Meet Gillian of Shadow Monster

Some people are afraid of monsters, others afraid of the dark. Shadow Monster smashes these together to create what we most fear our own emotions. This potent rock group is raw loud and in charge. Get to know them in our latest interview.

A self-portrait by Shadow Monster

Would You Rather

only be able to communicate with Morse code or dolphin noises?

morse code.

Some questions with Shadow Monster

Did you go through any musical phases in high school? Has it in any way shaped what you are making now?

Totally. Emo was happening when I was in high school. Having that genre explode during a time when all of your emotions are super raw and on the surface was really influential on me. In high school every little thing feels so monumental and extraordinary and terrible - I used music as an outlet for expression. That genre definitely bleeds into the music I make today.

Are you self taught or did you take lessons / study music?

I never had lessons but I got a guitar when I was 12 and stared at it for about 3 years not knowing how to play. My friend Alexis moved to town when I was 15 and she knew how to play guitar. She taught me the chords to an Elvis song and I got a play-guitar VHS that taught me power chords. When it came to songwriting I just paid very close attention to the artists I loved and studied how they would craft a song.

Who did the painting on the cover of your album?

Brooklyn based artist Alexander Glueck did the album cover. It’s part of a triptych entitled “Washed Out Reapers.” Alex is a brilliant artist, his skulls are all over the city. Check out more of his work on his instagram @stoic.mortuorum and his online store: https://stoicmortuorum.bigcartel.com

Does the skeleton have a name?

I don’t think it has a name.

What is the creative process like between the two of you?

We’re great at bouncing ideas back and forth in regards to both the writing process and the recording process. We are usually in agreement when it comes to picking songs for an album or a single release. We don’t get too attached to songs if they aren’t hitting. Most important is we trust each other’s opinion and taste.

Did you ever get grounded growing up? If so why?

I was honestly a pretty good kid. But I do remember a few fights with my mom about going to concerts. It’s all I ever wanted to do and I guess she was worried about me getting trampled or something - but I still managed to get to a healthy amount of shows. I did miss an Alkaline Trio show cuz I was sent to my room hahaha.

Which one of you is better at rock paper scissors?

John.

Which one of you is better at staring contests?

Me.

Do you drive? Are you a good driver?

Yes I love driving, although my friends make fun of me for being a “safe” driver. I had a car for a couple years and I loved taking trips out of the city. If it wasn’t such a drag to own a car in NYC I’d definitely want to have one.

What is your favorite lyric you have ever written, and why?

“they’re putting all my dreamers in the ground” - for my friends gone too soon.

Do people ask you about Stranger Things a lot?

Yes! We are not named after the Monster from Stranger Things. Altho that creature is pretty cool.

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

My next virtual solo show is Sept 15, and I’ll be playing only nirvana songs via @BandsDoBK. Looking forward to when we can finally play live again. Check us out on Instagram: @shadowmonster, FB, and  www.theshadowmonster.com.