The Midway

What led you to pursue a career in music? Our desire to pursue music comes from us wanting to give people an avenue to escape to and relate to. We want to be able to give to fans what our favorite bands have given to us: songs that remind us of a certain feeling or emotion. Songs that define our lives. We want to change people’s lives and inspire them.
What experiences or life events have shaped your music? Individually, we have all been through serious ups and downs. We have all experienced loss, change, and love. We have all come a long way personally, and have each had to overcome certain obstacles. This is where our content comes from. We never give up on anything, and we consider ourselves pretty resilient. We hope our fans can relate to that as well.DSC_0083
Who or what influences you to write and perform? We are influenced mainly by the possibility of inspiring people. We want to make a difference in people’s lives in some way. Musically, our influences range from Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, and Green Day, to Matchbox 20, The Killers, and of course, The Beatles. Our iTunes libraries are pretty random, to be honest, but we pull ideas from everywhere to make it work!
What are some of the most exciting live performances you’ve been a part of? We played a really awesome show at The Mint in Hollywood, CA. The place was packed, and everyone was really into our set. Mike has also done some very intimate acoustic performances around LA that are always fun.
What is in store for you for the rest of 2015? We released our EP “Late Nights Early Mornings” on iTunes and Spotify, so we have been promoting that. We are also busy booking shows, so we are hoping for a summer full of live stuff as well! - Entertwine.net

Calm, nostalgic and slightly dramatic, that what comes to mind while listening to The Midway. Beautiful melodies delivered by soft and colourful voice accompanied by bittersweet guitars and soft yet punchy drums. Great pop rock music, professionally performed and built. Deep lyrics makes this music a piece of art. You can imagine it coming on the radio while driving through the countryside or city at midnight. Be sure to support this band and buy their music on iTunes. https://itunes.apple.com/album/id980604584

The Midway was formed in Santa Monica, California when three friends who had a shared passion for driving, hard- hitting, catchy rock music decided to join forces. Singer/Guitarist Mike Rex says jokingly, "We realized we loved the same style of music, and we all played instruments, so we thought it made perfect sense to start a band”. The band has quickly gained popularity in the Los Angeles scene for their unique sound. Drawing influences from all areas of Rock, Alternative, Pop, and Punk, the band carefully blends their influences into their style to create a sound that resonates with audiences of all ages.The band recently announced their debut release on iTunes and Spotify. "Late Nights, Early Mornings", a three- song teaser, showcases the band's range of sounds. This is all just the tip of the iceberg for The Midway, however. The band is already filling their summer calendar with shows, and has plans to record a full-length release. Singer/Guitarist Mike Rex says, “We have so much more to show the world, so get ready!” - Music Eye Reviews

1. What music (or other art form) inspires you when you create your art?

Individually, we all have similar, yet different musical influences. Mike is heavily influenced by Jimmy Eat World, Yellowcard, and The Goo Goo Dolls. Matt brings some Blink 182 and New Found Glory into his drumming, and Archie is heavily inspired by Brand New and Copeland. Basically, any good Rock music with great hooks and catchy lyrics!

2. Long distance road trip: what three people do you invite along (fictional or non-fictional, dead or alive)?

First, I think we would have to go with Chris Farley, because we need someone to make us laugh, and he would be so fun to party with. Second, probably Paul McCartney, that way we can sit and listen to him tell amazing stories for hours. Last, probably Peter Griffin from Family Guy. I couldn’t imagine the fun we would have having him tag along.

3. What is your favorite breakfast cereal?

Waffle Crisp, Honey Comb, and Cinnamon Toast Crunch are our favorites individually.

4. What is one thing that is hanging on your bedroom wall?

Different posters of various shows I have been to. They include the Blink -182 “Self Titled” 10 Year Anniversary show, a Goo Goo Dolls show, Musink art work, etc.

5. What smell/scent evokes strong memories for you?

The smell of Michael Jordan cologne reminds me of my middle school times. I am pretty sure they still make it too. I used to wear it to my school dances. This could explain why the girls didn’t want to dance with me haha. I think that smell is forever burned into my nostrils.


6. Coffee or tea?

Coffee. Gotta stay awake!

7. What has been the most impactful compliment, or criticism, you have ever received?

Every time we read a comment on social media, whether positive or negative, we feel motivated to keep playing. Whether it’s “You guys are awesome, I listen to you everyday”, or “You guys suck, stop playing”, we find motivation in it all.

8. Three words that describe you?

Random, Focused, and Motivated.

9. What is/was your cartoon character crush?

Probably Jasmine from Aladdin.

10. The world is ending in ten minutes and you get to listen to one, and only one, song: Which song?

“23” by Jimmy Eat World. Epic way to go out! -