A Dirty Dozen with TRAVIS JOHNIDES from BITTERS AND DISTRACTIONS – October 2025

Photo credit: Melissa Johnides

According to a recent press release: “Acoustic punk duo Bitters and Distractions will release their new single “The Threads” on October 17 through Berkeley-based independent label Sell The Heart Records. Hailing from Long Island, NY, Bitters and Distractions is comprised of Jeremy Quitko and Travis Johnides, who together channel the energy and urgency of punk rock through stripped-down, acoustic-driven arrangements. While the instrumentation may be minimal, the emotional weight is anything but. Bitters and Distractions began as Jeremy’s personal songwriting outlet, often drawing from his formative years in Colorado and the loss of a close friend. The project evolved when Travis began composing music to accompany Jeremy’s words, sparking a creative partnership that resonated with listeners and transformed the duo into a fully realized band.” We get guitarist Travis to discuss new music, influences, and more…

1. Tell us a little about your latest release. What might a fan or listener not grab the first or second time they listen through? Are there any hidden nuggets you put in the material or that only diehard fans might find?

We take great pride in consistently writing and releasing new music. Our recent EP, The Home That Procrastination Built (released March 15, 2024), and our seasonal single “Punk Rock Christmas” (released December 6, 2024), reflects that momentum. Most recently, we announced our upcoming single “The Threads,” set to release on October 17, 2025 via Sell The Heart Records. On The Home That Procrastination Built, half the tracks feature guest vocalists—including Matty Lupinacci of Gone Stereo and Will Romeo of Neckscars. Their talents definitely added a lot of depth and nuance!

2. What got you into music, and can you tell us about the moment you realized you wanted to be a musician?

The Monkees were my gateway into music. Watching their TV show as a child sparked something in me. A few years later, I saw the video for Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer,” and that was the moment I knew playing music was what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

3. Building on that, is there a specific song, album, performer, or live show that guided your musical taste?

Bon Jovi’s Slippery When Wet was a major influence early on. It really helped shape my musical direction. Later, Green Day’s Dookie had a huge impact as well, further solidifying my love for punk rock.

4. If you could call in any one collaborator to do a song with, who would it be, and why?

I would be thrilled to collaborate with Conor Oberst. His work across projects like Bright Eyes, Desaparecidos, and others consistently showcases his depth as a songwriter. I admire his ability to convey emotion and he’s an artist who, in my opinion, can do no wrong.

5. What is your favorite activity when out of the studio and/or not on tour? What do you like to do to unwind?

Outside of music, we take great pride in our roles as fathers and husbands. Spending quality time with our families is what grounds us and brings us the most joy. It’s our favorite way to unwind and recharge.

6. How would you describe your music to someone who’d never listened to you before? What is the one comparison a reviewer or fan has made that made you cringe or you disagreed with?

We’re a punk band at heart, though we happen to be a duo and perform acoustically. That said, we’ve occasionally been labeled as “folk punk,” which doesn’t quite resonate with us. While we respect the genre, we don’t incorporate traditional folk elements like banjos or fiddles. Our sound is rooted in punk ethos and energy, just delivered through acoustic instrumentation.

7. When your band is hanging out together, who cooks, who gets the drinks in, and who is first to crack out the acoustic guitars for a singalong?

Honestly, our hangouts are pretty laid-back. We usually head to a local restaurant, grab a bite, and catch up on life. It’s more about meaningful conversation and connection than singalongs or kitchen duties.

8. When was the last time you were starstruck and who was it?

At this stage in life (being in our 40’s), it takes quite a bit to feel starstruck. It’s been a long time since we’ve had that experience, and honestly, it’s not something that happens often anymore.

9. What is the best part of being a musician? If you could no longer be a musician for whatever reason, what would be your dream job?

The most rewarding aspect of being a musician is the ability to connect with people through our music. It’s a powerful and universal language that transcends boundaries, and being part of that is incredibly fulfilling. If I could no longer pursue music, I’m not entirely sure what path I’d take as music has always been the core of what I do.

10. What is one question you have always wanted an interviewer to ask – and what is the answer? Conversely, what question are you tired of answering?

We’d love to be asked more about Sell The Heart Records. They’re an incredible label that consistently releases outstanding music and supports artists in meaningful ways. For anyone interested, we highly recommend checking them out at www.SellTheHeartRecords.com. As for questions we’re tired of answering, it’s actually the lack of questions about Sell The Heart Records.

11. Looking back over your career, is there a single moment or situation you feel was a misstep or you would like to have a “do over,” even if it didn’t change your current situation?

Honestly, no. We’re firm believers in trusting the journey and allowing things to unfold naturally. Every step we’ve taken has shaped who we are as a band today, and we’re proud of that evolution.

12. If you could magically go back in time and be a part of the recording sessions for any one record in history, which would you choose – and what does that record mean to you?

It would be The Beatles. To be a fly on the wall during their writing and recording sessions would be an incredible experience. The creative energy they brought to their work is something I admire.

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Category: Interviews