Of Virtue, a Band known for their unique mix of Metalcore and Melodic Hardcore, has made a significant impact in the Music Scene. Their powerful sound and emotionally charged lyrics have connected with audiences worldwide, earning them a loyal following. With influences ranging from The Ghost Inside to Eminence, Of Virtue’s Music is both intense and introspective.
On 09-02-2024, Of Virtue sat down for an Exclusive Interview at the Ace of Cups in Columbus, Ohio. This interview promises to offer fans and readers an inside look into the Band’s Journey, Creative Process, and what lies ahead.
In this article, you will discover:
The origins and growth of Of Virtue.
What Inspired the Band Name Of Virtue.
The Journey Of Virtue: From Formation To Columbus Music Scene Stalwarts. • Key Milestones In There Career.
Presence In The Vibrant Columbus Music Scene.
Insights into each Band Member’s contributions including Background of New Drummer Ryan Tinh.
Crafting Songs: An Inside Look into Of Virtue’s Songwriting Process
The songwriting process that defines their unique sound.
Themes explored in their lyrics.
The Energy of Live Shows: Memorable Performances by Of Virtue
Connecting with Fans: The Importance of Fan Interaction for Of Virtue
Concert at Ace Of Cups: What to see from Of Virtue’s Performance on 09-02-2024
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Expect to gain a deeper understanding of Of Virtue’s impact on the Music Industry and what makes them stand out among their peers.
What inspired the name of Virtue?
What inspired the name of Virtue? Honestly just wanting to be a better version of yourself. I would say that every day has its own challenges, sometimes you move backwards, sometimes
You just do the best that you can and hopefully you can try to inspire other people along the way, you know what I mean?
The Journey of Of Virtue: From Formation to Columbus Music Scene Stalwarts.
Of Virtue’s story began in 2008 in Lansing, Michigan, when a group of passionate musicians decided to create a band that would push the boundaries of Metalcore. The founding members, driven by their love for Heavy Music and a desire to make a difference with their Art, came together to form what would soon become a significant name in the Genre. The Band’s early days were marked by relentless practice sessions and local gigs that helped them hone their skills and establish their presence in the underground music scene to the Mainstream Metalcore Scene.
Several pivotal moments have shaped the sound and identity of Of Virtue. One of their earliest Major achievements was the release of their debut album, Heartsounds, in 2011. This Album introduced Fans to their unique blend of Melodic Hooks and Brutal Breakdowns, setting the stage for future releases. Their ability to adapt and grow while maintaining the essence of their original sound has been crucial to their sustained success.
2008: Of Virtue Was Founded and they self-released their debut EP To Breathe Again. • 2011: On August 27, 2011, they released their debut album Heartsounds. • 2012: On December 16, 2012, they released a two track EP Learn/Love.
2015: Release of Salvation, an album that showcased their evolving sound and lyrical depth.
2017: Signing with Sharptone Records, marking a significant step in their career.
2017: Release of What Defines You, which received critical acclaim and expanded their fanbase globally.
2017: Tyler Ennis Joins Of Virtue as Lead Singer.
2018: In 2018, Of Virtue released two singles “Surrounded” and “Torn Apart”.
2019 + 2020: In early 2019, they announced their signing to SharpTone Records and released “Suffer” from their then upcoming third album What Defines You. The album was released on May 24, along with the music video for the song “Alone”. The music video for “Immortal” was released on September 25. On November 13, 2020, the band released the acoustic rendition of “Torn Apart”, announcing the deluxe edition of their
third album at the same time. The deluxe edition of the album was released on November 20. On December 9, the band released a music video for the reimagined version of the song “Pictures of You”, featuring Patrick Harney.
2021: Ryan Trinh Joins of Virtue As New Drummer.
2022: On April 28, 2022, they announced that they parted ways with SharpTone Records and signed to Arising Empire. They also released their single “Sinner” on the same day. On June 2, they released “Hypocrite”. On July 15, they announced their EP Sinner, which was released on August 12. The music video for “Cold Blooded” was released the day before the EP.
2023: Release of Omen, The Album is described as a blend of Genres, including MetalCore, Post-Hardcore, Pop-Punk, Alternative, and Prog, with a unique sound that’s distinctly their own. Some say the Album is a testament to the Band’s Growth and Resilience Post Covid. On February 8, 2023, they released a music video for their song “A.N.X.I.E.T.Y.”. On March 22, they released a music video for “Cannibals”. On June 12, they announced their fourth studio album Omen, which is scheduled to release on September 29. The third single “Cut Me Open” was released on June 20.
2023: Of Virtue Joins Nothing More at a Show in Columbus,Ohio on May 11th, 2024.
2024: Announces Headlining Tour and Tour with The Ghost Inside with The Vans Warped Tour Nostalgia, Overseas Tour with Sienna Skies.
2024: Released Single Don’t Kill Me with Chaosbay.
2024: Celebrated Mike Valadez at Rumba cafe Show on September 2nd, 2024. • Studio albums
Heartsounds (2011)
Salvation (2015)
What Defines You (2019)
Omen (2023)
EPs
To Breathe Again (2009)
Learn/Love (2012)
Sinner (2022)
Singles
“Surrounded” (2018)
“Torn Apart” (2018)
“Suffer” (2019)
“No Control” (2019)
“Thanks for Nothing” (2019)
“Torn Apart” (Acoustic) (2020)
“Sinner” (2022)
“Hypocrite” (2022)
“A.N.X.I.E.T.Y.” (2023)
“Cannibals” (2023)
“Cut Me Open” (2023)
“Sober” (2023)
“Holy” (2023)
” Don’t Kill Me” Chaosboy FT Of Virtue (2024)
Since Establishing themselves, Of Virtue has become an integral part of the vibrant Columbus Music Scene. Their energetic Performances at Local Venues like Ace of Cups have earned them a dedicated following. The band’s connection with Columbus is evident through Repeated Tours and Collaborations with Local Acts.
Their Concert at Ace of Cups on September 2, 2024, was highly anticipated by Fans who have followed their Journey from Underground Gigs to Headlining Shows. This performance promises to be another milestone for both the Band and the Columbus Concert-Goers who have supported them throughout their Career.
By exploring these key aspects—origins, milestones, and local presence—you gain insight into how Of Virtue has Grown from a Fledgling Band into Stalwarts of the Columbus Music Scene.
Meet the Members: The Talented Souls Behind Of Virtue’s Sound Tyler is the lead singer of Of Virtue. His versatile voice, capable of both Melodic singing and
Intense Screaming, is a key part of the Band’s Sound. Tylers passionate performances, both Live and in Recordings, resonate with fans and play a significant role in the band’s success. Former Member of Ground Tracer.
Ryan drives Of Virtue’s rhythm section with his powerful drumming. His precision and energy lay the foundation for the band’s intense performances. Ryan’s skillful use of rhythms and beats not only supports but also enhances the overall musical experience, pushing the band’s sound into new territories drawing of inspirations of Luke Holland: Falling In Reverse Drummer. Other Endorsements: SJC Custom Drums, Meinl Cymbals, Vratim Drum Shoes. Drums have been a part of my life since I was 9 years old. Drums were a fun hobby for me until I saw Luke Hollands YouTube videos.
These videos inspired me from a very young age. I decided I would like to start making my own videos. At the time, all I had available to me was a cell phone camera and no audio equipment. Although the quality of my content was not fully where I wanted it to be; I was still motivated to continue to put out videos. I spent hours doing chores around the house to earn some money to be able to upgrade my equipment…
Fast forward a few years, I still have the same mentality. I am still continuously trying to improve the quality of my content with each upload.
I am currently an independent session drummer; mainly creating content for social media platforms sharing my playing to as many people as possible! I grew up loving Meinl Cymbals and I am incredibly honoured to be a part of the family. Ryan grew up in Canada.
How Ryan Got Started Drumming:
Yea my Dad really wanted me to take up an instrument when I was growing up and my Sister really wanted a drum kit in the house. So my Dad, well, he told me to pretend to like playing drums. So I told my Dad, I want to play drums just so we could get a Drum Kit in the house for her. And then I ended up really liking it after taking a few lessons. And then, you know, as time just goes on and. You play more and more, you get more into it, and then you meet up with people that can kind of take you to that next level, and it just keeps you going and going.
Can you tell us about the first drum set you ever owned? Yeah, it was a really bad one actually. It was a Blue Basics with an X, not with a C, Basics. It was just a four piece kit, had a one crash cymbal, and a set of hi hats that were literally made out of like, aluminum cans, like they sounded like trash. But, it got the job done, you know, I was still inspired to play and everything, so, can’t complain. Do too much.
Damon’s lines provide a robust framework that underpins Of Virtue’s music. His contributions ensure that each song has a solid foundation, allowing other instruments to shine while maintaining cohesion. Damon’s playing style adds an extra layer of heaviness and groove, crucial for their distinctive sound.
Mike complements Damons with his guitar skills, bringing additional textures and harmonies to Of Virtue’s compositions. His collaborative spirit is key during songwriting sessions, where he helps shape and refine ideas into fully-fledged tracks. Mike’s knack for creating atmospheric elements enriches the band’s auditory landscape.
Each member of Of Virtue brings their own set of skills and influences, resulting in a cohesive yet diverse musical output. Their individual contributions blend seamlessly, crafting a sound that’s both powerful and emotionally resonant. This synergy is what sets Of Virtue apart in the crowded MetalCore Scene.
Musical Influences: The Artists That Shaped Of Virtue’s Sound
Of Virtue draws inspiration from a wide range of Artists that have significantly shaped their unique sound. Among the Bands that have left a lasting impact on their music are Ghost Inside and Eminence. These influences are evident in the way Of Virtue combines melodic elements with a raw, powerful energy.
Ghost Inside has been a crucial influence for Of Virtue. Known for their blend of melodic hardcore and metalcore, Ghost Inside’s ability to convey deep emotion through intense music resonates profoundly with Of Virtue. Tracks like “Engine 45” and “Avalanche” showcase the kind of dynamic range and lyrical depth that Of Virtue strives for in their own songs. The heavy riffs and heartfelt lyrics found in Ghost Inside’s discography have directly influenced how Of Virtue crafts their sound.
Eminence, another major influence, brings a different flavor to the table. Eminence’s fusion of MetalCore with ambient and electronic elements provides a broader sonic palette for Of Virtue to explore. This Brazilian band’s innovative approach to music, as seen in tracks like “Unfold” and “The Stalker,” encourages Of Virtue to push boundaries and experiment with different
textures in their compositions.
These influences are not just heard but felt throughout Of Virtue’s discography. By merging the raw intensity of Ghost Inside with the experimental flair of Eminence, Of Virtue has carved out a distinctive niche within the MetalCore Genre. Their ability to balance aggression with melody ensures that they stand out in a crowded musical landscape.
The distinct sound of Of Virtue is a testament to the diverse influences they embrace, making them a standout act in today’s music scene.
Crafting Songs: An Inside Look into Of Virtue’s Songwriting Process
Basically it started as when Damon had ideas, Damon would send them to me, and then we would basically just kind of. You know, put our heads together and come up with something. Understanding the songwriting process of a Band like Of Virtue offers fascinating insights into their creative world. When it comes to crafting songs, The Band employs a well-defined
approach that balances structure with fluidity.
Of Virtue utilizes a mix of traditional and modern songwriting techniques. Their process often begins with brainstorming sessions where ideas flow freely. These sessions can include anything from jamming together to sharing individual riffs or melodies. Once an initial concept is established, they move into developing more structured elements like chord progressions and rhythmic patterns. The use of digital audio workstations (DAWs) also plays a significant role, allowing them to experiment with different sounds and arrangements before finalizing a track.
Key methods include:
Riff-based writing: Often starting with a captivating guitar riff.
Layering: Gradually adding instruments and vocals to build complexity.
Iterative Refinement: Constantly revisiting and tweaking elements until they achieve the desired sound.
A distinctive feature of Of Virtue’s songwriting process is the collaborative effort among members. Each member brings their unique skills and perspectives to the table, making collaboration crucial for their creative output. Vocalist Tyler Ennis may start with lyrical themes that resonate deeply with him, while guitarist Damon Tate focuses on creating compelling guitar parts. Drummer Michael Valadez contributes by developing intricate rhythms that complement the overall structure.
The band’s collaborative effort involves:
Constant Communication: Regular discussions about song direction.
Feedback Loops: Constructive criticism ensures every idea is refined.
Role Flexibility: Members often step into different roles to support each other’s creative vision.
During these collaborative sessions, the band prioritizes team synergy, ensuring that every member’s voice is heard and valued. This inclusive approach not only enriches their music but also strengthens their bond as a group.
Diving into Of Virtue’s songwriting techniques reveals how they blend individual creativity with collective effort to produce music that resonates deeply with their audience.
Lyrical Themes: Exploring the Depths of Of Virtue’s Lyrics
Of Virtue’s music often explores deep and relatable human experiences. Their songs frequently delve into themes of resilience, personal growth, and overcoming adversity. These themes are
not just abstract ideas but are deeply rooted in personal stories and societal observations.
Resilience and Overcoming Challenges: Tracks like “Suffer” highlight the struggle against internal and external battles, emphasizing the power of perseverance.
Personal Growth: Songs such as “Surrounded” focus on the journey of self-discovery and improvement.
Mental Health: The band doesn’t shy away from addressing mental health issues, providing a voice for those grappling with depression and anxiety through songs like “Torn Apart”.
Of Virtue’s members often draw from their own life experiences when crafting lyrics. This authenticity resonates with listeners, who find solace and solidarity in the band’s music. For instance:
In “Alone”, the lyrics reflect feelings of isolation and the struggle to find one’s place in the world, a sentiment that many fans can relate to on a personal level.
Quotes from The Band.
“I am alone, searching for a way out / Trying to find meaning in this endless doubt.”
Damon: The fact that we can talk shit to all of the Buckeyes fans. Because we are from Michigan. Go Blue. National champs. Represent. So, but no, honestly, no, Ohio is fun. It’s the Midwest. It’s not that much different from Michigan, where there’s just diehards everywhere. Also Celebrating being sober.
The song “Ghost Town” narrates the pain and emptiness following a significant loss, mirroring real-life experiences of grief and coping.
By intertwining their personal experiences with universal themes, Of Virtue creates a powerful connection with their audience. Their lyrics serve as both a mirror reflecting individual struggles and a beacon of hope, guiding listeners through their darkest times.
The Energy of Live Shows: Memorable Performances by Of Virtue
Live performance experiences are where Of Virtue truly shines. Their electrifying stage presence has left audiences in awe time and again.
One standout moment occurred during their 2019 tour in support of the album “What Defines You.” At a sold-out show in Detroit, the band delivered an unparalleled energy that had the
crowd moshing and chanting along to every song. Vocalist Tyler Ennis often jumped into the audience, creating an intimate atmosphere that blurred the lines between performer and fan.
Another memorable performance was at the Slam Dunk Festival in Leeds, UK. Sharing the stage with heavyweights like Bullet for My Valentine and Glassjaw, Of Virtue held their own with a high-octane set that included crowd favorites such as “Suffer” and “Torn Apart.” The band’s synergy on stage was palpable, with guitarists Damon Tate and Michael Valadez performing intricate riffs while drummer Ryan Bartlett kept the tempo relentless.
Touring across Europe also brought some unforgettable experiences. During a show in Berlin, technical issues threatened to derail their set. Instead of letting it affect their performance, the band improvised a drum circle with audience participation until the issues were resolved. This impromptu interaction showcased their ability to adapt and entertain under pressure.
These anecdotes highlight Of Virtue’s commitment to delivering high-energy performances regardless of venue or circumstance. Each live show is an experience that fans cherish, further cementing their reputation as a must-see act.
The upcoming concert at Rumba Cafe promises to be another unforgettable night, filled with the same intensity and connection that have made previous performances legendary.
Connecting with Fans: The Importance of Fan Interaction for Of Virtue
Of Virtue places a significant emphasis on fan interaction, recognizing it as a cornerstone of their success. During performances, the band makes a concerted effort to engage with the audience. Whether it’s through eye contact, speaking directly to fans between songs, or encouraging sing-alongs and participation, these moments create lasting memories for their supporters.
On social media platforms, Of Virtue remains highly accessible and responsive. They often share behind-the-scenes content, tour updates, and personal anecdotes that offer fans a glimpse into their lives beyond the stage. Instagram Stories and live Q&A sessions are some of the tools they use to maintain an interactive presence online. This approach not only keeps fans informed but also fosters a deeper connection by showing the human side of the band members.
The band has implemented several initiatives to strengthen their bond with supporters:
Exclusive Meet & Greets: Before or after shows, Of Virtue frequently arranges meet-and greet sessions where fans can take photos, get autographs, and have one-on-one conversations with the band members.
Fan Contests: They host various contests on social media platforms, offering exclusive merchandise or tickets as prizes. This encourages fan participation and keeps the community engaged.
Fan-Focused Content: By sharing fan art, cover videos, and personalized shout-outs on their social media channels, Of Virtue acknowledges and celebrates their supporters’ creativity and dedication.
These efforts have cultivated a loyal fan base that feels seen and appreciated. The band’s commitment to interaction is evident in every aspect of their career, creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere that resonates deeply with their audience.
Concert at Ace of Cups: What to see from Of Virtue’s Performance on 09-02-2024
Date: September 2, 2024
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Ace of Cups, 2619 N. High St, Columbus, OH 43202
Supporting Acts: ENMY and Dread Engine
The upcoming concert at Rumba Cafe promises to be an exhilarating experience for fans of Of Virtue. The intimate setting of the venue allows for a unique closeness between the band and the audience, enhancing the live music experience. Tickets can be purchased through various online
platforms or directly at the venue, ensuring accessibility for all fans eager to witness this performance.
Having established themselves as dynamic performers, Of Virtue is known for their high-energy shows that leave a lasting impression. Their previous tours have showcased their ability to connect with audiences through powerful performances and engaging stage presence. Attendees can expect:
Electrifying Atmosphere: Drawing from past concerts, you can anticipate an electrifying atmosphere filled with intense energy and passion.
Setlist Variety: A mix of fan favorites and new material is likely to be included in their setlist, ensuring a balanced experience that caters to long-time followers and new listeners alike.
Visuals and Sound: Professional lighting and sound setups enhance the visual and auditory experience, making each performance a sensory delight.
Of Virtue has continually evolved both musically and as performers. Their growth is evident in their refined sound and sophisticated stagecraft. This concert will likely highlight:
Matured Sound: With each album release, their sound has matured, incorporating diverse
influences while staying true to their roots.
Interactive Elements: The band’s dedication to fan interaction means you can expect moments where they engage directly with the crowd, creating memorable experiences.
The anticipation for this concert is palpable among fans who are eager to see how Of Virtue continues to elevate their live performances. Each show not only celebrates their musical journey but also strengthens the connection they share with their audience.
The Future Looks Bright for Of Virtue
Reflecting on the journey of Of Virtue, it’s evident that their music has resonated deeply with fans. Tracks like “Suffer” and “Surrounded” showcase their ability to blend raw emotion with powerful instrumentation, creating a sound that is both unique and relatable. This connection has not only built a loyal fanbase but also solidified their place in the metalcore scene.
Looking ahead, fans can anticipate several exciting developments.
New Music: Of Virtue is known for constantly evolving their sound. Hints from recent interviews suggest they are already working on new material that promises to push boundaries even further.
Collaborations: The band has expressed interest in collaborating with other artists, potentially bringing fresh perspectives and innovative sounds to their future projects.
Touring: Post-Rumba Cafe, Of Virtue’s tour will continue across various locations, offering more opportunities to experience their electrifying performances live.
Their dedication to musical growth and fan engagement signifies a promising future. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming releases and tour dates by following Of Virtue on their social media platforms. The energy at Rumba Cafe is just the beginning of what lies ahead for this dynamic band.
With their recent performance at Rumba Cafe leaving fans craving for more, Of Virtue’s commitment to evolving their sound ensures that their future projects will continue to push boundaries and captivate listeners. As they embark on their tour, fans across different locations can anticipate witnessing the raw energy and passion that defines their live performances. Be sure to keep an eye on their social media accounts for the latest updates on releases and tour dates, as this rising band shows no signs of slowing down.
With each new release, Of Virtue has consistently demonstrated their growth as musicians and their ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience. Their dedication to their craft is evident in the way they pour their hearts into every song, and this authenticity shines through in their live shows. From the intimate venues to the larger stages, Of Virtue’s performances are an experience not to be missed. So if you have the chance to catch them on tour, don’t hesitate – you won’t be disappointed.
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