Bobaflex's Marty McCoy on playing Amityville on November 29th, his history with Long Island, and choosing great covers

Formed in 1998 by brothers Shaun and Marty McCoy in West Virginia, hard rock band Bobaflex has released eight full-length albums. The latest studio effort, Eloquent Demons, was released earlier this year and features an interesting cover of the Pink Floyd classic "Hey You." The McCoy brothers -- now playing alongside vocalist/guitarist Jake Earley, bassist Jymmy Tolland and drummer Tommy Johnson -- have weathered many difficulties in their two decades together, including deceitful record labels, departing members, and changes in rock radio. In turn, it is wonderful to see that Bobaflex is now succeeding as a headlining band while still doing things on its own terms.

Now on the road in support of the aforementioned Eloquent Demons, Bobaflex will be playing at Amityville's Revolution Bar & Music Hall on Wednesday, November 29. To learn about that gig and plenty more, I spoke with Marty McCoy. More on Bobaflex's past, present and future can be found online at www.theofficialbobaflex.com.

Have you ever been to Long Island aside from touring?  

Marty McCoy: Unfortunately no. We are always in and out. I long for the day I can take it all in. 

Where was the first gig you ever played on Long Island?

Marty McCoy: I think it was at The Crazy Donkey in 2008. My brain cells are working overtime trying to remember that far in the past. I know we did a show with Life of Agony on Long Island. I'm confused and scared now. It was long ago in a galaxy far, far away.  

Eloquent Demons is the latest album from Bobaflex. Will you be playing a lot from the new album on this tour?

Marty McCoy: We'll be doing about five songs from the new album. As much as I'd like to play them all, it's not fair to the fans to play a self-indulgent set. (laughs)

Do you have a favorite song on Eloquent Demons? 

Marty McCoy: It changes weekly, but right now I think it's "Lights Out," which is gonna be the new single. It's got a "Word Up" kinda vibe with heavy guitars. We used a talk box on the riff. That's something I've always wanted to do.

One of the things that Bobaflex is most known for is its ingenious choices of cover songs. Do you feel a lot of pressure when choosing covers?

Marty McCoy: Not at all. We just pick songs that we loved when we were kids.Pink Floyd is my all-time favorite band. I was dying for an excuse to do one of their tunes.

Upcoming touring aside, what else is coming up for Bobaflex?

Marty McCoy: New single and two new videos. We're pretty hands-on when it comes to shooting videos. I guess we could all be labeled control freaks. 

Is there something you wish more people knew about Bobaflex?

Marty McCoy: We have three lead singers. People don't realize that until they see us like. Being in a band is all about the creative balance of each member. Our motto is, “if you want to sing it then by all means let it rip.” I think it keeps the sound interesting when you have several different voices taking the lead.  

When you're not busy with the band, how do you like to spend your downtime?

Marty McCoy: Is this a trick question? (laughs) I've haven't had any downtime since 2003. It’s Bobaflex 24/7!

Eloquent Demons aside you have a favorite album of 2017?

Marty McCoy: I'm in love with the new Nothing More record. It's fresh and heavy as a ton of steel. Avatar's new album is my next purchase. Those guitar players are from another planet. 

Finally, Marty, any last words for the kids?

Marty McCoy: Don't do drugs and be nice to each other. Also, pick up a copy of Eloquent Demons. You'll be the coolest kid in school.