Exclusive Interview: Doug Meacham from the Band New Method

With so much music sending out the wrong message to the younger generation, it’s refreshing to come across a band who says they are “Sharing God’s love through music.” New Method — members Doug Meacham, Matt Britton, Justin Culver, and Blake Bachman – is a contemporary Christian band from Westerville, Ohio with a fresh and original sound. They write music with heart and soul that includes a lyrically inspirational message. New Method has played audience-packed shows for the Detroit Pistons, Indiana Pacers, LA Galaxy, Dallas Stars and at Disney World, Universal Studios and many others. If you are looking for inspiration or just want to listen to some good music with a positive spin, New Method won’t disappoint. Doug Meacham, bass and vocals, gives a peek behind the scenes of New Method and how anyone can find comfort in their music’s message.

Tell us about New Method. When did you form the band and how did you guys meet?

Doug: The band formed in 2001, as we were all musicians at the same church. We wanted to do more outside of that setting.

How did you come up with the name New Method?

Doug: The band name was chosen through a vote by our fans. Several of the members were in a band called Blame Lucy, and we wanted a fresh start. That’s where the idea of a “new” way of doing things, or New Method came to be.

What’s one word to describe each member of the band?

Doug: Matt Britton (guitarist) is artistic, Justin Culver (guitarist) is fun-loving, Blake Bachman (drums) is solid, and Doug Meacham (bass & vocals) is the foundation. I have been the consistent member of the band throughout the years, as we’ve had several spots change personnel. I also handle the booking of our tour dates, and management.

Who are your musical influences?

Doug: Switchfoot, Starfield, with a touch of Foo Fighters.

The most memorable concert you ever attended?

Doug: The most memorable concert I’ve attended because of the show itself was a Pink Floyd concert in the early ’90s. They knew how to utilize the lighting, sound, lasers, and props to really keep your attention for several hours. Most recently, a band that really impressed me was Skillet at an arena show here in Columbus. They captured much of the “glam” showmanship that has carried over from the ’80s and ’90s.

If you could perform with anyone in history, who would you choose?

Doug: I would probably choose the band Kansas, as they had some phenomenal musicians and would almost treat their live show like a “jam session.” Seems like it would be a blast to be involved!

New Method aims to send out an inspirational message to its audience. Tell us about the message portrayed in your music.

Doug: We play inspirational music to help encourage teens who might be struggling with life, and looking for a real kind of love. Our Biblical basis for songwriting allows us to use timeless images and word pictures to give hope to the hopeless. Since we mainly play in non-Christian environments for pro sports events, we find plenty of people (both teens and adults) who find comfort in the words of hope that we sing. Sometimes, you find the occasional objection to the gospel message, but we try to remain non-confrontational in our approach.

What do you think about some of the music out there that is sending the wrong message to the younger generation?

Doug: I think artists can strive to be more creative in their approach to expressing their thoughts through their craft. Many of the pop/rock (and other genres) artists today take the easy road of calling people to party and for promiscuous activity. Why not try to use music to make a difference in the world versus just stating the obvious that boys are looking for girls, etc. We feel that we are given a responsibility to give the listener something to change their life, as we have asked for their attention. Why not deliver?

Tell us about New Method Faith and Family Night Tour.

Doug: The Faith & Family Night Tour was developed in the early 2000s as a new way to share the gospel, reach thousands, and be able to travel around the country with our tour. Our first date on the tour was with the Detroit Pistons NBA team. Since then, we’ve had nearly 100 dates on our tour with teams in the NBA, NHL, MLS, AFL, Pro Baseball, and at amusement parks in over 35 states. We found our niche market with this tour, and have taken full advantage of the opportunities given to us. We play a pre- or post-game concert for the events. And, they will often have us sing the national anthem before the game. We’ve played in venues such as Soldier Field, Mile High Stadium, the Meadowlands, and Disney World.

Can you share a behind-the-scenes story from one of your performances?

Doug: Before an arena football game on one of our tour dates, a couple of the guys decided to throw a football on the field after sound check. Well, one throw caused our guitarist to lay out for it without putting his hands down to catch him. He ended up landing on the bridge of his nose, and had to play the show with a bloody scrape on his face. It looked like someone punched him just before he went on stage. We have also had sprint races on the NFL football field at Mile High Stadium. It’s fun to be on your own before the fans arrive in these big arenas and stadiums.

When you guys aren’t working on music or touring, what do you like to do for fun?

Doug: I enjoy sports, which goes nicely with the venues we play. We’re based in Columbus, Ohio, so we are all big Ohio State Buckeyes fans. We haven’t started playing for college events though. That may be next to pursue!

Are you working on any new projects? Any tour dates coming up?

Doug: We have a new CD releasing through EMI’s E1 Entertainment called “The Path To Leave Behind.” A music video will be shot in March to support the project. Our next tour dates include the Syracuse Crunch, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Marion Blue Racers.

Check out New Method’s official website and the Faith and Family Night website for a tour schedule and the latest news.


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