Meet from left to right above, Troy Darrow, Daniel Chong, Jordan Darrow & Alex Mackenzie, together they form Howick / Whitford band Audio Pilots. Originally formed in May 2007 through Auckland School Of Rock the band is made up of talented young bloods - brothers Jordan and Troy are age 16 & 14 and long time school friend Dan is 15 years of age. In 2008 the trio met fellow rock lover and guitarist Alex, age 14, in East Auckland, who completed the ensemble. The foursome just rocked the massive crowds at the recent Parachute Festival & it looks like there's no stopping them now. We talked to Dan and Alex about the band...

What inspired you guys to form a band? How long have you been playing for?
Dan: We pretty much said ‘Alright let’s start a band cause we feel like it 'and that was that. I have been playing guitar for about 3 Years.
Alex: I joined the band last year because it was a good opportunity to join an already established band.

Describe your sound in three words.
Dan: Hardcore Relaxed Punk.
Alex: Pop, Rock, American (lol)

What are you working on as a band at the moment?
Dan: Writing new songs, trying to get tight as a band so that we can get more gigs.
Alex: We're also trying to ceate some new music with a bit of a different sound.

What’s the long term goal for your band?
Dan: I’m not sure actually... to be recognised I guess.
Alex: To make it big in Auckland then NZ, and so on.

Which artists have been the biggest influence on you?
Dan: Senses Fail, Paramore, The Clash
Alex: It would be hard to nail down to a few because I have many influences.

Who would you say is your favourite NZ band and why?
Dan: Pitch Black - electronica is mah jam.
Alex: Elemeno P because of their great kiwi sound.

What has been a big achievement for your band so far?
Dan & Alex: Performing at Parachute 2010!
Alex: Also, doing well at Rockquest.