My name is Swam. I play guitar and do vocals in a punk band called The Karens. I also work on a black metal band called Kvokodil occasionally, and I play bass in a crust punk band called Weaponized Existence. That’s pretty much my entire life.

On the topic of starting off in music: “Anyone can do it, regardless of genre. The music industry is very much alive. We’re going through a recession, but it likely won’t always be like this. You just gotta believe in yourself and know that anything you set your mind to is possible. The Karens are definitely not the only punk band making a name for ourselves. Lots of bands are having success lately. You just have to practice a lot, have good songs, do proper recordings, etc. Legitimately don’t ever worry about being too cringey. The Germs have had multiple members go on to be in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Pat Smear has been in Nirvana and Foo Fighters. If he can do it, literally anyone can.”