Emerson College’s only independent, student-run newspaper since 1947

The Berkeley Beacon

Emerson College’s only independent, student-run newspaper since 1947

The Berkeley Beacon

Emerson College’s only independent, student-run newspaper since 1947

The Berkeley Beacon

Exclusive: Bad Nerves is rekindling the rock ‘n’ roll flame

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Clara Faulkner

Hailing from the United Kingdom to Boston, the punk-rock sensation known far and wide as Bad Nerves has embarked on a daring mission: to infuse vitality into classic rock ‘n’ roll’s timeless heart and soul. 

Their profound impact on the music scene cannot be denied. They proudly shared the stage with esteemed rock juggernaut Royal Blood during an nationwide tour. Their electrifying journey took a pit stop at Roadrunner on Sept. 27th, leaving audiences clamoring for an encore.

Bad Nerves has emerged as a notable force in the music industry, thanks to their distinctive pop-rock hits that refuse to pull punches. Their music has been celebrated for its unrelenting intensity, featuring high-energy tracks and lightning-fast rock soundscapes. This defining style finds its pinnacle in their chart-topping global hits, including “Baby Drummer” and “Radio Punk.”

Bad Nerves’ musical style undeniably pays homage to the inaugural wave of UK punk, led by iconic bands like Sex Pistols and The Clash. Their approach is not just refreshing; it’s a revitalization of a past spirit. 

The band’s unwavering commitment to rekindling the essence of classic rock and roll reverberates deeply in every chord, riff, and drumbeat they unleash upon the stage. Their live performances constitute a seismic collision of rock energy, irresistibly drawing in steadfast aficionados and newfound admirers alike.

Bobby Nerves, the band’s charismatic frontman, and Jon Poulton, the bassist, offered valuable insights into their eccentric songwriting process. Their wellspring of inspiration often flows from captivating stories and personal experiences. 

“There are some really cool bands that are doing a similar thing,” Nerves said. “We’re wanting to blend that gritty punk with the foundation of power found in modern records.”

When challenges adjusting to fame within the rock industry arise, Nerves provides candid insights into the band’s adaptability. He reveals a charming dichotomy at play within the group’s dynamic.

“We like to bow on stage with sunglasses on and sort of pretend to be rock stars. But behind it we’re actually thinking, ‘Oh, God, we’re a bunch of nerds,’” he said. “We just want to play and we want to play well and put out good music and meet new people.”

Bad Nerves, a band that has thrived for nearly five years, continues to flourish in the industry. Nerves emphasizes that talent knows no age limits and underscores the importance of defying expectations.

“The only reason we’re here is because we never paid attention to people that said to us ‘You’re in a band? How old are you?’” he said. “But that’s not the point. You don’t just give up because you’re not making it. You keep doing it if you love it—if this all stopped tomorrow and we were back to playing in garages, we’d still be having fun.”

 

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Now on the heels of an inspiring tour across America, Nerves is embracing a fresh perspective for his projects with the band. While playing shows this fall, Bad Nerves is gearing up to release new music that promises to be a thrilling prelude to their highly anticipated second album. 

As they traverse the country, igniting stages and captivating audiences, the band harnesses their creative energy to craft fresh sonic gems that will undoubtedly leave fans eagerly awaiting what lies ahead. 

“I think [with] all the other projects I ever did, I was always trying so hard to do something that people would like. When I think back to it, I was trying to do something that’s going to take off and never did.” Nerves said. “This project is the first time where I just wanted to do it for fun and make a record.”

The band is primarily dedicated to crafting their explosive sound, exploring fresh sounds and experimenting with novel chords and progressions along the way.

“I feel like it all sounds like a natural progression. There are songs that are a little bit more fast-paced and they’re not physically possible to play.” Nerves said. “We’re still trying to sort of figure the sound out. We’ve nearly got an album.”

Crafting a record for Bad Nerves is far from a simple musical endeavor; it’s a labor of love that serves as a powerful nexus for the band’s unity and profound connection with fans spanning the globe. Creating music becomes a transformative journey, an odyssey that binds them closer together as a cohesive musical force.

“You’ve got to do something. If you’re not doing the thing you love, then what are you doing?” Nerves said. “We got mastered at Abbey Road and entered the punk scene. We never did this for any reason other than fun. But the fact that other people are enjoying it is just cool.”

The band is forging ahead of the tour with renewed vigor, embarking on exciting, new projects that promise to take their musical journey to even greater heights.

“We’re always learning how to do things better and to be better on stage, to make things run smoother,” Poulton said. “The ethos of the band has stayed the same. We just want to keep 100 miles an hour for every city and deliver the best we possibly can.”

In essence, as they venture into new territory and embrace fresh challenges, the heart and soul of Bad Nerves remain resolutely intact—a pulsating dedication to rock ‘n’ roll at its most electrifying and an unwavering commitment to leaving every audience exhilarated and wanting more.

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About the Contributor
Clara Faulkner
Clara Faulkner, Managing Editor and Living Arts Editor
Clara Faulkner wears multiple hats at the Beacon, serving as both the Business Director and the Living Arts Editor. Prior to assuming these roles, she demonstrated her expertise as an assistant editor, specializing in living arts—a domain she is deeply passionate about, fueled by her love for pop culture and entertainment. Additionally, Clara served as a writer for the Boston Globe, Boston.com, is a part of NBCUniversal Entertainment Group, and contributed to the music team at Intersect Magazine. In addition to her editorial responsibilities, Clara actively participates in various campus organizations, including SPJ, Associate Entertainment Producer at WEBN-TV, programming director at WECB. fm, and AEPHI. Outside of her writing pursuits, Clara immerses herself in culinary exploration, cinematic enjoyment, and language acquisition, consistently seeking fresh experiences and knowledge.

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