Matt Viscido (vox, guitar, drums) shares the story behind his project BODENBENDER.

Hans Bodenbender is a man who chose to make my life hell while serving in the Navy. He used his rank and power to inflict as much damage to me as he could. During my Naval stint, I played a lot of guitar and made many songs about my beloved senior chief a.k.a BODENBENDER. Many of the guys got a kick out of it.

I guess the name stuck, and will forever be in my life. When I got out of the service I began playing and recording music. I titled this project, now band, BODENBENDER. The name NOW brings a smile to my face instead of a frown. The name BODENBENDER transformed from what was once negative, into something that is abundantly positive.”

In this interview spotlight, I chat with BODENBENDER about the latest music, memories, motivations and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

What’s something you’d like readers to know about your latest project?

Our latest release entitled “Black Sea” is about talking people off the ledge. I wrote it for those who are down and out and who think that they can’t go on. I’m living proof that situations change and things can get better. 

How does this project compare with your other release(s)? Was there anything specific you were trying to accomplish?

The band BODENBENDER is still in its infancy. We are now three strong; myself, Tyler Nielson, and Jason Kaye. We’re still getting in our groove and we are all excited to see where this journey takes us. 

What motivates you to create music?

I love creating. Whether it be painting, cooking, snowboarding, music, etc. Creating is my therapy that keeps the demons away. 

Since my departure from the Navy I have been diagnosed with PTSD, and bipolar disorder. I play and create music because I simply need to; in order to stay sane. Once a mind is pushed past a certain point, by way of trauma, depression, whatever… from that point on, it will always be very easy to sink back into that dark hole of despair over and over again. Music has healed me, and is now what  keeps me afloat. I believe now it is my job to help others who are in a desperate place, with the power of music.  

What’s one of your first or most powerful music memories? Did that play any role in driving you to
create?

I started off as a drummer. Throughout high school, me and my buddy Steve used to jam everyday when we got home from school. It was our little sanctuary, down in his parents basement, where we could escape all the pressure, and insecurities of growing up, and just play and be free. At the time I had a gold sparkle jazzy trap set, and Steve played a black fender Stratocaster.  Those times when I was young, jamming away, were some of the most freeing moments of my life, and have helped shape me into the man I am today. Ive  never stopped jamming, and I never will!

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why?
If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out. 

Growing up, I idolized The Who. I wanted to drum just like Keith Moon. I wanted to put dynamite into the bass drum and watch it explode during a show. I wanted to write songs and connect with people like Pete Townshend. I would jam with that entire band…Dave Grohl has also been a huge influence, as well  as Jack White. I would love to jam with those guys someday.

What was the last song you listened to? And who is one of your favorite all-time bands/artists?

The last song i listened to was “Soul Kitchen” by the doors. All time favorite bands/artist The Who, The Doors, Led Zeppelin, Hendrix, Townshend, Moon

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

The best place to find more BODENBENDER music: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4JNUFRvSR4r1Y0UOLsyRMK

Have a great day.