StickSkills.com recently had the chance to talk with Courtney Fortune of electro/synth-pop duo Two Tribes in reference to their latest single Madly, which will be joining the already massive roster of available downloadable content in Rock Band 3. Teaming up with Rock Band Relief, a portion of the proceeds from each purchase will be donated to the American Red Cross to support distaster relief across the globe. It’s a win-win; more songs for you to play and you’re helping others at the same time. While no release date for the track has been officially announced by Harmonix at the time of this interview, in the meantime you can check out a full-length gameplay video of Madly featuring Pro Keys support and three-part vocal harmony below.
Now, for what we promised before, our exclusive interview with Courtney Fortune:
How did Two Tribes first hear about Rock Band Relief and proceed to go about getting Madly into Rock Band 3?
CF- John G. at Rock Band Relief contacted me a couple months ago about getting involved, and at that point Madly was still just a demo. But I think he saw something special in the song and championed us to do it. Rock Band is really Madly’s debut and we’re so excited about it being an actual game! Teaming up with Rock Band Relief has been a great experience too, it’s just another way to create awareness about the American Red Cross and get our fans involved.
With American Red Cross, you have the opportunity to help provide disaster relief across the globe. How important was the inclusion of charity factoring in your decision to join Rock Band 3’s track list?
CF- When we started talking to Rock Band Relief, Japan had just been hit by the devastating 2011 tsunami. I’ve spent some time in Japan and have a special connection with it, so of course I jumped at the chance to help out. When you download our song, a part of the proceeds will be donated directly to the American Red Cross – I think it’s a cool, unique way to bring music and gaming together for a great cause.
How big is it for the band personally to see your work featured in a video game that millions of fans worldwide play daily?
CF- Oh my God it blows my mind – I never thought I’d see myself on a videogame! It’s an incredible feeling to know that people are into our music and I think something like Rock Band gives fans a chance to be a part of the band with us. I love that. I want people all over the world to feel that connection.
Time for the million dollar question: Have you had the opportunity to sing Madly in the game yet? If not, will you? I’ve heard many musicians say it’s not as easy as it looks.
I have not gotten to play it yet! I have a feeling I’m going to just bomb it my first time haha. But Rock Band did release a full game-play preview recently and I got to see what I look like as a 3-D avatar – crazy! Plus they gave me some sweet leather pants, so as long as I can rock those I’m happy.
What’s next for Two Tribes, both musically speaking and professionally? Any chance we see the band in Harmonix’ newest title, Rock Band Blitz?
CF- Right now we’re recording our debut album and putting together a very cool, multi-media live show to take on the road. And I just found out that Madly will be available for Rock Band Blitz this summer, which is totally awesome. I’m just thrilled to be a part of something as big and wild as Rock Band, and I can’t wait for what’s next.
Rock Band 3 AND Rock Band Blitz appearances? I envy you, Ms. Fortune. As both a gamer and musician, you’re living my dream.
While I am far from an expert on the nuances of electro and synth-pop, the hook is undeniably catchy and I’ve found myself humming the vocal melody on multiple occasions. To receive a free MP3 of Madly, be sure to like Two Tribes on Facebook and click on their BandPage. If you plan on purchasing Madly when it becomes available, let us know by leaving a comment below or discuss it in our forums!