Cruza - 10 Questions
Consisting of Adam Kain (vocals), Charity Joy Brown (guitar), and AJ Roth (bass and percussion) Orlando via San Diego’s CRUZA blend elements of R&B with psychedelic and alternative rock, with dreamy and unique results. Citing a breadth of influences from the likes of King Krule, Steve Lacy, Tame Impala and Radiohead, CRUZA have been releasing music since 2018. It was last year’s single ‘Illusion Of Forever’ that first propelled them into public consciousness, with the group continuing to grow at a steady rate in the months since.
Cruza sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:
1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?
For us, being that we come from religious backgrounds, gospel music has always been a staple in our households, as well as reggae, R&B, and jazz. So that early exposure to various genres was probably what sparked our passion for music.
2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?
Definitely Childish Gambino, Solange, Pharrell, Tyler, and Gorillaz for sure.
3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the coronavirus pandemic?
Honestly, we really haven't faced many problems since we pretty much do everything in our house anyway, when it comes to writing and recording our music, so we haven't really noticed much of a difference.
4. How would you describe your sound?
Alternative and Psychedelic Rock mixed with R&B would probably be the best way to describe it.
5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?
Having Virgil Abloh add us to one of his playlists. It was pretty cool to know that he fucks with our sound.
6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?
If you're not willing to work towards it for three years plus without getting anything from it, don't do it.
7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?
Recently we've been listening to Nilufer Yanya, her stuff is pretty crazy. Also this underground rapper from D.C. named Myle$, he's gonna blow very soon.
8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?
Jai Paul's "Untitled" album is a permanent staple, Deem Spencer's "Deem Tape" is going crazy right now, and lastly we got that Young Nudy "Rich Shooter" on repeat.
9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?
Honestly nothing for real.
10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?
Red lights are a must, Perrier Sparkling water, and some select smokes.
Photo Credit: AJ Thomas