With a pair of Youngstown natives in the band, we’re always watching to see what Free Henry! will do next.

Among the highlights from the last year was a headlining gig at Artpark’s Rock the Park.

BelowTheFalls.com chatted with Youngstown’s Derek Presti, the band’s bassist. Here’s what Presti had to say during out recent discussion:

BTF: Tell us about the most recent release. Has it taken the band in any new directions?

Presti: Yes it has, just recording the record for the past two years really challenged us as songwriters to put together our best material. We’ve been able to create what we feel is a powerful piece of art. Musically, it’s also brought us in a new direction. Ethereal Gust, has a totally new sound with different styles. We think it still holds true to the Free Henry! sound and our fans have all given us great feedback.

BTF: How laborious is it to put together an entire disc?

Presti: There are challenges along the entire process, especially as an independent band. All four of us have a very hands-on approach in the entire process from writing the music to working with the engineers at the studio and finally to getting the product from the manufacturer. The entire staff at Robby Takac