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Fearless frontman

Marissa Daniels catches up with glam rocker Justin Tranter of Semi Precious Weapons to talk rock, fashion and NXNE.

Justin Tranter is more than just a musician, he’s a movement. This outlandishly androgynous star is a style icon for both the glam and the grungy. As the lead singer of Brooklyn-based rock band Semi Precious Weapons, Tranter has become the face of “garage glam,” a look that fuses rocker-glam with bold, edgy styles (think guy-liner and six-inch heels). While Tranter is known for his crass-yet-catchy lyrics and energetic live performances, he has recently used his rock star status to propel himself into the fashion world. Recent projects include a line of limited-edition sneakers for DKNY and his own line of high-end jewellery, Fetty of Brooklyn, which is sold at Barneys New York. Tranter has also designed some less-expensive merchandise, such as T-shirts, necklaces and makeup, which are sold on the band’s website. The future looks bright for Tranter and SPW: their innovative music and “garage glam” style have already earned them a major following, and having an entourage that includes Kate Moss and producer Tony Visconti (of David Bowie fame) can’t hurt, either.

Marissa Daniels: What role do you think fashion plays in the world of music?
Justin Tranter: Rock stars are supposed to have big personalities with lots of personal style, creating whole worlds for people to try and figure out. When I was 14 and listening to Hole or Nirvana I wanted to look like Courtney, dress like Courtney, the whole bit. Her fashion was part of the music. Musicians are the celebs that are allowed to look different and inspire peoples' whole way of being.

MD: Your look is very original. Is there anyone who influences you, style wise?
JT: Well thank you so much. When it comes to our style we have the pleasure of knowing Tommy and Roy Couture who own an amazing store in Brooklyn called Alter. I have always had visions of what I wanted to really look like. I’m inspired by Marilyn, the Olsens and Gwen, but Tommy and Roy really made it happen for me. And they help tweak the other boys in the band as well. They are style heroes.

MD: Who are some of your favourite designers?
JT: The Power Rings by DVF are blowing my mind right now, but I'm down with all the big fashion houses like Dior and McQueen. I also really love the Frank Gehry collection of jewellery for Tiffany. I would love to guest design for Tiffany one day. A little rock ’n’ roll for America's jewellery classic.

MD: Who are some of your favourite musicians?
JT: We love ACDC, Led Zeppelin, Trina, Lil’ Kim, Cyndi Lauper and Tom Petty. They get the most play time in our van.

MD: Are you looking forward to visiting Toronto for the NXNE Music Festival?
JT: We are so excited. Honestly, I have heard amazing things about Toronto and the NXNE festival. We love people who love to have a good time listening to rock ’n’ roll. I hope we will find some of them in Toronto.

Check out Justin Tranter and Semi Precious Weapons live at the NXNE Festival in Toronto, June 12th at the Silver Dollar Room and June 13th at Velvet Underground. Their debut album, We Love You, is scheduled to be released this summer.

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