Festival gigs are not quite like any other – especially CMJ which features a platter of hundreds of artists from dozens of genres performing all around NYC. Bouncing from showcase to showcase, music lovers are delighted by amazing sets, holy shit moments and the discovery of their new favorite band. As 3 year veterans, Shinobi Ninja is no stranger to bringing the heat at CMJ. This year they pulled a one-two-punch with a special guest, Jarobi from A Tribe Called Quest. We chatted with Maniak Mike about all things CMJ and SN.Playing CMJ can be the gig bands need to take them to the next level. What was your reaction to getting selected to play CMJ in 2011.
We've played CMJ every year that we've been a band. This was year 3 for us, so it was just business as usual. As soon as we found out we put our heads to the grindstone with our manager, Steven Sternschein and his company, Heard Entertainment. Together, we dreamed up the best showcase situation possible for our band.
Shinobi Ninja is known for their live show. How did you prep for your sets?
We all have our little things we do before the set, but we definitely get together in the green room and max it out with some friends before we black out all over the stage.
What was the best part about playing CMJ?
The best part of CMJ was playing with Jarobi from A Tribe Called Quest. He's so dope!!! LOOK OUT FOR OUR EVITAN REMIX!
Any tips for bands who are hoping to play CMJ next year?
NYC will eat you! Stay with friends in Brooklyn. CAREFUL OF CABS! Subway is cheap both underground and at their chain stores. Cheaper than a cab, cheaper than McDonalds. DON'T GET FOOLED!! Times Square is cool for 30 seconds, and again, observe rule # 3 about the cabs. Don't buy anything in Manhattan unless you're on St. Marks Street....or if you'd like to purchase studio time in our studio on 23rd street on the east side.
The band was recently featured as part of the Google Music launch in November. What’s next for Shinobi Ninja in 2012?
Mixtape # 3, Album #2, SXSW Tour, West Coast Tour, East Coast Tour, Midwest Tour, PARTYPARTYPARTYPARTYPARTYPARTY!
