Set For Tomorrow
Meet Set For Tomorrow, the latest feature in our Tune-In New Pick series. Hailing from Richmond, Virginia, this outfit is carving out a unique space in the heavy music scene by blending metalcore, heavy rock, and hyperpop. While they have been navigating the independent space for years, they recently hit a major milestone by finding their definitive sound on their new EP, ARCS. We had the chance to chat with the band about their transition from DIY to signing with Thriller Records, their eclectic influences, and the gear that started it all.
Finding "The Sound"
Set For Tomorrow has been a DIY operation for quite some time, but their recent signing to Thriller Records marks a shift into a full-time focus on touring and writing. However, like many great artists, their recording origins were humble. “I had a Line 6 UX2 interface and Pod Farm on my 2011 Macbook,” the band recalls regarding their first setup. “I started on FL Studio and Studio One, so shout out to them for getting me started in my recording endeavors!” From those early digital interface days to their current polished production, the band feels they have finally landed on their true sonic identity with the ARCS EP.
The Inspiration
For Set For Tomorrow, the creative spark is fluid. “It’s always changing and I love that,” they explain. Inspiration often strikes when hearing a new track and wanting to experiment with a specific vein, or from life experiences that demand to be written about. But the magic is also found in the band's internal collaboration. “Sometimes it’s an idea that our other guitarist James has, or even a concept that our vocalist Eyker brings to the table.” This openness allows them to experiment with different sounds rather than staying in a single lane.
Eclectic Inspirations
What makes Set For Tomorrow’s sound unique is that their influences stretch far beyond the metal genre. While they share space with new-age bands like The Home Team, their creative fuel comes from unexpected places. “The biggest influences I bring into writing definitely vary. I would say primarily I like artists that have heavy atmospheres and soundscapes.” They cite atmospheric artists like Tycho, Crumb, and Marconi Union alongside groovy acts like Black Pumas and St. Paul and The Broken Bones. This diversity bleeds into their process. “Sometimes it’s a sample focus, sometimes it’s a concept or a riff. The last song I wrote started with a little anime-sounding guitar lick that I really liked, then turned it into a heavy riff.”
Views from the Road
When asked where they feel most at home on stage, the answer was split between Rochester, NY, and their hometown of Richmond. “Usually those crowds get pretty rowdy and have a good time.” But for Set For Tomorrow, the touring experience isn’t just about the mosh pits; it’s about the journey in between. While they joked that the highlight is stopping at Buc-ee’s for brisket and bread pudding, the real beauty lies in the drive. “Nothing beats driving through the beautiful mountains of West Virginia and other views alike.”
The Long Game
Set For Tomorrow is proof that success is rarely an overnight phenomenon. When asked for advice for up-and-coming creatives, they emphasized resilience. “Keep your head up during those heavy down times. I was getting ready to throw in the towel because of how much I felt like I was spinning my wheels, but out of that struggle came a record deal after 12+ years of grinding.” They also highlighted the importance of the human element in the music industry. “Be easy to work with and a good hang, and that alone will get you further than everything else mentioned.” For the band, music isn't just a career path; it is essential. “It’s everything. It’s my whole life and I can say that for everyone in my band too.”
Someone Lonely
Set For Tomorrow is backing up their hard work with their newest single “Someone Lonely.” The track sets the stage for the release of their debut EP with Thriller Records, ARCS, out now. You can listen to “Someone Lonely” below and check out their exclusive merch.
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