Caleb Shomo Interview: Beartooth, Attack Attack! & DIY Touring | Ryan Minic, Ryan's Rock Show

In an interview with Ryan Minic of Ryan’s Rock Show, Caleb Shomo of Beartooth shared stories about the band’s chaotic early shows, his transition from Attack Attack!, and his personal approach to music. He recalled Beartooth’s first-ever show in Columbus, Ohio, at a tiny bar called Kobo. With a legal capacity of around 70 or 80 people, the venue was crammed with nearly double that number, creating an intense atmosphere where fans were climbing the ceiling and eventually ripping down a ceiling fan. Despite the destruction, the venue owner loved it and was already planning renovations, so no harm was done.

Shomo discussed his desire to bring back the raw, DIY spirit of punk and hardcore, playing basement shows, garages, and even barns to recapture the feeling of youthful, high-energy performances. He described an unforgettable show in rural Indiana, where they followed a makeshift road sign that simply said “Show” with an arrow. Initially thinking it was a setup for disaster, the night turned into one of the most memorable and wild performances they’d played.

Comparing Beartooth to Attack Attack!, Shomo explained that his new band felt much freer and more in line with his musical passion. While Attack Attack! often polarized audiences, with people either cheering or calling them “the worst band ever,” Beartooth allowed him to strip away industry expectations and focus purely on playing aggressive, emotionally charged music. He admitted there was far less pressure now, with Beartooth existing purely for the love of performing and creating.

Shomo also touched on his experience working with vocal coach Melissa Cross, explaining how she helped him develop proper breathing techniques after years of damaging his voice. He recalled a tour in Australia with Attack Attack! where his voice was nearly gone for the entire run, which made him realize he needed to refine his screaming technique. Cross helped him understand how to preserve his vocal health, which has allowed him to sustain the intensity of Beartooth’s live shows.

Discussing his friendships in the Columbus music scene, Shomo mentioned his close ties to Twenty One Pilots, explaining that he attended the same church as some of the band members and worked with their videographer. He expressed his excitement for their success, noting that they had worked hard for years and fully deserved their rise to fame.

Reflecting on his years of touring since the age of 15, Shomo admitted that being on the road forces musicians to grow up quickly. He left high school after one year, attempted online classes but couldn’t keep up due to his schedule, and eventually earned his GED. He acknowledged that touring can either break a person or make them stronger, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people. While touring can be mentally exhausting, he finds fulfillment in the experience of traveling, playing shows, and sharing music with fans worldwide.

Throughout the conversation, Shomo reinforced his belief that all music has value if it comes from a place of honesty. He argued that regardless of genre—whether it’s hardcore, electronic, pop, or indie—what matters most is whether an artist pours their real emotions into their work. Beartooth, he explained, is an outlet for raw, unfiltered energy, and he hopes to continue creating music that reflects that passion.

Posted here: http://www.ryansrockshow.com/intervie...