Lineup changes are nothing new to Of Mice and Men – and the band has certainly endured many of them throughout their career, but the news at the end of 2016 that founding vocalist Austin Carlile would be leaving the band was always going to be a bitter pill to swallow.
Indicative of their work ethic, the band didn’t let it slow them down, with bassist Aaron Pauley assuming vocal duties, and throughout 2017 they reinforced why they are a force to be reckoned with by continuing to tour, and recording their follow up to 2016’s Cold World album – Defy.
Ahead of the launch of their new album Defy, and their appearance at Download Melbourne in March 2018, Of Mice and Men vocalist Aaron Pauley had a chat with Metal Wani’s Jake Patton to discuss the album, and the bands first shows in Australia since Soundwave festival.
Aaron discusses the new album and the bands expectations for it; the reception that the already released; and the difficulties and challenges faced by the band this year following the departure of founding vocalist Austin Carlile.
He also discusses his fondness for Australia; the bands return to Australia, and excitement to be included as part of the inaugural Download Melbourne lineup; his expectations for the event, and how happy he is for Australia that a festival with the legitimacy of Download is finally establishing itself Down Under.
