This is where the universal form of this music comes into play; even if the listener doesn’t typically enjoy hard rock, their skills are undeniable.
The album isn’t twelve tracks of straight hard rock though; there are very deliberately placed soft and acoustic spots, such as “Underwater Idol,” “Ache Of April,” “Mayfly” and “Beauty Fades,” all of which share the same flowing rhythms and precise arrangement of the other songs. These are essential to the flow of the listening experience and enjoyment of the work as a whole.
My only gripe with this album is the final track, “Oceanaeco,” which seems to abandon some of the exquisite cadence 21 Taras is so capable of composing. This is not uncommon for rock bands though; Pink Floyd has a number of rather eerie, droning songs which have no clear purpose and can leave the listener a little peeved and its continuous sameness.
That being said, “Oceanaeco” still is an important part of the album and the running motif of oceans throughout it. Seize the Ocean is the kind of album you need to listen to from start to finish all the way through to really appreciate; each song leads into the next, complimenting and accenting certain aspects of each other. Making a fifty song playlist with a couple of these tracks-while not necessarily a bad idea-wouldn’t do the album justice.
Here’s what’s really cool about this band: not only are they based right here in Littleton, CO, but two players attend LHS, lead guitarist James Steinbach and drummer Alec Lister (who also plays keys on tracks 3, 5 and 8).
Seize the Ocean is available on iTunes, bandcamp.com and at various record stores throughout the Denver area, including Angleo’s CD’s and Records on Broadway and Twist and Shout on Colfax.
Complete song list:
Black Iron
Hat Trip (Story Of My Life)
Underwater Idol
Mystic Signs
Ache Of April
Invisible Queen
Mayfly
Beauty Fades
Valhalla
Stone Cold
Seize The Ocean
Oceanaeco - The Lion's Roar Now

21 Taras were up first. Alaskan born Julian Perron, their vocalist climbed onto stage and quickly captivating the audience. As the women swooned, guys raised their beers to the crunching guitars which featured multiple face melting solid by James ‘ Randy Rhoads’ Steinbach. James is quickly clutching a top spot as one of Denver’s premier guitarists. - Ghost Cult Magazine

The greater Denver area is full of musicians and bands, each one with a different perspective on music and of unique origin. One such band, 21 Taras, lives right in the heart of LHS. Two seniors, drummer Alec Lister and guitarist James Steinbach, started the band when they were in middle school, and it is on a path to success of which they only could have dreamed. In fact, they released their first album Seize the Ocean this September.
21 Taras’ roots go back to when their passions for music reached a zenith. Lister’s inspiration stems from being immersed in all kinds of music from a young age and from his father, who has been a rhythm guitarist for a number of bands since the 70’s. Steinbach also got involved with music early in life listening to bands like Led Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and Stevie Ray Vaughan before picking up the guitar himself. Since the beginning, the band has added vocalist Julian Fulco Perron, whose interest in Buddhism gave rise to the name 21 Taras, as well as rhythm guitarist Austin Salazar and bass player Jimmy St. James.
The band is capable of producing well-structured and flowing rhythms; in this sense they can be described as an orchestra of rock instruments. One reason for this is the way they use a certain kind of musical science when writing songs. For example, Lister will occasionally incorporate reggae beats into their music. Just because it is rock music doesn’t mean that they can only use rock beats, rhythms and tones.
“I don’t think there are good genres and bad genres… only good songs and bad songs. I do stuff that normally wouldn’t fit in quite as well as someone would think… I try to pick up little things [like the reggae flares] from every genre I can and start mixing it, trying to come up with new licks and trying to be a better musician overall,” said Lister.
This sort of musical understanding is what separates 21 Taras from other bands; it shows a kind of talent found in the famous rock bands they look up to.
Musical groups are sprouting up all across the country, each one trying to make themselves stand out from the rest. For two members of 21 Taras to be in high school and to already have an album selling in the US, France, Germany, Italy and on iTunes while performing around the city, demonstrates a remarkable level of success.
It does not end there, though. If the band can show their ability to get ticket sales at various venues this year, they will be able to start covering for national performances at some of Denver’s best local stages, such as the Fillmore, Gothic, Bluebird and Ogden.
“I personally don’t think that in the next five years we’ll still be in Denver,” said Steinbach, as he, Lister and the rest of the band hope to move on to a place with a larger music scene like Nashville. There, they can get more attention, doing more and more performances and, ultimately, a world tour. “That’s my dream,” said Steinbach.
“Metallica, they played on all seven continents. It would be pretty cool to be the second band to do that,” said Lister.
In the national band scene today, there are not a lot of classic rock-based bands like 21 Taras. But they seize every opportunity to perform, either as the main band or as a cover to a larger band. As a result, 21 Taras sometimes performs for crowds who don’t typically listen to their type of music, but that doesn’t take the fun out of it.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s one person or a hundred people,” said Steinbach.
Both Lister and Steinbach plan on dedicating themselves to music after high school, even though they know it’s not the way to get rich quick. Lister aims to support himself entirely off of a career in music, either with the band or as an independent, jack-of-all-trades musician, doing back-up work for larger bands.
“This is not the right business for us to be making money in,” said Steinbach, who understands it’s a long and arduous journey to go from local band to topping national charts. But in the end, the money doesn’t matter because their passion to write and perform music is what carries them forward.
21 Taras is a real band to pay close attention to as they expand past Denver’s already burgeoning music scene onto the national stage. - The Lion's Roar Now

21 Taras are a young Grunge band from Colorado. There's a definite retro feel to them and this could easily have been recorded 25 years ago. Seize The Ocean is a promising debut album and it's good bits are very, very good but it suffers from too many acoustic or balladic songs in my opinion. There's not enough rocking tracks like this track sadly. Give them a go and see what you think though. - Sapphire Bullets of Pure Love

106.7 KBPI and Jagermeister present Lola Black's Borracho Bash at the Summit Music Hall in Denver. Featuring 21 Taras, In Death and Decay, Soundman Killz, Boo the Ghost, Omniism, Scarlet Canary, Lost Point, A Memory Down and Lola Black. - Bandwagon Magazine

Sufjan Stevens, who's touring in support of Carrie & Lowell, headlines the Paramount Theatre on Tuesday, October 27 with Gallant opening. Tickets( $45) go on sale on Saturday, August 22 at 10 a.m.


Puscifer, fronted by Tool singer Maynard James Keenan, will be at Bellco Theater on Tuesday, November 24 with Luchafer opening. The band recently announced its new album Money Shot, and the release of the "Grand Caynon" video.

The Black Angels return to Denver for a two-night New Year's run at the Gothic Theatre on Wednesday, December 30 and Thursday, December 31. General admission tickets ($25), balcony seats ($30) and two-day passes ($40) are on sale now.

NEW SHOWS / ON SALE DATES

MOON ROOM AT THE SUMMIT MUSIC HALL

Aloris: With Hydraform, Six Feet of Anger, 21 Taras, River Run, Thu., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., $6/$8.
Grim & Darling: With Kevin Mitchell, My Name is Harriett, JayOin, Stoney Bertz, Thu., Sept. 3, 8 p.m., $7.
Head Injuries: Thu., Sept. 17, 7 p.m., $8.


AGGIE THEATRE

The Story So Far: With Basement Turnover, Wed., Oct. 28, 7 p.m., $20/$23.

BELLCO THEATRE

Puscifer: With Luchafer, Tue., Nov. 24, 8 p.m., $29.50-$55.50.
Yanni: Tue., March 8, 7:30 p.m., $44.50-$99.50.

THE BLACK SHEEP

ESTXXOG: Sat., Oct. 3, 8:30 p.m., $6.
Houndmouth: Tue., Nov. 3, 7 p.m., $17/$20.
Neverlight: With Bodies We've Buried, Sat., Sept. 26, 7 p.m., $6.
Suicide Silence: Mon., Oct. 26, 6:30 p.m., $14.
Wilson: With the Endless Line, James and the Rebels, Mon., Aug. 24, 7 p.m., $9.43.

BLUEBIRD THEATER

Chris Anthony Youth Project Presents Inspire 2.0: "Snowman": Tue., Oct. 20, 8 p.m., $30/VIP $250.
DJ Krush: Fri., Oct. 2, 9 p.m., $22.50/$25.
Gorgon City: Wed., Oct. 21, 9 p.m., $30.
Nile: With Vale of Pnath, Wed., Jan. 27, 8 p.m., $18/$20.

BOULDER THEATER

Danzig: With Superjoint, Veil Of Maya, Prong and Witch Mountain, Tue., Oct. 27, 7:15 p.m., $35/$38.
The Last Waltz Revisited: Featuring Polytoxic and over fifty guest musicians from across Colorado, a full horn section, and over thirty songs from The Band's extensive catalog, Fri., Nov. 20, 9 p.m., $17.50/$20.

CERVANTES' MASTERPIECE BALLROOM

Nightmares on Wax: Thu., Oct. 22, 9 p.m., $20/$25.
Open Your Eyes Hip-Hop Celebration: With Wake-Self, T.R.U.T.H., DJ Young Native, Epic, Dialogic Process, Nightwalker, Walatowa Massive, Wed., Sept. 16, 8 p.m., $25/$35.
Soulive: Feat. The Shady Horns. With George Porter Jr. & Runnin' Pardners, Fri., Nov. 20, 9 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 21, 9 p.m., $22-$25/2-day pass $30/$40.

DAZZLE

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Aaron Goldberg Trio: Fri., Sept. 11, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sat., Sept. 12, 7 & 9 p.m., $15-$22.
Allan Harris: Sun., Dec. 20, 5 & 7 p.m., $15.
Antonio Sanchez & Migration: Sat., Oct. 31, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 1, 6 & 8 p.m., $25.
Brian Blade & the Fellowship Band: Mon., Dec. 7, 7 p.m.; Tue., Dec. 8, 7 p.m.; Wed., Dec. 9, 7 & 9 p.m.; Thu., Dec. 10, 7 & 9 p.m., $25.
Chris Potter Trio: Fri., Nov. 20, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 21, 7 & 9 p.m., $25/$30.
Diane Schuur: Fri., Dec. 4, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 5, 7 & 9 p.m., $35.
Eliane Elias: Wed., Nov. 18, 7 & 9 p.m.; Thu., Nov. 19, 7 & 9 p.m., $35/$40.
Frank Potenza: Fri., Nov. 13, 7 & 9 p.m., $15.
Helen Sung Quartet: Sat., Sept. 5, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sun., Sept. 6, 7 p.m., $15-$22.
Houston Person: Sat., Nov. 28, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 29, 6 & 8 p.m., $12-$22.
Joey Alexander: Wed., Oct. 7, 7 p.m., $30.
Joey DeFrancesco Trio: Sat., Oct. 17, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sun., Oct. 18, 6 & 8 p.m., $15/$25.
Kenya: Thu., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., $20-$25.
Kurt Rosenwinkel: With Eric Revis, Nasheet Waits, Tue., Sept. 15, 7 & 9 p.m.; Wed., Sept. 16, 7 & 9 p.m., $25.
Monty Alexander: Wed., Nov. 11, 6:30 & 8:30 p.m.; Thu., Nov. 12, 7 & 9 p.m., $30.
Ron Miles Group: Sat., Sept. 19, 7 & 9 p.m., $15.
Tony Monaco/Fareed Haque Trio: Featuring Greg Fundis, Sat., Nov. 14, 7 & 9 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 15, 6 & 8 p.m., $18/$22.

FILLMORE AUDITORIUM

The Last Waltz Revisited: Wed., Nov. 25, 7 & 8 p.m., $25/$30.
The Chainsmokers: with Breathe Carolina, Herobust, Protohype, Shaun Frank, Sat., Nov. 21, 7 p.m., $15.
Dustin Lynch: Fri., Nov. 20, 6:30 p.m., $10.

FOX THEATRE

NGHTMRE:Sat., Sept. 5, 9 p.m., $15/$17.

GOTHIC THEATRE

The Black Angels: With Snake Rattle Rattle Snake (12/30), Blue Rider (12/31), Wed., Dec. 30, 9 p.m.; Thu., Dec. 31, 9 p.m., $25/$30.
Fox Street (CD release): Fri., Jan. 15, 9 p.m., $12-$17.
Houndmouth: Wed., Nov. 4, 8 p.m., $20.
Matoma: With Prince Fox, Boehm, Thu., Oct. 15, 9 p.m., $25/$30.
The Sword: With All Them Witches, Mon., Nov. 2, 9 p.m., $19.99.

LARIMER LOUNGE

Cage: Mon., Oct. 12, 9 p.m., $15.
Nobunny: Thu., Oct. 15, 9 p.m., $10.

MARQUIS THEATER

Act of Defiance and Allegaeon: Fri., Oct. 30, 7 p.m., $16.
Black Crown Initiate: Sun., Sept. 13, 7 p.m., $12.
Escape the Fate: With a Skylit Drive, Sworn In, Sirens & Sailors, Myka Relocate, Thu., Oct. 22, 6 p.m., $18.
Heritage: Thu., Sept. 10, 7 p.m., $8.
Lincoln Durham: Thu., Sept. 17, 7 p.m., $10.
New Years Day: With Get Scared, Eyes Set To Kill, New Volume, Wed., Oct. 28, 6 p.m., $13. - Westword Magazine