We had the good fortune of connecting with Eri Kurshan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Eri, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
Pursuing music is something that started in my childhood. While I have thought about other careers along the way, music was just something I always assumed I’d do on some capacity. And the reason is because it’s just too much a part of who I am not to pursue it. I live and breathe music, I always hear new sounds in my head that own mind creates, and often times I have no idea where the ideas even came from. To say music is a passion is even somewhat of an understatement. It feels more like my purpose. So even though a career in music isn’t usually the highest paying job, if I didn’t at least attempt to be successful at it, I would feel empty, and like I wasn’t doing what I’m supposed to be doing in this world.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My band, The Supposed, is a new band about to release our debut album. We’ve spent the last few years writing and recording the album, and getting other members to join the band. The road to get here wasn’t easy, but we are extremely excited to finally unleash it on the world. Some of the biggest obstacles getting here, aside from the obvious endless hours of practice and recording, was actually finding members who are not only talented, but committed, have compatible schedules, and who are like-minded and get along with one another. Finding multiple people who have all of these attributes in a bustling city like New York is extremely difficult. Many of them did not work out, which further delayed progress. But eventually it came together, and it was worth all the time and effort.

We are a pretty heavy-sounding progressive metal band from NYC, with influences including Tool and Gojira. We actually recorded our album in Gojira’s recording studio here in New York. But I think what sets us apart is the richness of our music. While it has the usual heavy beats and distorted guitars that metal usually has, we also have complex vocal melodies and harmonies, and a dynamic range of instrumentals, from soft and somber sections, to angry and aggressive ones. We think our music will attract people who don’t necessarily listen to metal, and are very excited to see what kinds of reactions it gets.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I think when visiting New York, the most important thing to do is get a variety of experiences. Walking around various neighborhoods in Manhattan is key to seeing all of the city’s incredible architecture, and while doing that, stop at some good bars and restaurants along the way. A couple restaurants I love are Market Table and The Dutch, both in downtown Manhattan. Also head down to Tribeca and check out the bar at The Roxy Hotel, and Belle Reve and Macao Trading company across the street. Go to Little Branch and Attaboy for some really good craft cocktails. Check out Smalls in the West Village for some live jazz. Then head to Brooklyn and check out Westlight, a rooftop bar with a stunning view and great food. If you can find some all-night raves or warehouse parties out in Bushwick, those can be fun too. Head to Jackson Heights in Queens for some of the most authentic cuisines. Also definitely check out Sleep No More back in Manhattan. And of course don’t forget the museums!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to give a shoutout to Kiko and Daniel Freiberg from the band Added Color, whom I owe a great deal of my success to, as they have been like brothers to me, are extremely experienced in their endeavors, and who have gone out of their way to help me along the way at every opportunity they could.

Website: www.thesupposed.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thesupposed

Facebook: facebook.com/thesupposed

Image Credits
Mirce Maran

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