"Dallon Weekes (The Brobecks/Panic At The Disco) | Interview"

[01-18-2010] LUSH BEAT

A few years back I went to the Viper Room to see a band called The Brobecks. I didn’t know anything about them except that my friend had just started drumming for them. I was fascinated with the music that the band manufactured was something completely different than the run of the mill LA bands. The Brobecks, a project of Dallon Weekes has come a long way, as well as Dallon himself, who most recently was a touring member of Panic At The Disco after Ryan Ross and Jon Walker parted ways with the band to pursue their new project, The Young Veins. Dallon was gracious enough to discuss what got him interested in music and his time on the road with the remaining members of Panic At The Disco

Who are you and what do you do?

My name is Dallon James Weekes, I do what I can.

When did you first get interested in music?

At about 5 years old I knew I wanted to play guitar. I didnt really know any bands or anything. I just knew I wanted to play. I was never allowed to pursue that interest I had, but when I turned 15 I bought a guitar from a pawn shop and learned to play on my own.

When you were starting out, how was the local music scene in Salt Lake City?

Pretty active. I was way into the scene when The Brobecks started. As time passed I think I became more interested in making a career of music, rather than getting local awards and articles. That’s not to say there aren’t a lot of great bands here.

What prompted the relocation of the band to LA?

I had just always wanted to be in California. At 26 I Finally just did it. It was probably the most productive thing I have done for a career in music. That’s where the industry is. I think anyone who has that goal should live and work there, even if its just a short time. I love California and hope to move back someday soon.

How did you establish your relationship with Panic At The Disco?

I got an email from John Janick at Fueled By Ramen about trying out. I actually had never met them until I went to their house to audition for the Blink 182 tour. I think we ended up playing for like 5 minutes and then just hanging out watching youtube videos and Tim and Eric stuff. Good times.

Are there plans to make you a full time member of the band or will you continue as a touring member?

Not that I know about. I’m just really grateful for the job and hope i get to continue to do it.

What are your plans for 2010?

Hopefully more touring with Panic. Work on a new Brobecks album AND welcome a new baby into my family!

Can we expect a new Brobecks album anytime soon?

I JUST SAID THAT! Kidding. It all depends on studio time at this point. the songs are ready to go. But being a solo indie artist, its hard to find the money it takes to make an album happen. I dont know, I might just make any kind of recording I can and release it ‘Guided By Voices’ style.

Anything else?

I really feel strongly about this whole NBC/Conan thing. I hope that everyone makes an effort to never watch Leno again. I’m with Coco.

You can follow Dallon on Twitter here and check out The Brobecks on MySpace