National Ass Groovin' Association (N.A.G.A.) A little Q&A with Vincent DeRasmi from the National Ass Groovin' Association (N.A.G.A.). Vincent plays guitar, keys, samples, and sings. Leicester Bangs: Vincent, tell us a little about yourself, and your band. Vincent: I was raised in a small town in north western Wisconsin right on the banks of beautiful Lake Superior. I enjoy the outdoors and long walks on short cliffs. The NAGA is a comedic power groove trio based out of Minneapolis, MN. We are a blend of funk, rock and adrenaline. LB: How did you start out making music? Vincent: My siblings and I had an old piano (Lester) that we used to beat up pretty good, along with smashing the guitar our grandpa gave us. Then came the saxophone my dad bought me that I eventually traded for an electric guitar. LB: Who did you grow up listening to and how do they influence what you’re doing now? Vincent: Metallica, Miles Davis, Funkadelic, Nine Inch Nails, Tower of Power to name a few. Aspects of these surface in the form of face melting riffs, psychedelic samples, and an overall pulse pounding groove. LB: Tell us about your latest release. Vincent: Our latest album (self-titled) is an assembly of 14 of our best. It is filled with solid groove and tragic tales. Rediscover the “ABCDs”, feel the road rage of “Rush Hour”, take a trip through the drive through with us, or just rock. LB: Do you get out and play your music live, and if so, what can an audience expect at one of your shows? Vincent: We've been playing out for years finding and refining our sound. No set is ever the same in our ever evolving live show of audio acrobatics. The only thing to expect is a good time. LB: What aspects of playing and recording music do you most enjoy? Vincent: I just love to play music. Actually getting to play our music for excited fans having a blast is always amazing, I still get butterflies. The studio scene is also awesome, for you are immortalising your music. LB: Where can people find (and buy) your music? Vincent: Our website, MySpace and CD Baby (links below). www.nassgass.com www.myspace.com/nagaband