Snailmate is the Phoenix-based musical duo composed of lyricist, singer and synth-wizard Kalen Lander and drummer and backup vocalist Bentley Monet. Together, the two create music that fuses synthpunk, grindcore pop, and nerd rap for an unpredictable and explosive sound.
Formed in 2015, the band is known for their frenetic and impressive live shows. Performing over a thousand shows, Snailmate has cultivated a fervent fanbase that aims to be inclusive with the band priding their shows as a safe space for all genders and people of all sexualities.
1. You guys make quite a unique outfit. How did you meet?
We met at a local show in Tempe AZ. My (Kalen) band was performing with Bentley’s drum teacher’s band. He was there to support and fell in love with my music! When Bentley started his own band we would occasionally be on bills together. And then, as luck would have it, both our projects broke up around the same time!
2. Your music is also very original. What inspires your sound?
Thanks! We both listen to very different types of music. In fact, it’s rare that we agree on anything we want to listen to. But we somehow manage to channel our anxiety into a cohesive sound! Bentley is responsible for the polish and pop, as well as making sure it works from a structural standpoint. I bring all the lyrics and strange ideas and wonky synth tones into the mix. After a lot of heated discussion and existential panic, a new song is born.
3. How do you divide your tasks in the group?
Bentley would tell you that he does everything. And sometimes it seems that way. He books our tours, screen-prints our shirts, handles all the mailing of merch and most of our online correspondence. He is very motivated and loves to keep himself busy. Me… not so much. I do the majority of the artwork, write all the songs, come up with the music videos; I’m basically responsible for the creative direction of the band. And answering the interview questions 😉
4. What inspired this last release?
“It’s Coming Back!” is inspired by my intense dislike of nostalgia! The “good ol’ days” weren’t really that great for a lot of us. We didn’t have amazing experiences in high school or most of childhood. I see so much longing for a return to how things used to be and I think it’s all bullshit.
5. What do you want to accomplish as a creative duo?
I think longevity is really important to us. We are continuing to grow as individuals and as musicians and I think that really excites us. We want to keep creating original music that we get to take around the world. We love to tour so much, and we’ve been fortunate to perform across the USA, Japan, and Europe. That leaves so many places we still haven’t been and we are going to visit them all!
