How did you get to play together? In college, Neil and Miguel started out by jamming together to what eventually became songwriting. They would perform at open mics and private parties from time to time and got a lot positive feedback. Desmond came into the picture after seeing them perform at a local bar where he worked. He mentioned that he was a speed metal drummer and if he could try out. Although him being a “metal” drummer raised some reservations if he could fill the spot with the right sound, Desmond came through and provided just the right element that the music needed. Pepper was a longtime friend who had been our sound engineer, providing PA when we started to play real gigs. He took a real interest into how we were developing as a band. We added him as our bass player soon after. About a year later Jamie joined the band after hearing about us from a friend and checking us out at one of our shows.   How and why you decided to take part in Emergenza? We signed up for Emergenza 2004 on a whim, just to see what would come of it. The prizes were definitely an incentive, especially the first place prize to be a part of the Taubertal. To our amazement, we had such a positive experience performing with so many talented bands, meeting people, and making contacts, that we wanted to try it again this year.   What the Emergenza experience means for you, and for your local up and coming music scene? We feel that Emergenza is an excellent way for bands to network and expand their fan base.  For Band Called Pharisee, Emergenza gave us the push to work harder, and the extra confidence to feel that there is something special in store for us.  Because of Emergenza, we are now taking our first steps to make our music global.   Did you expect to win the national final?   We felt that we had a strong chance,but in this business of music we just try as much as we can to give it 100% and expect nothing in return.  All we can do is be Band Called Pharisee. Of course we hoped to win, but the only expectations we had was from ourselves. That is, to put on a great show and win over anyone who was there.  We are very grateful to have won. How do you feel about the Grand Final?   We are excited to perform in Germany with so many other bands from around the world. At this point for us, it is no longer about competing. We just want to get on stage and do what we do!  We want to bring our music to Germany and have a good time doing it.   How would you describe your music?   Our diverse backgrounds and individual tastes generate a unique layering of soul, Latin, blues, R&B, metal and rock that we like to call  rock-soul.  Imagine a layered blend of Black Crowes, Kravitz, Zeppelin and Santana topped off with a bit of a Sevendust edge.   What about your relationship with your fans? Do you think their number has grown up since you have played in Emergenza?   Our fans have done an amazing job spreading the word about us, especially in the wake of our success. Since playing in last year’s Emergenza, the number of fans has grown dramatically. More projects for the future?   We are in the process of recording a full-length album and are setting up some tour dates for the Midwest (USA).  Meanwhile, we’ll continue to perform locally in Chicago and have fun doing so.   Any special comment/thank you about Emergenza?   Thanks to Emergenza for the opportunity. As difficult as it is to try to break into the music industry, it’s great to know that there is an organization like Emergenza that is willing to give anyone with the will and determination a shot.