Interview: Lu Rolli (Keelime)
Lu Rolli is a talented singer and songwritwer, based in Montreal, Canada. He has released two albums; “Going Native” (2008) and “Planet Native” (2010).
Get to know him here.
First, could you please introduce yourself?
Cheerio, I’m Lu Rolli. Singer/Songwriter of KeeLime.
I guess you can say that I’m Canadian, made with Italian parts…a Montrealer…and a child of the universe, just like you.
You have since your first album “Going Native” got some new members in the band. Who are the new members, and how has it influenced Keelime?
Great question…I’ve always believed that KeeLime IS and will always BE, but not limited to… 4 long time friends.
Prior to this project, the main drivers of KeeLime Motors were Fred Di Santo (Guitars), Ken Cabral (Drums, Percussion, Keyboards), and myself (Vocals & Guitar)…
When we were blessed with the offer to record Planet Native, or new record, we went back to the source and welcomed Tony “Bone” Iracani on bass guitar. My original bassist with my first band “Rejoice”.
KeeLime had been trying to find their true organic sound for years and we believe that we have arrived…this was possible via the additions of Tony and with 2 additional “extensions” of KeeLime: Vanessa “Miss Vie” Milioto on background vocals and the “mastermind” Tean Schultz, our producer, co-writer, engineer, background vocalist.
So as you can see, Keelime will never be limited to just the 4 of us. Yes, we are the ones that kick it live on stage and the ones that you can see on the band shots but I’m a believer in working with inspired musicians. However, what is paramount is that they are not just insane musicians, they’re great souls.
How did you come up with the name Keelime?
To keep it brief…my love for South Florida, how a specific location has had a huge influence on my evolution and self-betterment. …and the fact that I love all that is bitter/sour/something with passion, punch… is what influenced the name. Yes I am addicted to Lime but I consider it to be a positive addiction. Haha.
Obviously, it goes much deeper than that but you get the idea ya?
What’s your musical background?
Hmmm, I, like the rest of us am the sum total of all my experiences…I can remember being 8/9 years old taking my musical player into my bedroom closet just to listen to a rock show called “The Top 10 at 10″. A show that would begin its broadcast at 10pm, past my bedtime, of course…so I had to hid it from my parents by stuffing myself in the closet. Whatever it took to get a listen to those late 80′s rock hair bands with those insanely cool vocal harmonies and melodies.
My dad then purchased my first guitar when I was 11 years young, I must say that I’ve been on an insanely wonderful musical journey ever since…
The struggles, internal band issues, the multiple contemplations of quitting music all together, is what has made it great…I’m a music lover through and though.
I truly began to evolve when I decided to face me fear and begin to songwrite about 12 years ago. I haven’t stopped splattering colors on that canvas ever since…Writing is where the heart lives.
What was the first song you learned to play?
I learned to play on acoustic guitar…Angie from the Rolling Stones. I wanted to surprise my mom…her name is Angelina. Cool memories…
What has been your biggest inspiration?
Throughout my creative process I have not only been influenced by musical legends like Jim Morrison, Bowie, Curtis Mayfield, Bob Marley, Jewel, Dylan, Mellencamp, Lennon, Springsteen, Sarah McLachlan, Sam Cooke, Eddie Vedder, Pete Townsend, Zeppelin, Stone Temple Pilots, The Mars Volta (including other hard rock and alternative bands), and the great Bono but ALSO by poets, painters, philosophers, teachers, gurus….etc. My point is that I am influenced by people, nature, and my surroundings…
What subject do you think you write about most?
I write about endless possibility….hope.
I write about our reactions to the dualities of life, like pleasure and pain…but mostly about how life is a game that teaches us that we are all birthless, ageless, joyous, and FREE! It may all sound too deep for rock music but I’ve found a way to simplify it all into material that anyone can vibe to.
What can you tell us about new album “Planet Native”?
The Universe, a large place yes? Gaze inwards, now look upwards…see that small green patch in the sky…Planet Native!
A place filled with love, enlightened people, clear blue skies, and Gelaterias at every corner…
It’s basically the record we’ve always imagined making. 12 lush, textured, UPLIFTING, and loud rock tunes. Great summertime record…in our opinion.
How do you promote your music?
Being an independent artist, it’s all about be creative with promotion. Social networking has truly helped us to build a loyal fan base.
We’re truly fortunate to be affiliated with MoonBabe records owned by our producer, Tean Schultz. Not only did we record at MoonBabe studios but the MB family has been great “consultants” when it comes to our graphic identity and inexpensive promotional methods…like I said, it’s all about being creative with the means available. We’re ultra excited about how things have transpired so far. The CD will be available anywhere on this planet on Tuesday July 26th!!
What’s your favourite album of all time?
One? I really have to choose one? Everything is possible but I refuse to select one…
Sonic Temple by the Cult, The Black Parade by My Chemical Romance, Scarecrow by John Mellencamp, Listen Without Prejudice by George Micheal (no joke), Unforgettable Fire by U2, Purple by Stone Temple Pilots, The Rise And Fall of Ziggy Stardust And The Spiders From Mars by Bowie…these are few.
What are your plans now?
To promote PLANET NATIVE like possessed Mofo!
While we continue being genuine, continue to appreciate that we are fortunate to have the tools that can have an impact on people’s lives through the medium of sound. I believe that my best song is the one I haven’t written yet…so continue to write and cultivate my craft…and perform our tunes to as many souls as possible.
As for right now…my plan is to thank you for allowing to give you a slice of the KeeLime vibe. Thank you E!
