punk and new wave and all the other things we listen to, but we're our own thing". Regardless of the tune, the Phenomenauts' songs deal with the subjects of science, outer space, and robots. "We’re trying to take smartness and nerdiness and jam it together with cool and sexy and have ... all of those things happening at the same time". The band truly believes in the topics both on and off the stage. The members are interested in science, astronomy, technology and humanity. The band believes that using a theme of space and the future allows them more freedom to write about present-day issues. The song "Earth Is The Best" calls for inspiration and caring about the planet. "The Tale Of Europa" considers how isolated cultures might react to new visitors and traditions. Corporal JoeBot attests that the Phenomenauts' music can help push forward ideas and make the world a better place. "A lot of bigger music industry corporations want a watered down, formulaic, non-confrontational musical direction. There’s no challenge. I believe that can change, and that we can make a difference". Creative process When creating their music The Phenomenauts consider themselves a working democracy: "All songs were communally written and arranged". In an interview Nova stated "different people come in with different song ideas, and then we all collaborate". For the album Escape Velocity, bassist Atom Bomb noted "For instance, one week we gave ourselves a homework assignment. We had to each bring in a new song to the next practice". Promoting science and learning The Phenomenauts' motto is "Science and Honor". The phrase was captured in the song "Science And Honor" on their 2008 album For All Mankind. But the words are "more than just a nifty catchphrase" says Commander Angel Nova. "'Science and Honor' has become a genuine way of life. Science is the search for truth, without any kind of agenda, ... and honor is honesty and integrity. ... So, honest search for truth and don't be a jerk, what more do you need to live by? It's something that I actually honestly believe in". The band has done several shows and releases promoting science and learning. Nova said "it is especially great when we can trick someone into learning something". In 2011 they played at the Sacramento Freethought Day, an event "encouraging ... science and the First Amendment". In 2014 they played the Bay