Time for the next edition of Metal Anarchy’s “new music showcase,” the feature where I introduce you to artists that readers of this site may find interesting. This time I have a Q&A with The Chinaskis.
METAL ANARCHY: Tell me a little about your band:
THE CHINASKIS: Hi, we’re the Chinaskis, an indie rock band currently based in Dallas, TX. I like to call our music “bittersweet power-pop.” We mix loud guitars with catchy melodies and harmonies, drawing from decades of pop, rock, and alternative music. Think of bands like the Smiths, Warren Zevon, Teenage Fanclub, and Big Star—they all blend sad or angry lyrics with upbeat, poppy tunes. That’s what we aim for too: rich, harmony-filled pop arrangements with the unique twist of a bitter-sounding Scotsman singing over them.
METAL ANARCHY: Who are your main influences?
THE CHINASKIS: First and foremost, I’m inspired by strong emotions – some of the songs are quite political and reflect feelings of anger, disappointment and bitterness at some of the injustices that I see in the world, particularly here in my new home of the U.S.
I also like to write about heartbreak, hurt, and anger – the funny thing is that I’m an incredibly optimistic and positive person, but for me as a songwriter it’s a lot more productive to connect to those more negative emotions and remind others that they’re not alone in feeling them.
I’m also hugely influenced by music. I listen to music constantly, from when I get up to when I work, to when I’m in the car or the gym… I’m always on a quest to find new sounds that inspire me or make me think about songwriting differently. In terms of the artists who have influenced me most, I’d say the major ones are R.E.M., The Replacements, Bob Mould, Neil Young, CSNY, Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, St Vincent, Biffy Clyro, The Smiths, Bob Dylan, Rocket from the Crypt, Joni Mitchell… there are so many!
METAL ANARCHY: What is your latest release and why should readers of this site check it out?
THE CHINASKIS: The album’s called “Songs for the Scunnered” – “Scunnered” being a great Scottish word for “unhappy, tired and pissed-off”. This theme is really reflected across the lyrics on the album, but what makes the tunes special for me is taking those lyrics and putting them to some really catchy, upbeat melodies and arrangements – this is something my favourite bands have always done, and I’m always trying to get that “bittersweet” feel with my songs.
METAL ANARCHY: What can people expect when they go to your live shows?
THE CHINASKIS: Lots of alcohol, sweat, shameless audience participation… having played live for about 25 years now I really appreciate the importance of entertaining the people who’ve given up their night to come see you. Music for me is about escapism and fun – so I want everyone who goes to a Chinaskis show to come out smiling and humming the songs.
METAL ANARCHY: Where do you see your band heading in 5 years?
THE CHINASKIS: For me it’s all about taking the music to the next level – live and on record. We’re all huge music fans and just want to make timeless, exciting music that celebrates the decades of artists that have all influenced us.
Metal Anarchy 
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