Today we’d like to introduce you to Mike Plummer
Hi Mike, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
In my previous interview with Voyage Austin, I talked about the origin story of the band and at that point, we were pretty new to the scene. Since then, we have played countless shows around the city, and have hit San Antonio and Tyler as well. In the summer of 2024, thanks to the Austin Live Music Fund, we had the incredible opportunity to record five new singles with renowned producer Chris “Frenchie” Smith. The first single, Blood Groove, was released in October of 2024 which was followed by our first real music video produced by Michael Payton. It showcased an energetic live performance and our knack for dark humor. We have been consistently releasing these singles, playing live, and plan on touring ASAP.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
One of the toughest challenges has been getting the whole band on the same page. Over the past two years, I’ve gone through multiple lineup changes, which is never easy. You build strong bonds simply from the time spent together—practicing, playing live, and just hanging out—so it’s tough having to tell someone they’re no longer in the band. I can be stubborn in wanting my bandmates to think the way I do and share the same level of commitment and vision. Of course, it’s a tall order, but I truly believe that with the right members, this band can go far.
At the end of the day, Shivering Demons is my top priority—I’m obsessed with it. I wake up thinking about it, I go to sleep thinking about it. I think about the friends and family I left behind to move here and chase this dream. I don’t want to let them down—or myself. That drive fuels me, and I want my bandmates to have that same level of dedication.
I also tend to be hard on myself, always focused on what’s next—the next song, the next video, the next show, the next step forward. Sometimes, I get discouraged looking at raw numbers or comparing us to other bands in the city, wondering if we should be further along. It’s something I’m working on. I have to remind myself that growth takes time and that I’m on the right path. Fortunately, I have a strong support system that keeps me grounded and reminds me of that.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Shivering Demons deliver a unique blend of groovy punk, grunge, and alternative rock, fueled by wild, high-energy live shows. We’ll play anywhere, and we make every performance an experience. I love experimenting with setlists, finding ways to connect songs so they flow seamlessly. We’re also all about fully embracing a theme—if there’s a chance to dress up, I’m going all in. I love creating a character for the night, an archetype that embodies the music. It breathes new life into the songs and gives the audience something unique every time.
When we play live, we want every song to hit with the same raw emotion it had when it was written. We don’t shy away from jamming and improvisation, either. Harnessing that chaotic energy in the moment is when I feel most proud. There’s nothing like fully letting go, allowing intuition and spirit to take control. That willingness to embrace the unpredictable is what sets us apart.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
When I told my girlfriend three years ago that I wanted to move to Austin to pursue music, she didn’t hesitate for a second. She simply said, “Let’s go. I believe in you.” She has always been by my side, supporting me through every high and low. I’ll always be indebted to her for that.
My family was sad to see me go, but they’ve always stood behind my passion, and that means the world to me. Many of my friends back in Massachusetts still check in, always eager to hear about my latest endeavors. Their support, even from afar, keeps me going.
If I were to name every teacher, mentor, or random person who has encouraged me along the way, this interview would never end. But I hope they know that, no matter how small their gesture may have been, it helped fuel my fire.
Lastly, I owe a lot to the musicians I’ve had the pleasure of sharing the stage with. There’s something powerful about playing alongside people who are truly in it with you—who would follow you straight into a volcano. That kind of camaraderie is rare, and I don’t take it for granted.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiveringdemons/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@shiveringdemonstv
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5YGmpKbhEa5PprPBSitZjU?si=uhRTCFWBSm2PAipsL2CO4A
Image Credits
Tom Egan
