INTERVIEW: Crispus Attucks And The Love Muskets discuss their origins and influences alongside their new EP ‘…And The War Came’

Following on from their highly-praised sophomore album ‘Reimagination’ in 2022, New York-based duo Crispus Attucks And The Love Muskets are back once again with their stunning new EP ‘…And The War Came’.

Exploring more of that bold and electrifying alt-rock energy they are known for, ‘…And The War Came’ continues that vibrant run they have earned a solid reputation for. So we decided to catch up with them to discuss their origins and influences over the years.

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What was the first rock song or artist that made an impact on you?

The first time I heard Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” it was like stepping into another universe. It was epic and operatic, but still had that rebellious edge. It showed me that rock could be anything—massive, strange, and unapologetically grand. It didn’t fit into any mold, and that’s what made it so powerful.

Who are some of your biggest musical influences within the rock genre?

I’d say bands like Nirvana, The Cure, and The Smiths. They didn’t just play music; they lived it, bled it, and weren’t afraid to burn out instead of fade away. Their sound, their ethos—it’s all about embracing the chaos and making something beautiful out of the wreckage.

Are there any non-rock musicians or genres that have also influenced your music?

Yeah, I dig into some old-school blues and garage rock from time to time. Those early blues guys like Muddy Waters and Howlin’ Wolf had this raw, gritty energy that you can still hear in punk and grunge. They sang about pain, rebellion, and survival, which is exactly what we do, just louder and with more distortion.

What is your main inspiration when looking to write new music?

Life’s a mess. Whether it’s the grind, the heartbreak, or just the feeling that the world’s falling apart, that’s where the inspiration comes from. When the world feels like it’s crumbling, you pick up a guitar, crank it to 11, and scream into the void. Sometimes the void screams back, and that’s where the music happens.

What do you enjoy most about performing live and do you have any memorable live performance experiences you’d like to share?

The best thing about performing live is the chaos—the sweat, the noise, the energy. It’s like a controlled explosion. Once, we played a gig in a basement that was so packed, people were practically hanging from the rafters. We ended the set by smashing our instruments—cliché, I know, but it felt right. The crowd went nuts, and for a moment, we were all in the same madness together.

What has been a particularly rewarding moment in your musical journey so far?

Honestly, the most rewarding moments aren’t the big ones. It’s the times when someone comes up to you after a show and says, “That song, that’s exactly how I feel.” It’s like you’ve connected with someone on a level that words alone couldn’t reach. That’s what it’s all about.

How would you define success as a musician?

Success is about staying true to your sound, your message, and not giving a damn what anyone else thinks. If you’re making music that means something to you and maybe a few others who get it, that’s success.

What advice would you give to aspiring artists who are just starting out?

Don’t sell censor. Don’t let anyone tell you how to sound, look, or act. Be messy, be loud, and most importantly, be real.

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Listen to Crispus Attucks And The Love Muskets’ new EP ‘…And The War Came’ below.