1. For many artists, they cite a defining moment for themselves when they knew they wanted to be a singer. For many it was the appearance of Elvis on the Ed Sullivan show, to another generation it was the Beatles’ appearance on Sullivan half a decade later. Is there such a defining moment for you?
No, in fact, even though I do sing in Thunder Buffalo I have never thought myself a singer. When I think of singers I think of burly growling dudes with their foot on the monitor in front of them holding a skull or some other really cheesy shit. Or, some cat that just rips off Iggy Pop or Mick Jagger. In fact, the only defining moments I can think of involve watching musicians/singers and saying, "Man, I do NOT want to be that guy." So actually, yes, but in reverse.
2. When you’re not creating music what are you listening to? Who are some of your favorites?
Usually friends music. Right now I've been cranking everything GGNZLA records puts out, Branden Daniel & The Chics (self-released), Dikes of Holland (Sundae records) The Flying Luttenbachers, The Hospitals, Swell Maps, and older stuff like The Ventures, Syd Barrett/Pink Floyd, Chet Baker, Little Anthony & The Imperials. I've also been a HUGE Stranglers kick lately. This list could go on and on...
3. What would you say is your greatest moment so far as an artist, either on record or live?
I once played a show in L.A. on my birthday, and after the set the bartenders kept serving me shots until I was totally blitzed. Then, I hit on the hot waitress for a while, went behind the bar and served a few patrons whiskey, then got kicked out by my bands mates. When we got back to the apartment I declared the devil was coming after me while hugging the toilet, then fell asleep on a blow up mattress proclaiming that "floating is baaaaaaaaaaaad." Not really a personal high, but as far as the "rock n' roll lifestyle" goes, I think that's up there with the best. Besides it was my birthday, how else was I supposed to celebrate it.
4. Do you believe music can change the world or is just something to listen to? How much can music influence current events?
I think it can influence current events a lot, both in good and bad ways. Once you start writing songs like that though you become part of the machine and I'd rather not be a cog, that's why I stay out of it. A lot of bands want their music to speak some truth about the world, or make some stand on this side or that, but I feel like that's unnecessary. For me, music is about letting go of problems and having fun. Even though I do write some "darker" material I try to stay away from political or social subject matter. No matter what, someone's gonna get pissed at you for writing it, and I want to be friends with everyone. Besides who wants to be serious all the time anyway?
5. How has technology affected the music industry? How has technology affected your career as a musician?
I get more interviews because of it that's for sure. Otherwise I stay out of it. Let the assholes in suits fight about that one.
6. Now for my Barbara Walters question: If you were a pair of shoes what type of shoes would you be?
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