Between 1998-2000, I published an e-newsletter called United in Christ. One of my favorite features for the newsletter was a series of interviews with Christian bands (and one television personality). Presented below is my interview with Mike Miles of the band Puller.
Okay guys, here’s the question you must always get…how did you come up with the name Puller?
Mike Lewis (lead singer) came up with the name and makes everyone who he tells the meaning to take a vow of secrecy to never tell the meaning! If you want, you can ask him at pullerlive@aol.com
How did the band get started?
The band was formed out of the ashes of the band For Love Not Lisa (go to SequoyahSound.com —- for more info on F.L.N.L.). Mike, after moving back to OKC , started Puller with Geoff Riley (drummer), he then called Tooth and Nail and said he had a demo that he wanted to send, Tooth and Nail thought it was the best thing since sliced bread – and that’s how it all began…
How would you describe your sound?
Rock and Roll with a dash of tension thrown in for some extra pizzaz.
What bands have influenced your sound?
Each one of us could rattle of a few dozen influences, but a few we have in common would be – Fugazi, Afghan Whigs, Led Zeppelin, and the Beatles.
A while back you released an album called “Sugarless.” Do you feel that the project was a success?
It was a success – purely based on the fact that we like it. That statement is not supposed to sound arrogant, but success isn’t something that artists or muscians should judge by record sales or chart position, but by their own happiness with the art they have created.
Just recently you released “Closer Than You Think.” What differences do you feel are significant from the first album to the second (ex…change in musical maturity, member additions, style…etc.)
The second record took a few more strides toward the melodic side of town, if you will. We are constantly evolving as musicians and we believe our fans are as well.
Have you ever had any strange experiences at a concert?
If you consider someone interrupting your show to announce that someone in the audience has lost the pin to their watchband – then, yes, we’ve had some strange experiences at some of our shows.
Were you in any bands before Puller?
Mike Lewis and I were in a band called For Love Not Lisa (- see Puller.com, SequoyahSound.com) and Geoff was in a band called Shrinker.
On your website there’s an unreleased version of the song “Carry Me.” What’s the story behind it?
It just a little gem for our virtual fans. For it’s lyrical meaning you would have to as Mike.
What are your future plans as a band?
To make records that are challeging to us a artists and as fans of music. Also, we will be on tour in August and September with Stavesacre.
Do you have any further words of wisdom or comments about the United in Christ Newsletter?
Freedom of press is what many people in this world die for everyday – don’t take it for granted.
Click here fore more United in Christ interviews from Hokus Pick, Satellite Soul, and more.
Love this band
6 x 6 is my favorite song