EPISODE 78 - CONTENDER

EPISODE 78 of Five At The Door features an exhilarating conversation with the members of Contender, an up-and-coming band that blends various genres to create their unique sound. Join us as Taj, Cody, Cole, and Jackson share their musical journey, the evolution of their band, and the challenges they've faced along the way.

In this episode, the band discusses their eclectic influences, ranging from grindcore to shoegaze, and how these diverse sounds shape their music. They reflect on the past two years of their journey, including the ups and downs that have led to the solidification of their lineup and the release of their new single, "Under My Skin." The conversation dives into the creative process behind their songwriting, highlighting how each member contributes their distinct musical ideas to craft songs that resonate with their collective vision.

Listeners will gain insight into the personal experiences that have shaped the band, including the impact of previous musical endeavors and the serendipitous moments that brought them together. The episode also touches on the importance of collaboration and the growth that comes from navigating the unpredictable nature of the music industry.

Get ready to hear "Under My Skin," a track that encapsulates the band's journey and the themes of resilience and creativity that define their sound. This episode is a celebration of the power of music to connect, inspire, and evolve.

Don't miss this episode as we explore the vibrant world of Contender, where passion and artistry collide to create something truly special.

Show notes penned by your favorite chronicler of the musical journey at Five At The Door.

(00:00) Everyone introduce yourselves and what you. What genre do you guys want to say you are

(01:18) Five at the Door interviews Contender for its 75th episode

(04:21) Jackson: I've been making music solo since 2018 sometime around

(06:56) Cole Jackson says being in two bands allows him to explore other musical possibilities

(12:34) Final Destination's first album was derailed by a freak tornado in 2025

(19:42) It's getting absurd. It's getting to the point where it's unsafe

(20:54) The camera froze in the weirdest way. It did not, it did not stop recording

(21:30) Where did you come up with the name Contender? I love it

(23:53) Who is the principal songwriter for Postmodern Therapy

(30:30) Under My Skin by Contender releases May 30th

(30:58) What does the rest of this year look like? When is this release