From fronting the chart-topping pop band The Stereos to carving out a new path as a country artist, Delta Sweet (also known as Patrick Kordyback) has never been afraid to take his music in a new direction. We caught up with him for a quick 10-question dive into his musical journey, what inspires his sound, and how in-ear monitors (IEMs) play a role in his performances today.
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in music?
On June 28, 2000 (yes I remember the date), I saw a band called AFI play to 400 people in a small club and I knew right then and there I wanted to play music. They looked and sounded unlike anything I'd ever seen and I was hooked. I quit hockey, I quit skateboarding, and have never wanted anything else since.
Can you share a memorable moment from your musical journey that has had a significant impact on you?
I remember the first time my band Stereos came back to our hometown in Edmonton and sold out a venue where I'd seen so many of my favourite bands growing up, it really struck me how far we'd come from playing in the basement. Sometimes it's hard to stop and appreciate all your wins, but that one was special and thankfully I realized it in the moment.
What influences have shaped your style of music?
I think I'm someone who is just as inspired by things I see as things I hear. So of course other musicians I admire, but also where I'm from, movies I watch, people I talk to, it all finds its way into my songs.
If you could create a soundtrack for any historical event, which one would it be and why?
Probably the Edmonton Oilers winning their first Stanley Cup because I can't imagine anything getting me more fired up than that, as I wasn't born or was too young to remember any of their Stanley Cup wins.
If you could teleport to any concert in history, which one would you attend and why?
Probably any show on Aerosmith's "Pump" tour ('89-'90). Metallica, the Cult, and the Black Crowes were openers and any combination of those would blow my mind.
If you could collaborate with any artist, living or deceased, who would it be and why?
Tom Petty because he's the best ever.
What's the most memorable feedback or reaction you've received from a fan?
When Stereos did our reunion shows in 2019, we were able to connect with so many fans who told us that they were able to find long-lasting friendships that are still strong today from going to our shows back in 2009. Many of them now had kids who were friends with each other, going back to those early connections. That's as special as it gets.
How did your collaboration with Plunge Audio begin?
I had heard about Plunge from other musicians for awhile and knew I needed to give them a try. Once I did, it was clearly a step above from any other IEMs I'd used previously.
What specific features do you look for when choosing IEMs for your performances?
Clarity and consistency. Sometimes you aren't working with the best gear from venue to venue, but I always feel confident that I'll be able to get what I need out of my IEMs.
What advice would you give to other musicians who are considering using IEMs for the first time?
Well especially for singers, I think it's sort of a non-negotiable. Everything from your pitch to your vocal health depends on your technique, which is almost impossible to regulate without properly being able to hear yourself.
