Welcome the feature where we ask musicians or bands five really tough questions about music! Today I speak to the artist Derek Smith and the Cosmic Vultures  whose new album Opus was released at the beginning of this month.

What is the hardest lyric you have ever had to write and why?

I honestly don’t think I’ve ever had a hard time writing a lyric. I try to keep it as real as possible. I find myself almost incapable of telling lies. I need to be as honest as possible. That’s what makes me feel the most comfortable. But I can tell you what my favorite lyric is off the new album, November’s Opus. It’s from the song “Masterpiece”: “The show girls dance with a phony smile.” I find this to be the epitome of how synthetic and fake this world has become. 

That lyric wraps it all up for me. Grandeur entertainment with a big, fake grin.

What is the weirdest gift or compliment a fan has given you?

People try to hug me after a performance and I have to explain to them that I am very sweaty or soaking wet from sweat. One person once told me that they prefer that and proceeded to hug me. Mmhmm.

Who is the best band or musician you have had the pleasure to share the stage with?

Our current band, The Cosmic Vultures. Michael Strakus, Steve Constantino and Dalton DeLima. That’s my ultimate pleasure. Sharing the stage with my band for every show. Knowing we have each other’s backs and knowing that I am playing with the absolute best musicians I know.

What one of your songs has been the most difficult to rehearse for a live audience?

In the past, “Psychotherapy” was always a challenge. There’s a lot of parts to the song and it was written when there were more than four members. So now it’s become challenging trying to make it sound remotely like the record. It’s currently not in our setlist. I know a lot of our fans really enjoy the song, hopefully we will play an updated version soon.

Dream collaboration and why?

I’ve come to the point where I have tried to stop idolizing people to a certain point. One person who we are currently working with on this new record is an extraordinarily talented pianist, Justin Lopes. When he adds piano to one of my songs, it feels like a dream. I’m very lucky to be working with him.