Behind the Scenes With Aversed

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One thing I love about what I do is that I get to learn about amazing programs and I get to meet amazing people like the band Aversed. Aversed isn't your “normal” run of the mill band. Actually, they have a step up to most bands out there due to the Berklee’s Popular Music Institute (BPMI). This program enables students to go from the classroom to the stage in every facet of artist development and touring. They learn to handle artist development, marketing, contracts, tour budgets, digital presence, merchandise, and sponsorships. They also handle on-site promotion; assist with production and tour management; and film the performances and document their travel experiences. I can't tell you how amazing I think this program is. Most bands walk into fame without knowing what to expect. BPMI helps their students, so they understand the business and don't get taken advantage of. I wanted to make sure their program gets a shout-out, because it is so unique, cool, and different!

Aversed was formed in 2009 by guitarist and vocalist Sungwoo Jeong and Berklee alumnus bassist Martin Epstein. They began composing original music in 2010 and recorded their first demo. Guitarist and alumnus Alden Marchand joined in 2011 and the band began writing and performing again with the addition of drummer Jeff Saltzman (ex-Buried Electric) in 2014. Multifaceted student vocalist Haydee Irizarry completes the lineup. Aversed has performed with Ensiferum, Exhumed, Korpiklaani, Sonata Arctica, Tengger Cavalry, and Incite, among others. In 2016, the group released its debut EP, Renewal.

I got to talk to them after their set at Chicago Open Air. They were amazing! Aversed is really their own sound. I went into listening to their set thinking they were just like every other hard rock/death metal. I walked away (as did all of the crowd) blown away by Aversed. When I asked Aversed what they would call their sound, they said they would classify it as “extreme melodic metal”. I think that is the perfect way to describe them. They are truly unlike anything you've ever heard. Their inspiration comes from everything from Evanescence to Gojira to Black Sabbath to Steel Panther. You can hear that in their music.

Honestly, I loved talking with Haydee Irizarry. A woman leading a band in this genre happens few and far between. There are challenges that men don't have. One of them is being catcalled when they walk on stage. When I asked Haydee about it, I loved that her bandmates also answered. They said it was time for men to finally make room for women. I have to agree. Haydee talked about the balancing act that woman have to do, but they can't lose their femininity. This totally shows in Aversed music.

I absolutely loved their enthusiasm for all facets of their music. When I asked about the ups and downs of touring, they all still love it. If something does happen, they all were like, “hey, we are on tour how bad can life be?”. It is such a great way to look at things.

We also talked about social media and now it has changed how bands promote themselves. They recommended having a product online that is easy to find and take advantage of the free advertising that social media has to offer. They also said to make sure your live show is a good one!

Lastly, I asked how their lives have changed. They said it is still weird when complete strangers walk up to them. From what I could see, they are all still grounded in their roots. They were all totally down to earth, and I could have spent all day talking with them.

I can see Aversed going far in the hard rock genre. I hope I get a chance to see them again when they come to Chicago! For the rest of you, you can see them on August 13th at 13th Floor Music Lounge in Florence, MA! You can also download their album for free!

Lisa Martin

In April 2006, Lisa began blogging to stay connected with distant relatives and friends. As she delved into blogging, she discovered the potential to assist others by sharing her experiences. Lisa has actively engaged in numerous exclusive media ventures. Notable among these are her participation in events such as the Sony Mommy Bloggers Event, the Pampers Mommy Bloggers Event, the Epson Event in Chicago, the Stouffers Event, a memorable yacht excursion with Lands End, collaborations with 1-800-Baskets, an exclusive tour for bloggers by Mrs. Prindable’s, partnerships with Hallmark, PopCap games, Chicago Cubs Mastercard Priceless Events, and Rug Doctor. In addition, she has collaborated with Nutrisystem on a weight loss initiative, teamed up with Buick and Chevy, and served as a brand ambassador for Sprint. Lisa's collaboration portfolio also extends to Disney, where she has participated in press trips for significant movies such as Frozen, Guardians of the Galaxy, McFarland USA, The Good Dinosaur, The BFG, and Cars 3. Notably, for projects like Frozen, The BFG, and Cars 3, she was granted the privilege of walking the red carpet and conducting interviews with celebrities. The impact of Lisa's blog has gained recognition, with The New York Times referencing her content. Moreover, she has been featured in interviews by respected publications such as the Southtown Star, The Chicago Sun Times, and inside.

This Post Has 17 Comments

  1. robin rue

    I am born and raised in MA and have no clue where Florence is, but now I need to try to find out so I can go see them.

  2. Alli Smith

    I love that this band is led by a woman and I like the attitude of the band and how they really enjoy being on tour. I’m also glad that bands can now promote themselves on social media so the world can find out about them and their music.

  3. Anosa

    I have not heard of them but I am loving the BPMI program, how awesome of them to train young adults entering the industry

  4. Franc Ramon

    Averse looks like a band with a rich potential. It’ s really nice that you’ve got to watch them up close and interact with them.

  5. Jeanette

    I love the idea of the program. I think it helps kids get a perspective of what it’s like to be in a band and what to expect. I think a lot of kids should go through this program before they decide they want to become famous.

  6. candy

    Sorry to say I haven’t heard of this band. Wonderful that they are still grounded in their roots.

  7. Kim

    What a great opportunity for students and future rockstars!!! It’s important to know all the behind the scenes goings-on, not just the performing.

  8. Sarah Bailey

    I have to say I don’t think I’ve heard of these before, but then I am in the UK, I will have to look them up online though and try and listen to them.

  9. Pam

    I have never heard of Aversed before this post. I like that they are so passionate about all of their music.

  10. Lori Vachon

    What a fantastic program that enables musicians to get out there! I would think Social Media has truly opened many avenues to musicians, our world is better connected.

  11. I haven’t heard of them but they sound like a band I’d love to listen to! I love hearing about bands that are still down to earth even when they get a touch of becoming famous. Good Luck to them seems like you had a wonderful time.

  12. Carol Cassara

    They sound so positive and that’s what I love about artists and their music. I’ve never heard of the band before though but I’m glad you got to watch them live!

  13. You have been to some great shows lately! I’d love to get to chicago Open Air one year, but hopefully Jose Mangin won’t be hosting LOL.

  14. Our Family World

    I love the BPMI program. When you are starting to get your feet wet in the music industry, you will need all the available resources . What a great program, BPM

  15. Sandy N Vyjay

    It is nice to know that this band is led by a lady. Girl power! It is good that social media can be used to promote the band or the music. It really helps people all over the globe to get to know.

  16. Terri Beavers

    I’m going to have to download the album to see how I like this band. I haven’t heard of Aversed before but I’m so old school, I usually have bands of the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s playing.

  17. Sheila Harding

    You made me really curious! I have never heard of them until now, but I will definitely go check them out! Thanks

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