We had the good fortune of connecting with Ryan Vasquez and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Ryan, why did you pursue a creative career?
I knew I wanted to be a writer since I was in elementary, except I wanted to write fiction. As the school years progressed, I proved to myself that I work with that side of the brain more so than the side that understood and applied algebra. Plus, I played percussion throughout middle school and high school and at the same time couldn’t deny my passion for metal music. It wasn’t until junior college when I figured a path to join both passions (metal music and writing) and take a serious approach to it.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Since 2017 I’ve been writing about the Texas underground metal music scene. I speak with local unsigned bands from around the state and learn about their music and and all factors involved in creating and producing their material. From the cover art artists, to studio matters and personnel, venues and life on and off stage. Everything I learn about these artists is then shared with the public for the purpose of exposure to their brand. I also review their material in great detail to provide honest feedback and to inform the general public who may or may not have been exposed to these artists before.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love the venues here in Austin that support heavy music. Any metalhead that has ever passed through Austin will definitely come to know and respect Come and Take It Live. The Lost Well, Mohawk and Kick Butt Coffee are also cool places to get a cold beer and catch some live music. What’s even better is that right outside most of all our venues here there’s a food truck waiting to neutralize your buzz level because the law here don’t play, especially in downtown Austin, brah.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
One of the persons that absolutely provided me with every tool and resource possible to help me discover my path and continues to encourage and inspire is Mac Aipperspach, Retired Professor of Radio/TV of Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, TX.
Also, Educator and Photographer/Videographer Ray Garcia, founder and owner of “Once In A Lifetime Productions” for being a mentor throughout the entire start of my professional journey and being a true friend.
Also, for taking a chance on me being his organization’s public relations intern and introducing me to the business side of the music world–an experience I can’t thank him enough for– I must recognize Producer, Sound Engineer and CEO of Hammer Forged Records based in Corpus Christi, TX, Robert Beltran.
Not to mention my family and friends who’ve helped me, encouraged me and continue to put up with my crap throughout this whole journey.
Website: republicofmosh.com
Instagram: @RepublicOfMosh
Facebook: Republic of Mosh – Texas Underground Journal
Image Credits
Note: the children in the photos are my son Vicente Sol Vasquez and my daughter Valentina Lorén Vasquez. The guy I’m shaking hands with in the photo is Robert Beltran