Today we’d like to introduce you to Inner Outlines
Hi Inner Outlines, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Inner Outlines formed as a 4 piece rock outfit in 2014 consisting of members Matt Hall (Vocals/Guitar), Andrew Range (Guitar), Cody Walker (Drums), and Billie Dean Smith (Bass).
After splitting away from previous projects, the band as individuals were ready to consider that the music world maybe wasn’t their place. But after a trip to Warped Tour that summer, Cody decided to message Matt for the first time in hopes of starting up a band just one more time. They met at a pizza shop in Carrollton, IL (Alfonso’s Pizza) and instantly got to work on original music. By the second week of practice, Andrew and Billie had joined, and the band met each other as a whole for the first time. We were all different, but shared a love for music creation and made a decision. One more try.
The band needed a name. Since we had started playing together, we had felt that we had a good outline of what a band should be. So initially, we were thinking “Outlines”, but Billie pipes up with a
“No, INNER OUTLINES!”
And we took it to heart.
Inner Outlines picked up speed and started to book shows in St. Louis within 8 months of writing songs and spreading the news. We’d get together 3 times a week just always wanting to be around each other in that artistically truthful and honest place we had started the band on. And then early on in the band’s career, Billie Dean Smith had passed away that November, leaving what would become a life long impact to the band. We questioned whether it was right to continue without our brother. The one who gave us a name and so much more. After many tears and conversations, we decided to keep going not only for ourselves, but also for our friend who no longer had the choice to join us. Our latest single is a remake and song called “Another Lover’s Night Alone” from our first record “Late Night Thoughts” (2015). That was the first and only song we wrote from scratch as a team as the original line up, and it means so much to still have him with us 10 years later.
Inner Outlines now consists of Matt Hall (Vocals), Andrew Range (Guitar), Cody Walker (Drums), & Dylan McCormick (Guitar)
Since then, Inner Outlines has played in front of many crowds in the Midwest region. Inciting an eclectic wave of music ranging from hard hitting freight train songs like “Sick” & “Reincarnate”, to softer takes on the genre in songs like “Take Me” and “Build It Up”.
Inner Outlines has supported acts such as:
Pierce The Veil, Sleeping With Sirens, Beartooth, Four Year Strong, Smile Empty Soul, & more.
Inner Outlines has released 2 albums, 2 EP’s, and continues to release singles to this day.
Late Night Thoughts (2015)
It’s Not Safe Here EP (2016)
Perspective. (2018)
Miracle EP (2023)
and singles in 2024
“Gravity”
“Sad Summer”
“Another Lover’s Night Alone”
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Back when the band started, there were plenty of struggles coming from a place with no music scene. We made St. Louis the hub of a lot of our endeavors, which is a lot of driving to the normal person, but we were always willing to make the trip in any condition. There was also a lot of convincing back home to do. Obviously, starting a band in the middle of nowhere can raise a few eyebrows. Especially for original alt/rock in a place without that exposure to a louder live music culture. Fortunately, times are changing. Music is more alive in the communities we call home on this side of the river, and we hope this is the beginning of really bridging the gap between up and coming acts in St. Louis and more established acts alike to come see the rock starved people of IL!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Inner Outlines is an Emo Alt/Rock project with influences like Foo Fighters, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Paramore, Beartooth, A Day To Remember, Sleeping With Sirens, along with other Alt Rock/Metal acts.
We’ve always based our songs on the feel. We write what we write. Inner Outlines has a blend of energetic drum parts, driving guitars, and honest lyrical content exploring the trials and emotions of life’s moments good and difficult. Because of that, most of our ideas have made it all the way to a release date. Giving a real-time approach to our story is what makes this band what it is. We have so many great memories with all sorts of amazing fans while we write this story of ours, and hearing their stories of how our music is a part of their lives. We’re proud to be a representation of our fan’s feelings and to also help in the process of their validation. Emo as heck, we know.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Set a day. One day a week dedicated to moving your project forward. Even if you only get a little bit done, make time.
Don’t just talk about your music. SHOW YOUR MUSIC! SEND IT OUT TO RADIO! PODCASTS! LIVE STREAMS! There are way more people willing to help spread the music than you’d think at first.
Budget yourself. Being in music means spending money on your music. Set aside some investment money and get yourself the things you need to represent your music the best possible way. Video gear. Recording gear. And find yourself a good producer or two you like to work with!
Music is timeless. So what if you released that song 3 years ago? Music will always be new to someone who hasn’t heard it yet! Show it off, always!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.inneroutlines.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inneroutlines/profilecard/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1Ao2NePvX6/
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@inneroutlines
- Soundcloud: https://on.soundcloud.com/mG6bUyVsVJj62wVC7
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@inneroutlines
Image Credits
All Photos were shot by Photographer: Nick Heger
Final Image is our White Branding Logo with a Transparent Background for Overlay
