Interview: Common Sage
Common Sage by Michael Dubin
Ahead of the release of their third album, Closer To; we caught up with with frontman Julian Rosen of Brooklyn-based post-hardcore/emo band Common Sage. Known for their introspective lyrics and intricate arrangements, the band’s latest work delves into themes of loss, disillusionment, and a yearning for connection. With legendary producer Brett Romnes at the helm, the album is set to deliver a mix of haunting melodies and raw introspection, highlighted by singles like “Vehicles,” which examines existential questions through the lens of the Heaven’s Gate cult.
In our Q&A with Julian, he opens up about the emotional journey of creating Closer To;, the influence of early 2000s emo on their sound, and the collaborative process behind tracks like “Witness.” From exploring darker, unresolved themes to honouring their roots while pushing the genre forward, Julian reflects on the emotions and experiences that shaped Common Sage’s new album, offering a glimpse into the creative journey behind Closer To;.
What inspired the unique punctuation in the album title Closer To; and how does it tie into the themes of the record?
It’s kind of like a fill-in-the-blank. Whatever you want to come after “Closer To” is what comes after it. The album is about a loss of innocence, but also about growing older, reflecting on the past, and realizing harsh realities. The semicolon represents this open-ended search for connection or meaning. When I read “Closer To,” the next word that naturally comes to my mind is “god,” though not necessarily in a religious way. God can be anything anyone wants it to be, and therefore, whatever comes after the semicolon can be anything—a word, a sentence, or an idea.
Closer To; draws from existential themes. Can you talk about the emotional journey you experienced while creating this album?
Initially, I struggled to pick a central theme or concept for the lyrics. After writing a few songs, I started noticing recurring words and realized I was writing about a loss of innocence. It’s a concept that’s always spinning in my head, so working on this album felt like something I needed to process and express.
How did working with Brett Romnes influence the sound and production of Closer To; compared to your earlier albums?
Brett was the first real producer we worked with, and it was the best experience we could have asked for. He really understood what we were aiming for and felt like the fifth member of the band. His input shaped the record in ways we couldn’t have achieved on our own.
The single "Vehicles" references the Heaven's Gate cult. What made you choose this particular metaphor, and how does it relate to modern life’s disillusionment?
I was watching a documentary about Heaven's Gate, and it focused on the members—who they were as people and what led them to join. It struck me how normal these people were, with jobs, families, and lives, yet they were united by a longing for something greater than the life they had. Their dissatisfaction with the idea of life being temporary resonated deeply with me, as it mirrors a broader modern struggle with meaning and purpose.
How do you approach balancing heavier themes in "Vehicles" with the broader emotional tone of the album?
To be honest, I don’t think I balance them at all. Haha. I’m not trying to be dark or negative; I just write observations and ideas as they come. There’s no overarching storyline or conclusion to the album—it’s more about exploring these emotions than resolving them.
Brooklyn’s music scene is eclectic. How has living and working in such a vibrant place affected your approach to music?
Brooklyn introduced me to many incredible musicians and friends. Its diversity in sounds and people is unmatched. Without Brooklyn, I wouldn’t have met the people I play music with, and Common Sage would likely sound very different.
You’ve been described as a modern take on 2000s emo. How do you honour that era while still pushing the genre forward?
I grew up on that music—watching Fuse and MTV2, and it’s still a huge part of me. I try to make music that I like and would want to listen to. It’s less about consciously pushing the genre forward and more about blending the influences I love into something that feels authentic to me.
Your music seems to resist the traditional post-hardcore breakdowns. What made you choose this more nuanced, artful approach in your songwriting?
I wouldn’t say we’re resisting anything. My influences, like Neutral Milk Hotel, La Dispute, mewithoutYou, Cursive, and Modest Mouse, guide my writing style. These artists had or have something unique, and I draw on that to shape our sound.
Your band is known for creating layered soundscapes. Can you walk us through your creative process when building such intricate arrangements?
I obsess over song structure to the point of procrastination. While I often follow a traditional verse-chorus-verse structure, I focus heavily on the transitions and details. I love creating noise and chaos, but I also value moments of simplicity and quiet. It’s all about finding the balance that feels right for the song.
You’ve had support from industry icons like Geoff Rickly of Thursday. How has their influence shaped your sound or career?
Growing up listening to bands like Thursday was formative for me. Without them, I’m not sure what Common Sage would sound like. They left a massive imprint on the genre and influenced so many bands that continue to inspire me today.
"Witness," features Stay Inside. How do collaborations like these enhance the narrative of your albums?
Chris Johns of Stay Inside used to be in Common Sage and wrote all the music for "Witness," so it felt natural to have him sing on it. While the feature doesn’t necessarily enhance the narrative, it adds something fresh and unique to the song, which is always exciting.
Your music blends post-hardcore with Long Island emo influences. Which artists or albums from those scenes inspired you the most?
Beyond the bands I’ve already mentioned, I’d say Glassjaw, Taking Back Sunday, Quicksand, Balance and Composure, Title Fight, and Touche Amore have been big influences.
How do you feel your new album, Closer To;, will impact the post-hardcore scene? What statement are you trying to make with this release?
“Impact” feels like a big word. Haha. I just hope people listen to it and enjoy it. I’m not trying to make any grand statements—I just take the things I love from music and try to create something I’d want to hear. I’m really proud of the album.
Finally, what have you been listening to lately?
I’ve been listening to a lot of '60s/'70s music like The Zombies and The Beatles, as well as modern artists like Big Thief, From Indian Lakes, and Kevin Devine. The new albums from Foxing, Drug Church, and Balance and Composure have also been on repeat. They’re all inspiring in different ways.
Closer To; by Common Sage is out 22 November via Equal Vision Records, and will be available for streaming on all your favourite platforms.
