Interview: Atomic Tom

NYC group Atomic Tom is gearing up for an great 2012. Since the release of their debut album The Moment (Universal Republic Records) back in 2010, the group have shared the stage with acts such as Manchester Orchestra, Lupe Fiasco and OK Go. You might have also seen the group perform on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Lopez Tonight and A Different Spin with Mark Hoppus.

The group recently released a new EP entitled In Parallel and will perform at New York's Santos Party House on Thursday with Love Automatic & Cash Cash. Vocalist Luke White discusses the band's recent tour with Switchfoot, New Years resolutions and the band's music video for "Break My Heart Around You".

1) The group recently released their latest EP In Parallel. How do you feel about all of the positive comments about it?

It's always amazing to see the positive impact your music has on listeners. It obviously means a lot to us. It reinforces our place in the musical landscape, and it energizes us to get back in the studio and create the next song.  

2) The band recently toured with Switchfoot and Anberlin. How did that go?

That tour may have been the best thing that ever happened to Atomic Tom. Not only were both bands very cool to us, their crew took care of us. Every town was a pleasant surprise. Only one of the shows was a bust. But we played in front of packed rooms to people that were hearing us for the first time, and we met many new fans. We had a few margarita nights that were epic too. Abilene was my favorite stop. Just completely epic.

3) What are some of your favorite venues to perform at on tour?

The Doug Fir Lounge is a personal favorite. The people of Portland love music. They're crazy for it. I really enjoyed playing the Warfield and Wiltern theaters. They're beautiful, old school theaters with a great atmosphere.  

4) What was it like shooting the music video for "Break My Heart Around You"?

We worked with our own team to make that video happen. It was very rewarding and the response has been tremendous. It's a very simple concept, and as always, simple is best. It was hilarious shooting in Union Square with Tobias in Paper Bag character and tourists taking photos and laughing. That's exactly what we want. 

5) What are some of your favorite NYC venues?

Personally, I love Brooklyn Bowl and Bowery Ballroom. Rockwood Music Hall is a great intimate place and Ken Rockwood has always been kind to us.  

6) What are you most looking forward to about the show at Santos Party House?

We're looking forward to rocking our hometown again and playing with Cash Cash, The Blue Pages and dancing to some good tunes. It's always great when you can collaborate with other driven people who want to make a show more than just a show. That's something I like about the people behind this show. 

7) Did you make any New Years Resolutions?

I'm gonna get offline more. I'm going to replace that time with some good hangs and more songwriting.  

8) What does Atomic Tom hope to accomplish in 2012?

We're writing and recording the next record. We're building our fan base in the US and looking for international touring opportunities. I love our first record, and the songs we're writing for the next record will blow "The Moment" out of the water. We want to put every effort and more into this record. Our fans deserve it and we deserve to create the best record we can.

Tickets for Atomic Tom's show at Santos Party House are going fast so be sure to grab yours here. You can pick up Atomic Tom's new EP In Parallel on iTunes.