Indie-rock group Phoneboy recently chatted with MRM ahead of their show in Columbia, SC. They discuss their origins, new album “Heartbreak Designer” and upcoming show at the New Brookland Tavern on May 6.

For more information on Phoneboy, please visit HERE

For Columbia show tickets and information, please visit HERE

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MRM: What’s up in Hoboken, New Jersey?

Phoneboy: Shout out Hoboken! That’s where we first started playing shows. It’s a tiny town but if you visit you gotta hit up Louise and Jerry’s and run some pool. Even though we’ve moved to Brooklyn, we still find time to visit and chill with all of our friends.

MRM: Is it true Frank Sinatra was from Hoboken?

Phoneboy: Honestly, we have no idea. That’s definitely what we’ve heard but also that was like 100 years ago. Love the music but we never met the guy in person.

MRM: I must ask, what is the origin of the band name Phoneboy?

Phoneboy: It was a term we would use for our friends that would be on their phone too much when we were all hanging out. When we needed a name for the band, one of our buddies, Luis, said we should go with that and it just stuck.

MRM: Who are your influences?

Phoneboy: We started off as huge fans of pop punk bands like blink-182 and midwest emo like Remo Drive. You can definitely hear those on our first couple records, but for Heartbreak Designer, we really wanted to take influence from some of the other artists and genres that were huge on the radio when we were growing up. We’re all huge fans of pop music, so artists like The 1975 and even guys like Hot Chelle Rae were definitely influences, even if it’s hard to believe.

MRM: Do you all have any wild and crazy stories from being out on the road?

Phoneboy: We definitely try to keep things chill out here on the road, but there’s always times where things go wrong. We’ve had shows where literally everything on stage is breaking and our share of flat tires. But, honestly, our favorite moments are getting to hang with all the folks that turn up to the show. It’s always dope to meet everybody!

MRM: What can you tell us about your recently released third album titled “Heartbreak Designer”?

Phoneboy: “Heartbreak Designer” is absolutely our best work yet. We put everything we had for the past two years into this record. We also have Jordan Torres, our longtime keyboardist and vocalist, singing and playing for the first time on this record. Her vocals on I Look Alive, Red Wine, and OMG in particular are stunning. Do yourselves a favor and check the record out ASAP.

MRM: How was it working with the legendary Ayad Al Adhamy?

Phoneboy: Ayad’s the man! He’s worked with us on all of our records. He’s a wizard with synths and is always down to help us get the craziest tones for our guitars. Honestly, we’re completely exhilarated every time we get to share oxygen with the man.

MRM: Have you all toured in South Carolina before?

Phoneboy: No, this is going to be our first time playing there! We’ve ripped shows all around the area and have driven through, but we’re definitely hyped to finally make it out here.

MRM: What can fans expect when Phoneboy comes to Columbia, SC at New Brookland Tavern on May 6?

Phoneboy: We make sure that our shows are a party. Be ready to dance and mosh along with us. We’re gonna be playing a bunch of songs from the new record so be sure to get all those lyrics down before you show up.

MRM: Also, can you give us a quick scouting report on the opening band INOHA?

Phoneboy: Inoha absolutely rips. We’ve been fans of theirs for a while and it’s been great getting to know them a bit better on the road. Definitely check out their newest song Pretty Curse and be ready to sing along.

MRM: Thanks for the interview. Anything else you would like to add?

Phoneboy: We can’t wait to finally play in SC! I’m sure it won’t be the last time. Also, make sure to follow us everywhere @phoneboymusic and check out “Heartbreak Designer” wherever you stream your music.