Since the band formed in 2007, Balance and Composure has released three records. Their most recent album, “Separation,” was released in 2011. The emo-punk quintet has since been touring the country and will make a stop in Syracuse at The Lost Horizon on Jan. 30. Lead singer and guitarist Jon Simmons sat down with The Daily Orange to discuss the evolving music scene, performing with friends and the future of the band.

The Daily Orange: Your music lends itself to intimate shows. What is it like playing in that setting?

Jon Simmons: It’s awesome — we love playing small intimate shows where kids can sing along and be close and part of the show. We also get to play with friends and we love it because they’re friends. But we also love seeing our friends, getting good reactions from the crowd and seeing their hard work pay off. It makes things more fun.

How has your sound developed in your full-length album, “Separation,” compared to your first two releases?

I feel like it’s just time. Growing up and playing more and more, you learn how to write songs better. It’s just growing up really, and becoming an adult. It changes how you feel about life.

How is the punk and emo scene evolving, and where do you fit in that change?

Underground music, the scene we’re involved in, is getting kind of big right now. Some bands are taking off and it’s cool to see. For a while there was a lot of emotionless music. I think it’s cool to see these bands who are real and have real feelings. They’re in the band for the right reasons, instead of trying for money and girls. I feel like we’re part of a scene that is more involved in the art of music and creating something of substance. It can move people. I love seeing it grow, and I hope it continues.

How much do you collaborate during your writing process?

 It’s pretty much all a collaboration. Someone usually writes a little riff or something for a verse — just an idea. We put it in garage band and send it to each other. We review it and say, ‘hey that looks cool, let’s practice Tuesday.’ It starts with one person’s idea, then we build off of that with our own ideas.

What’s next for the band?

 We’re always writing. I don’t know if we’re going to record any time soon. There are talks that there might be something in 2013. Until then, we’re going to have a new split coming out with Braid. They are one of my influences actually. They’re the reason I wanted to start this band. It’s crazy that a band of that caliber wanted to do a split with us. It doesn’t feel real at the moment, but I guess it’s happening.

Published on January 15, 2013 at 10:41 pm

Contact Joe: jtinfant@syr.edu | @joeinfantino