Bite Me! Authority Zero Interview

Authority Zero -By Nikki Neil

Jason DeVore (vocals), Bill Marks (guitars/vocals), Jim Wilcox (drums), and Jeremy Wood (bass) are four like-minded individuals from Mesa, AZ. who take pride in their solid work ethic. It was this mentality that earned the diverse and talented punk unit their deal with Lava/Atlantic records.

Authority Zero developed a loyal following by gigging five nights a week - playing everything from clubs to parties. They were so determined to get their name out there that the band even performed at a rodeo. “We got suckered into playing a rodeo once,” admits Marks. “It was sad. People were stepping in cow chips and it just smelled.”

In a world where everyone wants chocolate covered mint double stuff Oreos and marshmallow covered caramel apples topped with sprinkles plain just doesn’t cut it and Authority Zero agrees. The band’s unique sound is the product of the member’s broad horizons and eclectic tastes. “The one thing that sets us apart is that each of our songs has its own style,” notes Marks. “We offer a little something for everyone.” Little is an understatement. Authority Zero’s songs are soaked with an abundance of international influences. Everything from ska to reggae to hip-hop to hardcore to metal to salsa to flamenco is incorporated into the mix.

Authority Zero’s major label debut, A Passage in Time, is stylistically diverse and filled with the kind of energy and enthusiasm exhibited by a young, hungry band. This high-powered album contains memorable melody lines and lyrics that are catchy and easy to sing-a-long to (even the ones that are in Spanish and Portuguese). “I taught Jason those lines,” says Marks. “My goal is to speak eight different languages. I currently speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.” It really doesn’t matter what language Jason is singing because the message is the same throughout album. “Some of our songs are silly, but for the most part we try to pass on a positive message to our fans,” notes Marks.

Signing with a major is usually considered taboo in the punk rock underworld, but Marks makes it clear that Authority Zero is not looking for mega success. “We signed with Lava based on creative freedom, not monetary compensation. We don’t really care about being a successful band. As long as the fans like our records we are happy.” For now, Marks and his fellow bandmates have nothing to worry about. Fans like the group so much that a couple of Mesa high school boys started an Authority Zero cover band. “I haven’t heard them yet, but I’d like to check them out”.

For more on Authority Zero visit www.authorityzero.com