Max Collins of Eve 6 Talks Midwest Shows, Music Scene, and New Music at Shadow Ridge Music Festival
Eve 6, the iconic American rock band from La Crescenta-Montrose, California, is best known for their chart-topping hits "Inside Out" and "Here's to the Night." Formed in 1995, the band skyrocketed to fame with their debut album Dizzy Up the Girl (1998), which sold over 2 million copies in the U.S. Their follow-up album, Horrorscope (2000), continued their success with over 1 million copies sold, and their 2003 release Speakeasy delivered the hit single "Think Twice." After disbanding in 2004, Eve 6 reunited in 2007 and has been touring and releasing new music ever since. Ahead of their performance at the Shadow Ridge Music Festival in Omaha, Nebraska, on September 9, 2025, we sat down with founding member, bassist, and lead vocalist Max Collins to discuss their journey, the music industry, and what’s next for the band.
Before diving into the Q&A, here’s a glimpse at Eve 6’s candid bio from Velocity Records, which captures the band’s raw perspective on their career and the music industry:
“eve6 isn’t a very good band. they got lucky and had like a hit and a half like twenty years ago and sold some records but who cares. they’ve had all the terminally predictable ups and downs of every other band thats been chewed up and spit out by the machine. their new shit is good but no one will listen or care. eve6 doesn’t really like music and thinks more often than not it’s just a distraction for the dull of mind. eve6 thinks music industry people are the worst people in the world and this includes label people, lawyers, publicists, managers, radio program directors, music supervisors etc. thanks for taking the time away from your fake slack job to read this”
— Velocity Records
Q&A with Max Collins of Eve 6
What stands out about performing in the Midwest over the years?
"Omaha is always a great stop for us. The food scene is fantastic, and the vibe is welcoming. Midwest audiences have a special appreciation for alternative rock—they bring an energy that’s hard to match. Some cities in the region get overlooked on tours, so fans are genuinely grateful when we show up, which makes it a blast to perform."
How important was the local music scene to Eve 6’s early days?
"It was huge for us. We started as freshmen in high school, playing all-ages venues like Cobalt Cafe and Koos Cafe in L.A. Those spaces were vital for young bands, hosting local acts and touring groups. We were lucky to have them. It’s tough now with venues being bought up by corporations like Live Nation, especially post-COVID. Those all-ages spaces shaped us, and it’s a shame they’re harder to maintain today."
What makes a great concert lineup?
"I love eclectic bills. Back in the ‘90s, you’d see a ska band, a hardcore band, a pop-punk act, and a noise band all on the same stage. That variety keeps things fresh. A good bill doesn’t need bands that sound the same—it’s about creating a unique experience with different styles and energies."
What’s a favorite band you’ve toured or shared the stage with?
"We recently toured with We Are The Union, a ska band, and Jake Florez, a communist comedian, and that was probably my favorite lineup ever. We’ve played with tons of great bands over the years—some became friends, others we just admired. Our current approach is to curate bills that might seem unexpected but end up resonating with audiences."
Who was the first band or performer that blew you away live?
"My first show was Korn opening for Pennywise and The Offspring. I wasn’t a Korn fan, but their live energy was undeniable. Then there’s The Muffs—RIP Kim Shattuck. I loved their records, but seeing them live was next-level. They were probably the best live band I’ve ever seen."
What advice would you give to artists using music to share their voice?
"Do what’s in your heart. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to art. Our newer music leans political—we’re vocal socialists and leftists—but that’s our truth. Not every artist needs to be political, but it’s hard to stay neutral in today’s world. Make what feels authentic to you."
Any words of wisdom for aspiring musicians trying to break through?
"It’s tough to make a living in music, so focus on what you love. Follow your artistic vision without chasing commercial success. There’s no shame in having a day job to support your creativity—it keeps you free from the pressures of platform capitalism. Do it for the love, not the reward."
What’s next for Eve 6 in 2025 and beyond?
"We’ve got a new song dropping on August 10, along with a big announcement. I’m also writing an advice column for Input Magazine, which has been fun, and taking on some freelance writing gigs. We’re playing a bunch of shows, fresh off a tour, and there’s more to come. We’re just focused on creating and putting it out there."
Eve 6 at Shadow Ridge Music Festival 2025
We’re thrilled for Eve 6’s return to Omaha, Nebraska, where they’ll perform alongside Tropidelic, Lit, and hometown heroes 311 at the Shadow Ridge Music Festival on September 9, 2025, hosted by Steve Rannazzisi. Tickets are selling fast—grab yours here to support the Lane Thomas Foundation, with a portion of each sale going to the cause. Stay tuned to Gallery Space for more interviews with festival acts, behind-the-scenes insights, and photos from the event!
