In The Know...11 Questions w/ Sandman Viper Command

Known for their engaging, tight live sets, the uniquely named Sandman Viper Command are currently bringing their fuzzed-out garage pop sensibilities across Canada.

This includes a pair of shows for the guys (Rob Janson, Daniel Reardon, Aaron Harvey, Matt Damon Meyer) in Winnipeg this weekend: the first at the Standard tomorrow evening, and the second a free in-store gig at Music Trader on Sunday afternoon, round 2 p.m.

I caught up with the band and threw 11 questions their way. Together, or as indicated, the young rockers shed light on their first-ever concerts, tv shows they’re currently following, and the one piece of equipment that is absolutely necessary to their live show.

11 Questions…

1. Where are you right now?

We’re currently in Thunder Bay right now, which is a first for all of us.

Let’s talk music…

2. What are some albums that completely changed your life?

Big Shiny Tunes 2, Abbey Road - The Beatles, Tragic Kingdom - No Doubt, Bleed American - Jimmy Eat World

3. Of the records you own, which has the best cover art?

There Goes The Neighbourhood - Joe Walsh








4. What was the first concert you attended, and how old were you?

Sharon, Lois, and Bram when I was 4. They sang a bunch of songs I may or may not have remembered from television.
-Rob

I went and saw Fred Penner when I was 3, and I recently got the opportunity to meet him at Sneaky Dees during CMW.
-Dan

5. What’s one piece of equipment absolutely essential to your live show?

Were a pretty straight forward rock 'n roll band so we can get by on very little, given that we have atleast; a guitar, and something to bang on. Really, the only thing we absolutley need are robs vocal chords....aaaanndd our voodoo pygmy witch-doctor. He helps us out a lot more than one would think.
-Dan

6. What is your favourite music video?

Inca Roads - Frank Zappa

And some hodgepodge…

7. What tv shows are you currently following?

CPAC, Top Chef.

8. What book(s) are you currently reading?

Wake Up - Jack Kerouac, Waiting for Godot - Samuel Beckett, and Essex County - Jeff Lemire

9. What’s one film you can watch over and over again?

Starship/Super Troopers

10. What’s your current ring tone?



The Entertainer.

11. And finally, would you rather have the ability to fly or turn invisible?

The ability of flight is the obvious choice, as you can just fly into the clouds and you've become invisible. Plus, only spies and pervs require the ability to become invisible.