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SINGAPORE – Despite the power of modern day fashion statements, there are still bands that are obsessed with the heydays of rock ‘n’ roll, the 1960s. Singapore indie bands like The Pinholes and Love Jets fashion themselves after the vintage style of the ‘60s, both in their look and their sound. Just what is it the about the ‘60s that influenced and inspired them so much?

“The main factors that influenced us from the 60’s is the fashion and the music itself. The ‘60s is still deemed ‘cool’ today because of its unconventional style.” says Akid, guitarist and lead vocalist of Love Jets.

And Andi Rahmat, bassist of the Pinholes, couldn’t agree more. “In the ‘60s, life was much easier to live, people were nicer, the music scene and more importantly, the local music scene, was the most vibrant era to date. Local bands like Straydogs, The Swallows and The Quests brought about a general outlook on life through their music. It’s all about the simple pleasures and simple ideas. We are very much inspired by this music where the ideas are straight-in-your-face, just pure rock ‘n’ roll and blues without all of the electronics and fancy gimmicks. ‘Cos that is what we are - a straight-up rock ‘n’ roll band.”

Despite the romantic notions of the ‘60s, both bands agree that being a modern band means incorporating vintage style with new fashions.“ We still dress in the unconventional 60’s style but with a tinge of modern taste. We wouldn’t want to look like a band that is stuck in another time” muses Akid.

To keep up their ‘60s image and stage personas, members from both bands shop mostly at vintage stores or wear inherited hand-me-down clothes from their parents or relatives. Shoes-wise, the boys all have a penchant for the good ol’ Chuck Taylor All Star shoes. These shoes were made into a rock n’ roll icon by many of their musical influences. 

While image does play an important part for any band, the boys from the Pinholes and Love Jets believe that the music will eventually speak the loudest in the long run.“ Fashion matters but not more than the music. If the music is great and the band looks great, well that’s a bonus,” says Famie Suliman, guitarist of the Pinholes.

Adds Andi, “Image does play a prominent part in a band’s branding. But it is up to the individuals really. We have seen a lot of successful bands that don’t look all that good. So it is really how they piece the puzzle together. In all, everyone wants to look good!”

And Akid sums it up the best. “Just be true to the music and persevere till your music is heard. That’s the indie spirit we all should be striving for.”

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