Chris McLouth

Tell me about your band.

My band is based back in Whitehall. I play with three of my friends that still live there. That's one of the hardest things, living so far away and trying to find time to go home and practice. We started over two years ago playing hardcore music. Now, we are becoming more experimental. I write lyrics and parts of music. You can hear some of our music at www.purevolume.com/theanonymity.

What do you write about?

It varies. I oftentimes write about myself, how I view things. Sometimes, I am inspired by social issues, but it's mostly about self examination. I'm trying to analyze the way I act; to look at myself.

Musical collaboration seems like it would be hard sometimes. Is there ever a time when you guys can't seem to agree on the way a song should sound?

It is hard, because when someone writes something, they don't want anyone to change their music. Unfortunately, we don't always agree and we have to rip apart and rearrange entire songs. Because we love the music, we are able to get over our differences. You learn to work together, not only for the sake of yourselves, but for the people who enjoy watching you.

What is the best part about performing?

It's just about having fun. On stage, I am completely different than I am at any other time. It's like a perfect fantasy world where I am free. I am comfortable doing things I don't normally do because I am an entertainer; it's my job.

How is art valuable to your undergraduate experience?

Art fulfills my needs. It is an outlet; a way to express myself that I'm normally unable to do. When I create art, it's a reflection of myself. It isn't just notes pieced together. Living in Whitehall, I got a small view of the art scene. Here, at U-M, there are tons of good people, good bands...It makes me want to work harder.