Eric Nally of Foxy Shazam Reflects on Rock and Roll’s History
Eric Nally, the lead vocalist of Foxy Shazam, has a newfound appreciation for going barefoot, finding a sense of recharged energy from connecting with the earth. While reflecting on the band’s name, he recalls the origins of “Foxy Shazam” stemming from a compliment about stylish shoes in high school. Foxy Shazam has recently launched their ninth album, “Animality Opera,” followed by a successful Rockin’ Rolla Coast Tour earlier this year. Notably, their music has been featured in James Gunn’s show, Peacemaker, and they collaborated on a song for a Superman film.
This October, Foxy Shazam unveiled their latest album, “Box of Magic.” Nally, characterized by shoulder-length dark hair, a moustache, and a soul patch, presents a softer demeanor offstage compared to the band’s high-energy live performances. He describes this duality as simply a flick of a switch, allowing him to embrace freedom and emotional improvisation on stage. Transforming the band’s sound from nu-metal origins in 1997 under the name Train of Thought to their present eclectic mix of genres, including glam rock, funk, and soul, was a gradual evolution. Green Day’s album “Dookie” ignited Nally’s passion for music, while discovering Tom Waits inspired him to embrace and celebrate his unique style.
After transitioning to Foxy Shazam in 2004 and releasing their debut album, “The Flamingo Trigger,” the band navigated through label changes and released several more records. The turning point came with the independent release of “Gonzo” in 2014, where the band realized their creative potential and embraced their true identity. Following a hiatus to rest and recharge, the band regrouped in 2020 to release “Burn” independently and continued to produce music at a prolific rate. Their latest work, “Box of Magic,” was recorded at the famed EastWest Studios in Los Angeles, infusing the band with a powerful sense of gratitude and connection to the history of rock and roll.
Nally emphasizes the importance of taking breaks and exploring diverse creative opportunities, such as collaborating with Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. These experiences enriched his artistic journey and fueled his passion for music. Despite challenges in the music industry and shifting dynamics within the band, Foxy Shazam’s unwavering commitment to their craft has led them to new heights of success and artistic fulfillment. “Box of Magic” symbolizes a vibrant, dance-worthy celebration of life, showcasing lush orchestrations and soaring vocals that capture the essence of the band’s spirit and musical evolution. Through their music, Foxy Shazam continues to honor the ghosts of rock and roll’s past while paving the way for a dynamic and innovative future in the music industry.