We won't argue with what you call us for the most part. Electronic, Gothic, Industrial, Light Jazz, Klezmer, it's still rock 'n roll to me.
What's the story behind the band name?
ThouShaltNot relates to man's capacity for self-denial, which whether one approves of it or not, is what most defines the human being. The higher mind -- the conscience which controls morality and behavior, is a crucial part of everyone. ThouShaltNot was originally called Thou Flaming Minister, back when Alexx was obsessed with esoteric Shakespearian quotes. However, more people associated this name with religious sexual politics than with metaphor within the tragedy of Othello, and so in early 1999, a new name was needed.
Where can I find your music?
You can order it at Isotank. To find out more about our releases check out our discography. You can also order (and review!) our CDs at amazon.com.
Isn't it lame and pretentious to spell your name with two X's, Alexx?
Yes. Unfortunately, there are already three or four other Alex Reeds in the music industry. One was a producer/engineer for Soundgarden, one is a songwriter for the Taxi songwriters' service, one is a keyboardist in some other band, and the other is a music journalist. Hence, to avoid confusion, Alexx added the second 'x'. In his academic composition (yes, he holds a Bachelor of Music degree and is going for his PhD at the moment), he uses his proper name. We'll see if any of this changes.
In his first year of college, Aaron lived down the hall from Alexx, also a freshman. On an unlrelated note, Aaron's roommate never went to classes. He sat in his room, smoked several pounds of pot a week, and talked about techno music. He also did not change his clothes. Anyway, Aaron played drums in several campus bands (mostly surf rock and folk) and Alexx did his own freaky industrial thing. Alexx kept forgetting Aaron's name and calling him Jason. As the only tech-heads on campus, they became more interested in each other's musical work and grew to be friends. Aaron officially joined the band sometime in the spring of 1999.
One fateful night, Alexx went to Pittsburgh to see Faith and the Muse. Jeremy happened to be in the opening band. That night, both Alexx and Jeremy stayed at promoter Kelly Ashkettle's house. They proceeded to jam. With Alex on piano and Jeremy on acoustic guitar, the duo performed a rendition of "Closer" in the style of Dave Matthews band to the delight of the entire
audience (three close friends). It was then clear what needed to be done. A few weeks later Alexx asked Jeremy to join the band. Jeremy played his first show with ThouShaltNot at Dracula's Ball in Philadelphia on the first of September in 2001.
My favorite song of yours is not on any of your albums! What gives?
ThouShaltNot tries very hard to make albums that are cohesive and powerful in their overall flow and shape. Sometimes a song does not fit very well with certain other pieces, and so it doesn't end up on the CD. We try to make our non-album tracks available either on compilation CDs or via mp3.com. We have a few covers which we play live as well. Releasing these is a legal hassle, but we'll find a way at some point. Our March 2002 CD, You'll Wake Up Yesterday, is a collection of some of the best tracks you may have heard live or on other CDs.
Can I have the lyrics to that funny song you have?
Perhaps. Lyrics from our official album releases are now available in our words section.
When are you playing in my city?
Our concerts page should have the current booked shows listed. We find ourselves playing Pittsburgh, Cleveland, and Columbus with some regularity. If you want to see us play somewhere, email us and we'll see what we can do.
Who did the cover art for your albums?
ThouShaltNot's self-titled debut featured the piece Sohum by Aradhna Singh. The Holiness of Now featured two pieces by Matt Bauer. You'll Wake Up Yesterday featured a piece by Christine Kozol. Our most recent album, The White Beyond featured Young Boy and Skull by Magnus Enckell. Aaron Fuleki and Megan Hancock do the majority of the band's studio photography, while many of the live photos you see are by our friends Kelly Ashkettle, Moco, and Melody.
What other musicians have appeared on your albums or in your concerts?
Sarah Hans played keyboards and sang live for many shows with us. She also contributed vocals to "Adem" and to "We're In This Together".
Megan Hancock has played cello in lots of concerts with us. Her work appears in "We're In This Together".
Michele Turko has done live electronics for three shows, and sings on "Strapped to the Bomb".