Here's the second part of my long-ass interview with Young Sportsmen. Their new CD, Death to Palaces, is being officially released this weekend (Saturday, August 18) at the Sunset Tavern.
The next post will be my review of their record, with song-by-song commentary by Wesley and Ryan.
Young Sportsmen interview, part 2
SPB: Do you guys collaborate, or is it “here’s a Ryan song, here’s a Wesley song.”
Ryan: It’s not so cut and dried. For the most part, I write the majority – I don’t know how much of a majority – but I write the basic structure the chords and the melody, and we’ll work it out in practice he (Wesley) will write the lyrics. He writes 95% of the lyrics.
Wesley: Sometimes he’ll write a line or two that sticks with him and he’ll give me the freedom to come up with whatever. With this project, Ryan is more prolific than I am. I have a tendency to edit as I go, and I’m more reluctant to bring something in until I’m really comfortable with the parts. So, Ryan will bring something in that is fairly fleshed out, and we’ll add parts or whatever
Ryan: And sometimes we keep it and sometimes we revert to the original.
SPB: So, what do you guys think it takes to make waves in the Seattle music scene?
Wesley: Beard and a mustache?
(laughter)
Ryan: A beard doesn’t hurt. But, I can’t grow a beard. So, I’m screwed. We thought about going to a costume shop and buying some beards to see if that works.
SPB: Like long beards? More than five o’clock shadow, but less than zz top? Maybe Abe Lincoln?
(laughter)
(back to serious)
Wesley: I think who you know is just as important now as it’s always been. Maybe easier now, since we’re able to communicate with each other at an instant.
Ryan: I think you have to be good looking and know people who work at the right places.
SPB: Are the right places radio and record stores?
Ryan: You know at like Cha Cha or whatever. And I’m not taking shit about those bands. But, I think that’s kind of a prerequisite, at least to make waves. (pause) That and beards. And I just don’t get it, they look like the cover of a Bread record or whatever.
Wesley: Some of it is also what producer you use, especially lately. A lot of producers are getting a lot of attention. They always have in this town. But, I definitely think the producer you use lends a lot of attention. It was like back in the 80s and 90s putting the name Sub Pop on something gave it attention. It still is. Certain labels or producers will get attention.
Johnny Sangster has been getting, and rightfully so, a lot of attention for the good, solid work he’s doing.
I don’t know that it’s different than it’s ever been. But, I think more attention is being paid to it.
Ryan: Also, weird keyboard parts. Odd sounding synthesizers and whatnot.
Wesley: When it works it sounds great. Keys are fabulous additions to bands when they use them the right way. I was thrilled with The Change (The Small Change) brought Nick in on keyboard.
SBP: Do you guys care about making waves?
Ryan: We want people to like our music. We’d be lying if we said we didn’t. But, not so much that we deliberately try jumping people’s bandwangons. We’re just doing our little powerpop thing and we try to get it into as many peoples' ears as possible. If they like it, great. So, I guess we care. But, not the point where (street noise overpowers him).
Wesley: I think with a band like us… (chuckles) how do I word this? The only thing that would make waves for us is simply the strength of the songs. It’s not going to be the way we look. Or a stage show with something excessive. We don’t have youth on our side, but we have a very youthful approach and enthusiasm to what we do. For us, if the songs don’t cut it…
Ryan: It has to be the songwriting and our live show, which is usually pretty good. I’m not trying to pat us on the back, but we do translate live, and I think that’s because we’re really excited to play. We’re out of control stoked to be playing.
Wesley: If something doesn’t come unplugged or broken, then I feel lucky. But, then I think “what went wrong?”
SPB: What are you hoping happens with this record?
Ryan: I would like it to be more successful than the last one. More people at shows. More sold
Wesley: That’s really about it. This record has been really amazing to make, but also really stressful in many ways. We’ve been sitting on it and working on it a long time. We’re extremely proud of it and that it’s coming out. We’re also excited to start working on the next one. So, just the fact that it’s coming out is the most exciting thing. We’re putting it out, it looks great, it sounds great. We worked really hard to get it where it is. So, if we sold a respectable amount and caught the ears of people who hadn’t heard us, that’d be great. If KEXP plays some tunes off of it, that’d be great. Beyond that, I’d like it to open opportunities to play good shows and good bills. That’s what’s fulfilling to me.
Ryan: I think all of us... I think it’s still a dream to have music be our job. It’s probably not realistic to expect it at this point. But, it’s still okay to hope for it. So, when you do have small successes, it makes it really thrilling. I think this album would help us move toward that, just as much as any record we put out would. Not that we want to sell a jillion records, because that would probably be a pain in the ass. I work closely with a band that’s got that kind of success and some of the stuff I’ve seen, I’d just as soon not have that.
Wesley: But we wouldn’t say no.
(laughter)
Ryan: But, it’s scary to think about not being able to go to the grocery store and things like that. Or be afraid of what some insane fan is going to do. (pause) I should qualify that I don’t think that’s something we’re going to have to worry about. But, it puts it in perspective. I look at that end of the spectrum and think I probably don’t want to have that much success.
Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label interview. Show all posts
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Young Sportsmen interview, part 1
Seattle Powerpop faves Young Sportsmen are having their CD release party this Saturday (August 18) at the Sunset Tavern. I sat down with them late last week to talk to Ryan and Wesley about the formation of the band, their thoughts on local success, and a song-by-song rundown of the new record.
We talked for about an hour and a half at a table in front on Starbucks on 45th and Wallingford, resulting in a pretty lengthy interview. It was all pretty darn interesting. So, rather than edit for length, I'll be taking the straight transcript and splitting it into (probably) a three part series to make it a bit more digestible.
The first section below focuses on describing the band, exploring how they came into being and some of their influences. The second section will focus on how they write songs and what they think about making waves in the local scene (to be posted on Wednesday). The third section (to be posted on Thursday) is a song-by-song breakdown of their new record, titled Death to Palaces.
Young Sportsmen interview, part 1
SPB: Okay guys. Give me three words that describe a Young Sportsmen performance.
Ryan: Loud is definitely one of them
Wesley: That’s probably the first and best word. Spirited.
(long pause)
Ryan: Is that three?
(laughter)
Ryan: Honest.
Wesley: Regardless of the quality of the show, and we’ve run the gamut over the past couple of years, we’re always as straight forward and as honest as I’d like to see a band.
SPB: For Wesley, give me three words that describes Ryan.
Wesley: Uncompromising; I would say, gifted; Stubborn
SPB: And three for Wesley?
Ryan: Funniest guy I know; I’ll say gifted right back; (long pause) Jesus…
SPB: Jesus? Funny, gifted and Jesus?
(laughter)
Ryan: I think open-minded. That word by itself doesn’t describe what I mean by that. But, he’s got broader tastes and exposes me to stuff that’s fantastic
SPB: By committee, what are the three for the other two guys. First for Jeff
Ryan: True professional.
Wesley: probably the kindest person I know and have ever had the chance to play music with,
(pause)
Wesley: heavy hitter
Ryan: A great mixture of technical proficiency and emotion
SPB: And for Richard?
(Both laugh)
Ryan: Princely. (laughter) He’s goofy, but in a really awesome way. He’s immensely talented.
Wesley: An amazing player
Ryan: Also very professional. He and Jeff temper Wesley and I.
Wesley: I think “practical” is a great word for him, in the best sense. He deals with things in a head-on way.
Ryan: he brings his laptop to band meetings.
Wesley: He’s the Sharon Osbourne of the band.
Ryan: Except that Sharon Osbourne is a twat.
SPB: How did you connect with those two?
Wesley: We got lucky with Jeff. Ryan and Burke (Thomas) and I did a little West Coast thing three or four years ago, and Burke had to take off with Vendetta Red. Jeff was going to sit in with us for a show that was being broadcast live on local tv. We had never played with him before, and he played just perfectly.
Ryan: We were writing the set and asked which ones do you know, and he was like “all of them.”
Wesley: There were only one or two more shows left.
Ryan: There was a Portland show and an Oakland show. We showed up at the Portland show, and they ended up cancelling the show. But, Jeff like flew to Oakland to do these two shows.
Wesley: Jeff is totally committed. We got really, really fortunate in that sense. We knew that Burke had a lot of other engagements and we just committed to playing with Jeff after that.
Ryan: With Richard, Heather from the Riffbrokers, we were over at their house and she was like “did you hear the Radio Nationals broke up?” I was like oh that’s so sad… what’s Richard doing? He was great in that band and in Dear John Letters, so I sent him an email and said I hope this isn’t too soon, but I’m doing it anyway. You should come play with us. We met and he was totally fucking awesome.
Wesley: It was a natural fit. He’s immensely skilled on his instrument. He’s got a broad scope of influences. So, if we say this song is like x,y,z style or player, he’s able to get it.
SPB: So, what are those normal x,y,z styles? When you’re writing songs, who is in your head?
Wesley: I have a lot of love of the Who. You know I’m a moderately skilled guitar player. But, I’m comfortable with my limitations. I always fancied those guitar players who keep it simple. Not that Pete Townsend is really simple. But, he’s concise and didn’t waste anything. That’s something I could really catch onto, because more than four chords, and I’m like “you guys lost me.”
I love the Kinks. Guided By Voices is a real soft spot for me. Bob Pollard has that… just something intangible about that guy. He’s so prolific and has the ability to turn a phrase. He never ceases to amaze me. Really honest, straight-forward rock with all of the lovely things about pop over the top of it.
Ryan: I’ll steal anything I can get my hands on. But, I’ve got a huge thing for the Who. But, there’s obviously the Beatles and all the great bands of the 1960s and 70s. But, there’s newer stuff like Arctic Monkeys, Futureheads and Maximum Park that I like and try to, not directly rip off, but see what I can do by putting my brain in that place. I try to imagine what it would be like to be that songwriter. (pause) Ted Leo and the Pharmacists.
Wesley: New Pornographers
Ryan: Llama
Wesley: Llama!
We talked for about an hour and a half at a table in front on Starbucks on 45th and Wallingford, resulting in a pretty lengthy interview. It was all pretty darn interesting. So, rather than edit for length, I'll be taking the straight transcript and splitting it into (probably) a three part series to make it a bit more digestible.
The first section below focuses on describing the band, exploring how they came into being and some of their influences. The second section will focus on how they write songs and what they think about making waves in the local scene (to be posted on Wednesday). The third section (to be posted on Thursday) is a song-by-song breakdown of their new record, titled Death to Palaces.
Young Sportsmen interview, part 1
SPB: Okay guys. Give me three words that describe a Young Sportsmen performance.
Ryan: Loud is definitely one of them
Wesley: That’s probably the first and best word. Spirited.
(long pause)
Ryan: Is that three?
(laughter)
Ryan: Honest.
Wesley: Regardless of the quality of the show, and we’ve run the gamut over the past couple of years, we’re always as straight forward and as honest as I’d like to see a band.
SPB: For Wesley, give me three words that describes Ryan.
Wesley: Uncompromising; I would say, gifted; Stubborn
SPB: And three for Wesley?
Ryan: Funniest guy I know; I’ll say gifted right back; (long pause) Jesus…
SPB: Jesus? Funny, gifted and Jesus?
(laughter)
Ryan: I think open-minded. That word by itself doesn’t describe what I mean by that. But, he’s got broader tastes and exposes me to stuff that’s fantastic
SPB: By committee, what are the three for the other two guys. First for Jeff
Ryan: True professional.
Wesley: probably the kindest person I know and have ever had the chance to play music with,
(pause)
Wesley: heavy hitter
Ryan: A great mixture of technical proficiency and emotion
SPB: And for Richard?
(Both laugh)
Ryan: Princely. (laughter) He’s goofy, but in a really awesome way. He’s immensely talented.
Wesley: An amazing player
Ryan: Also very professional. He and Jeff temper Wesley and I.
Wesley: I think “practical” is a great word for him, in the best sense. He deals with things in a head-on way.
Ryan: he brings his laptop to band meetings.
Wesley: He’s the Sharon Osbourne of the band.
Ryan: Except that Sharon Osbourne is a twat.
SPB: How did you connect with those two?
Wesley: We got lucky with Jeff. Ryan and Burke (Thomas) and I did a little West Coast thing three or four years ago, and Burke had to take off with Vendetta Red. Jeff was going to sit in with us for a show that was being broadcast live on local tv. We had never played with him before, and he played just perfectly.
Ryan: We were writing the set and asked which ones do you know, and he was like “all of them.”
Wesley: There were only one or two more shows left.
Ryan: There was a Portland show and an Oakland show. We showed up at the Portland show, and they ended up cancelling the show. But, Jeff like flew to Oakland to do these two shows.
Wesley: Jeff is totally committed. We got really, really fortunate in that sense. We knew that Burke had a lot of other engagements and we just committed to playing with Jeff after that.
Ryan: With Richard, Heather from the Riffbrokers, we were over at their house and she was like “did you hear the Radio Nationals broke up?” I was like oh that’s so sad… what’s Richard doing? He was great in that band and in Dear John Letters, so I sent him an email and said I hope this isn’t too soon, but I’m doing it anyway. You should come play with us. We met and he was totally fucking awesome.
Wesley: It was a natural fit. He’s immensely skilled on his instrument. He’s got a broad scope of influences. So, if we say this song is like x,y,z style or player, he’s able to get it.
SPB: So, what are those normal x,y,z styles? When you’re writing songs, who is in your head?
Wesley: I have a lot of love of the Who. You know I’m a moderately skilled guitar player. But, I’m comfortable with my limitations. I always fancied those guitar players who keep it simple. Not that Pete Townsend is really simple. But, he’s concise and didn’t waste anything. That’s something I could really catch onto, because more than four chords, and I’m like “you guys lost me.”
I love the Kinks. Guided By Voices is a real soft spot for me. Bob Pollard has that… just something intangible about that guy. He’s so prolific and has the ability to turn a phrase. He never ceases to amaze me. Really honest, straight-forward rock with all of the lovely things about pop over the top of it.
Ryan: I’ll steal anything I can get my hands on. But, I’ve got a huge thing for the Who. But, there’s obviously the Beatles and all the great bands of the 1960s and 70s. But, there’s newer stuff like Arctic Monkeys, Futureheads and Maximum Park that I like and try to, not directly rip off, but see what I can do by putting my brain in that place. I try to imagine what it would be like to be that songwriter. (pause) Ted Leo and the Pharmacists.
Wesley: New Pornographers
Ryan: Llama
Wesley: Llama!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Interview with The Lund Bros
1. How do you think others would describe The Lund Bros, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
Chris Lund (vocals & guitar): We're, in my opinion, a band that emphasizes strong song writing and vocal harmonization. We rock a bit harder than some of the other indy stuff, too. From what I've heard from people attending our shows, they seem to come away with roughly the same impression.
Sean Lund (vocals & drums): This is actually a tough question. I don't usually get feedback from those that don't have positive things to say (they usually want to talk to us because they liked what was happening) so I'm not sure that what I write will be an accurate reflection of what a random sample of people that see us think of us. Nevertheless, I'll say this, those that have shared their thoughts on the matter usually say they like our harmonies and/or our songs. Those are the two most common elements that seem to endear us to whatever level of endearing we might be capable. I suppose it's natural to like what you do and so I agree that those are two of our strengths.
In a perfect world, here's how I would like us to be described: "They are a great fucking band!" Of course, there are always going to be detractors too but I'd rather not spend time thinking about such things... life's not long enough.
Gwon Chang (bass & backing vocals): I think others would describe us as tight, energetic and musical. I think others would see Chris on guitar and be blown away by his shredding. I think others would hear Sean singing and think to themselves, “Huh. A drummer singing lead!” I see us as a very musical band that has a lot of fun playing out and about.
2. Who are your favorite NW bands and why?
Chris Lund: Llama, the Tripwires and the Young Sportsmen are current faves - also Girl Trouble. They're bands that have their own unique style and also are great to do shows with.
Sean Lund: I'll probably reiterate what my brother and Gwon have said but I'm definitely into Llama at the moment. There are a bunch of great songs on the last record (there's going to be a new one shortly I hear) that knock me out and a couple that just kill me like "Right Now" and "Come On Come On." I love the Tripwires too, and not just because we have played shows with them. They have something that is unique and they are all great players who seem to play the right notes at all times. As far as T-town (or any town for that matter), I really enjoy Girl Trouble. Their live shows are a blast and they are some of the nicest people around.
Young Sportsmen because they rock like The Who with great harmonies and songs. Finally, I've always been a huge Posies fan. We worked with Ken Stringfellow in the studio a few years back and it was a lot of fun. Oh and I can't forget Death Cab. I first saw them at Bumbershoot in 2001 and was hooked right away. It's great that they're now doing so well. I love Chris Walla's production: intricate textural layering with Rhodes piano and Ben Gibbard's great lyrics.
Gwon Chang: I’m a big fan of the Young Sportsmen (they’re so nice!), Llama (they’re so nice, too!), Twink the Wonder Kid/Root Beer Barrels (they’re funny without being stupid. Plus, they rock!), Upwell (not necessarily pop, but a great local band, nonetheless). Oh, yeah! The Tripwires (so, so good at pop!).
3. What are your feelings about the state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
Chris Lund: It's better that it's been in the past. I never got the whole grunge thing.
Sean Lund: I'm happy with where things have gone lately but I suppose it can always be better. I love the fact that pop bands are getting good shows because it seemed like there weren't many opportunities once upon a time not so long ago. I live in Tacoma so I wish there were more clubs to play down here. Not that there aren't good ones; there are. Just not enough of them. I dig the fact that we have a lot of summer festivals in the area that offer lots of local acts but I'm pissed that they took the extra day off Bumbershoot. I'm also distressed at the cost as it's becoming a bit out of reach for those that produce the art that fills the stages, booths, lawns, speakers, and exhibition halls. I suppose these are common growing pains for such a popular festival. Nonetheless...
Gwon Chang: The S.O.P.I.S. (State Of Pop In Seattle) is good. Now if we could only get all the indie scenesters to jump on board.
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
Chris Lund: The Raspberries or Queen back in 1974.
Sean Lund: U2; right now. I know they're so huge that it's not cool to talk them up too much but U2 in concert is the closest thing to a spiritual experience that I've, well... experienced. I've seen every tour since 1987 and, with the exception of the Pop Mart tour, the experience is as good now as it was when they were hungry kids. It is unabashedly stadium rock, but the grand scale of the notes of Edge's guitar playing and Bono's vocals seem to require it, but not for
pomposity or egos' sake. They are a band of amazing positive energy and big ideas musically and lyrically and those qualities are extremely appealing to me, more now than ever as I get older, hopefully wiser, and try to maintain my idealism and an open mind.
Gwon Chang: Open for? I thought the question said “see”. Oh well. I’d like to have opened for Boston right about when Boston was released (’75-’76?). Or, completely mismatched, I’d like to have opened for Rush circa Permanent Waves. Just because I love Rush. Actually, I’d loved to have seen those shows as well!
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
Chris Lund: We've got some songs completed for our upcoming CD which we hope to have a Summer/Fall release date.
Sean Lund: We're going into the studio in a few weeks and I'm so damn excited that I can hardly sleep. We've got a bunch of songs (hopefully a few really good ones) and we'll be recording all summer with a prospective Autumn release. This one will likely be a single CD this time around. We released a double CD last time and I loved it but the format made it difficult to enjoy the album in it's entirety. I enjoy both records but it frustrates me no end that there isn't more
unity there.
On a personal note, my brother and his wife just had a baby boy and it's great. I love being an uncle; twice now. He's going to be a musician I think... [blogger's note: Congratulations!!]
Gwon Chang: We’re always looking to book shows. We are heading to the studio to work on more tunes and hope to have some new music for the masses soon.
6. What's something people don't know about The Lund Bros?
Chris Lund: Ha Ha. Oh, I couldn't tell you that. We've got to maintain a bit of an aura of mystery, eh?
Sean Lund: Hmmm... a hard question to start with and a hard one to end on... Okay, I think I got one: We had a "spec" deal back in 1997 with Geffen records under our former name "Loser". We recorded a demo at Moon Studio in Olympia and sent it to the A&R rep that requested the material. Of course we were completely crushed when the guy told us we sounded "too much like the Beatles." I really don't think we do sound like the Beatles, particularly nowadays, but I suppose the criticism takes us nicely back to the now-answered unanswered part of the first question; apparently life is long enough! Now that my answers seem to have a nice bit of symmetry, I'll wind it up here.
Gwon Chang: Chris is mysterious. Me? I’m an open book. Something interesting is that Chris and Sean are actually brothers! And, if they seem familiar to you, it’s because you’ve seen them as Loser and/or International Pop Overthrow in years past.
Chris Lund (vocals & guitar): We're, in my opinion, a band that emphasizes strong song writing and vocal harmonization. We rock a bit harder than some of the other indy stuff, too. From what I've heard from people attending our shows, they seem to come away with roughly the same impression.
Sean Lund (vocals & drums): This is actually a tough question. I don't usually get feedback from those that don't have positive things to say (they usually want to talk to us because they liked what was happening) so I'm not sure that what I write will be an accurate reflection of what a random sample of people that see us think of us. Nevertheless, I'll say this, those that have shared their thoughts on the matter usually say they like our harmonies and/or our songs. Those are the two most common elements that seem to endear us to whatever level of endearing we might be capable. I suppose it's natural to like what you do and so I agree that those are two of our strengths.
In a perfect world, here's how I would like us to be described: "They are a great fucking band!" Of course, there are always going to be detractors too but I'd rather not spend time thinking about such things... life's not long enough.
Gwon Chang (bass & backing vocals): I think others would describe us as tight, energetic and musical. I think others would see Chris on guitar and be blown away by his shredding. I think others would hear Sean singing and think to themselves, “Huh. A drummer singing lead!” I see us as a very musical band that has a lot of fun playing out and about.
2. Who are your favorite NW bands and why?
Chris Lund: Llama, the Tripwires and the Young Sportsmen are current faves - also Girl Trouble. They're bands that have their own unique style and also are great to do shows with.
Sean Lund: I'll probably reiterate what my brother and Gwon have said but I'm definitely into Llama at the moment. There are a bunch of great songs on the last record (there's going to be a new one shortly I hear) that knock me out and a couple that just kill me like "Right Now" and "Come On Come On." I love the Tripwires too, and not just because we have played shows with them. They have something that is unique and they are all great players who seem to play the right notes at all times. As far as T-town (or any town for that matter), I really enjoy Girl Trouble. Their live shows are a blast and they are some of the nicest people around.
Young Sportsmen because they rock like The Who with great harmonies and songs. Finally, I've always been a huge Posies fan. We worked with Ken Stringfellow in the studio a few years back and it was a lot of fun. Oh and I can't forget Death Cab. I first saw them at Bumbershoot in 2001 and was hooked right away. It's great that they're now doing so well. I love Chris Walla's production: intricate textural layering with Rhodes piano and Ben Gibbard's great lyrics.
Gwon Chang: I’m a big fan of the Young Sportsmen (they’re so nice!), Llama (they’re so nice, too!), Twink the Wonder Kid/Root Beer Barrels (they’re funny without being stupid. Plus, they rock!), Upwell (not necessarily pop, but a great local band, nonetheless). Oh, yeah! The Tripwires (so, so good at pop!).
3. What are your feelings about the state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
Chris Lund: It's better that it's been in the past. I never got the whole grunge thing.
Sean Lund: I'm happy with where things have gone lately but I suppose it can always be better. I love the fact that pop bands are getting good shows because it seemed like there weren't many opportunities once upon a time not so long ago. I live in Tacoma so I wish there were more clubs to play down here. Not that there aren't good ones; there are. Just not enough of them. I dig the fact that we have a lot of summer festivals in the area that offer lots of local acts but I'm pissed that they took the extra day off Bumbershoot. I'm also distressed at the cost as it's becoming a bit out of reach for those that produce the art that fills the stages, booths, lawns, speakers, and exhibition halls. I suppose these are common growing pains for such a popular festival. Nonetheless...
Gwon Chang: The S.O.P.I.S. (State Of Pop In Seattle) is good. Now if we could only get all the indie scenesters to jump on board.
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
Chris Lund: The Raspberries or Queen back in 1974.
Sean Lund: U2; right now. I know they're so huge that it's not cool to talk them up too much but U2 in concert is the closest thing to a spiritual experience that I've, well... experienced. I've seen every tour since 1987 and, with the exception of the Pop Mart tour, the experience is as good now as it was when they were hungry kids. It is unabashedly stadium rock, but the grand scale of the notes of Edge's guitar playing and Bono's vocals seem to require it, but not for
pomposity or egos' sake. They are a band of amazing positive energy and big ideas musically and lyrically and those qualities are extremely appealing to me, more now than ever as I get older, hopefully wiser, and try to maintain my idealism and an open mind.
Gwon Chang: Open for? I thought the question said “see”. Oh well. I’d like to have opened for Boston right about when Boston was released (’75-’76?). Or, completely mismatched, I’d like to have opened for Rush circa Permanent Waves. Just because I love Rush. Actually, I’d loved to have seen those shows as well!
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
Chris Lund: We've got some songs completed for our upcoming CD which we hope to have a Summer/Fall release date.
Sean Lund: We're going into the studio in a few weeks and I'm so damn excited that I can hardly sleep. We've got a bunch of songs (hopefully a few really good ones) and we'll be recording all summer with a prospective Autumn release. This one will likely be a single CD this time around. We released a double CD last time and I loved it but the format made it difficult to enjoy the album in it's entirety. I enjoy both records but it frustrates me no end that there isn't more
unity there.
On a personal note, my brother and his wife just had a baby boy and it's great. I love being an uncle; twice now. He's going to be a musician I think... [blogger's note: Congratulations!!]
Gwon Chang: We’re always looking to book shows. We are heading to the studio to work on more tunes and hope to have some new music for the masses soon.
6. What's something people don't know about The Lund Bros?
Chris Lund: Ha Ha. Oh, I couldn't tell you that. We've got to maintain a bit of an aura of mystery, eh?
Sean Lund: Hmmm... a hard question to start with and a hard one to end on... Okay, I think I got one: We had a "spec" deal back in 1997 with Geffen records under our former name "Loser". We recorded a demo at Moon Studio in Olympia and sent it to the A&R rep that requested the material. Of course we were completely crushed when the guy told us we sounded "too much like the Beatles." I really don't think we do sound like the Beatles, particularly nowadays, but I suppose the criticism takes us nicely back to the now-answered unanswered part of the first question; apparently life is long enough! Now that my answers seem to have a nice bit of symmetry, I'll wind it up here.
Gwon Chang: Chris is mysterious. Me? I’m an open book. Something interesting is that Chris and Sean are actually brothers! And, if they seem familiar to you, it’s because you’ve seen them as Loser and/or International Pop Overthrow in years past.
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Steve Pearson interview
Steve Pearson was the voice and main songwriter behind The Heaters, also known due to legal issues as The Heats. The Heat[er]s were active in the Seattle music scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s (and have done some reunion shows in more recent years). They had a tremendous amount of success (see the photo below of them playing in a packed arena!) and released some great, great music that you should check out.
I was able to do an email interview with Steve Pearson about his time in The Heats and what's going on with him currently.
The Heats live in a setting that amply demonstrates their level of success!
1. As someone who has been around the Seattle music scene for quite sometime, what can you tell folks about powerpop in the area back in the early 1980s when The Heaters were first active?
In the late 70's early 80's Seattle was like you imagined "Swinging London" to be like. Everyone was looking for and finding their own unique and creative sound. There was an amazing amount of great music that came out in a very short time. Also there was a very cool sense of camaraderie between all the musicians - we knew we were involved in something special. The audiences knew this as well and supported us more than we could have hoped for.
In those days people did not think of themselves as "Power Pop", rather we felt we were anti-Kansas, Styx, Foreigner, etc. I Don't know about others, but I hated the generic, coporate rock of the 70's. I longed for the intense, simple stuff of the 60's. In a way all of us from that era were just re-creating the 60's. We had missed out by being too young.
2. Who were your favorite Seattle powerpop bands back then, and do you have any local favorites now?
The Cowboys, The Allies, The Girls, HIFI, No Cheese Please, The Pins, The Moberlys, Moving Parts and many more were our friends in those days. Many of these people are still dear friends. I loved what they were doing because it was original. Seattle had not seen an original band in a long time.
The only local band I've seen in forever is The Ones (Seattle). They are great but not Power Pop. More like Ramones on speed. I don't really follow any sort of modern music. I just think about my own stuff.
3. I've noticed you've created a myspace page recently. Have you found many of the current generation of powerpop bands reaching out to you either via myspace or in general?
Yes. This is a very recent thing. It's flattering and odd at the same time. It's hard to imagine that after all this time "The Heats" have become some sort of cult band. Obviously I like it.
4. What are your feelings about the current state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
At this point I have no opinion, but the times could be a-changin'.
5. Battles and Ballads garnered a lot of positive feedback in 2003. Is there a follow up to that record on the way, or is your focus primarily on British Racing Green (which looks to have a record out in 2007, right?)?
The new record will be a follow-up to "Battles & Ballads". The main difference being the songs are almost all just-written in the last year. The last record were songs from over ten years that had never been recorded or with "Count On Me' I wanted another try at it.
The new record will not have so many friends as guest artists. It will mostly be me and "British Racing Green". I hate naming bands after myself, but probably it will be "Steve Pearson and British Racing Green". The record will hopefully be out this year. BRG is Lucette Pearson, Tim Moore and Tony Contratto.
6. Over the past few decades making music that is generally in the powerpop vein, what's the most interesting thing that has happened to you?
"The Heats" virtual overnight success is still amazing to me. It absolutely came from nowhere. We thought we were good but didn't expect so many people to agree.
7. What is something that people don't know about you?
I'm very much an old-fashioned, blue collar type guy. I think dark and esoteric thoughts but try to live like "The Andy Griffith Show"
I was able to do an email interview with Steve Pearson about his time in The Heats and what's going on with him currently.
The Heats live in a setting that amply demonstrates their level of success!
1. As someone who has been around the Seattle music scene for quite sometime, what can you tell folks about powerpop in the area back in the early 1980s when The Heaters were first active?
In the late 70's early 80's Seattle was like you imagined "Swinging London" to be like. Everyone was looking for and finding their own unique and creative sound. There was an amazing amount of great music that came out in a very short time. Also there was a very cool sense of camaraderie between all the musicians - we knew we were involved in something special. The audiences knew this as well and supported us more than we could have hoped for.
In those days people did not think of themselves as "Power Pop", rather we felt we were anti-Kansas, Styx, Foreigner, etc. I Don't know about others, but I hated the generic, coporate rock of the 70's. I longed for the intense, simple stuff of the 60's. In a way all of us from that era were just re-creating the 60's. We had missed out by being too young.
2. Who were your favorite Seattle powerpop bands back then, and do you have any local favorites now?
The Cowboys, The Allies, The Girls, HIFI, No Cheese Please, The Pins, The Moberlys, Moving Parts and many more were our friends in those days. Many of these people are still dear friends. I loved what they were doing because it was original. Seattle had not seen an original band in a long time.
The only local band I've seen in forever is The Ones (Seattle). They are great but not Power Pop. More like Ramones on speed. I don't really follow any sort of modern music. I just think about my own stuff.
3. I've noticed you've created a myspace page recently. Have you found many of the current generation of powerpop bands reaching out to you either via myspace or in general?
Yes. This is a very recent thing. It's flattering and odd at the same time. It's hard to imagine that after all this time "The Heats" have become some sort of cult band. Obviously I like it.
4. What are your feelings about the current state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
At this point I have no opinion, but the times could be a-changin'.
5. Battles and Ballads garnered a lot of positive feedback in 2003. Is there a follow up to that record on the way, or is your focus primarily on British Racing Green (which looks to have a record out in 2007, right?)?
The new record will be a follow-up to "Battles & Ballads". The main difference being the songs are almost all just-written in the last year. The last record were songs from over ten years that had never been recorded or with "Count On Me' I wanted another try at it.
The new record will not have so many friends as guest artists. It will mostly be me and "British Racing Green". I hate naming bands after myself, but probably it will be "Steve Pearson and British Racing Green". The record will hopefully be out this year. BRG is Lucette Pearson, Tim Moore and Tony Contratto.
6. Over the past few decades making music that is generally in the powerpop vein, what's the most interesting thing that has happened to you?
"The Heats" virtual overnight success is still amazing to me. It absolutely came from nowhere. We thought we were good but didn't expect so many people to agree.
7. What is something that people don't know about you?
I'm very much an old-fashioned, blue collar type guy. I think dark and esoteric thoughts but try to live like "The Andy Griffith Show"
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
New West Motels interview
The good fellows of New West Motels have a show tomorrow night (2/28) at The Crocodile with Lions in the Street and Brides of Obscurity. I interviewed Rob from NWM via myspace messages.
1. How do you think others would describe New West Motels, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
In Seattle it seems like if you focus on the vocals, and play rock, you automatically get compared to 3 bands-- Built to Spill, Modest Mouse, and/or Death Cab For Cutie... which is completely flattering, but honestly I think, like all those bands, we have our own sound.
If I could choose who to be compared to, it'd probably be Sparklehorse, or Snow Patrol, or Travis, maybe Low, or Reindeer Section, though they're not actually a "band" per se (Scottish "supergroup" featuring members of Snow Patrol, Mogwai, Teenage Fanclub, Arab Strap, Belle & Sebastian)... And, okay fine, I'll admit it-- Built to Spill... *laughs*
2. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
I like a pretty wide variety of stuff, but it's almost always vocal-based and full of great hooks (that's my definition of "pop music", I suppose)... I like songs more than bands, per se, but maybe-- Central Services just made a great record, I really like the new Friday Mile... I think Karen Pernick is amazing, if you haven't heard her... Tullycraft, the Minus Five, Mountain Con, the Long Winters, Slender Means... I grew up listening to my older brother and sister's record collection, stuff like America, Simon & Garfunkel, Supertramp, Tom Petty, so I tend to like music that you can sing along to the first time you hear it...
3. What are your feelings about the state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
I think people are getting a little bored of the whole angular, jagged-edged, staccato beat, "hey let's sound like The Jam" thing that's been going on the past few years (which only annoys me because I LOVE The Jam)... but if you think about it, the top bands the past couple years in Seattle-- a year later-- they're nowhere to be found... It was style over substance for awhile... It's hard to constantly be playing "the new sound" and even harder to keep the people who like it interested... I used to joke that there are 4000 amazing bands in Seattle, and maybe 10 good songwriters... But it was TRUE for a long time...
And now, suddenly, there are a bunch of great pop bands making waves in town, sort of circling like sharks below the radar, waiting to get their chance in the clubs... which hopefully the clubs figure out, 'cause all these bands are playing the type of music that appeals to a wider audience than just other bands and the hardcore indie kids in town... Seattle is unique in that way, when you travel to other cities... It isn't acceptable to be in a band here that the average joe on the street would like... Which is sad, 'cause it's THOSE people who really need music most... the ones with the shitty everyday lives who need a break from it and are counting on you to provide it for them... The part of music that makes it "pop"-- as in popular. People want to relate to what you're saying, not just be impressed by "I haven't heard/seen that before"... And until recently that wasn't happening in Seattle...
I think the major sign that the pop tide is turning is that some great pop bands from years gone by are getting back in the pool-- like Sister Psychic, and Peter Parker. It's finally safe to be "pop" in Seattle. Thanks to Death Cab and Modest Mouse, who were somehow able to straddle the line between indie and popular, and break the mold.
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
Easy, The Who during "Sell-Out"-- best pop album by a rock band ever... the harmonies, the guitars, the picturesque lyrics, the hilarious advertisements between songs... Although, since I wouldn't actually be alive for that one, 2nd choice might be Wilco during their "Being There" days... Another great pop record written by a rock band... Of course, the liquor tab for either of those tours would be astonomical!
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
The last couple months have been crazy really, we finished recording the majority of our debut record outside Manchester, England in December, little place called APE Studios... GREAT studio, great people, great little town overlooking Wales... Got picked up by a production/management group called The Dexa Cult (based out of London)... literally in the last two weeks have had 3 labels pop up on the radar asking about us... We're suddenly worrying about all the little stuff that gets a little overwhelming, like lawyers, band agreements, tour offers, press, etc. We're headed down to play a showcase at SXSW.
Meanwhile, finishing up the vocals and overdubs for the record, when we can fit it in, so it can actually come out. Playing shows when we can fit 'em in. It's fun, though. It's all the stuff you'd WANT to be happening, so we're pretty excited about it. For now, we'll just finish the record and see what happens. We're letting the music do the talking for us.
6. What's something people don't know about New West Motels?
In England, our bassplayer Doran is practically a celebrity, because his Great Uncle was Cliff "Boy" Bastin, who played football (soccer) for Arsenal back in the '30s and '40s. He was the all-time leading scorer for Arsenal all the way up until the 1990s.
Mat, our drummer, almost died a couple years ago from an infection he got when he cut his hand on his snare drum. He lost all the skin halfway up the inside of his left arm. Very scary moment. Then he had a secondary infection flare up this past October, but insisted on playing drums immediately after getting released from the hospital-- we have pictures of him playing Emo's in Austin hooked up to an IV-- no lie!!!
(Blogger's note: I'm working on getting a copy of the photo of Mat playing with an IV in his arm)
1. How do you think others would describe New West Motels, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
In Seattle it seems like if you focus on the vocals, and play rock, you automatically get compared to 3 bands-- Built to Spill, Modest Mouse, and/or Death Cab For Cutie... which is completely flattering, but honestly I think, like all those bands, we have our own sound.
If I could choose who to be compared to, it'd probably be Sparklehorse, or Snow Patrol, or Travis, maybe Low, or Reindeer Section, though they're not actually a "band" per se (Scottish "supergroup" featuring members of Snow Patrol, Mogwai, Teenage Fanclub, Arab Strap, Belle & Sebastian)... And, okay fine, I'll admit it-- Built to Spill... *laughs*
2. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
I like a pretty wide variety of stuff, but it's almost always vocal-based and full of great hooks (that's my definition of "pop music", I suppose)... I like songs more than bands, per se, but maybe-- Central Services just made a great record, I really like the new Friday Mile... I think Karen Pernick is amazing, if you haven't heard her... Tullycraft, the Minus Five, Mountain Con, the Long Winters, Slender Means... I grew up listening to my older brother and sister's record collection, stuff like America, Simon & Garfunkel, Supertramp, Tom Petty, so I tend to like music that you can sing along to the first time you hear it...
3. What are your feelings about the state of pop music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
I think people are getting a little bored of the whole angular, jagged-edged, staccato beat, "hey let's sound like The Jam" thing that's been going on the past few years (which only annoys me because I LOVE The Jam)... but if you think about it, the top bands the past couple years in Seattle-- a year later-- they're nowhere to be found... It was style over substance for awhile... It's hard to constantly be playing "the new sound" and even harder to keep the people who like it interested... I used to joke that there are 4000 amazing bands in Seattle, and maybe 10 good songwriters... But it was TRUE for a long time...
And now, suddenly, there are a bunch of great pop bands making waves in town, sort of circling like sharks below the radar, waiting to get their chance in the clubs... which hopefully the clubs figure out, 'cause all these bands are playing the type of music that appeals to a wider audience than just other bands and the hardcore indie kids in town... Seattle is unique in that way, when you travel to other cities... It isn't acceptable to be in a band here that the average joe on the street would like... Which is sad, 'cause it's THOSE people who really need music most... the ones with the shitty everyday lives who need a break from it and are counting on you to provide it for them... The part of music that makes it "pop"-- as in popular. People want to relate to what you're saying, not just be impressed by "I haven't heard/seen that before"... And until recently that wasn't happening in Seattle...
I think the major sign that the pop tide is turning is that some great pop bands from years gone by are getting back in the pool-- like Sister Psychic, and Peter Parker. It's finally safe to be "pop" in Seattle. Thanks to Death Cab and Modest Mouse, who were somehow able to straddle the line between indie and popular, and break the mold.
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
Easy, The Who during "Sell-Out"-- best pop album by a rock band ever... the harmonies, the guitars, the picturesque lyrics, the hilarious advertisements between songs... Although, since I wouldn't actually be alive for that one, 2nd choice might be Wilco during their "Being There" days... Another great pop record written by a rock band... Of course, the liquor tab for either of those tours would be astonomical!
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
The last couple months have been crazy really, we finished recording the majority of our debut record outside Manchester, England in December, little place called APE Studios... GREAT studio, great people, great little town overlooking Wales... Got picked up by a production/management group called The Dexa Cult (based out of London)... literally in the last two weeks have had 3 labels pop up on the radar asking about us... We're suddenly worrying about all the little stuff that gets a little overwhelming, like lawyers, band agreements, tour offers, press, etc. We're headed down to play a showcase at SXSW.
Meanwhile, finishing up the vocals and overdubs for the record, when we can fit it in, so it can actually come out. Playing shows when we can fit 'em in. It's fun, though. It's all the stuff you'd WANT to be happening, so we're pretty excited about it. For now, we'll just finish the record and see what happens. We're letting the music do the talking for us.
6. What's something people don't know about New West Motels?
In England, our bassplayer Doran is practically a celebrity, because his Great Uncle was Cliff "Boy" Bastin, who played football (soccer) for Arsenal back in the '30s and '40s. He was the all-time leading scorer for Arsenal all the way up until the 1990s.
Mat, our drummer, almost died a couple years ago from an infection he got when he cut his hand on his snare drum. He lost all the skin halfway up the inside of his left arm. Very scary moment. Then he had a secondary infection flare up this past October, but insisted on playing drums immediately after getting released from the hospital-- we have pictures of him playing Emo's in Austin hooked up to an IV-- no lie!!!
(Blogger's note: I'm working on getting a copy of the photo of Mat playing with an IV in his arm)
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Shim interview & show
Seattle rock band SHIM is playing this Saturday with The Ruby Doe and Young Sportsmen at The High Dive. These guys bring the rock and I highly encourage you to check out the two demo songs they have on their myspace page. Really good stuff.
I sent some questions to SHIM and got responses from Ragan Crowe, vocalist of the group.
1. How do you think others would describe Shim, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
Totally awesome. That's how I think others would describe us. And since I think we're totally awesome too, everything fits together nicely. Actually though, a while back I heard someone call us a "glorified AC/DC cover band," which was supposed to be an insult. Please.
2. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
Iceage Cobra, Slender Means, The Ruby Doe. Those guys are all at the top for me. I like the Cobra because they're just so fuckin' fun to watch. They have the wackiest charisma. And they're just genuine dudes, musically and personally. I like Slender Means because they write great tunes. All the parts are in place in their songs. I love that guy's voice. I love all the guitar work, the keys, the drums. It's all there. I love the Doe ‘cause they're just rock monsters. The chemistry between those dudes on stage is so palpable. They function as one unit, the way a rock band should. Aaron and Jesse are from Wenatchee, where Mike, Jer and I grew up. The band Mike and I had in high school, The Scary Spiders, used to play with their band, The Cat Ion. I've been a fan of those guys for a long time. They're just always so fuckin' tight.
3. What are your feelings about the state of rock music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
That's a good question. I've never lived anywhere else, so this scene is all I really know. But I like the NW and I like Seattle. There're some bad-ass bands here (see previous question) and there are places to play. What more do you need?
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
That's a tough one. I'm a total classic-rocker. To the bone. [blogger note: I, too, am a closet classic rocker... my radio is straight up tuned to 95.7] There're a lot of bands I just wish I could have seen at all. One that comes to mind is Boston, when they were touring off their self-titled album. I've always wanted to know if they could pull off all those harmonies live, and I can't seem to find any good bootlegs of them. Plus Tom Scholz is awesome. But I'd probably rather tour with Zeppelin, sometime after "III" came out. They're just so fucking awesome live. It's ridiculous. And I'd kill to hear "Immigrant Song" live back then. Either that or The Doors. On the "Morrison Hotel" tour. Those guys are something else. It's just the spookiest, vibe-y-est most strange and awesome music. And Morrison was the real deal. The stuff most frontmen try to fake, he had it comin' out his ears. I mean, I think. I wasn't alive yet. Or Floyd, on the "Wish You Were Here" tour. I can listen to that record all day. And I'd really like to meet Roger Waters.
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
I wish I knew. We're writing some really strong material these days and the groove gets meatier every single night. Hopefully it gets us somewhere.
6. I used to have a friend whose motto was "it's not a rock show until someone falls down." Did anyone in the band fall and bust their ass in the snow last week? If not, when is the last time you fell down?
You know, I haven't fallen down in a long time. I slipped on Jer's (our drummer and my brother’s) icy stairs last winter, but I kind of surfed down them and stayed on my feet. It was pretty skilled.
7. What's something people don't know about Shim?
Who we are and what we sound like.
8. Asking about influences is kind of weak, but I'm curious what informs you guys. I hear different history in the older recordings than the demo tunes on myspace. What's been your evolution of sound?
Well, like I said, I'm a total classic-rocker. Not just riffy rock either. I'm just as likely to put on some Joni Mitchell as I am some Thin Lizzy. I'm just really drawn towards ‘60s and ‘70s music, probably to a fault. It's just so personal and imperfect. The recordings, the performances, it's all just really human. I hate all the computerized performances on modern records. I feel like a lot of modern bands are about 10% music and 90% advertising. And that is not fucking right. It's this weird manipulative, sentimental bullshit that has nothing to do with rock and roll, if you ask me, which you did. Sort of. I'm getting tangent-y aren't I.
As far as SHIM goes, we've just been trying to hone in on what it is that makes a good song and, more specifically for us right now, a good live show. So that's lead to some changes. We've grown a lot in confidence. And confidence lets you write the kind of song you want to write, without worrying about boundaries and stupid things. And for us, it means kind of walking a line. We embrace our love of classic-rock, but we don't want to be a parody or a rip off, and we're not. But it's definitely a challenge. You don't want to be merely a throw-back band, but you wanna play the music that moves you. I guess it all comes down to whether you're genuine or not. If you're genuine, people know it when they see you play, and they like it. If you're faking it, they know that too, and you'll be very forgettable.
I sent some questions to SHIM and got responses from Ragan Crowe, vocalist of the group.
1. How do you think others would describe Shim, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
Totally awesome. That's how I think others would describe us. And since I think we're totally awesome too, everything fits together nicely. Actually though, a while back I heard someone call us a "glorified AC/DC cover band," which was supposed to be an insult. Please.
2. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
Iceage Cobra, Slender Means, The Ruby Doe. Those guys are all at the top for me. I like the Cobra because they're just so fuckin' fun to watch. They have the wackiest charisma. And they're just genuine dudes, musically and personally. I like Slender Means because they write great tunes. All the parts are in place in their songs. I love that guy's voice. I love all the guitar work, the keys, the drums. It's all there. I love the Doe ‘cause they're just rock monsters. The chemistry between those dudes on stage is so palpable. They function as one unit, the way a rock band should. Aaron and Jesse are from Wenatchee, where Mike, Jer and I grew up. The band Mike and I had in high school, The Scary Spiders, used to play with their band, The Cat Ion. I've been a fan of those guys for a long time. They're just always so fuckin' tight.
3. What are your feelings about the state of rock music in the Northwest and Seattle in particular?
That's a good question. I've never lived anywhere else, so this scene is all I really know. But I like the NW and I like Seattle. There're some bad-ass bands here (see previous question) and there are places to play. What more do you need?
4. If you could be the opening act for any band, any time period, who would that be and why?
That's a tough one. I'm a total classic-rocker. To the bone. [blogger note: I, too, am a closet classic rocker... my radio is straight up tuned to 95.7] There're a lot of bands I just wish I could have seen at all. One that comes to mind is Boston, when they were touring off their self-titled album. I've always wanted to know if they could pull off all those harmonies live, and I can't seem to find any good bootlegs of them. Plus Tom Scholz is awesome. But I'd probably rather tour with Zeppelin, sometime after "III" came out. They're just so fucking awesome live. It's ridiculous. And I'd kill to hear "Immigrant Song" live back then. Either that or The Doors. On the "Morrison Hotel" tour. Those guys are something else. It's just the spookiest, vibe-y-est most strange and awesome music. And Morrison was the real deal. The stuff most frontmen try to fake, he had it comin' out his ears. I mean, I think. I wasn't alive yet. Or Floyd, on the "Wish You Were Here" tour. I can listen to that record all day. And I'd really like to meet Roger Waters.
5. What's the latest news from you guys and what's on the horizon?
I wish I knew. We're writing some really strong material these days and the groove gets meatier every single night. Hopefully it gets us somewhere.
6. I used to have a friend whose motto was "it's not a rock show until someone falls down." Did anyone in the band fall and bust their ass in the snow last week? If not, when is the last time you fell down?
You know, I haven't fallen down in a long time. I slipped on Jer's (our drummer and my brother’s) icy stairs last winter, but I kind of surfed down them and stayed on my feet. It was pretty skilled.
7. What's something people don't know about Shim?
Who we are and what we sound like.
8. Asking about influences is kind of weak, but I'm curious what informs you guys. I hear different history in the older recordings than the demo tunes on myspace. What's been your evolution of sound?
Well, like I said, I'm a total classic-rocker. Not just riffy rock either. I'm just as likely to put on some Joni Mitchell as I am some Thin Lizzy. I'm just really drawn towards ‘60s and ‘70s music, probably to a fault. It's just so personal and imperfect. The recordings, the performances, it's all just really human. I hate all the computerized performances on modern records. I feel like a lot of modern bands are about 10% music and 90% advertising. And that is not fucking right. It's this weird manipulative, sentimental bullshit that has nothing to do with rock and roll, if you ask me, which you did. Sort of. I'm getting tangent-y aren't I.
As far as SHIM goes, we've just been trying to hone in on what it is that makes a good song and, more specifically for us right now, a good live show. So that's lead to some changes. We've grown a lot in confidence. And confidence lets you write the kind of song you want to write, without worrying about boundaries and stupid things. And for us, it means kind of walking a line. We embrace our love of classic-rock, but we don't want to be a parody or a rip off, and we're not. But it's definitely a challenge. You don't want to be merely a throw-back band, but you wanna play the music that moves you. I guess it all comes down to whether you're genuine or not. If you're genuine, people know it when they see you play, and they like it. If you're faking it, they know that too, and you'll be very forgettable.
Monday, October 02, 2006
The Sea Navy interview
The Sea Navy has a new record and an album release party for that record this week at the Sunset Tavern (Thursday, 10/5). I interviewed main guy Jay via email. Enjoy the read!
1. How do you think others would describe The Sea Navy, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
I would say we are an indie rock band from Seattle, WA. However it always depends how much people know about music. For instance a friend of mine was telling me the other day he went out with some people from work and he was explaining what his band sounded like. He mentioned Elvis Costello and he was greeted by blank stares. You would think that people in their 30s would be able to grasp a reference like that but you never know. Same thing with genres. If say to a relative we are an indie rock band that doesn't do anything so I usually say we have bass, drums and guitar and our songs are no louder or faster than The Beatles.
But if you talk to people who have an interest in music and they ask what we sounds like I tell them as far as the music goes I would say I am taking audio cues from Elvis Costello, The Modern Lovers, Billy Bragg, oldies radio, Gamble and Huff ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamble_and_Huff ), Superchunk, Buffalo Tom, Ted Leo, early Lemonheads, Pavement, Guided By Voices, Teenage Fanclub. I am also taking a bit from Afghan Whigs, Come, U2, Helium, Sebadoh and Mission Of Burma but that does not come across in the music as so much as what I'm thinking when I'm writing.
2. What are your feelings about the state of pop in the Northwest and Seattle in particular? Where do you guys think you fit in?
We are still the new kids in school so I don't know how to answer that. I have been treated very nice by the bands, press and club people we have met so far so hopefully that continues.
3. The new record is coming out on 10/5. What are you most proud of with this recording? Anything you wish you could change?
No changes. This record is the record I wanted to make. This record would not be possible without TW Walsh. TW was a perfect match to work with for this record. I know TW from when we both lived in Massachusetts but never really got to work with him until we both moved to Seattle. We have overlapping musical references which is important when writing and recording. Every time he would add a keyboard part or a bass part I had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I would be sitting there wondering where he was pulling this parts from. They were perfect fits but they were things I would have never had thought of. He has a pair of golden ears which is something I thank him for daily. Everyone should go to www.thesoftdrugs.com and pick up his new record.
4. Why is the record called "oh these troubled times?" It's obviously a lyric in "arctic advice," but why choose it for the title? And while we're on the subject, what is "arctic advice" mean to you guys? Google produces some interesting results.
I have a pet peeve about naming albums after songs featured on the record so I thought I would use a lyric instead. "Oh These Troubled Times" works on a personal and political level. Also I think it sums up the feeling of the record. While the songs may sound happy the lyrical content might suggest otherwise.
The title comes from a lyric in Arctic Advice which was written a couple months after my then girlfriend, now fiancee moved to Seattle from Boston in 2002. Actually Arctic Advice is the first song on the record because it was the first song I wrote in Seattle. I couldn't find steady work so I turned to temping and was placed at this horrible company on the east side of Seattle and I was probably the most depressed I have ever been my entire life. I was one click away from selling all my musical equipment on Ebay. During my first week of temping a mass email went out to the entire full time staff alerting them to fact that the company was being sold and most of them (and most of these were people 50 and above who had been their a loooonnnnggg time) were getting laid off. The place was depressing enough and now all these people are walking around sobbing and comatose. So towards the end of the email was a brief pep talk of how even though the end was near they should still "carry on" and put on a happy face. I just thought that was some strange advice to give people. So the term "arctic advice" came from that experience.
5. The Sea Navy have been performing for a while now. What would the 2001 edition say to the 2006 edition?
Scott Craggs (drums, 2001 ) - (jokingly) "that ain't how that beat goes."
Nick Hubben (bass, 2001) - "Brighter. More distorted. (just kidding.) I think T-dub sounds great, always have."
6. If you could open for any band, from any time period, who would it be and why?
Here are some bands I would have liked to open for or at least be in the audience…..Talking Heads (1977 to 1979), Matthew Sweet ("girlfriend tour"), Elvis Costello & The Attractions ("armed forces" tour), U2 (any tour before 1984), Pavement (any period), The Modern Lovers (any period), Lemonheads ("lovey" tour)
7. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
I'm going to include other NW bands….DCFC, Long Winters, Thermals, Spinanes, Modest Mouse, 764Hero, Can't See, Siberian, Cops, Western States, Pedro The Lion, The Soft Drugs, Boat, Vive Voce, Laura Viers, Juno, Whalebones, Swaybacks, Decemberists, Common Market, Elliot Smith, Helio Sequnce, The Shins, Neko Case, Joggers, Sleater-Kinney, Julie Dorion, Jesse Sykes, Sunny Day Real Estate, Love As Laughter, Pond, Seaweed, Beat Happening, Zumpano, Crystal Skulls, Model Photographer...I know am missing a bunch but that is what I think when I think of NW bands I like. I have always been a fan of music from this area. I have been very lucky to have lived in great cities (philadelphia, boston, seattle) for music. I feel lucky to be part of the music scene in Seattle.
1. How do you think others would describe The Sea Navy, and is that the same or different than you'd like to think of yourselves?
I would say we are an indie rock band from Seattle, WA. However it always depends how much people know about music. For instance a friend of mine was telling me the other day he went out with some people from work and he was explaining what his band sounded like. He mentioned Elvis Costello and he was greeted by blank stares. You would think that people in their 30s would be able to grasp a reference like that but you never know. Same thing with genres. If say to a relative we are an indie rock band that doesn't do anything so I usually say we have bass, drums and guitar and our songs are no louder or faster than The Beatles.
But if you talk to people who have an interest in music and they ask what we sounds like I tell them as far as the music goes I would say I am taking audio cues from Elvis Costello, The Modern Lovers, Billy Bragg, oldies radio, Gamble and Huff ( http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gamble_and_Huff ), Superchunk, Buffalo Tom, Ted Leo, early Lemonheads, Pavement, Guided By Voices, Teenage Fanclub. I am also taking a bit from Afghan Whigs, Come, U2, Helium, Sebadoh and Mission Of Burma but that does not come across in the music as so much as what I'm thinking when I'm writing.
2. What are your feelings about the state of pop in the Northwest and Seattle in particular? Where do you guys think you fit in?
We are still the new kids in school so I don't know how to answer that. I have been treated very nice by the bands, press and club people we have met so far so hopefully that continues.
3. The new record is coming out on 10/5. What are you most proud of with this recording? Anything you wish you could change?
No changes. This record is the record I wanted to make. This record would not be possible without TW Walsh. TW was a perfect match to work with for this record. I know TW from when we both lived in Massachusetts but never really got to work with him until we both moved to Seattle. We have overlapping musical references which is important when writing and recording. Every time he would add a keyboard part or a bass part I had to pick my jaw up off the floor. I would be sitting there wondering where he was pulling this parts from. They were perfect fits but they were things I would have never had thought of. He has a pair of golden ears which is something I thank him for daily. Everyone should go to www.thesoftdrugs.com and pick up his new record.
4. Why is the record called "oh these troubled times?" It's obviously a lyric in "arctic advice," but why choose it for the title? And while we're on the subject, what is "arctic advice" mean to you guys? Google produces some interesting results.
I have a pet peeve about naming albums after songs featured on the record so I thought I would use a lyric instead. "Oh These Troubled Times" works on a personal and political level. Also I think it sums up the feeling of the record. While the songs may sound happy the lyrical content might suggest otherwise.
The title comes from a lyric in Arctic Advice which was written a couple months after my then girlfriend, now fiancee moved to Seattle from Boston in 2002. Actually Arctic Advice is the first song on the record because it was the first song I wrote in Seattle. I couldn't find steady work so I turned to temping and was placed at this horrible company on the east side of Seattle and I was probably the most depressed I have ever been my entire life. I was one click away from selling all my musical equipment on Ebay. During my first week of temping a mass email went out to the entire full time staff alerting them to fact that the company was being sold and most of them (and most of these were people 50 and above who had been their a loooonnnnggg time) were getting laid off. The place was depressing enough and now all these people are walking around sobbing and comatose. So towards the end of the email was a brief pep talk of how even though the end was near they should still "carry on" and put on a happy face. I just thought that was some strange advice to give people. So the term "arctic advice" came from that experience.
5. The Sea Navy have been performing for a while now. What would the 2001 edition say to the 2006 edition?
Scott Craggs (drums, 2001 ) - (jokingly) "that ain't how that beat goes."
Nick Hubben (bass, 2001) - "Brighter. More distorted. (just kidding.) I think T-dub sounds great, always have."
6. If you could open for any band, from any time period, who would it be and why?
Here are some bands I would have liked to open for or at least be in the audience…..Talking Heads (1977 to 1979), Matthew Sweet ("girlfriend tour"), Elvis Costello & The Attractions ("armed forces" tour), U2 (any tour before 1984), Pavement (any period), The Modern Lovers (any period), Lemonheads ("lovey" tour)
7. Who are your favorite Seattle bands and why?
I'm going to include other NW bands….DCFC, Long Winters, Thermals, Spinanes, Modest Mouse, 764Hero, Can't See, Siberian, Cops, Western States, Pedro The Lion, The Soft Drugs, Boat, Vive Voce, Laura Viers, Juno, Whalebones, Swaybacks, Decemberists, Common Market, Elliot Smith, Helio Sequnce, The Shins, Neko Case, Joggers, Sleater-Kinney, Julie Dorion, Jesse Sykes, Sunny Day Real Estate, Love As Laughter, Pond, Seaweed, Beat Happening, Zumpano, Crystal Skulls, Model Photographer...I know am missing a bunch but that is what I think when I think of NW bands I like. I have always been a fan of music from this area. I have been very lucky to have lived in great cities (philadelphia, boston, seattle) for music. I feel lucky to be part of the music scene in Seattle.
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