Interview by Ashley Galvan
Portraits by Cory Jones
Live photos by Chris Hogge
If you’ve ever caught an Upchuck show, you already know that it’s not just music, it’s mayhem. And right at the center of that storm is Kaila Thompson, scream queen, poet, and full-force front woman who spits truth like fire. I linked up with KT to talk about the music industry, coming up in Atlanta’s underground, and what it means to scream from your soul in a world that’s always trying to shut you up. Upchuck ain’t here to play nice. They’re here to tear it all down and build something louder.
How’s your day going?
Uh, pretty chill. I woke up mad early for some reason. Started to do stuff. I still haven’t unpacked for real, so I started washing my clothes and stuff.
Dang, where are you at?
I’m back home. We’re back in Atlanta, but we were just on tour and we just got back on Friday. So, I’m still unpacking.
No, and you know what? The doom suitcase is real. You’re like, okay, the charger’s out, and that’s all that matters. Got the dirty clothes out, throwing them in the wash. God forbid we fold them. Okay. Well, congrats. What’s up? How was the U.K.?
It was sick for the most part. I know I had the issue with the whole passport thing, which was really stupid, but they ended up taking my passport at the airport. And then, yeah, we had to cancel all those European dates. But I think every show was sick. Like, I don’t think there was one bad show.
So, wait, what happened with the passport?
It was reported lost or stolen, but it was like, there, I don’t know. We don’t know.
Okay. Well, you know what? It’s all good. You survived. I just wanted to cut it up a little bit before we hop into the interview, just because I’m hyped. And, you know, again, light-hearted, especially because you just woke up from a little nappy poo. So, it’s like, all right, well, you know, let’s just get adjusted to the energy. But for real, I appreciate you so much. I’m really stoked. Honestly, you’re my first music-related interview with Fantom, because usually I do music reviews or interview at skate shops. So, thank you for being my first band interview for specifically this publication, which is legit as hell. And also, the energy is strong. When they told me that we’re going to be interviewing you, I was like, okay, one legit, shed the light because I was able to deep dive into the Upchuck discography, because you know, it’s real and right up my motherfucking alley. Two, guess what?
What?
I’m going to be seeing you.
When?
That’s what I’m saying! Okay, so right now, literally right now, I was like looking up when you guys are going to tour, obviously, you guys are like coming out with a new album, Q, Q, Q, so excited for that. I was like, I wonder if they have tour dates released yet. Like, let me see. Boom, ATX. The first show you guys are playing is Levitation. And I’m working on Levitation.
Oh, sick!
So, we will be able to hug IRL. I’m stoked on that! And yeah, apparently, I’m going to be in the fucking pit at the gig. I just wanted to pop off with that before we get into it because I’m like, yo, I just saw that, and it literally made me even more excited to have this convo.
Okay, so excited.
All of the music and everything that you guys have been putting out has been so inspiring. And yeah, I see the way you guys all linked was random, like coworker vibes, but how did you guys officially come together to be this music powerhouse?
Um, honestly, they were already kind of a band, like already. And by the time I came in, I think Mikey was going through other vocalists. And, like that day, I’d put down a track. I think it was “Upchuck-in Your Mind.” And yeah, I think we were just kind of like, all right, I guess we’re gonna take this seriously now.
So you already knew them? Like, were you guys already friends in the scene?
Yeah, I already knew the bassist and Hoff, because I went to school with Hoff. It was kind of weird, but it just tracked back. But yeah, I didn’t know Mikey or Chris, though. But we’re all pretty chill people.
I love that.. And also, does anybody in the band skate or anything?
Yeah, they all skate!
Oh, okay, word. I love the crossover too. Obviously, like crossover with music, punk scene, skate life, and skate culture. So, it’s just like this beautiful Venn diagram of fam. And pretty much like, at this point, in that Venn diagram, there obviously is that sense of perseverance of like, falling, getting back up, getting things going. Like, how has that type of mentality carried into your music, approach, and touring these days?
Damn, I don’t know. I feel like I have to ask them because they’re the ones who skated.
Just essentially at the end of the day, like, how has that mentality of perseverance shown and carried through you as far as creating music, being a musician, and just touring in general?
I think it’s just a part of it. Like, I don’t know, I think it’s kind of like the only way to do this type of stuff, especially when it comes to touring, especially when it comes to writing these songs and recording them and playing them. It’s like a never-ending cycle. But I think it’s also just like, I don’t know, I’d rather do this than like, be at a desk or like, yeah.
No, literally. And how do you recharge as a person whenever you’re on the road and in these higher energy moments? What’s usually your go-to as far as, like, recharging?
Crazy enough. I really just go back out immediately because I’m like, it’s such a step-of-the-jet, I’m like, dang, I can’t go to sleep. It’s just going to ruin my whole schedule. So, I kind of end up going out and just, like, seeing my homies, honestly, just, like, being back with family and home. Chosen ones.
Chosen fam. No, I like that because it’s just because of that natural organic energy that you get from people who see and understand you, it fills your cup inadvertently, even though you might be depleted from going off on stage, like, dealing with your real ones is, like, how’d you juice up?
Exactly. I like that. Honestly, I like that. That’s real.
And also, you just got back from the U.K. tour. What was one of your, you know, fun, favorite takeaways and experiences from that tour? Was there a memory that sticks with you?
Honestly, Bristol was insane, like, show-wise and vibe-wise. They were some pretty crazy cats. I didn’t think it’d be that wild, but, yeah.
Where’d you guys play in Bristol? Do you remember?
I forgot where. I think it’s called The Lanes or something. It was, like, a bowling alley. But, yeah, that was a sick one. So was Green Man, the Green Man Festival was sick. And it’s just, like, I didn’t know what to expect. I guess I don’t really, like, expect much. Just like, I’m going to play the show regardless. So, to see just a bunch of people at all the shows on this tour was sick, and just overall memorable.
Was there a moment when you looked down on the crowd and you’re, like, damn, I’m really doing this?
Yeah, Green Man! When I walked behind it was kind of crazy, because the first band had gone on, and it was a good number of people, like, 800s. And I’m like, Okay, at least there are people here. And, like, walking out, once we were going on, the whole tent was just packed front to back, and I was, like, Oh, damn. It’s crazy. You might be doing something.
That’s incredible. People in the pit, crowd surfing, that’s honestly, the best feeling, too. Oh, my God. And so, did you end up playing any of your new songs from Nice Now?
Oh, yeah. That’s why I LOVE this new tour. I’m like, I got tired of playing the old songs. Basically, the new set on this tour, and the coming tours, is going to be the album, for sure.
Okay, so did you just play the three that are out? Or did you sprinkle in a few more?
We played, “Plastic,” we played, “That’s Breath.” We played, I think we played the majority of the set. I think the only old songs we played were literally “Upchuck-In Your Mind,” “Freaky,” and “Sense Yourself.” That’s it.
Dang. So, you just, like, came out with the energy.
Yeah, yeah, for sure.
No wonder the whole freaking tour was legit. That’s amazing. So, how does it feel now, like, as far as I’m nice now? One, that seems so playful, yet layered. What does that mean to upchuck? Like, that title at this point?
Well, it’s kind of crazy, like, it really started when I used to get easily irritated, but then I started being like, you know what, let me not let these people take my peace, so yeah, I’m nice now. Fuck yeah, I’m nice now. Before I would have gotten upset, but no. And it’s really about that preservation factor of all this fuckery that’s going on worldwide. It’s so constant. And it’s, like, part of their plans, you would just go back to, back to, back to, back to, back to Bullshit, Bullshit, Bullshit, Bullshit. And, to literally, like, basically, break you, you know, break us down. But, like, I think it’s important. We’ve got to start preserving our peace. And don’t let them break you, because, like, don’t let them get what they want. So, I think it’s a little bit more of that. Also, like, damn, I’m tired of yelling.
No, that’s real, honestly. I think that’s really important—that speaks to my soul about music, which is my number one thing, as far as being in my local music scene, or just, in general, worldwide. Something that has always filled my soul is being able to connect with others, to look around the room and be like, “Yes, this is it,” because, just like you were speaking on, it’s like being able to preserve and just being able to recharge. It’s like being around people that love you, and, like, being in that community center, it does recharge you. And also, being able to preserve by being able to come together and express yourself, like all of the music that you’ve been putting out. And, honestly, I did come through and deep dive straight up into the new videos that you guys had just put out, and I was getting emotional. I was like, this is so good. First off, because, as a Latina woman, seeing Un Momento and going off—seeing that video, that was exciting! Honestly, to just have your homie being like, “Chinga tu madre,” I’m like, Yo, yes, like, yes! That’s hilarious. So, I think one of my questions: When did you guys decide to start weaving in some Spanish vocals on this new track?
It started from off our first record, I think. Yeah. And I remember we were just in the studio, kind of like, cutting up, I guess. But Mikey was like, Chris, like, just go in there. And then, I remember Chris went in, and then I think we all just kind of, like, went in behind him, and we’re just doing ad-libs and hyping him up and shit. That wasn’t bad, it just kind of stuck. I think that was, um, Per Dito, I think. Yeah. And then we were like, wait, shit. Like, we should probably do another one. Like, we should probably do a retake. But, um, run that up for sure!
I love that! especially because it really showcases what it means to come together. To be able to get up on stage and be like, nah, you can identify not only with our music and our souls, but with us as people through our music, that hits different. I was looking at your tour, and I was like, Dang. Next time, definitely put in a San Antonio date, because the Texas homies in San Antonio and Houston would be popping off! Also, as far as the Forgotten Token video, I feel like that one really got me emotional. Because one, I’m going through a lot right now, and I just felt like I was connecting with your soul, inadvertently. I was like, Dang, what is going on here? There was just a level of intimacy in your art that I could really identify with. And you know, I just wanted to get your take on, like, where in the process of creating that video did the idea to include those visuals and those themes come from? What made you decide to put such personal pieces of your soul into it?
I think it was me and my friend Max, and I don’t know, we were kind of, like, in a rush to get this idea out, but, yeah, we just started talking. I think, because he also knows me and he knows what I went through with losing my sister, like, during writing that album last year. And, yeah, I don’t know. I just felt like it just kind of came out, like, I don’t really know. I’ve just got that, honestly.
I really appreciate it, honestly, especially coming from someone who is also in a place of grieving. And also, I want to extend my condolences to you, because, period, my heart is with you. Grief is a whole chapter in life that is just forever, but also a whole experience. So, I feel like that was another thing I could connect with in that sense. And I appreciate you for your level of transparency because in art, in music, that kind of honesty is a beautiful thing. It doesn’t matter if the homie is out there doing blast beats, I’m still gonna be crying. So I really appreciate that. And even just seeing your little pictures? So cute.
Which one?
Just your pictures, like, just in that video. I was like, wow.
Oh yeah, I forgot about that!
There were little moments. I was like, wow. Okay, like, whose house was that?
That was my house, like, well, once we moved from Jersey, yeah. My mom’s house.
I love that. Was there fam in there, too, of yours?
Oh, no, that family was like, we just hired them. Oh, wait, no, the family, like, the black family? Yeah, that’s my family.
That’s what I thought. That’s what I thought.
I was like, that white family was not. But, like, the other people in there, my grandma, my mom, and my brother.
How was it, like, including them in your art?
Honestly, my mom is stressful, like, I don’t know. But it’s sick. I don’t know. My brother also used to do music. So, like, he’s not new to it. But they were, like, Oh, my gosh, this camera’s here. I’m on a camera. I guess I have to act normal.
You’re like, “Oh, shit. Now what?” But anyway, I just wanted to take a little moment to thank you for that because it was so healing inwardly. It got me so psyched. I mean, obviously, it’s more punk, blast beats, fucking raw shit. But, at the end of the day, I did appreciate you being able to carve a space for your heart in your music and your lyrics. And, it just showed, you know what I mean, whether people who listen to music or not know what you have gone through, like, you can feel it. And, it’s that good. So, thank you for your service. But, also, obviously, you’ve been going on tour, being with some homies. How is sharing the stage with people you’ve come up with like your sister Faye, or Off!, and the homies inNegative Approach? How has that experience of sharing the stage with those kinds of influences shaped your voice moving forward, or the drive you all have as a band together?
I think each one was different. I think if anything, it’s sick to just kind of be around each different band that I don’t know, it’s like the diversity factor that just is like, uplifting too, I guess, to say, like, being accepted off of us just being us, and I was not switching up, but, like, fitting in each of these different scenes and categories of people. And, yeah, I think we matured a lot, too. I also go by being on tours with some of these people, and, yeah, I don’t know how else to describe that side to just, like, I learned a lot. And, just hopeful for the future, I guess.
And especially, like you said, with that diverse group, even in something like skating, I’m around people who street skate, or people who are into vert, or just chilling on transition, or even want to do dance skating. Even though those are completely different styles of skating, it still comes together with that energy where you’re like, “Dang, I don’t even know how to tour like that, but that’s what’s up.” Like, usually, I’d be jumping off stair sets, but I’m like, “I like what you’re doing there, sis.” You know what I mean? So it’s, like either way it’s one of those things where just being around that creative energy really helps. So I can totally see how you’re like, “I’m hopeful,” because that is the vibe that comes from being around your creative community.
Yeah.
That’s real. And even just speaking on that as well, it’s, like, you guys have really shown how much power and connection come from just being yourselves in the scene. So, how have your fans or peers responded to that deep authenticity that you have?
I really wanted it all, I guess. I’d hope I can make them feel more comfortable coming to shows. I know I’ve seen a switch in the punk scene, especially our shows, in terms of who’s in the fucking crowd. It used to be different, when, at least, I first started going to shows and shit. Yeah, I don’t know. I just think there should be a level of vulnerability in this scene, you know? And there shouldn’t be a problem with that. Just be yourself. Like, I don’t know why you wouldn’t want to be.
And how have you seen that shift, like, from when you started to now? How has your perception of it changed?
I don’t know. I love it. It’s more culturally and racially diverse in every way now. I fuck with it. I fuck with the change, because before, it was just a bunch of white boys, of course. And, like, you’d see, like, a sparse black person, but they’re probably like a man. And okay, still, like, male-dominant spaces. Now, I think Atlanta’s just, like, growing. There are so many other bands that are popping out of Atlanta, too, that are, like, helping shape that new scene. So, I think it’s sick.
Dang. That’s amazing. Have you been seeing any of the girly pops in the front?
Oh, for sure!
Good. I’m about that life. Every time I see homies in the front that are girls, I’m like, yo! One of those experiences, oddly enough, and of course, it’s a completely different genre, but Lord knows we’re multifaceted people. I definitely remember feeling that way when I saw Doechii. I was like, Dang! The girls are here. And it just feels good. Whether you’re at a hardcore show or something like Scowl, there are a bunch of girly-pops at Scowl, too, you know what I mean? So, it’s one of those things that just feels right. And I’m so excited for Levitation, which I will be seeing you at! I’m still in shock because literally before I hopped on this call, I was like, hmm, let me check their tour dates. Boom. The first show after you come back from the U.K. is with me. Okay, cute. I’m telling everybody, we’re in the front. And I guess also, with your new album coming out, what’s something you’re really excited about? Obviously, you’re shedding light now, especially after coming off this U.K. tour, but what’s been one of your glowing moments through this time of bringing this new piece of music into the world? Like, what’s something that’s really exciting you about I’m Nice Now?
That’s a good question. Um, I guess just being able to play and experience it with others rather than just us, I’m just stoked on that unification of getting to play these live and see how people react and stuff, and the UK technically got it first.
Yeah, because even from inception, when were you writing? Because obviously, I’m sure Chris writes a little something too, and then obviously you do as well. When were you writing most of the songs from this new album?
I feel like it has been a year? Since we finished it? Because I know it was, like, cold outside when we were recording.
That’s one of my favorite things, like remembering music. You’re, like, thinking about the temp.
Oh, well, we really demoed everything first. So, it was really, like, way, way, way back then, 10 years ago. And, we just kind of finalized them, went to Sonic Ranch, recorded them, and then waited, I guess, like, practically, another year.
So, it’s been some time since you’ve been cooking.
Really, I don’t even know. Like, if I could remember when we went to Sonic Ranch, if it was, like, January, then I guess it hasn’t been a year. But I know it’s been, like, a good amount of months since we’ve recorded it.
No wonder you’re, like, you’re ready for this new stuff. So, what’s your personal favorite that you’ve been playing that you played live, so far from the new album?
Honestly, Plastic is, like, the sickest, it’s, like, the best reaction, yeah, I don’t know. It’s just, like, this is bonkers. But yeah, it’s definitely Plastic. And, Ken has been a crazy experience, now and then. And then New case, which also says, it’s the cute one in this album.
Cool, I like that. Well, honestly, I’m so stoked, because music really thrives on these uncalculated friendships and connections. And I guess my last close-up question, really about connection, is: How has Upchuck deepened your bond as people and as musicians together?
I feel like, because it’s been, like, seven years that we’ve known each other, I think we’re trying more with, like, creating a bond. It’s securing the bond and learning that it’s not easy being in a band. It’s really not, but it really is a level of unconditional love that we do have for each other. It’s kind of like family at this point. So, it’s like, damn, you get on my goddamn nerves, but, hey, like, you want to go get some pizza? hahah
You’re like, No, but I literally have to be in the car with you longer. So, what do we do? What usually grounds that part? Do you guys just take a little break and then come back?
Nah, I think we kind of just have to talk to each other. Yeah, just communicating. So that’s all it is. As long as we’re communicating, then I think it’s pretty easy to squash or, like, not mind one’s business and just respect each other’s boundaries and shit. Yeah, not be a menace to one another.
And then I guess just off the dome, as a person, what’s something you’ve really grown to value in your personal value system? Through everything you’ve been through, and also through being part of this band, being a musician, being someone who’s front and center, who’s a GOAT, who’s out here just sharing your soul. What’s one of the power values that comes forward for you these days?
Honestly, humility for sure, like, just being humble and, like, appreciating everything that I’ve been granted, because this shit is, I don’t know. Sometimes I don’t even realize who I’ve become. Like, people will be like, “Oh my God,” and there’s a lot of that, and I’m like, Am I…? I don’t know. I’m just here, at the bottom with my friends. I don’t really see it like that. But yeah, I think just being grateful for everything, how far we’ve come, and where we’re going next.
Honestly, I appreciate that, especially because, you know, these days, as we grow and go through different human experiences, good and bad, up and down, I feel like our values shift. It’s like, if we were superheroes and had a plate in the center of our hearts with little gems on it, each gem representing a value, I feel like those gems can change. You know what I mean? Like, all of a sudden, the ruby becomes compassion. Okay, cute, now I’ve got my little compassion gem over here. I just feel like it varies. So lately, that’s something I’ve been asking my loved ones because I think it’s important to really reflect on our value system, how it evolves, and what comes forward during different segments of our lives. You know what I mean? Because again, we switch it up. It’s just one of those things that, I don’t know… connecting with you, I felt like it was a question worth asking. Because I do agree, being grateful, taking time to cherish your loved ones and your moments, that matter. And like you said, even just being like, “Yo, I don’t know what I’m doing. I’m just at the bar with my friends.” That’s real. That’s about valuing connection and time. And yeah, just being grateful to be loved, you know? So I just wanted to close out with that simple little question, but also, it’s low-key deep.
Exactly.
I’m like, Okay, so one month from now, I’ll be like, “Remember that one time we were on Zoom?” Like, yes. But seriously, it got me so much more hyped. I was like, this is divine. Just being able to connect with you like this, and the way the divine alignment worked out so I could actually talk to you, it’s really special. Of course I’ll be at your gig. Of course, I’ll be crowd surfing. I’m 4’11 and three-quarters small as hell. So, I’m always like, “I want to go up!” That’s gonna be me. I’ll definitely be crying and crowd surfing. But also, just being able to see you and give you a little embrace. I’m excited to be in your arms. So, expect me on a happy little Sunday. Either way, I’m going to see you. so, whenever you see my little ass, you’re going to be like, A-ash, what up?
Can’t wait!
