OVTLIER’s Joey Arena on Keeping Rock Real in a Digital World
For Joey Arena, music has never been about following a formula. As the frontman of OVTLIER, Arena has built the band's identity around heavy music, creative freedom, and staying true to himself.
In a recent Press Play Radio Conversations interview, Arena discussed OVTLIER's latest music, his influences, and his concerns about technology's growing role in music.
Fighting the Digital Age
OVTLIER's latest song, “Digital Hell,” explores society's dependence on technology, from constantly being connected to concerns over privacy and AI. Arena admits that even he has to remind himself to step away from his phone and “touch grass.”
He misses a time when music could speak for itself rather than artists constantly worrying about algorithms, social media posts, and online engagement.
That same philosophy carries into OVTLIER's music. Arena believes musicians need to develop their craft rather than rely on technology to do the work for them.
From Guitarist to Frontman
Arena originally started as a guitarist, drawing inspiration from artists including Nirvana, Metallica, Randy Rhoads, Eddie Van Halen, and George Lynch. While Nirvana influenced him through songwriting, Metallica pushed him to explore the technical side of guitar playing.
His transition into becoming OVTLIER's vocalist ultimately gave him the freedom to write music for himself. After years of feeling pressured to fit other people's expectations, Arena says he is now happier than ever as a songwriter because he no longer writes for trends or outside approval.
Inspired by Rock's Rebels
Arena's influences span generations, but his love for rebellious rock and metal is clear. Mötley Crüe, the Misfits, Danzig, and Van Halen are among the artists he holds close, with Mötley Crüe being his dream band to join.
His appreciation for artists who refuse to conform mirrors OVTLIER's own approach. Whether he's writing music, designing the band's visuals, or planning music videos, Arena wants the freedom to create without being boxed into a specific identity.
Keeping the Human Element
Despite his frustrations with the industry and technology, Arena's focus ultimately comes back to people. When rising touring costs forced OVTLIER to cancel upcoming dates, he prioritized paying his crew rather than leaving them without compensation.
For Arena, being in a band is about more than making music. It's about staying creative, supporting the people around you, and refusing to sacrifice authenticity for the sake of a trend.
In an increasingly digital music world, OVTLIER is determined to keep things human.