O

n Monday, Oct. 10, Lincoln had the pleasure of welcoming a band to our campus to play during lunch.

The Greater Heights, whose band members consist of Chase Johnson (CJ) vocalist, Topher Vallez (TV) guitarist, Robert Main (RM) bass player, Max Hobbs (MH) guitarist, and Chris Crain (CC) drummer who was unfortunately absent, is a band that puts their hearts and soul into the music they play and the fans they meet. They are more then just a pop punk band; they are like brothers who are always there for each other. I really enjoyed meeting them and getting to know the band. They were really welcoming and open to answering questions.

VOL: How has being in this band changed your life?

RM: “It’s made us broke, I’ve spent a lot of money on this band.”

TV: “Its awesome. I mean are you kidding me, this is what we love to do. And like we’ve been on this high school tour, we’re getting to play music everyday and what’s better then doing what you love everyday?”

VOL: How did the band get started?

TV: “Robert and I were in an old band and then it went through a couple of member changes. After a while everything was changing. We got a new style and new singer, so we just decided to change our name and start over. And that’s how we became “The Greater Heights” and it’s honestly a series of implants. I mean he’s from Illinois, he’s from Orange County, and even though it’s originally a San Diego band, I’m the only one left from San Diego.” 

VOL: What is your favorite part of being in this band and performing?

CJ: “My favorite part of being in this band and performing is [pause] all the free water!”

MH: “I like making an impact on kids that not only enjoy music in a general sense, but ones that specifically enjoy our band.  It’s just awesome to do something for them and for them to be happy and play.”

RM: “I guess just letting lose on stage and not caring what people think of me. I've been doing this for ten years and I don’t care what people think of me anymore.”

TV: “Well it's like I’ve always wanted to play music 'cause music has always been a big part of my life. To be able to write and play music that impacts other people the way it has impacted me, that’s like the whole reason I do it. And being on stage is a rush, its like nothing I’ve done compared to the adrenaline and the feeling of being on stage and interacting with a crowd and people that you don’t know. And for that half hour that we’re on stage, I feel like we are really bonded, like, it’s awesome.”

VOL: Where do you think the band will go from here?

TV: “[pointing to the sky] No where but up.”

CJ: “[singing] No where but up from here my dear. Justin Bieber, not a big deal.”

With a recording session and (fingers crossed) a tour in the spring, the band is doing their best to get out there and be seen.  Anyone who is in love with bands like Fall Out Boys, All Time Low, and Kids In Glass Houses, will most likely enjoy this band.