Chillin’ With Venrez

An “epic alt-rock” genre seed is planted by the diverse and talented band, Venrez.

A few years of fronting a rock band was all it took for lead vocalist Ven, to grow eager for his musical passion to reach a new level. In the summer of 2009, his urge evolved into action. He met Jason Womack, a former bassist and a co-song writer for Juliette Lewis and the Lick’s. The two went on to make a pact to pump out music together full time, and never see the end of it.

Ten years later, the results of their pact include four well-reviewed studio albums and various tours with big names such as Alice Cooper, Slash, Buckcherry, Hardcore Superstar, Michael Schenker and punk legend Richie Ramone.

Ven claims that his band, Venrez, has generated a whole new genre of music, which he refers to as Epic Alt Rock. It’s sound entails an in your face, raw rock ‘n’ roll, with intelligent lyrics that provide important themes. Ven’s powerful vocals and Womack’s ability to make one guitar sound like three; embody the heart and soul of Venrez. The “extra- kick,” and what sets the band apart from others, is supplemented by the French drummer Victor Singer and Brazilian bassist Gabe Maska.

Singer attended the Berklee College of Music where he developed a unique energy behind the kit that never allows the band’s intensity to falter. Maska is the group’s newest addition, serving as the secret rhythmic ingredient of the band. He has been chosen several times to perform in the Ultimate Jam nights, which showcases the best of the best artists in Hollywood. More on the band can be found on twitter, @venrez21, and Instagram @venrez. Chilled sat down with band leader, Ven, to find out his cocktail of choice and more.

Tell us a bit about the projects you are working on.

The band has been writing new songs together and will have our 5^th studio release ready for early spring 2020.

With your busy schedule, what do you like to do with your downtime?

I write songs during my down time, scooter around Los Angeles, and I love to hit our Western state rivers for some fly-fishing.

When you go out to eat, where do you like to dine?

I am a huge Mexican food fan, so I tend to head out for that every chance I get. Also, I love those steakhouses.

What types of dishes do you usually order?

I love getting Taquitos, Carne Asada, and Filet at steakhouses.

Do you cook?

I did learn to how cook in my late teens, and I am a pretty damn good chef.

What types of drinks do you order when out?

Depends on the situation of the evening. My main drink is whiskey and vodka Martinis. Any good quality alcohol, I will not discriminate against. (laughs).

Do you prepare drinks at home?

Only when we have guests over. I tend not drink at home otherwise.

Do you own a home bar?

Nope, no home bar.

If you did, what would it be like?

It would have lots of glass, mirror, and wood. It would be stocked with the best vodka, scotch, bourbon, and beer.

What is your favorite cocktail?

Stoli Elit Martini with blue cheese olives.

Have you ever been a bartender?

Only at a few parties hosted by myself, or my friends. I’ve never worked in a bar or restaurant.