You might remember Alex Band as the lead singer of alt-rock act, The Calling. With those days behind him, he’s ready to rock, solo-style. Frequency Magazine recently caught up with Band (yes, that’s his real last name) for a quick chat filled with new album news, advice for music industry up-and-comers, and his favorite companion, his…Ferrari?

Frequency Magazine: Welcome, Alex! As most people know, you were lead singer of The Calling. Now you’re on your own and approaching it in quite the business-savvy way! Can you tell us more about your partnership with Zorbitz and the Black Star bracelets?

Alex Band: Zorbitz and I got together and created this awesome line of rock n’ roll jewelry. We designed a line of 12 bracelets that each stand for something such as “luck” and “miracles” and each bracelet has a song off of my new album that ties in with what it stands for. So with each bracelet purchase you get a download of that specific song as well as headshots, ringtones, and video messages from me. The more bracelets you get the more of my album you will have as well as getting more bonus features. This is a way for me to pre-release my album and in a way that has never been done before. It’s really unique and you can check out clips of my songs and see the line at blackstarbracelet.com.

FM: You’ve also started your own label. With your first solo album, We’ve All Been There, coming out in stores this year, how does the so-called “indie” experience differ from major label music making?

AB: It differs in so many positive ways. I can call all the shots and make every decision along the way. Since I am the only artist on my label, I don’t have to worry about competing with others or being shelved or any creative arguments about my music. I truly can see every penny going in and out and know why and when it happens. None of this is possible with a major label.

FM: You’ve famously collaborated with Carlos Santana, Idol winner Kris Allen, and singer-songwriter Joanna Pacitti. Do you have any dream collabos or, since you’re hitting the road this year, dream tour mates?

AB: I love writing for and with other artists and I hope to be doing a lot more of it. Bono from u2 is definitely my idol, so writing or getting to open for him or even meet him would be a dream come true. I really hope to achieve that someday soon. For now I am traveling all over the country on my own doing radio station promo and some shows here and there. I’ll be starting full band shows in may when the album gets released and then I’ll head over to Europe.

FM: Speaking of American Idol, you’ve undoubtedly been in the contestants’ shoes at one time or another. What advice would you give to those getting started in the ever-changing music industry?

AB: I would say to stay true to yourself first and foremost and to try and do everything you can on your own. Get people to back you and invest in you and your music and do everything you can to stay away from labels. It may not always be easy, and I am proof of that but it is so worth it to be able to control your career and the music you work so hard to create.

FM: Final question (and it’s always a fun one)! You’re quite the Ferrari fan, it seems. Would you ever consider having your own “Ferrari Garage,” Jay Leno style? ;)

AB: Haha, I wouldn’t know what to do with all of those cars. I love to take mine everywhere and some think I am crazy for using it as my daily car… But sure, who wouldn’t want a garage full of amazing cars that you can choose from?! I’d probably donate a whole lot to charity before I ever indulged in something that ridiculous.

FM: Thanks again, Alex, for taking the time to chat with us! Best of luck with the new album!

For more Alex Band info, check out http://www.alexband.net.