Stuart Maxfield

Although Provo, Utah, isn’t short on successful, locally-based bands, success doesn’t necessarily negate the opportunity for a band to make a life of music within the first few years. Fortunately for Fictionist frontman Stuart Maxfield, a long-standing background in music and a host of reputable talent allows him to make a living of teaching and writing, while simultaneously focusing on the future of his band.

Fictionist is known as one of the hardest working bands in the area, and it shows. With a continually (and fast) expanding fan-base, consistent social media band-to-fan relationships, and frequent tours throughout the US, it’s no wonder that Stuart needs to commit so much time to Fictionist.

But where did the frontman for a high- profile rock band get his start at? Playing the violin. "I begged and begged my parents to let me take lessons when I was six," says Maxfield. Today, even though he plays several instruments well, he first considers himself a violinist. His first band experience came when he was twelve years old, when his older brother convinced Stuart that he needed to play the bass for his band, even though he hadn't ever played before. Years later, Stuart and the other five members of Fictionist are writing, playing and producing intelligent, holographic jam-rock...giving them opportunity to play at festivals like SXSW, to sold-out crowds between Provo and L.A., and attract the attention of people throughout the world.

THE SAME SEVEN QUESTIONS WITH STUART MAXFIELD

Who or what inspires you?
I try to not go looking for inspiration, like a lot of people who seek it out in New York or L.A., but rather be inspired by my natural surroundings… I think authentic art takes inspirations from normal, mundane life.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?
Ah, I get bored too fast! I think that is why I appreciate music that is patient, and not being in such a rush all of the time.

What makes you happy?
Playing music, friends and family. Good guitar solos…a good bassline.

What is your greatest fear?
I am most afraid of letting people down, those that are close to me. More of a petty fear… I am afraid of sharks. I once saw the dorsal fin of a dolphin in Newport Beach and convinced myself it belonged to a shark. Needless to say, I stay out of open waters.

What makes you laugh?
I am a sucker for stupid movies…UHF is one of the best stupid movies! …And Aaron [Anderson] makes me laugh, he is authentically funny.

Who are you listening to right now?
Well, I actually have been writing a lot lately for a film score so listening has been limited. But Wilco is one of my favorite bands, their Sky Blue Sky is one of the best albums. And I have been most intrigued lately by The Black Keys.

What fictional character do you identify with most?
Don Quixote.

Watch videos, listen and take a look at Fictionist's latest album "Lasting Echo," at Fictionist.com.

Posted by Kaneischa Johnson
Photographs by Matt Clayton
June '10