Smooth move

Prew hit the pop scene

By Ploy Thamma and Suwitcha Chaiyong
Photos by Varuth Hirunyatheb

Rookie band Prew were first introduced to listeners with the intriguing single, "Mon Rak Nak Rong (Magical Love of Singers), which also featured several other artists from the new PD Music label.

With its fusion of look tung, pop and dance music, the single created quite a buzz and led to Prew releasing their own single, "Prew (Smooth)." The video for "Smooth" attracted plenty of viewers by featuring popular actress Cris Horwang.

Student Weekly recently had a chat with Prew - vocalist Phattharakun Haynes (Benz), 23, guitarist Veerasit Jimanusorn (Bank), 22, bassist Jira Srichompoo (Chee), 24, and drummer Nattapol Krong Viriyapap (Joe), 23 - when they dropped into our office during their press tour. The guys told us all about their band and their smooth sound.

Student Weekly: How did you guys get together to form Prew?

Joe: Bank, Chee and I have played music together since high school. We later met Benz when we were practising at a music studio. We got along well, so we decided to form the band together.

Student Weekly: Why did you choose Prew as the band name?

Benz: It has a good meaning. It means that we can get through any obstacles smoothly.

Student Weekly: If you had a chance to create your own musical fusion, what styles of music would you like to combine?

Bank: I'd like to try mixing traditional Thai musical instruments with modern sounds.

Student Weekly: Who are some of your favourite artists?

Chee: I like disco music and Jamiroquai.

Joe: I like ModernDog, but my favourite drummer is Chad Smith from Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Bank:Muse. I always watch their live videos before I perform. They inspire me to give my all onstage.

Benz: I like R&B singing styles. When we're recording, I'm usually inspired by Bruno Mars and Brian McKnight.

Student Weekly: How would you describe your music?

Benz: Our music combines '80s musical styles with modern melodies. It's a perfect blend.

Bank:Our producer Tom Bunyarit likes it when young bands adapt '80s-style music in their own modern way.

Student Weekly: How did you come to pick "Smooth" for your debut single?

Benz: The song sums up our band's personality. When our producer was hanging out with us, he noticed that we have a smooth way of approaching girls. The song's about a guy who likes pretty girls.

Student Weekly: How did you feel about your first performance at Siam Square?

Bank:We showed up there without announcing our performance, so we felt good when people stopped to watch us. Some people even took pictures and videos. It was great fun.

Student Weekly: Can you tell us about your next single?

Benz: It will be a ballad about an uncertain relationship. It's about a couple who are no longer sure if they still love each other.