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Canadian-based multi-instrumentalist and music producer, Thomas Polychuck, is hard to pin down when it comes to genres. However, one thing is for certain, and it’s that the man can shred! We were lucky enough to get the man himself to answer some of our burning questions after discovering his music.
If you would like to learn more about Polychuck, you can head over to Thomas’ Instagram here. Here’s a look into the many talents of Mr. Polychuck himself!
Matthew:
To kick things off here, I know these last two years have been a challenge for everybody, so how have you been holding up lately?
Thomas:
The last two years have actually been great for me. I decided to launch my career as a solo artist at the beginning of the pandemic. It allowed me to really take the time to define my identity as a musician.
Matthew:
Somewhat of an extension of the first question, but what did you do to keep yourself busy during the lockdowns?
Thomas:
I’ve been writing a ton of music and in that sense, the lockdown has been very beneficial!
Matthew:
After watching your YouTube and TikTok channels, I noticed you have quite the collection of guitars, what is your favorite guitar to use?
Thomas:
My favorite by far is my Suhr Modern. It does everything, and it does it well. It’s also a badass-looking guitar.
Matthew:
Speaking of guitars! What can you tell us about this custom guitar you have in the works?
Thomas:
I actually have three in the making. The one that’s probably the most advanced as of today is an acoustic maple top Milena guitar. Hand Made in Russia. It’s also gonna have my logo engraved on the fretboard (dream come true). Also, two Canadian luthiers are currently making me custom electric guitars. Namely Godfrey guitars, and MacPherson guitars, whom I endorse.
Matthew:
You’ve got quite a unique blend of genres with your sound, what inspired you to blend together such modern Pop and Hip-Hop sounds with Metal?
Thomas:
I’ve always been inspired by artists such as Post Malone, Lil Peep, etc. I think they often have amazing top lines and hooks. I love the sounds that they use as well so why not use them in my own music? I don’t wanna have to follow pre-made recipes and formats. Music is music for me.
Matthew:
Being an aspiring MMA fighter, I’m sure that influences your musical sound a bit. So, how long have you been at that, and how has it influenced the music you make?
Thomas:
Maybe not directly, but it has definitely made me a better person as far as humility, and discipline. That in turn has made me a better songwriter, and artist.
Matthew:
Do you have plans to collaborate with any other artists in the future?
Thomas:
Nothing is set for sure, but I’m very open to collab with other artists. In this day and age, it’s an absolute must!
Matthew:
I saw you did a live stream concert back in June, do you have any plans for more of those or possibly touring?
Thomas:
I don’t have any specific plans as far as live performances either. There seems to be another wave of COVID currently, so it’s really hard to make things happen, but the desire to go on stage is absolutely present. I would definitely go, and shred live if I get the opportunity
Matthew:
How do you feel about live streaming as a more commonplace avenue to host concerts even after the pandemic?
Thomas:
Having tried it myself, as a fan, and as a performer, I think it doesn’t compare to the real thing. It might stay, but it’s always gonna be more of a plan B for me.
Matthew:
How long have you been teaching guitar, and have you taught any famous musicians anything?
Thomas:
I’ve been teaching for many years, but it was only about nine months into the pandemic that I decided to teach online. One of the best decisions I’ve made in my life. Since then, I’ve taught countless people, including famous musicians. I don’t know if I can name anyone in particular, but let’s say that I’ve met people that play in bands I’m a big fan of. One of which I even have the logo tattooed on me! [Laughs].
Matthew:
While listening to your music, I couldn’t help but get a bit of Southern Rock mixed with some heavier influences like Five Finger Death Punch, with the tasteful blend of Hip-Hop/Dubstep. Who are some of your biggest musical inspirations?
Thomas:
I would say that modern Heavy Rock artists such as Bring Me The Horizon, Papa Roach, and Linkin Park are some of my main influences. I’m also a huge fan of Prog-Rock, and it’s probably the genre I spend the most time listening to. Bands like Porcupine Tree, Frost*, and The Pineapple Thief play a big role as far as influencing my songwriting.
Matthew:
I saw that you do your own guitar tech for shows, do you also produce your own music as well?
Thomas:
That’s correct. Everything I’ve released so far has been produced by myself, but I’m open to working with other people for my future releases, and really take this whole thing to another level.
Matthew:
What other hobbies outside of music, and MMA do you enjoy?
Thomas:
I’ve been a cook for many years. It’s actually been what I did for a living for several years, so I guess cooking, and enjoying good food would be my favorite hobby outside of music, and sports.
Matthew:
Any other projects that you’re working on right now that you’d like to speak on?
Thomas:
Yeah, I’m currently working on a full-length concept album. We’ve already recorded all the drum tracks, and I’ve just started doing the guitar tracks at home, so I’m super stoked! Going to announce its official release sometime in 2022!
Interested in learning more about Polychuck? Check out the link below:
Dig this article? Check out the full archives of 8-Bit Brutality, by Matthew Crabtree, here: https://vwmusicrocks.com/8-bit-brutality-archives/
