The Criticals

Photo Credit: Daniel Chaney

Parker Forbes and Cole Shugart are both critical to The Criticals. Based in Nashville, the exciting and high-energy duo played together for a decade on the Nashville music circuits before finally deciding to join forces in 2018. Since their coupling and releasing their debut EP, “Mimosa Hygiene”, The Criticals have certainly found their groove. Their sound is invigorating, making plenty of use of steady beats on tracks like “Homebody,” electric guitar on songs like “Under Your Nose,” and powerful vocals on every work. It is no wonder that they’ve picked up global attention and hundreds of thousands of Spotify streams in the process. We recently spoke with both Forbes and Shugart on where they draw their inspiration from, their tenure as newcomers in the music industry, and more!

How did you start making music?

Cole and I (Parker) have been in various bands since we were in middle school (11+ years) until we started The Criticals. Although we are from Nashville, we have no family in music. However, Nashville has been a very accepting community that has allowed us to be continually inspired and supported.

It’s your day off: How are you spending it?

Cole: I love a nice hike, followed by a cold one at Melrose Billiards.

Parker: I go for a run before I throw a round of darts at the Villager.

“Under the Nose” is one of many songs that bring back a sound from a previous generation. Who are some of the artists that have inspired this style?

The Cult, The Stone Roses, and The Libertines

Speaking of other artists, who is your choice for a dream collab?

Cole: I want to make a project with Jimmy Page or Travis Scott.

Parker: Rick Rubin or Mark Ronson.

Where do you draw inspiration from when making music?

Writing songs is more complex than many give it credit. We try to veer away from any formulas.

Tell us about your experiences in the music industry as an up-and-comer.

The music industry is an onion, that continually unravels itself. Just when you think you have a grip, your ideas get turned up side down. This is a good thing. It keeps us from getting too comfortable.

Any future projects for fans to get excited about?

We have been in the studio all quarantine. A lot of new music can be expected in the near future. Next up is an EP called Sour Grapes that we live tracked in a cabin in Turtletown, TN.