Now and again you meet people who you connect with on multiple levels. Robert is one of these people for me, we are on the same wavelength on so many things, from musical tastes to life experiences. Robert and his band VOICE OF DECEMBER  are currently perfecting their craft and working on new music. Robert has also been busy recording other artists, side projects, and various other duties in the music industry. I cornered him for a few and got him to talk a bit.

I have heard  rumors that you have dark and mysterious origins which lead to your unique musical style. Are these rumors true?

The dark origins…..hmmmm I really don’t know how to answer that other than I was born in Roswell shortly after the UFO crash…..

Ha ha, right on, when did music become a part of your life?

      At a very young age, my mother was a folk singer/guitarist so I have always been exposed to some form of music.

What was your inspiration to start playing music?

KISS Alive One nuff said….

What some of your first band experiences?

I started as a Bass Player because I share a birthday with Gene Simmons but soon moved to guitar because it was easier to express myself.

How did you get to Voice Of December?

VOD happened after a series of events in my prior band (they kicked me out lol) and around the same time my long time partner in crime Traci had moved back to Albuquerque. Voice of December was up and running 4 days later, I hate idle time.

what inspired the imagery for Voice Of December?

That would come from Traci and our Artist Kreig, who creates the look based on Traci’s lyrics, which are inspired by the band’s music, so in a small way, we all contribute to the imagery.

Are you currently working on any side projects?

   I am involved with another band which also includes VOD drummer Mikey Kimura called Darken the Day. The band also includes Rusty Tramps Tommy Brown and Mike “Gutter” Garcia as well as Ace Armstrong from Green Street Elite. I also work with Polyram/Mysteria in various capacities.

What would your dream band lineup be?

Lol, it wouldn’t include me…. Geoff Tate on vocals, Chris Degarmo and Frank Aresti on guitars, Dug Pinnik on bass/vocals Neil Peart on Drum/Lyrics

What do you think of the goings on in the music world today?

 It is very disappointing right now, the ability for anyone to record/distribute is a double-edged sword, yes anyone can be heard but that in itself makes it harder for quality to shine through. That and downloading killing the record companies has really made it harder to make a living in music. That being said, there is some amazing stuff out there.

What advice would you pass on to young musicians?

 Be true to your self, be stubborn but open to suggestion, never be satisfied with where you are, always strive to be better and remember, those who support your music, allow you to do what you do, so do it for them as well.

There you have it, a little peek into the head of guitarist Robert Smith. Check out some Voice Of December here:

“The Guest”

“Seven”