Всё в меру or All in Measure is an undiscovered treasure in the local grunge scene, due to being in the russian circle and having a poor connection with the bubble that is known as the Riga scene. The band has 1500 followers on instagram (slightly more than Nikotīņi, the “cult” local band) and still remains unknown for most. Their music video for a single “EVTANAZIJA” that has a potential to win somekind of Latvian music award, being professionally filmed in various wild areas (Lithuanian hill of crosses, school, church, jumpscene from an actual bridge, epic makeup for face scars, underwater takes etc.) has been published for 8 months now and has only 500 views. What is this phenomenon of a band? Where do they get their ideas and how can they afford to realise them?
Here’s an interview with Riga’s grunge/stoner band Всё в меру.
1. Hey! Thanks for finding time to chat. First of all, let’s start from the very beginning. How did the band started? Who’s in it? And what’s the idea behind this project?
Hi, Dave, thanks for having us and for the pleasant remarks about our music video. Band was founded in 2020 in Riga by two classmates – Eduard (vocals, guitar) and Daniel (Drums). We went through frequent line up changes until last year when Oleg (bass player) reached out to us from Daugavpils and Jānis (second guitarist) just by hanging around enough got into band.
Original idea behind the band and its name was blending bunch of rock sub-genres, making a new sound, which could introduce itself to a broad audience. Gradually, replacing naive youthful dreams, a more rational and professional approach to the music emerged, leading to a more defined and individual style for the group. Additionally, the name carries a philosophical undertone, signifying harmony in life and with oneself.
2. From the latest posters of your shows I can see you are sharing stages with other local bands that has russian members. Is there some kind of wall between russian and latvian bands in the Riga scene? Why is that? Any story from your experience? Is there a reason you switched your band name to english from russian?
Well, we don’t think that there’s a “wall” separating local russian and latvian rock scene minding that we share the same venues and perform niche, underground music. We’re all in the same boat. Cooperation with russian groups is primarily driven by the fact that we know each other better, closely communicating and rehearsing in the same place. Changing the band’s name and the language of songs to English was our deliberate decision, driven by the future plans to expand into a more global, English-speaking market.
3. Who writes songs in All in Measure and what are they about? How would you describe your music for someone who hasn’t heard of it? What can FILTHY HANGOUT attendies expect from you?
Every member contributes to songwriting, but the lyrics are always written by our vocalist, expressing his and our worldview, attitudes toward society, and the values of the community. This often involves positioning ourselves against societal norms, valuing freedom, and the importance of individual opinions. As our name suggests we induce broad spectre of rhythmical sensations. Gloomy, angsty vibes to uplifting and rioting motifs, our songs will rock the shit out of your intestines, so we advise you to not miss our performance.
4. Could you tell the story behind the music video of “EVTANAZIJA”? How did you afford to film it? I have jumped from that Jugla bridge for fun as well until I was informed there’s floating logs underwater. How long did it took to get ready to jump?
The concept of the song and its video initially envisioned the purposeful creation of a psychedelic, chaotic, atmospheric journey capable of lingering in memory long after viewing. Without exaggeration, it is our most ambitious project in the band’s history. We invested a considerable amount of money, effort, and time in bringing the video to life. Most of the shooting took place in June 2022, a 5-day thrilling adventure across various corners of Latvia and its surroundings in a fully loaded minibus with bags, drums, boards, and equipment. This journey was accompanied by daily filming, sleepless nights, and various challenges.
Ultimately, upon our return to Riga, tired and worn out, fate had its own plans, leading to the irreversible damage of all the filmed files. Thus, we had no choice but to redo the entire journey in August. In the end, despite all the difficulties, we are pleased that the video is available for viewing, and you can watch it. As for the lake jump, for us, it’s nothing ordinary – our vocalist regularly practices it every summer. Later on, the jump from this bridge became a symbol of initiation into the group for future members.
5. Thanks for the interview! Looking forward to hear you live on April 20th!
Again, thank you, Dave, we are grateful for this opportunity and really psyched to be a part of this upcoming hangout of yours!