[blowthescene.com] New York based three-piece Grandfather, has been creating quite a buzz with their self-described “dynamic, intense and violently rhythmic psychedelic flavor of rock.”
Many new listeners were turned on to the band when legendary producer Steve Albini, had this to say in a recent interview with GQ, “There was a band that came into the studio a while back called Grandfather. They were an art-rock band that organized the funding of their record through Kickstarter. They were really well rehearsed and came into the studio and knocked the record out in a couple of days… That’s the kind of nimble, efficient behavior that was previously impossible when there was a corporate structure involved. It gives me confidence other bands will figure it out.”
Grandfather are currently offering their latest full-length recorded effort, Why I’d Try, for free download via Grandfathermusic.com which has been received with open arms by fans and critics alike.
Blow The Scene Staff Writer Adam Rauf recently caught up with Grandfather guitarist Michael Kirsch for a Q & A session!
Adam BTS: What brought all you guys together?
Michael Kirsch: The three of us had played together in another band. That band eventually fell apart, though it didn’t stop the three of us from making music together. Our chemistry allowed for us to create music collectively and communicate ideas more effectively. Grandfather is the result of a genuine collaboration. There is no single songwriter in the band.
Adam BTS: Who are your biggest influences in songwriting?
Michael Kirsch: As a band, we are drawn to music that is dissonant, abrasive, and dark, yet melodic. Portishead, The Cure, Sigur Ros and Radiohead all come to mind. Music allows us to confront subjects that are difficult or uncomfortable to ordinarily deal with.
Adam BTS: What made you want to record with Steve Albini?
Michael Kirsch: In a nutshell, Steve’s approach to recording fit our ideals, strategy and budget. We were attracted to his no-frills, all-analog approach. From a purely sonic standpoint, I think he makes some of the best sounding records. Although he is pigeonholed as the champion of heavily distorted alternative rock, he has done amazing work outside of that genre. Listen to “Things We Lost In The Fire” by Low or “The Blackened Air” by Nina Nastasia. They sound brilliant.
Adam BTS: What was it like to record with him and Bob Weston?
Michael Kirsch: At first it was a bit surreal. We have a deep reverence for their work, and felt incredibly inspired by their presence and being in their studios. Every moment was an opportunity to learn something new, and also demystified their process of engineering. Most of all, their dedication to getting the work done on time was inspiring. We are looking forward to working with them again.
Adam BTS: Do you feel like it was a pretty relaxed situation, or was there a lot of rushing to get things done in three days?
Michael Kirsch: There were definitely moments of anxiety, and stress. The sheer amount of time playing and listening to our music was fatiguing. Nevertheless, Steve was poised the entire time, and reassured us that we were always ahead of schedule.
Adam BTS: Was it cost-effective to record in the manner that you did?
Michael Kirsch: Yes. Most studios and engineers are not equipped to record and mix an album in 3 days. It’s common practice for bands to spend month’s multi-tracking their music at their home studio, and then spend exorbitant amounts of money hiring someone to mix it. Between the costs of working at Electrical Audio and the efficiency of the process, it was the best money we’ve ever spent.
READ THE ENTIRE INTERVIEW HERE.
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