Over the past year, electro-rock outfit have evolved into one of the most popular new acts in the country. Having scored a slot on this year’s Kerrang! Tour alongside All Time Low, The Blackout and Young Guns, the band have also ventured out on a mammoth UK/Europe tour with Kill Hannah. Now, with a summer of festivals and the release of their sophomore album “Inside The Machine” ahead of them, In The Crowd spoke to front-man Laurence Rene about the band’s plans…

Hey Laurence. You made quite a big impression on the Kerrang! Tour- how do you think the tour benefited you as a band?

We got to play to a whole lot of people who we may never have met or had the chance to play to. The benefit was many fans for life, and winning over those that may have been skeptical of My Passion. It only makes you stronger playing to people who already have an opinion, you have to be on top of your game and winning people over is one of the hardest things to do. That’s why we were so happy with our response on that tour.

What can we expect from you on your new album “Inside The Machine”?

Well we’ve taken the My Passion sound that has become key to us but taken it further in all directions. There are huge guitars riffs but more advanced synth layers; there are heavier rhythms but softer, more delicate parts- intimate moments, then some very epic ones. There have been no limits to what we do, nothing is taboo in My Passion and that’s what makes being in this band so exciting and enjoyable.

You’ve got a busy summer ahead of you- including a trip to Japan. When you were playing shows in Hitchin to a handful of people, did you ever dream My Passion would get this far?

We have always had a great confidence and belief in My Passion. It isn’t an arrogance, it’s just a complete love for it. When we’ve been writing the songs and imagining the stage shows and performances we’ve had stadiums in our minds. We have a long way to go but the vision is there for it! And we really don’t mind working very, very hard. 

You’ve been playing alongside some formidable names at events such as Download Festival. Do you ever find yourself starstruck?

I’m not one to get that often because I know that anyone, however great, is still a human- probably with many of the imperfections that our race has. But there are a few out there that would probably make me shake if I met them, out of respect rather than godly persona I think.

The band has a massively dedicated fan base that seems to be brought together by the Internet. How important is the internet to the band, and do you think it’s hindered you as well as aided you in ways?

I’d say the Internet is a secondary meeting place. These people have ultimately come together at a live show and had some great experiences together, as have we. It’s like some amazing times in a giant family with moments that you remember forever- it’s quite a feeling. I wouldn’t say the Internet hinders us, it’s just an extension of communication. Really, as long as people remember to be part of reality as well, it’s a fine and healthy thing.

You’ve got your biggest headline tour kicking off later this year- are there any big surprises in store for fans?

Yes- some pretty big ones I think, but surprises aren’t surprises if you let all the juice out before then…

In The Crowd also gave several My Passion fans the chance to ask Laurence questions of their own…

When did you realise you wanted to be a part of the music industry? - Kelsey, Glasgow.

It was probably my teenage years when I got more heavily into music and realised how exciting, unpredictable and therapeutic it was to make music with my family. I didn’t start playing guitar and tinkering on the piano till quite late on and we’ve been working at it for years, it’s amazing to see it develop. 

What do you have to say to your critics?- Natalie, Hertfordshire.

Not very much actually, just to stay open to our music in the future, it’s forever evolving and all i ask is that it’s listened to with as open a mind as possible. Inevitably there will be people it doesn’t appeal to, but it appeals to me and it seems to be appealing to a whole world of different people- I’d much rather focus on them and doing what I love than ever worry about any critic.

If you could be any type of tree, what would you be and why?- Jack, Hertfordshire

An Oak tree, because it sees a lot of life and stays strong and grand. My least favourite? A Christmas tree- such a short life and once the festivities are over I’d get chucked out the back half naked, what a sorry end. Although, it does have beauty and a whole lot of attention for a couple of weeks…no, I’d definitely stick with long lasting.

You wake up faced with a zombie apocalypse, what do you do?- Georgina, London.

I’ve always wondered whether I’d fit into society or whether I’d go for complete carnage and end in style. I’m still undecided.

Whether you’re a fan of My Passion or not, prepare yourselves for their impact- because the future only holds bigger and better things for them.

Gig Etiquette: Ten points to remember at your next concert.

It’s no surprise that with a growing music scene comes a whole wave of new fans. Live music can be thrilling, passionate and life-altering experience…if you know what to expect and how to handle yourself. With this in mind, I’ve compiled my well-honed list of points to remember.

Rule #1: If you want to be at the front, you’re gonna have to wait it out. All too often I see people turning up twenty minutes before doors with a shocked look on their face that they will not be in the front row. Never forget that for every band you love, there is a massively dedicated following willing to brave drunken tramps and sub-zero temperatures to be against the barrier. 

Rule #2: Manage to get on the barrier? Don’t complain about it. You’ve probably got one of the best views out of however many hundreds of people in the room. The fact of the matter is, these people will not give up the fight to claim your spot- they’re gonna push you, and it’s gonna hurt. This isn’t an excuse to shout “ARGH STOP PUSHING!!”. It’s not the fault of the person behind or next to you, so don’t take it out on them. Especially not with your elbows, you long-limbed cretins. You know who you are.

Rule #3: Be prepared to duck. Just as much as overpriced merch and being doused in beer, crowdsurfers are a way of life in this scene. The way to protect yourself is to prepare yourself. If you see a security guard stand up on the barrier, cover your head because there’s a human missile headed in your direction. If the person falls on you, for the love of god, push them up. It may hurt when their foot is on your neck, but it’ll hurt more when they crush down on you. 

Rule #4: Make the security guards your friends. See that setlist on stage? You want it? Talk to the guards before the show and between bands- get to know them, ask them about their day, anything. Not a lot of people appreciate the difficult job they do, so they will respond if you’re nice to them. A little kindness goes a long way, and will reciprocate itself in your new friend looking out for you. Also, this skill is vital when it comes to getting water off of them. 

Rule #5: It’s not a fashion show, but consider your outfit carefully. If you don’t want your hair getting pulled, tie it up as tight as you can. A face full of your perm will ruin the night of whoever is stood behind you. Lads, this one is for you: I don’t care how hot and sweaty it is, there is no excuse for ever taking your shirt off. Ever. Also, and this goes for everyone, please shower. It’s never a pleasant experience being crushed together, but your curry armpits will only exacerbate things.

Rule #6: The mosh pit is unforgiving. This one is simple; if you’re afraid of getting a little roughed up, stay the fuck away from the pit. It can be tremendous fun when you’re prepared for it, but you will most likely fall over if you’re not. It’s not so much a case of hurting yourself sometimes- you’ll just look like an idiot. 

Rule #7: Respect your fellow gig-goers. If someone needs to get pulled out, or falls over, you help them out. It’s as simple as that. Do unto others as you wish them to do unto you.

Rule #8: Tall people will stand in front of you. Accept it. Do not try and push a tall person out of the way- the reason they’re infront is that they’ve been here longer. Besides, you’re trying to shift someone who’s much larger than you- think of the physics of it. Put up with it or move. 

Rule #9: Have fun! You’re there to enjoy yourself! If you have room to dance, by all means dance (note: if you’re in the first two rows, you cannot dance without looking either like a trout out of water or elbowing people in the eye socket). Sing along by all means. Make it a night to remember.

Rule #10: No high heels. Under any circumstances. Ever.