Interview with Vocalist Helena Cos from Spider Rockets

By Mick Michaels




Cosmick View: Hello, Helena, and welcome to The Cosmic View. Thanks for taking some time out of your day to speak with us. It's greatly appreciated.

CV: What do you feel are the biggest obstacles original bands are facing right now, especially competing with the rise of tribute acts nationwide? Is there still a place for original Rock music on the local and regional levels?
Helena Cos: Cutting through today’s noise takes more than talent—it’s about hustle, branding, and a live show that leaves a mark. But there’s room for both tribute acts and original rock. Tribute bands might have an easier path as they are like musical comfort food. But original bands like us bring the raw, honest energy that keeps rock alive. Fans want something real, and when we deliver, they stick around. Rock’s not going anywhere—it’s just getting more interesting.

CV: Has the overuse and dependency on backing tracks these days among artists and bands on all levels taken away from the raw, grittiness that comes from a live Rock ‘n Roll performance, in your opinion?
HC: Live shows have evolved — everyone uses different tools to bring their sound to life on stage. What really matters is the energy you bring and how you connect with the crowd.

For us in Spider Rockets, it's all about that raw, in-your-face feeling — the sweat, the volume, the unpredictability. We bring everything we’ve got every time we hit the stage. You’ll hear that same fire in our new album Dirty and Bad — it’s gritty, hook-filled, and full of unexpected turns. Live, those songs take on a whole new life — and that’s where the real magic happens.

CV: Spider Rocket’s latest record, ‘Dirty and Bad,’ which released this past May, has just exploded, making its way on three separate Rock charts! What can you tell us about the album and what do you feel sets it apart from other titles in the band’s catalog?
HC: We’re really excited about the response to Dirty and Bad! To see it land on three rock charts out of the gate has been wild — and honestly, it feels like a reflection of the energy we poured into this record.

Every album is like a new chapter in our story, and Dirty and Bad captures where we are right now. It’s a natural evolution — still unapologetically Spider Rockets, but sharper, punchier, and more unfiltered. Dirty and Bad is crunchy, grindy, slithery, and yeah — it’s a little nasty in all the right ways. Catchy riffs, sing-along moments, and unexpected musical twists. One minute you're shouting along, the next you're thrown sideways by something you didn’t see coming.

We wanted this album to feel like a ride — intense, gritty, and alive. It pushes our boundaries in a way that feels honest and a little dangerous, which is exactly where we like to be.

CV: What comes first… the lyric or the melody for you in terms of songwriting? How much of a role does the guitar riff play in how you write?
HC: Sometimes the lyrics come first, other times it’s the melody that shows up first. A lot of my initial ideas actually hit me when I’m doing something totally unrelated — like going for a run. I’ll get a line, or a melody stuck in my head, so I record it on my phone before it disappears, then build on it later.

Other times, it all starts with a killer guitar riff or a chord progression that sets the tone and vibe for everything else. That riff can totally steer where the lyrics and melody go — it’s all part of the puzzle coming together in its own way.

CV: Is there a certain level of inspiration you require to keep the juices flowing?
HC: Inspiration can come from anywhere. Sometimes it’s just a beat or a rhythm that sparks something. Other times, it can be a news story, the title of a book, a line from a poem, a feeling or even the cadence of a pop, metal or rap song. So no, I don’t think there’s a required level of inspiration — anything can light that initial spark.

But that’s just the beginning. The real work comes in fleshing it out — shaping the idea into something that connects and holds up. Inspiration starts the fire, but it’s the follow-through that turns it into a song.

CV: Has modern music evolved to the point where “it’s all been done already as many critics like to believe,” or is there still some room to grow from your perspective?
HC: Absolutely not—it hasn’t all been done. Music constantly evolves. We’re seeing more diversity, emotionally rich storytelling, and digitally driven innovation than ever before. Our new album Dirty and Bad reflects that—it’s a noticeable evolution in perspective and sound from our previous releases. Rock and hard rock, especially, have broken free from old radio formulas. They’ve become more experimental, inclusive, and global. So from where we stand, there’s still plenty of room to grow—and we’re here for it.

CV: If you had to give one specific reason as to what sets Spider Rockets apart from other bands, what would it be and why?
HC: We sneak up on people a little—then surprise them with a raw, no-nonsense energy that somehow packs way more punch than anyone expects. When I’m on stage, my vocals don’t just sing—they snarl and snap, Johnny’s riffs land like well-aimed punches, and Dan’s drumming keeps everything rolling like a runaway train. AJ’s bass lines are the perfect blend of tasteful and badass—punk-tinged with just the right amount of swagger, adding depth, groove, and attitude to round out the band’s sound. We don’t just play a show; we pour everything into it, hoping to leave a lasting impression. And if it sticks with you after the last note, then we’ve done our job.

CV: What more can fans expect to see coming from Spider Rockets in 2025 and beyond?
HC: We’re planning live shows that’ll bring Dirty and Bad right to you—loud, messy, and hopefully shaking a few bones along the way. On top of that, we’ve got more singles and music videos coming out, each with its own little twist and a lot of heart. Whether you’re seeing us live or rocking out at home, there’s definitely more fun and energy headed your way. So buckle up—it’s going to be one hell of a ride!

CV: Thanks again Helena for taking the time to share with our readers. We wish you all the best and continued success.

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My name is Mick Michaels...I'm an artist, music fan, songwriter, producer, author (When We Rocked), show host, big dreamer and guitarist for the traditional Heavy Metal band Corners of Sanctuary. Writing has always been a creative outlet for me; what I couldn't say in speech, I was able to do with the written word.  Writing has given me a voice and a way for me to create on a multitude of platforms including music and song, articles, independent screenplays, books and now, artist interviews. The Cosmick View is an opportunity to raise the bar and showcase artists in a positive and inspirational light. For me, it's another out-of-this-world adventure.





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