On the road with Nova from Scars on 45
British alt-rock ensemble Scars on 45 make yearning, melodic pop that combines the big guitar rock of Oasis with the melodic, country-influenced sound of Fleetwood Mac. Formed in Bradford, Yorkshire around 2007, Scars on 45 began as a duo after former football-mates, singer/songwriter Danny Bemrose and bassist Stuart Nichols, started writing songs together. Eventually the band expanded to include keyboardist David 'Nova' Nowakowski, vocalist Aimee Driver, and drummer Chris Durling. While the group developed a local following, it wasn't until their song "Beauty's Running Wild" was used in a 2009 episode of the CBS television drama CSI:New York that Scars on 45 caught the attention of the wider music industry. In 2011, buoyed by that success and a record deal with the Chop Shop label, they released two EPs, including Give Me Something and Heart on Fire, the latter's title cut appeared on the Grey’s Anatomy, Vol. 4 soundtrack. In 2012, Scars on 45 released its self-titled debut album featuring the single, "Heart on Fire." ~ Matt Collar, Rovi
JLab recently sat down with keyboardist and JLab Ambassador David 'Nova' Nowakowski to discuss life on the road and why he is a fan of JLab.
JLab: How long have you been playing the keyboard?
Nova: I've been playing the keyboard since the age of 4. At age 13, I started off with piano lessons then ended up playing church organ for funerals and weddings. I didn't play in my first band until I was 16.
JLab: What is your favorite thing about being on tour?
Nova: I have a few favorite things... I love touring and traveling. At a young age my family always had a passion to travel around and visit new cities. I'm so fortunate to be touring with my best friends and also playing music. America is one huge country! When touring around you discover so much about individual states, the amazing people and unbelievable food! I think if we never toured again I would go home with a smile on my face because of the experience and memories that will stay with me forever.
JLab: What music do you listen to before a show?
Nova: Honestly? I don't personally. I like to relax and chill with vodka soda! I really need to focus on the show before I hit the stage, and make sure all my energy goes into that performance. I still get nervous before I go on no matter where I'm performing, even when doing radio interviews/performances. However we now have the new Crasher speaker which sounds great, so we might have to blast some tunes out after the shows!
JLab: What are the most important features in a headphone and/or earbud?
Nova: It's a funny thought but with headphones it's having them fit first of all. I have a large head (it runs in the family) so having the headphones being comfortable is important! I also really like a good, clear sounding clarity in a headphone. The earbuds are a similar scenario and the fitting is equally important.
JLab: What's your favorite JLab earbud?
Nova: I've been using the GLAM earbuds for two years now. Not only for personal use but I also use them on stage when playing live. Again, they feel comfortable and look great with a perfect sound throughout.
JLab: What is your favorite JLab headphone?
Nova: First time I experienced the OMNIheadphone was recently while being on tour. The OMNI looks great and feels great! The sound is really good with a good balance of both treble and bass. The best feature for me is the Bluetooth compatibility which can be connected to two devices at anyone time. The left side of the headphone has a control system which is convenient and also runs through your apple device through Siri which is cool. Also not forgetting the use of handsfree calling with its built in mic on the headphone itself. Cool design amazing headphone worth checking out guys!
JLab: If you had to pick three words to describe the OMNI, what would they be?
Nova: Comfortable. Slick. Sexy.
To preview their new album "Safety In Numbers" visit MTV.com