Freshly Pressed – Rebelle “Head on Fire”

Wakefield, Québec alt-rockers Rebelle have just released their latest single, “Head on Fire” – a high energy track that strikes a perfect balance between driving hard rock and catchy melodies. We caught up with the Rebelle to chat about the new song, the Canadian bands they’re into lately, and their favourite – and least favourite – thing about being musicians.

From the Strait: Tell us about the new single, “Head on Fire”.

REBELLE: Head on fire is basically about calling people out on their shit. Just being frustrated with trying to keep relationships in your life, even if they’re toxic. Taking a stand and pushing that negativity away. When I was younger and more naive, I’d try to make certain people happy even if they treated me poorly. Just something you (hopefully) learn with age, for your own sanity.

FTS: What are some Canadian bands or artists you’re listening to lately?

REBELLE: Just went to see The Beaches not long ago, They have a killer live set, enjoyed that.

Listening to The Effens, Excuses Excuses, some Cleopatrick , Kasador and River Jenson. Friends we’ve met along the way playing in Canada.

FTS: What’s your favourite – and least favourite – thing about being a musician?

REBELLE:  My favourite thing about being a musician is playing live. Love the whole process of writing and recording, but the cherry on the cake is performing new songs and seeing people’s reactions. Especially now, after being cooped up for so long.

My least favourite thing, which goes hand in hand with playing live, is gas prices. I love driving, love traveling to different towns , but gas prices are a big drag these days. I’m sure every human agrees.

FTS: Who would you say are your biggest musical influences, and how have they helped to shape your sound?

REBELLE: For myself I would say, Nirvana, Muse some Blur, Cage the Elephant. We were listening to a lot of The Vines when we recorded Head on Fire. I reference a lot of their guitar tones for our music, I think it comes out in the recordings.

We all have quite different musical tastes in the band which is nice.

FTS: What was the coolest (and/or weirdest) live show you’ve ever played?

REBELLE:  The weirdest show I’ve ever played was a local radio host’s daughters 4th birthday party. He approached me to do this, I said yes of course (we have been friends for quite some time). Learned a lot of songs I never thought I’d learn. They loved “Baby Beluga” by Raffi.

So that was the morning gig, and Rebelle had an evening show in Ottawa that night haha. What a contrast in shows. I’ll never forget it. I have also since forgotten all the children’s songs.

Favourite place I’ve played in the states was Bowling Green Kentucky. Everyone is so welcoming there.

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Check out “Head on Fire”, the new single from Rebelle!