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VARIANCETHE SIGHTS + SOUNDS YOU LOVE

Phoenix!THE WAIT IS g OVER. #SXSW IN PICS SAM JAEGER 30 YEARS OF JACOB ARTIST 11 MUSICIANS WHO DESERVE TO BE BIGGER THAN PITBULL * VOL. 4, ISSUE 2 | APRIL_SPRING 2013 NOW PLAYING KEEP YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION. FOLLOW YOUR DREAM .

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TATEMUSICGROUP.COM FIRST THINGS FIRST

to watch this year. Rudimental, Cold War Kids, The Flaming Lips and Passion Pit also grabbed the spot- light down south. James Blake, while he attended the festival, did not per- form, but his forthcoming , , is easily one of the best this year has to offer. We also spotlight some of our TV favorites, including Sam Jaeger, the Parenthood actor that female fans just can’t seem to get enough of, and Jacob Artist, the new eye candy on Fox’s hit dramedy . We also talk- ed to Kevin Alejandro, who co-stars in CBS’s new smash, Golden Boy. Most excitingly, our cover stars one of our favorite bands of the mod-

WELCOME, SPRING. ern era, an ensemble whose highly anticipated new album readers vot- AFTER A WHIRLWIND we were there bringing you the ed the spring release they are look- INTRO TO 2013, SPRING latest, behind-the-scenes and up- ing forward to most. Coming off a close. From Mumford and Sons to lengthy period of silence, Phoenix

IS HERE AT LAST. fun., we caught up with the big win- returns this month with Bankrupt!, ners and breakout stars. one of the year’s most talked-about We don’t have to tell you how fast In March came SXSW, and this new sets. And they’re talking to Vari- the year is flying by; you already year was mammoth. Besides sur- ance first. know. prise shows from the likes of Jus- We also had a little fun this is- As we present our Spring issue, tin Timberlake and Prince, music sue, and are offering to you 11 we not only reflect on some of the mainstays like T.I., Fall Out Boy, Musicians Who Deserve to Be greatest Sights and Sounds of the and others showed Bigger Than Pitbull. This one’s pret- last few months, but we look ahead up to join in on music’s biggest ty simple. There is some great music at some of the season’s brightest annual party. Rising hip-hop stars out there these days, and there’s also faces and most exciting voices. And and some pretty awful stuff that seems as always, we looked to you—the were the kings of the festival, while to be inescapable. While Pitbull tops readers—for your opinion and up-and-comers Alt-J, the latter list, we’d like to shine a light feedback. and Phosphorescent rose to the top on the former—some of the talent One of our last issue’s featured of a roster that included more than that should have more Billboard hits artists, , have been 2,000 acts. and sold-out shows than the Miami- making significant strides since the This issue, however unintentional, based rapper. release of their pop-friendly album, is in many ways our SXSW special. 2013 is already shaping up to be an Heartthrob. And we can’t be more Many of the artists included this incredible year of Sights and Sounds, excited. month are those who made the big- and we look forward to continuing to February saw the 55th Grammy gest impact in Austin, starting with bring you the very best and amplify- Awards take over Los Angeles, and HAIM—truly one of our favorites ing your voice. SPRING‘13 FIRST THINGS FIRST MIXTAPE

JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE HAIM WHISTLE PEAK “Mirrors” “Falling” “Wings Won’t Behave” by @BretEastonEllis by @JordanPhillips_ by @BroStephenScott

PURITY RING JESSIE WARE DANNY BROWN “Grandloves” “If You’re Never Gonna Move” “Grown Up” by @StoneySundae by @knowlesxo by @Cody_Carlton YOU CREATE

COLD WAR KIDS THE LAST ROYALS BLEACHED “Miracle Mile” “Friday Night” “Next Stop” by @nathanhinish by @allygreer by @john_storer

ANGEL HAZE CHVRCHES BASTILLE “Werkin’ Girls” “Recover” “Pompeii” by @ximoanxx by @DJMuncle by @Aaron_Bumby VARIANCESpring_2013, Vol. 4, Issue 2

Editorial Director Jonathan Robles

Managing Editors Rachel Faylene & Weston Shepherd

Editor-at-Large Amanda Morad

CONTENTS Features Editors Merlyn Hamilton & Emily Hulseberg

Editorial Assistant Laurie Tomlinson

Contributing Writers Noel Abas Chas Guy Katie Herald Aaron Lachman John Mouser Edwin Wilson

Contributing Photographers & Artists Chloe Aftel Bo Apitz Eric Blackmon Kate Davis-Macleod Laura Fedele Allison Green Flora Hanitijo Anna Hanks Matt Kent Lauren Keogh Steve Laughlin Taylor Hatfield Eliot Lee Hazel Nathan Malone SPRING MIXTAPE (PLAYLIST) 05 Jeffrey Marini SAM JAEGER 08 James Moriarty PJ MORTON 10 Elizabeth Morris BLEACHED 36 Jason Nocito Nan Palmero KATIE AINGE 37 Felix Perez Nathan Presley Claire Reynolds Caitlyn Ridenour Cara Robbins g PHOENIX 42 Mark Runyon George Salisbury Marti Sheehan Fefe Siriano JESSIE WARE 54 Janie Smith-Burns THE LAST BISON 56 Aaron Stern NATALY DAWN 57 Steven Taylor DAUGHTER 58 Esther Teichmann MATTHEW MAYFIELD 60 Aleksandar Tomovic RUDIMENTAL 62 Willy Ward JACOB ARTIST 64 Eli Watson KEVIN ALEJANDRO 66 Matt Wignall 68 Laura Wilson EAR CANDY Derek Wood Becky Zeiger

Web Production & Design Nicholas Clayton JP Jones Jonathan Robles

Project Development Bryan Norris

THE SIGHTS AND SOUNDS YOU LOVE.

www.variancemagazine.com 11 MUSICIANS 30 WHO DESERVE TO BE BIGGER THAN PITBULL FUTURESOUNDS: 38 THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR

THE FLAMING LIPS 12 The marks 30 years with its darkest, weirdest album. SXSW PHOTO DIARIES 16 Austin showcased the best Sights and Sounds this year. We captured the best moments. JAMES BLAKE 22 On the eve of his most anticipated album release, the British singer talks about the . PASSION PIT 26 One of the year's biggest indie-turned-arena bands talks tour life and times. HAIM 34 This year's band to watch shares sisterly love on the road to their debut album. COLD WAR KIDS 50 talks about the changes in store as they release their fourth album. SAM JAEGER

THE Parenthood ACTOR TALKS ABOUT HIS ROLE OF LOVING HUSBAND AND FATHER— ONSCREEN AND OFF.

WORDS BY MERLYN HAMILTON PHOTO BY ERIC BLACKMON “I would be shocked if [Parenthood] didn’t come back next season. I’ve been worried in seasons past where we’re kind of on the bubble, but I feel much more confident this year than I ever have.” k

Ask something going on. But the beauty of we’ve been making movies since I guess any mother or wife who the best dad and husband on Parenthood is, and the answer Parenthood is how they tie it all together. my freshman year in high school, and I’ve is unanimous. Sam Jaeger (Joel) has defi- Let’s not forget the adoption storyline kind of continued that on now. I love act- nitely got it in the bag. This TV dad and with Jaeger’s family on the show. ing but I don’t believe I have a preference; husband is also a dad and husband in real “This was actually the easiest season I just like being a part of telling stories.” life. And he says he draws inspiration we had,” Jaeger says. “Because we knew So what’s Jaeger up to now that from real life pretty consistently. the struggles that we had with this boy, Parenthood is on hiatus? Well, making his Playing opposite as and I think they were struggles that any own movie, of course. He’s writing, di- his onscreen wife, Julia, he says he draws parent, especially the parents of adopted recting and starring in a film called Plain inspiration from real life pretty consis- children, can relate to. You’re bringing Clothes. Based on his conversations with tently. “When we go into a scene, we start somebody into the fold and trying to real police officers, Jaeger says it has a lot collaborating with the director, and a lot make them feel welcome, and that’s really, to do with posttraumatic stress disorder of times, I draw on what it means to be really difficult if they’ve had past experi- and the expectations of cops. a father to me, and because she isn’t a ences. You know, we wanted to represent “I just think it’s a harder life than I could mother in real life, I have a lot to say,” that as realistically as possible and I think possibly imagine and I’m fascinated by says Jaeger. “But it’s the same; she draws we did a good job with it. Thankfully, we someone who sees mankind at its lowest a lot from being a sibling. It’s the best job had a really gifted actor in the boy [Xolo and still tries to carry on a nine-to-five a guy could have because I get to work Mariduena] who plays Victor.” life,” he says. and test out the failings of my role as A regular on the show from the begin- Fans of his 2011 movie, Take Me , a father.” ning, Jaeger expresses his love for having can expect to see much of the same faces Born in , Jaeger went to college been with the NBC series for so long. in this film. With plans to have the film for theater and interned in for “It feels wonderful,” he says. “This is done at the end of April, Jaeger says he ABC’s primetime casting office. But his the most fulfilling season that I’ve been a wants to make sure it’s good first. desire to be an actor started much earlier. part of because I feel like the writing has “Because it’s a short film, I don’t have to “When I was about 11 or 12, I watched really locked in with the acting. You know, adhere to any studio rules,” he says. the movie, Dead Poets Society, and walked often a show that’s four seasons, it kind When he’s not on set, Jaeger says he’s out and said to my best friend at the time, of rests on its laurels and I think we keep watching his son play various instruments ‘That’s what I want to do,’” Jaeger says. excelling. Everyone on the show, from the around the house. “Everything else has been really compli- directors to the actors and crew, are still “He puts on little concerts,” he says. “I cated in my life, but that’s the one thing striving to make it a better show than it taped a chopstick to the bottom of a uku- that I’ve always known.” was last year. I think this year was a testa- lele and he uses it to play a cello. He saw a With television shows like Law and ment to the hard work we all put in.” video when he was very of Yo-Yo Order, Friday Night Lights, and of course, But despite all the hard work, at the time Ma and he impersonates him non-stop. Parenthood on his resume, Jaeger says that of this writing, there is no guarantee that He gets into it. It’s pretty insane. So that’s he grew up adoring film but now just the show will be renewed for another my free time, watching him grow and try- watches a lot of TV. season. Jaeger’s not worried, though. “I ing to wrestle the yard and stuff that dads “I’ve got a three-year-old boy, so my would be shocked if we didn’t come back do, I guess.” wife and I are just like, ‘Okay, I’ve got next season,” he says. “I’ve been worried So what else does this actor-director maybe 40 minutes until I’m passed out,’” in seasons past where we’re kind of on have in store for the future? he says. “I think that’s part of the ride the bubble, but I feel much more confi- “Dancing with the Stars,” he jokes. “No, of making good television. The fact that dent this year than I ever have.” not really. I just like what I’m doing. If there are parents who can now watch tele- In addition to his on-screen roles, Jae- I can continue to do this, whether it is vision and get at least remotely fulfilled ger can also be found behind the camera directing more shows or directing more instead of having to watch a movie over calling the shots. Having directed one of features and acting, I’m a pretty five hours or something.” the Parenthood episodes, he admits that guy.” Parenthood fans seem to agree that this directing has always been an interest past season, season four, was by far of his. the most intense season of the show. “I broke my nose shooting a movie with From the Sarah-Mark-Hank triangle to my buddy in the backyard in high school,” Christina’s battle with cancer and even he says. “We were the antagonist and For the latest information on Sam Drew’s girlfriend’s pregnancy, it seemed protagonist in a movie and he ended up Jaeger, follow him on : every character and every family had breaking my nose with a garden hoe. So @Sam_Jaeger.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 9 know it took a long time, but now I’m PJ here; and I ain’t going nowhere, no more fear.” For singer, musician, producer and writer PJ Morton, these words aren’t just lyrics“I to his latest single. They’re evidence of a dream MORTON come true. The background vocalist and keyboardist BY AMANDA MORAD releases his debut album on Young Money Entertain- ment/ May 14. is a soul- THE MULTI-TALENTED MUSICIAN DISCUSSES BEING PART OF MAROON 5, HIS WORK WITH & HIS FORTHCOMING SOLO RECORD. you motivated.” that before and it’s a re- themes to his instrumen- All that motivation led ally heartfelt song, just tation. “Those roots will to Morton releasing a and .” always be a part of what free EP, Following My First Placing Morton’s soul- ,” he says. “It’s in- Mind, in March 2012, and ful, eclectic style next grained in who I . It’s two songs from that re- to artists like , all there in the music as cording make a refreshed and part of my DNA.” appearance on New seems a bit off-beat for The years between Orleans. the Cash Money im- in his east New The album features print, but their quest to Orleans church and re- several collaborations, broaden their roster and leasing his first major including appearances Morton’s mission to label album were spent by Maroon 5’s frontman reach the masses melds writing, producing and and Busta well. “They go for au- recording on his own. Rhymes, but the one thenticity; they sign what Though Young Money Morton is most proud they believe in,” Morton has increased his visibility of is on his new single, says. “Most importantly, since he signed in 2011, “Only One,” with the they don’t touch creativ- Morton was never one King of Soul himself, ity. If they sign you, they to sit back and wait for Stevie Wonder. like you the way you are.” things to come to him. “Stevie is the one artist A huge part of what “My years as an in- who changed everything bred Morton’s talent was die artist taught me the for me,” Morton ex- his growing up in New business and helped me plains. “It’s the true full Orleans. The artistic, as I developed as a solo circle for me as a musi- care-free attitude of the artist,” he says. “I was cian to have his stamp of city is well-known for careful not to fall into approval and his mark on fostering great soul mu- the same trap I’ve seen my album.” sicians. “New Orleans is others fall into. Labels Wonder’s approval isn’t where I learned how to are looking for that self- misplaced. New Orleans is play music. It’s the best contained artist these a tapestry of genres and training ground you can days and being on the styles that truly show- get as a musician be- inside really helped me cases Morton’s talent as a cause it’s such a big part understand what it takes , producer and of the culture,” Morton to handle a major label.” vocalist. explains. “It makes you With all that hard work “Only One” is a soul- have integrity in the mu- now paying off big time, ful R&B number—also sic because you respect Morton is excited to take featuring Wonder’s the music.” New Orleans on the road trademark harmonica— That integrity has when he opens for Ma- while “Work it Out” served him well: Morton roon 5 this summer. has a low hip-hop won a Grammy for his “Performing is what feel. “Heavy,” the driv- songwriting and produc- makes me feel most ing duet between Levine tion of India.Arie’s “In- alive—there’s nothing and Morton, is flat out terested” in 2002 while better than singing your good ‘ol New Orleans a junior in college. He songs and having people and “Hard Enough” is a then won a Dove Award sing them back to you,” brighter, reggae-infused and Stellar Award in 2008 Morton gushes. “It’s pop ode. for his collaboration with an emotion I just can’t PHOTO BY STEVEN TAYLOR But Morton’s most per- gospel artist DeWayne describe. There’s really ful, upbeat R&B project that pays tribute to sonal track, “Motions,” is Woods. And that didn’t nothing you can compare The Big Easy from which Morton hails. a bit more broken down: just drop out of the sky. it to.” “I’ve been making solo records for a while, “It’s talking about that Another key aspect of but I hadn’t put out a record since 2005,” moment where you’re Morton’s creative work is says Morton, who has been on the road with with somebody but his root in gospel music. Maroon 5 since 2010. “While touring all last they’re not really there Growing up the son of Catch “Only One” on year, I was inspired to start saying what I anymore and you’re just gospel artist Bishop Paul pjmortononline.com and want to say again. Being on the road and see- going through the mo- Morton influenced ev- watch for New Orleans’ re- ing all these amazing places—it kinda gets tions. I’ve been through erything from Morton’s lease May 14.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 11

THEY'RE TURNING 30 AND DITCHING THE PARTY

THE FLAMING g

LIPSROBLES JONATHAN BY DARKER, WEIRDER AND MORE PERSONAL THAN EVER many ways, the Flaming Lips’ to make after . I trust that the had horrible experiences with a major Hyundai commercial during longtime fans will understand where we’re label, and it could have gone differently this year’s Super Bowl was coming from.” for us. I think we got lucky in ‘96 or ‘97 the beginning of the band’s According to Drozd, this is all part of when the whole ‘alternative nation’ thing campaignIN to promote its new album, the Lips’ “evolution.” was dying out and Warner Bros. was drop- The Terror. “Sun Blows Up Today”—the “We’ve done a six-hour song and a 24- ping bands and people were getting fired. buoyant, upbeat track featured in the ad— hour song,” he says. “By the time we got We happened to be just enough under the caught the attention of longtime fans and done with all that, there was nothing ide- radar where I think they forgot about us new listeners, stoking anticipation for the alistically that I was wanting to do as far during that time. Otherwise it might have new set. But upon listening to the full re- as a new strain of music. Any idea I ever been, ‘You know, they had kind of a hit cord, it’s evident “Sun” is about as sunny wanted to try, we did by the time we fin- in ‘93/’94, and then the last record didn’t as it gets this time around. ished the 24-hour song. I was just kind of sell anything.’ They might have dropped Celebrating their 30th anniversary this messing around and not really having an us, but I think being under the radar ac- year, the Lips are betting against super- agenda. It just happened to be this sort tually worked out to our advantage. Then stition and taking a very distinct left turn of real bleak-sounding thing. Wayne re- we got a whole new kind of life with The with studio album No. 13, hoping their ally responded to it and really wanted to Soft Bulletin. I think by then they felt like, decades-long streak of good fortune work on it and turn it into something, and ‘Hey, we’re happy to have these guys be- continues. “But it’s a risk,” admits multi- it’s the song ‘You Are Alone.’ We decid- cause the critics seem to like them and instrumentalist and songwriter Steven ed after that, instead of jumping all over they have a pretty solid fan base.’” Drozd. the place or trying to do many different While Drozd attributes much of the Drozd, who has taken on a bigger role sorts of things, we were going to try to Lips’ early label relations to luck, he ac- with Terror, admits that while this record stick to one basic pallet. [The other] songs knowledges that this is a very different is outside of the usual Lips sphere, it’s branched out from there. I was going time for music labels and for bands. “I more personal. “I’m always very involved through some personal stuff at the time think in this day and age, it’s hard to say musically,” he explains. “But this is differ- and it did happen to be represented in the what works. It’s not in the , ‘We’re ent. We didn’t struggle. [] music.” going to sign a band, give them three re- and I got together; we would just record Although he didn’t realize it at the time, cords to try and develop whatever it is a sound and it just felt like he wanted me the final product would be a grimmer col- their thing is.’ That doesn’t really exist to do the thing that I do, and that sort of lection than previous releases. But Drozd anymore, so I don’t know. I think the best shaped the record in a way.” insists it wasn’t intentional. “When I hear the record companies can do now, which The album, which the band played in full that stuff now, it definitely feels darker, it seems like they’re trying to do, is just for fans last month at SXSW, is noticeably but it sort of happened organically. I real- latch onto a band’s whole existence, their darker, weirder and less flamboyant. And ly like that in music. I’m sure most people merchandise, their tour, etc. while Drozd admits there’s a big question agree: sometimes when you’re down, you “As far as a healthy, artistic, respectful mark hovering over this project, he feels want to hear depressing music because relationship, I really don’t know how that this is the natural next step. it makes you feel kind of connected to happens—even in our situation. Maybe “We think about, ‘what if,’” he admits. something.” it’s how we worked things out where we “We also hope—or realize, especially the The band also didn’t aim to fit the new weren’t given a ton of money, so the re- hardcore fans, they expect us to change project snugly into one particular genre or cord company doesn’t expect a ton. It bal- or do different things. The fans that have category. They didn’t have a checklist or ances out.” been running for years know that the even a set of goals. But they did have a While Warner does indeed have bands Flaming Lips is not all confetti or animal plan. they push harder, the Lips received prime costumes on stage. I mean, if you go back “We didn’t have verses and choruses,” ad real estate as more than 108 million to the records before I was in the band, Drozd says of “You Are Alone,” the track viewers watched their Hyundai spot dur- there is some pretty heavy stuff and that he claims is at the heart of the new re- ing the big game in February. Sure, many was actually the Flaming Lips that I re- cord. “It didn’t have a drum beat. It didn’t bands would love that kind of spotlight, sponded to.” have a pop chord progression. It was just but more often, bands are hesitant about But the question is, how will fans today this moment, three-and-a-half minutes of the possibility of having their art reduced respond to it? almost like a feeling, rather than a song. I to a jingle. Not the case for the Lips. “We definitely considered another ‘Yo- think we decided early on that we’d like “I guess there would be some things that shimi’ or ‘Yeah Yeah Yeah Song,’” Drozd to create a record within this same vein, we probably wouldn’t do,” Drozd jokes. reveals. “But we would have to pack it in. and we just consciously tried to stick to “The funny thing is, the Super Bowl song, This might not be a different thing for that plan.” I’ve seen people tweet, ‘I love this song! I all of recorded music history, but for us, Having been around for so long, the can’t wait to hear the new record.’ I want it certainly felt like a different record to Lips have learned what makes them tick. to tell them, ‘This song sounds nothing make. It felt like the right record to make. They’ve developed an indestructible bond like the new record.’ I also like to think of There were a couple of times as we were with their of fans. But they’ve also the idea of some Midwestern dude who doing it, I remember feeling like, ‘Man, I managed to maintain a healthy long-term has seen our name before, but didn’t re- really like this music and I want to listen relationship with their — ally know about us. He saw the commer- to this music when we get done with it.’ something of a rarity in the music indus- cial and now he’s like, ‘Hey, I really like Sometimes you get done with a record try these days. them! Oh, they have a new record! I’m go- and you’re like, ‘I don’t want to hear that “Obviously, it doesn’t go that way with ing to go buy that and check it out.’ And for a while.’ I really still enjoy listening every band,” he cautions. “I’m sure you he’s going to bring it home and be like, to it and it just felt like a good record could talk to a thousand bands who have ‘What the hell is this? This doesn’t sound

14 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM THE FLAMING LIPS PHOTOS BY GEORGE SALISBURY BY PHOTOS like the band I thought I was getting.’ I’m about. “They’re nice guys and what not. Grammy seems kind of small-minded.” kind of into that idea, but I’ve also heard I think it was just one of those simple And as most Flaming Lips fans know, people say, ‘They’re doing a Super Bowl things where they were fans of the band small just isn’t their style. Although the commercial! That’s crazy!’ It’s not really, and wanted us to come play shows with album will result in a tour and other pro- though. I mean, we did Beverly Hills, 90210 them. Technically speaking, we’re open- motional activities, the band still has their in 1995. It’s like the quote: ing for them because they’re pretty mega sights set forward. ‘we’ve been trying to sell out for years, now. I don’t think there was much of a “It used to be a joke to say we always nobody’s buying!’ I think it’s all part of struggle for us because we are always try- wanted to be the first to play in space,” being an artist. You know, the ridiculous ing to play a bigger audience, especially explains Drozd. “I think Wayne serious- and the absurd. So for every Super Bowl younger people who might not have heard ly is actively trying to make that happen commercial you get, you get Christmas on of us. We could play to some people we because Richard Branson’s talking about Mars or some crazy experimental thing. wouldn’t normally play to.” doing it, and I think he’s been talking to I think if we went just one way or if it As he puts it, while laughing, “That was . We’re like, ‘No! Don’t put was all trying to sell out for doing com- a pretty easy ‘yes.’ They’re huge,” he says, Gaga in space! We should be in space mercials, if we did that, we’d look a little while noting drummer ’s first!’ We used to say that as a joke, but if suspicious. I think it gives us a little bit Twitter battle with following that could really happen, we would like to of credibility that we’re always going back the Keys’ Grammy wins in February. “To be the first band in space. and forth and doing both of those things. me, the Grammys is something my dad “First, though, our focus is on putting I don’t think anyone who hears The Terror would get really thrilled about. It’s not like the new record out and hoping people will think, ‘Oh, they’re trying to sell out I felt like we weren’t legit until we won respond to it. I really hope that people and create a big pop hit.’” Grammys. But at the same time, it’s not hear it as something different. I hope they The Lips this month will perform a few like we’re multimillionaires like Bieber. connect with it. Maybe they won’t at all, I shows with a band known for having a The thing with Bieber, to me, it’s just the don’t know. This could be the time where very similar stance on music and adver- latest brand of cheesy kids’ . I either we lose some fans, or a lot of fans, tisement, . And according don’t want to sound like a d---, but who or we find out that the fans we have will to Drozd, it’s all about expanding their cares, you know? We’ve won a few and with us no matter what. I guess we’re audience, plain and simple. “We played a it’s nice. Maybe I would feel differently about to find out.” show with them and we had a little con- if we hadn’t won Grammys. To think versation,” he reveals of how it came that you’re only legitimized by winning a The Terror arrives April 16 via Warner. 6TH STREET DURING SXSW 2013, BY STEVE LAUGHLIN.

VARIANCE SXSW *13 PHOTO DIARIES

gg CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT (THIS PAGE): MACKLEMORE PERFORMING RACHAEL RAY'S FEEDBACK PARTY BY JONATHAN ROBLES; FIDLAR'S ZAC CARPER BY BO APITZ; HAIM BY BO APITZ; KEITH JEFFERY OF ATLAS BY NATHAN MALONE; BY ELI WATSON // (NEXT PAGE): LAUREN MAYBERRY OF CHVRCHES BY ANNA HANKS; TRINIDAD JAME$ AT THE MTVu WOODIE AWARDS BY NATHAN MALONE; 'S BY LAURA FEDELE; CHARLI XCX BY BO APITZ; JACK BLACK OF TENACIOUS D BY NATHAN MALONE; BY JONATHAN ROBLES; TAYLOR GOLDSMITH OF DAWES BY MARK RUNYON.

18 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM PHOTO DIARIESg KENDRICK LAMAR

PHOTO DIARIES PHOSPHORESCENT j JAMES

years after the release of saw Brit Award andBLAKE “I listened to more opinions this time,” TWO his critically acclaimed nominations following his 2011 effort, the singer-producer admits with a smile. eponymous debut album, James Blake has spent the past couple of years fine- “I think that’s why it seems more re- is ready to show the world what he’s tuning his sound ahead of a new project, fined—to me, at least.” really made of. The soulful singer, who Overgrown, which is due this month. Blake, having experimented with

22 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM OLDER. WISER. MORE PASSIONATE. AND HE'S RETURNING WITH HIS MOST CONCRETE EFFORT YET. j

BY JONATHAN ROBLES various formats and mixes between releas- at that, then people should be encouraged es—and irking some critics in the process, to do that. Unfortunately, they’re not, and recalls having many voices telling him it’s really sad. I was, fortunately, encour- I DON’T THINK what he should or should not do this time aged by my parents and others to follow ANYTHING IS A around. “I had a lot of people telling me my passion, but the reality is that every- “ the direction they thought I should take. one is good at something. It’s a shame that GIFT. I BELIEVE And I don’t mean the label or just people so many people are funneled into things YOU HAVE TO in the industry. I’m talking about friends. that do not work for them. In terms of I’d ask for feedback and they would say, the education system, I was really en- WORK HARD FOR ‘That’s not really a song.’ I had to step riched by it in some ways, but really let WHAT YO GET. back after a while and think, ‘What do down in others. I would like to be able to I want to do?’ I think that shows in this draw more attention to those who don’t album.” feel they have the support to follow their the new set, Blake seems open to work- Of Overgrown, he says it reflects “how I true passions.” ing with him. But he admits” he’s cau- feel about where I am and where I want to While Blake is clearly utilizing his per- tious about collaborations, pointing to go,” revealing that he is very content with sonal talents, he claims he is careful not the industry’s influx of left-field musical life right about now. “If I wasn’t happy, to give too much thought to what’s be- mashups. “Some of them are just s---. Any I’d drop out at this second. It’s actually ing said about him by critics, good and collaboration can go wrong. When it be- getting more and more exciting … I can’t bad. Over the past 24 months, and es- comes almost like a mating season, like, explain the feeling to have the avenue pecially leading up to the new record, ‘Alright, now kiss,’ that’s when it doesn’t open up to what you want to do. It feels he’s been showered with praise and even work. It can seem forced, but it doesn’t unbelievable. It’s enabling me to invest compared to music legends. But this soft- have to be like that. Even major label col- in other stuff, like even writing music for spoken artist takes it all with a grain of laborations don’t have to be like that. I be- computer games. I have the freedom to salt. “I hear what they say, but I can’t lieve there are people who collaborate just do that now. I feel very good about where judge any of it. I mean, really, I can’t focus because they love each other’s music, and I’m at, and I want to be able to give that too much on what’s being said. Is it flat- that’s when some pretty amazing things to other people.” tering? Sure. Does it change anything I’m can happen, when it comes out of true Although he feels motivated to “give” to doing? Of course not.” appreciation for the music. Sometimes it others from his own success, the The multi-talented musician may only can produce the most amazing sounds.” native doesn’t consider his musical ability yet be on the road to legendary status, Still unsure what to anticipate with the to be a gift, but rather the result of hard but he has already worked with some very release of his second album, Blake is try- work. “I feel like I’m very fortunate in the notable artists, as reflected in the new ing to set reasonable expectations. “I hope lottery of life,” he says. “But I don’t think set, which demonstrates the influence people just think it’s better than the first anything is a gift. I believe you have to of ’s , a previous one. That would be enough for me. I hope work hard for what you get.” collaborator of Blake’s. Legendary pro- they feel like they can play it in their car. Quick to acknowledge his appreciation ducer and Grammy-winning That was so important to me. I played it for where he is in life, Blake further ex- rapper RZA both appear on Overgrown, so much in the car, this album, testing plains that, in his opinion, there is too the latter of which Blake claims to be a it. Even if I didn’t need to go anywhere, much of a glamorization of musicians custom collaboration intended specifi- I wanted to make sure it worked because and celebrities. “The tendency is to be- cally for the Wu-Tang Clan leader. the car is the perfect balance of doing lieve that if you’re good at music, that is “The only reason the RZA collabora- something important that you can’t take somehow better than everything else—or tion happened was because I knew he was your attention off, so the music filters in football. There’s this idea of glamour, but right for the track,” says Blake. “There was subconsciously. I don’t want it to be ex- I have friends that are just as happy as I no one else I had in mind. I don’t have a cruciating for people to get the message am doing other things, following their list of rappers’ emails.” from a tune.” passions. That is the goal, just to be happy One rapper, however, whose email he While the young artist could reasonably in life. It’s not like, ‘I’m in music and it’s does have is , as the G.O.O.D. wonder how the album will play on the better.’ F--- that.” Music head has evidently become a fan of dance floor or whether a future Grammy It’s one of the reasons the singer hopes the British vocalist, though Blake disputes nomination is in his sights, he’s not get- to be able to use his growing platform to previous reports claiming they recorded ting ahead of himself, although both become more involved as an advocate for together. “I haven’t worked with Kanye, scenarios are worth considering. The education, pointing to his own experi- but I’ve had conversations with him. I 24-year-old does, however, concede one ence and that of other students who have went to his house because he asked me thing: “I don’t want it to just be floating gotten lost in the system and ultimately to and I’ve played him some music, and around beneath. Even if it wasn’t to be- given up on their dreams. “I think one he was really kind about it. He’s really come a massive album or anything, I want of the saddest things about education in supportive and a real music lover. He ob- it to be some people’s favorite album. the Western world is that there are people viously has his ears to the ground. And Everything else aside, if one person falls in who are incredibly talented, but it’s not whatever you want to say about Kanye, love with it, I achieved my goal.” recognized. It’s not better to be talented he really cares about his music and I at making music than it is to be talented respect that.” Overgrown releases April 9 in the U.S. at making weaved baskets. If you’re good Even though West does not appear on via Republic. PHOTO BY ESTHER TEICHMANN

24 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM ” PHOTO BY ESTHER TEICHMANN Passion Pit l THE ONCE-LITTLE INDIE BAND HAS GONE GLOBAL, PLAYING MASSIVE FESTIVALS— AND EVEN MADISON SQUARE GARDEN. SO WHAT’S NEXT? AND HOW DO THEY FEEL ABOUT BEING CALLED “SELLOUTS”?

Passion Pit

BY RACHEL FAYLENE

2012 was a year of both turmoil and accomplishment for Massachusetts-based band Passion Pit. On the one hand, frontman confronted his ongoing mental health challenges. On the other, the band's latest album, Gossamer, made them household names. “It kind of feels like a junior release, if people use that term, because the EP kind of felt like the first album, at least for Mike and I,” drummer Nate Donmoyer admits. During this time, the process to write and release the al- bum wasn’t easy for Angelakos. He was admitted to a clinic to seek ongoing treatment for mental health shortly before the album’s release date, stopping the group’s tour in its tracks. News of this was posted to the band’s website by Angelakos himself: "in order for me to ensure that there will be no further disruptions, I am going to take the time to work on improving my mental health.” Conflicted feelings and questions ad or something like that—or Sarah sic and doing what I love. If being arose from fans and spectators every- Palin,” he confesses. “There are some mainstream is a part of that process or where as to what exactly would hap- devils out there that we won’t make plan, I’m okay with it.” pen next for the group. A brave and money from. We don't really get of- Even with the amount of success the necessary move had to be made for fers like that, but ... if something is band has seen, they still prefer playing Angelakos’ well-being, as well as for completely politically or ethically smaller venues, smaller crowds and a Passion Pit. But Donmoyer expresses something we disagree with a lot, we more intimate setting. The feedback support for his bandmate and the won't take the bait.” loop is much quicker for the group importance of ongoing treatment for Passion Pit has also made its mark in in a tighter locale, and they are able mental health and what it has done radio with Gossamer trumping airplay to feed directly off the energy in the for the group. numbers from their previous release, room, which affects the way they play. “To be honest, it affected us a lot. It’s Manners. And with their popularity “With a smaller venue, you can may- really hard to see one of your best originating on a college campus, the be play longer and play slower stuff like friends go through that in every as- group has every right to bask in the B-sides and everything and still have pect and struggle with it, especially glory of their exposure. people react positively, and that leaves on the road and even in their personal an energy,” he explains. “Whereas, space,” Donmoyer says of the events with a festival, you start playing slow of the past several months. “I think I love Taco Bell. It jams from the beginning and every- it’s made us all closer and I think one falls asleep or goes to get beer and everyone has come through on the “pays the bills. It's hot dogs or whatever, and sees an- other side, especially Michael. I think not like we're going other band that's playing at the same it’s made the band better than ever, to do an NRA ad time across the festival.” and we’re getting along better than But performing at festivals can lead ever and staying positive and keep- or something like to great exposure for most bands and ing in perspective how lucky we are that—or Sarah gives fans the chance to cram in as to do what we do. If going through Palin. There are many of their favorite artists as pos- that is what it takes to realize all sible in a short period of time. The of those things, then I think it’s some devils out downside to that, though, is that it worth it.” there that we won't can leave bands like Passion Pit feel- Donmoyer also believes the writ- make money from. ing pressured to advertise themselves ing has “grown up” over the past to a new audience in the right way. three years and that the direction ” Not only are they playing for dedi- the band is taking is leading them “If we become mainstream because cated fans who are familiar with their to incredible opportunities. While we’re popular, then that’s great. I don’t music, but they’re also presenting he was also busy working on his think the music’s going to change be- themselves to first-time listeners on own endeavors during the writing of cause of that. I don’t think we’re go- many occasions. Gossamer, he says the separation has ing to dumb it down,” he says. “I think we play better when we benefitted his performance. Donmoyer isn’t necessarily con- don’t feel the need to prove ourselves, “It’s actually been more fun for me cerned with the group’s every word just more that we can actually play to play Gossamer live because I haven’t or move being overexposed and our hearts out,” says Donmoyer. heard it a hundred thousand times in twisted for the public eye—not yet, One way for the group to stay the studio,” he admits. anyway. He does, however, want grounded and shake off the pre-show Since its release, tracks from the to see good things happen with nerves is through tradition. As time record have exposed the group to a Passion Pit’s music, as anyone would passes, hundreds of shows are played, broader audience through popular in his position. Being considered an and touring might become mundane, advertisements and commercials. “indie” band has its ups and downs, the group relies on one another to And while the lines have been blurred according to the musician, includ- keep up the spirits of a live perfor- when it comes to defining a “sellout,” ing fame. While there will always mance. Whether it’s to regroup or the band disregards such labels and be those who want to desperately dust each other off before a show, only wishes for success in whatever hold onto that hope of their favor- they make sure to find time to have a avenue that may be. ite band not being overplayed, there little fun beforehand. “I like to think that ‘selling out’ is comes a time when a band simply “About 20 minutes before the show, an old term,” says Donmoyer. “I love outgrows its capacity. we just all hang out together and kind Taco Bell. It pays the bills.” “It’s not like we’re of make fun of each other so we can be He goes on to explain that there are or something with personal stylists. comfortable on stage and just relax... lines that the group won’t cross when We’ll still be ourselves, and if that especially bigger shows where maybe it comes to conducting business with happens to be popular, then cool; our stomachs are turning or we’re some of these enterprises. I’ll take it,” he admits. “It does in- starting to get nervous,” Donmoyer “It’s not like we’re going to do an NRA volve making a living playing mu- reveals. PHOTOS BYJASON NOCITO PASSION PIT

The group finds com- not see each other un- being away from home it makes it a lot easier. But fort in confronting each til we’re on stage,” says takes its toll mentally, he being away from home and other’s flaws in a joking Donmoyer. “It’s just a bad finds it necessary to re- family or loved ones—that manner, almost to get to it show, or at least a weird mind himself that being can be difficult; especially before anyone else has the thing.” able to travel and play those who can’t come out and chance to. Some might Long periods of travel music is a blessing. visit sometimes.” find this tradition a tad and separation from fa- “In the end, we still get For now, the group is indi- harsh, but for Passion Pit, miliar faces can make the to travel and see all these vidually writing music, but it’s just a pre-show ritual. simplest moments the places, and that kind of not for the band. Accord- The subjects of banter can most important ones. keeps you going. All the ing to Donmoyer, the writ- be anything from what And with a group like places I’ve played mu- ing duty for the band goes they’re wearing, the way Passion Pit, touring is a sic, it’s kind of ridiculous through Angelakos and the they conduct themselves, huge part of their musi- and a dream come true,” timing is up to him. And any embarrassing mo- cal career. Fan interaction he recalls of the band’s although the singer doesn’t ments from past shows, and live shows keep fans tour history, which, partake in recording while on or even just the manner actively engaged and sup- as of earlier this year, the road, he does occasionally in which they make fun of portive, but it can weigh includes a headlining date write while traveling. one another. heavy on a musician’s state at Madison Square Gar- Passion Pit plans to actively “That’s the one tradi- of being, both physically den. “You just have to tour at least until the fall and tion we keep. I hate and emotionally. Though keep that in perspective then regroup, hopefully to it when we have to all Donmoyer admits that and remember that, and write more music.T PHOTOS BYJASON NOCITO

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 29 11MUSICIANS WHO DESERVE We asked our readers earlier this year their opinion on the most underrated artists in music, those who aren’t yet mainstream TO BE BIGGER charttoppers and some who just can’t seem to catch a break. Although the results were varied, many readers share similar views. The list that THAN PITBULL follows was created using readers’ insight, each artist having received numerous votes. Variance selected the top 11—because round WORDS BY numbers are boring. KATIE HERALD, JOHN MOUSER & EDWIN WILSON

SOLANGEm We’ll never know what it’s ing what was supposed to an artist. Blending dance like being the younger sib- be her official major label sounds with bold synths ling to Beyoncé Knowles, debut. and indie R&B/pop vibes, but 26-year-old Solange After resurfacing on the EP has provided a understands first-hand the indie circuit, cynics glimpse into her forth- the pros and cons of be- questioned exactly what coming album. ing the kid sister of Queen Solange might be trying Despite positive reviews, Bey. While the relatives to do. She then signed the younger Knowles re- of many celebrities— with independent label mains somewhat in the especially those viewed as Terrible Records, which shadows. Billboard’s Bill favorably as the former put out her next single, Werde even pointed to Destiny’s Child star—tend “Losing You,” and it was “Losing You” as a song that to have no trouble finding as if a switch had been “should have been a way the spotlight. Solange has flipped. Suddenly, eyes bigger hit,” calling Solange traveled a winding road, and ears were turned in her “still vastly-underappreci- despite having the over- direction. ated.” whelming support of her At the end of last year, Yes, she’s related to an older sister. Solange released her True incredibly famous super- Solange, who previously EP via Terrible, produced star, but all things consid- worked with her sister’s by longtime collaborator ered, Solange is extremely R&B group, has actually Dev Hynes. It was instant- talented in her own right. demonstrated a wide range ly evident that the singer Perhaps she’s just doing of talents as a DJ, a model wasn’t allowing herself to things on her own terms, and an actress. But she be bound by conventional but hopefully this is her had a rocky start, parting wisdom, and most im- time to shine. We certainly ways a few years ago with portantly, she seemed to have our fingers crossed. follow- be finding her footing as BEN HOWARDm lEMELI SANDÉ

We haven’t exactly held back in our fond- For those of us in North America, The singer spent Oscar night hang- ness of Ben Howard, one of the greatest Emeli Sandé is still a fresh face in ing with the likes of Bono and Elton voices to come out of the U.K. in years. music. Her beautiful, lustrous voice John, and Clive Davis (the music With powerful vocals and skillful lyrics, has only been sprinkled on U.S. ra- industry legend who discovered this singer-songwriter has yet to hit a sour dio following her starring role at the Whitney Houston) declared back note with the material he’s released thus 2012 Olympics, but last year she in February that she was “the one to far. reigned supreme in the U.K. She was watch.” Following two EPs dating back to 2008, more or less the equivalent of 2011’s The 26-year-old Scottish singer he finally released his debut album, Every in the U.S. But this singer is also dominated this year’s Brits, Kingdom, back in 2010. He continues worthy of dominating American taking home Best British Female churning out soulful, passionate tunes, in- charts as well. and British Album of the Year. cluding 2012’s The Burgh Island EP, which Don’t get us wrong, she is very She’s come a long way from her led to his stunning wins at the much on the rise. But considering 2009 guest contribution on rapper earlier this year. the amount of familiar pop voices Chipmunk’s “Diamond Rings,” Having won Best British Male Artist and being crammed in our ears, Sandé writing for pop singers and Best Breakthrough Artist at the Brits, sales (whose first name by birth is actually , and the multi-talented of his music jumped more than 4,000 per- Adele) provides hope amidst a tired artist seems primed for a worldwide cent in the U.K. But Howard still doesn’t list of crooners. takeover. quite understand: “It was a bit of a shock. It definitely felt like we were the underdogs and that we didn’t belong there.” The musician/surfer—who recently toured with Mumford & Sons—most cer- tainly does belong. (Ironically, Mumford actually opened for Howard before they exploded!) He belongs on the charts, on worldwide tours and major festivals. We caught him at last year’s Austin City Limits Music Festival, and he undoubtedly deliv- ered for the crowd of thousands gathered to watch him perform. Sure, he might still be an “underdog” in many circles, but he is a true talent with a wellspring of potential. We only antici- pate bigger and better things for him in the future. lLITTLE DRAGON

Although Sweden’s Little has been keeping busy and party’s hands, their highly Jimmy Fallon. Dragon has been making growing its profile with TV anticipated “Mama Told The group has been moder- music together for more than syncs and hip-hop collabo- Me” collaboration with Big ately quiet so far this year, but 15 years, the group, fronted rations. Their most recent Boi was ultimately scrapped with good reason. They re- by vocalist Yukimi Nogano, was a major contribution to from the record and Kelly vealed a couple months back has made great strides in re- rapper ’s latest solo Rowland replaced Nogano’s that they were going back in cent years around the globe. effort since , Vicious vocals, but the publicity was the studio, and it seems it’s Their third album, Ritual Lies and Dangerous Rumors, great for , even- only a matter of time before Union, was well-regarded by which released at the end of tually joining the MC to the world will hear a new reviewers following its 2011 last year. perform their version of the Little Dragon record. Perhaps release. Since then, the group Due to logistics out of either track live on Late Night with this is finally their moment.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 31 Canadian songwriter The rations with Drake, Wiz THE WEEKNDm Weeknd (aka Abel Tesfaye) Khalifa and others. He was first burst onto the scene also asked to join Florence a few years ago, crooning Welch and her machine for his way into the hearts of their 2012 tour, and he re- hipster R&B lovers, with a cently confirmed plans to perfect medley of soul, hip- release an album this year hop, electronic and post- titled Kiss Land. punk. At 23 years old, Tesfaye is First releasing a trio of only in the early stages of mixtapes independently, his career, but he is distinct- MAYER he quickly became one of ly influenced by Michael HAWTHORNE the most sought-after art- Jackson and other music ists for every major label greats. In a world that con- m seeking to add his name to tinues to try pinning artists their roster. In late 2012, into genres and brackets, Soulful crooner Mayer however, he announced a this musician defies the Hawthorne (whose real partnership with Universal rules and breaks the molds, name is Andrew Cohen) Republic, which resulted in and he is paving his own has been keeping a low the re-release of mixtapes as path to the top. We only profile since his 2011 a formal set, Trilogy. hope the next few years album, How Do You Do, The native has include mammoth success. but as he made evident quickly made a name for Things just wouldn’t seem during SXSW in March, himself, landing collabo- right otherwise. he has been hard at work on new material. “This is the first record LECRAEm I didn’t produce by my- self,” Cohen revealed at -based rapper Lec- Following his perfor- moms,” has never been com- SXSW during a preview rae has been working hard mance in 2011 at the BET fortable being labeled a “Chris- of his forthcoming al- making music for the last International Flow Cy- tian rapper,” and he recruited bum. “Working with decade, mostly under the pher and the subsequent Kendrick Lamar for his “Church all these great produc- radar until recently. mixtape, Church Clothes, Clothes” video. ers made me a better Although a Christian art- one thing was evident: The moment is right for , producer.” ist by definition, his rela- Lecrae has a path to cross but whether he’ll seize the oppor- He also explained that tionship within the associ- over, should he choose to tunity remains to be seen. he had originally been ated music genres has been do so. The mixtape had working with a producer quite the roller coaster, more than 100,000 down- who asked him to “scrap having never been fully em- loads in its first two days. all the 7th chords on the braced by many conserva- What sets this recent album, which for all you tive insiders who still can’t Grammy-winner apart non-music folks is what grasp rap music within gos- is that he’s not just spit- gives it that jazzy sound. pel categories. That’s OK, ting “Jesus” over some So I stopped working though. His 2012 album, tacky beats like many of with him and put 7th Gravity, not only topped his peers. The former drug chords in all my songs.” the usual Christian charts, dealer, who acknowledges Those 7th chords have but it reached No. 3 on that Christian radio “ca- become somewhat of Billboard. ters to 30-to-45-year-old a signature sound for the singer, and we don’t think he’s yet to tap BIRDY into the breadth of all l he has to offer. Hope- fully this next effort— English singer Birdy (Jasmine van Iver’s “Skinny Love,” it was obvi- which includes contri- den Bogaerde) stunned the U.K. ous this fresh, young voice is just butions from Pharrell, when she won their Open Mic what the industry needs. and Kelly competition at 12 years old. Now “I’m really excited for people to Rowland, among oth- at 16, she continues to surprise the hear my own songs, but I want to ers—sends him into the music world with blissfully unreal get it right as well,’’ she said re- stratosphere. renditions of popular songs. cently. She will tour Australia for His new album, still Following the release of cov- the month of April before record- untitled as of this writ- ers of Cherry Ghost’s “People ing her eagerly anticipated second ing, is expected some- Help the People” and Bon studio album. time this summer. MAYER HAWTHORNE m

lCHET FAKER FUTUREm

Newcomer , born Although one of the most prolific rap- ing on that list. He’s easily one of the most Nicholas James Murphy, caught pers in recent years, Future has yet to fully talented in the rap genre, but as demon- the ears of many in the music in- reach his potential. Since signing with Epic strated by his writing ability and business dustry last year with his debut EP, Records and creating his own imprint, savvy skills, his talents go beyond spitting , which led to , the Atlanta native has not only verses. He’s made it clear he has more to of- the Melbourne native’s victories at produced his own hefty list of tracks, but fer than just a few catchy lines, claiming his the Australian Independent Record he has been behind a handful of proteges. forthcoming album (due this year) will be Awards, for Breakthrough Artist He is featured on Rihanna’s 2012 tune, more substantive, also tapping into R&B of the Year and Best Independent “,” which he co-wrote. And and other musical formats. Single/EP. following the release of his newest mixtape, We expect big things from Future, Much of the attention centered F.B.G.: The Movie, MTV included Future whose upcoming Future Hendrix album is around his gritty, soulful rendition on its annual list of the Hottest MCs in the slated to include guest features by Kanye of and Dr. Dre’s 1996 Game. West, Drake, Nicki Minaj and , No. 1 hit single, “,” The 29-year-old is definitely worthy of be- among others. which was featured in this year’s Super Bowl commercial for Ger- man brewery ’s in promotion In the three years since the release of ing his work, only gets better with age, of its Sapphire brand. Twitter in- his sixth studio album, So Runs the World and it’s a shame he remains unknown to stantly lit up with viewers wonder- Away, got married and then many mainstream listeners. The multi- ing whose raspy vocals they had just divorced, setting the stage for his latest talent is also working on a second novel, heard. effort, The Beast in Its Tracks. The folk- after his first book, Bright’s Passage, was As interest continues to grow in rock singer-songwriter has always offered praised by Stephen King. what Murphy calls “future beat” raw, emotional music for fans, but this “Before I ever really discovered music, I and “sex” music, the young Aussie newest project (dubbed by critics as his was always reading,” Ritter has revealed. is selling out shows (and adding “breakup album”) is unequivocally his “Then I found songs, and that you could more to keep up with demand), most passionate and deeply personal pour all your words into that form. I while working on new music. Just work to date. have learned there really isn’t much dif- last month, he introduced a new Ritter, who’s been at this since the mid- ference between the two forms.” three-track EP titled Live Sessions, ’90s, seems to quietly progress artistically He is currently on tour in support of which includes acoustic versions with each new record. While his fanbase The Beast in Its Tracks. of “Archangel” and “Love and is loyal and he never seems to fail, he has Feeling,” as well as a new version of remained in the shadows of other better- “No Diggity.” known folksy musicians. And this should While little has been said about not be the case. the singer’s future music plans, he The singer, having spent years self- signed to at publishing and independently produc- the end of last year, a good sign for those of us who can’t get enough of the impeccable offerings of Chet Faker. JOSH RITTERk Haim BY EMILY HULSEBERG is Everything

gg Meet the uber-talented sister trio bound for one incredible summer. WE LOVE FLEETWOOD MAC—KIND OF AN OVERWHELMING THING TO COMPREHEND. I LIKE TO THINK THAT BECAUSE WE’RE SUCH BIG “FANS AND WE LISTENED TO THEM SO MUCH GROWING UP THAT IT’S JUST KIND OF INFILTRATED OUR MUSICAL TASTES. ”

any bands, artists “We love Fleetwood Mac—kind of an she laughs. and actors go to Los overwhelming thing to comprehend. I Since opening for these bands, HAIM Angeles to get their like to think that because we’re such big will now tour in Europe this spring and start, but for Este, fans and we listened to them so much keeps teasing a full-length album. “We’re Danielle, and Alana growing up that it’s just kind of infiltrat- knee-deep in it right now,” says Este. Haim, it was just the place they call their ed our musical tastes,” says Este. “Just trying to get these songs done; we Mhometown. After getting a few more songs in their are sifting through them and deciding Despite only playing together as a band lineup and putting in some hours of which ones are our favorite. It’s hard. It’s for the past five years, the group is mak- practice, they decided to debut their like choosing kids.” ing huge waves right now across the work and had a great turn out. This past February, the group, which pond, and with their highly anticipated “We sold out our first show, and it was also consists of Dash Hutton on drums, debut album somewhere on the horizon, really an amazing feeling. And we de- released a three-song EP titled Forever, the United States will surely follow suit cided maybe this was something that we which is also expected to be the title track with what the British have already dis- should pursue.” on their upcoming album. covered. They quickly learned that their sold- Even though it’s three sisters in a band The girls’ parents can be blamed/ out show was short-lived, that maybe together, Este claims they get along splen- thanked for their musical interest and this “band thing” was going to take some didly. “Danielle, Alana and I don’t really ability to play multiple instruments, time to develop. argue about a lot of things,” she says. which they do, all while singing three- “We ended up gigging and writing and “We argue about who gets to wear what part harmonies. recording for about five years,” Este re- when we go out. Arguing about a leather “[Our parents] had day jobs and they veals. “We didn’t know how to get the jacket when you’re making an album and were like working professionals, but sound we wanted to. We knew what we touring the world seems pretty minute when they would come home at night, liked but we didn’t know how to get it.” when you’re in constant company with my dad would get on the drums and my What was a learning experience that one another.” mom would get on the guitar, so mu- took time and patience is also something The dynamic in the studio is also one sic was always part of their lives,” Este they are thankful for. The time spent of trust and understanding. “We kind of explains. learning about their sound and style have the same vision when it comes to “From the moment we would hold our brought them the opportunity to play how we want things to sound,” Este ex- heads up, my dad taught us how to play with some and exciting people. plains. “I trust them enough to say what- drums basically, and then once we could The girls have opened for Edward ever I feel and and if it’s something that hold a guitar, mom would try to teach us Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, they’re not into, then so be it.” how to play chords.” , and Mumford Some of the band’s goals, like any nor- While music was always a constant pas- & Sons, three of the biggest acts around mal human beings, include being able sion for the girls, they weren’t always on right now, and certainly some of the big- to see the world, but most importantly the same paths musically. It was when gest names in British music today. They for this year it’s “to record the best record Este was at UCLA, Danielle was gradu- were also named BBC’s Sound of 2013, a possible.” ating from high school, and Alana was huge honor that is shared with past win- starting high school that they decided ners like Adele and . they wanted to start writing music “It was the craziest feeling and the big- together. gest honor,” Este recalls about finding During their first writing session, Estes out they had won. “When we were on says, “We just wrote a weird, s----- emo the long list, we were like, ‘Well, it was song.” Luckily, they have evolved and the cool to be nominated.’” HAIM is on tour—including several music they are making today is exciting, Among the top five were groups all dates with Vampire Weekend—start- appealing, and embraces sounds from the fronted by females—a great thing for ing April 24 in London. Follow Este past that are blended with popular styles women in the industry and something on Twitter (@jizziemcquire), Alana of today. They have also been repeatedly Este is excited about. “All of these people (@babyHAIM) and, of course, the compared to Fleetwood Mac. are appreciating the ladies these days,” band (@HAIMtheband).

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 35 PHOTO BY CHLOE AFTEL

of guy they wouldn’t mind having around as eye candy. “One day we were joking and I was like, the fun type would be a long-haired dude in flan- nel, riding a skateboard, holding a pizza in one hand, a pack of Bud Light in the other Bleached hand,” Jennifer confesses. Boys might be a solid foundation for the BY RACHEL FAYLENE writing in Bleached, but inspiration also comes from their favorite bands like Siouxsie and the Banshees, and Blondie. Trying to create a sound influenced by child- hood idols, Jennifer describes the writing process. “I feel like my goal is always to try to write songs like that, but I wasn’t really sure how to do it at first,” she says. “I think as we went on writing longer, I was able to make the songs sound more like what I imagined them sounding like.” Studio time for Ride Your Heart was a steady mixture of work and play, and it shows. andmates and sisters, Jen- same guy. I think we like completely “I’ve had s----- jobs, you know, which is real nifer and Jessie Calvin, are opposite types of guys,” Jennifer shares work,” Jennifer says. “It’s fun because we’re about as fun-loving as any- openly. “We like each other’s boy- doing our own thing and we’re playing music one could ever imagine. A friends, we all get along, we’re friendly, and recording. We’re around people that we Bhint of can be heard in their but we’re different types for sure. love, so it’s really awesome and I think the en- very clear Valley Girl accents, accom- “I feel like I go for really damaged ergy you have recording reflects on a record.” panied by their laid-back attitudes. guys and I don’t realize it until we’re Jessie adds to recording vibes, explaining These ladies capture a vintage punk into the relationship,” Jennifer admits how important it is to get a good sleep be- essence, both visually and sonically in with a laugh. “But then I think I’m a fore going into the studio. “I’ll usually not go their duo Bleached. little crazy myself, so I’m attracted to out during recording and just make sure that The Calvin girls share their growth crazy guys. I like taller guys, so that’s we’re there on time and prepared for the work and personal relationships on their one thing.” part,” she explains. debut album, Ride Your Heart. Jessie Jessie, on the other hand, struggles to What’s next for the punk girls of pop? shines light on the origin of the album capture her ideal man. “I want to say “All I know is, the other day I couldn’t sleep, saying, “A lot of the songs are about metalheads, but that’s not my reality so I started going through my phone memo heartbreak, falling in love, wishing you type,” she explains. “Now that I think and I was listening to all these demos of could be in love, and not being able to back to ex-boyfriends, they’ve all been songs that have never been recorded yet and work on relationships.” so different…I have a celebrity crush I was, like, ‘Oh my god, I can’t wait to record And while sparks from romance also on Chris Cornell—that’s kind of a again,”’ says Jennifer. “There are so many light the way for creativity, the sisters type.” songs that I like!” don’t seem to have any problems when While they may not be on the prowl “It’s true,” Jessie chimes in. “It kind of it comes to dating. to lock down a similar husband any- seems like the next thing now is to write a “I don’t think we’ve ever liked the time soon, the two do agree on the type new record.” in memory of her grandfather, guitar bass the playing started she 11, age At piano. the for knack a had always she’s and years, elementary her in net clari- the up lev- picked She different els. of number a had never heard before.” I songs with along sing and head my in melodies invent would “I 21. now day,”Ainge, says next the piano the on out them pluck and movies child. a was she since music her on K A I N G T E U O K B A A T I L E L A She is musically talented on talented musically is She from themes hear would “I

PHOTO COURTESY OF TATE MUSIC GROUP k en working having been is the move, on artist Ainge an atie o on a te fe t her. to feel they as sound to norm; she strives for her songs the follow to or else everyone like sound to industry the in isn’t She says. she perience,” ex- an following thought or emotion an of expression liv- ing a is song a opinion, my “In honest. and is unique very that playing and writing Christ. to life her dedicated she when point in her music came at 17, singer,turning young a the to According music. write and sing to continued bass, and guitar, keyboard, the playing was Ainge 14, only At Ohio. band a Akron, BluesSocietyin called in bass played who Ainge has a passion for song- will stop her from continuing from her stop will nothing and music, is Ainge for route main The she explains. mission,” a have I then someone’schange to song life, her life. impacted has it way same the touch people’s to others affect and lives it for is music her for hope biggest Her says. she me,” saved even times, mul- tiple and, me changed and molded music up, “Growing work. her in in proven is that, turn, and life Ainge’s in rates herfrom otherartists. sepa- perhaps that work her to poignancy and thenticity au- true a bred has this And I Im en t wie a write to meant I’m “If Music has played a huge role S A B A L E O N Y B on May 14. debuts Soul, My Sings Then album, Ainge’sforthcoming my tell to and be who I reallystory am.” free am I stage. music withothers. her share to gets she chance every take to wanted has always singer the bands, other with or solo performing is it Whether gets. she chance ery ev- onstage performing been has She music. her on ences Eyes and Norah Jones as influ- Bright Spektor, who Regina cites Ainge, to importance to pursuethat. Im t oe hn ’ on I’m when home at “I’m huge of also is Performing VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 37 m futuresounds BY WESTON SHEPHERD

or those who don’t remember, to prominence, leaving no doubts phone in half when he’s done rap- the early-to-mid 2000’s rap his talents will take him wherever ping into it. The video for the track scene in Houston was domi- he wants to go. On his latest proj- “Introduction” serves as a perfect in- Fnated by names like Mike Jones ect, déjà Roo: Times Have Changed, tro, showing Williams being rolled and Paul Wall. Entertaining at the he flexes his creativity and word- onto the scene wearing a Hannibal time, sure, but with no real stay- play, making quick fans with every Lecter mask. It totally makes sense. ing power, those names have dis- track. Whether you heard his name here appeared and made way for a new With features from Bubba Sparxxx first or not, don’t be surprised breed of “H-Town” talent, most and Action Bronson, Williams when you hear it on the radio or in notably, Roosh Williams. holds his own en route to creating conversations about rap’s next big If you haven’t heard his name yet, an album that is a complete lis- thing. Rappers from Houston’s past your time is quickly approaching. ten from start to finish. His style may have had to remind fans what Equipped with a unique voice and of rap is intense, in your face and their name was, but Roosh will introspective lyrics, he allows lis- unrelenting, often leaving listen- have to do no such thing once he teners into his mind during his rise ers to believe he breaks the micro- arrives. Soon.

ROOSH WILLIAMS

HOUSTON, TX ROOSH.BANDCAMP.COM THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR

HEARTLESS BASTARDS

CINCINNATI, OH THEHEARTLESSBASTARDS .COM

lthough FutureSounds is nor- “Marathon,” the first track on the brand of music that entertains and mally reserved for new, up- 2012 album, Arrow, immediately impresses with ease. and-coming bands, Heartless sets the tone for Heartless Bastards’ So while this group may have been ABastards have a sound that is aching music moving forward, as this pow- around for quite some time, expect to be heard by all. Sure, the first al- erful track grows into a triumphant even bigger things from them in bum came out in 2005, but the best ending that leaves fans begging for the future. This segment is called is yet to come for this powerhouse more. FutureSounds, and if the future band from , Ohio. Often getting compared to The doesn’t contain more of this type of With a style that set the stage for Black Keys, Heartless Bastards are stuff, quite frankly, we’re not inter- bands like and oth- on the cusp of big-time stardom, us- ested in hearing it. ers, Heartless Bastards have per- ing multiple avenues to drive their For more information on fected the soulful female lead and point across. Whether it be slowed Heartless Bastards, visit their made track after track proving just down and poetic, or upbeat and website: theheartlessbastards.com. how impactful their music can be. in-your-face, the group presents a

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 39 THE SOUNDS YOU NEED TO HEAR

NERVES JUNIOR

LOUISVILLE, KY NERVESJUNIOR .BANDCAMP.COM

oming out of Louisville, Ky., exactly what they’re capable of. just beginning a climb that seems des- Nerves Junior is an indie rock Often compared to , the tined to land them on iPods and group with a sound that the world group comes at listeners from different playlists in a matter of no time. From one hasC been waiting on. angles, using a variety of sounds to cre- listen, new fans will be looking for more After their critically acclaimed album, ate a brand that is all their own. While from this extremely talented, yet under- 2011’s As Bright As Your Night Light, the similarities are certainly there, the the-radar group of young men. Nerves Junior has been touring, earn- mood of each song changes from track to For more of Nerves Junior, check ing new fans at every stop. They’ve used track, giving them an edge that sets them out Spotify or iTunes to hear the latest their momentum to release an EP in apart from everyone else—including EP, and 2011’s As Bright as Your Night early 2013, the Craters EP. The track Radiohead. Light. For more information on when “Goodnight Nobody” shows the true tal- Recently playing at SXSW in Austin, they will be headed your way, check: ent of the group, mixing haunting vocals Texas, the band is continuing to make .com/nervesjunior. and incredible instrument work to prove their mark on today’s music landscape,

40 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM futuresounds l

ith a brand of uplifting mu- with a rock edge. tain and perform at a high level keeps sic that is bound to make In addition to her music, Grisafe is crowds engaged, as her unique brand listeners smile, Sami Gri- also a quarterback on the 2013 U.S. of feel-good music will keep fans on safeW is a multi-talented artist out of Women’s National Football Team. their feet. that appears to have no limi- Normally playing in Chicago for the To get a better feel for Sami tations on her talents. Chicago Force, she was one of 45 Grisafe, visit SamiGrisafe.com for mu- As winner of “Best Rock Entertainer” women selected for the U.S. Team sic, photos, video and more informa- at the Chicago Music Awards, Grisafe honors. A true multi-talent, she blends tion. Also keep an eye out in June as is no stranger to the stage and creat- her two skills perfectly to maximize the U.S. Women’s National Football ing a fun environment for her fans. her potential. Team heads to Finland to play for a Her album ATLANTIS received six When it comes to the music, Grisafe world championship. pre-nominations for the first round of appears to have all the talent she will Grammys, offering up a full track list ever need, recently playing in Austin, of songs that feel like Colbie Caillat Texas, at SXSW. Her ability to enter-

SAMI GRISAFE

CHICAGO, IL SAMIGRISAFE.COM PHOENIX Rises

AFTER A YEARS-LONG HIATUS, THE FRENCH MUSIC MAKERS TALK NEW MUSIC, NEW TOUR AND WHY THEY MADE US WAIT SO LONG FOR IT.

BY LAUREN MORANOR

PHOTOS BY FLORA HANITIJO AND AARON STERN COVER STORY hat’s a bis- up after their last tour ended cuit?” Laurent and began a new creation. “W Brancowitz “We don’t like holidays,” seems slightly unsure of Brancowitz reveals. “We the menu at a little cafe in don’t really take long vaca- . “Is it a sort tions or breaks from each of pastry? Or is it a bread?” other. I do not like to stop. Brancowitz is considered a We are always striving to rock star in some minds, al- make something new.” though by his humble man- Phoenix’s fifth full-length ner, one would never know. album, Bankrupt!, was born The four friends that make almost immediately after the up the Grammy-winning band walked off the stage band Phoenix walk into of their last concert and Peels almost unnoticed. their duties with Wolfgang Brancowitz and bassist Deck Amadeus Phoenix were put D’Arcy melt into a booth aside. There was never a and settle on hot coffee and specific moment where they juice to recover from the thought to themselves that it blistering cold outside. They was time to make a new re- look calm and cool, not cord. It was always the plan the kind of demeanor one to immediately begin the would expect from a band next piece of work after their preparing to release one of last tour ended. D’Arcy be- the most highly anticipated lieves the band’s minds never records of 2013. stop thinking about the next Phoenix is coming off a way to improve music. four-year stretch that saw The first step to a new them rise from a small creation was to cut off from French band into electronic the world for a bit. Much pop kings. Their critically to fans’ dismay, cutting off acclaimed fourth album, meant exiting the world , of social media. “I did not turned out to be a favorite grow up in a time where you among electronic and rock could constantly reach out music lovers. After its re- to your favorite musician. A lease in 2009, the band con- band put out a record and quered Saturday Night Live, then they disappeared. You toured the world and won were left waiting. But that the Grammy for Best Alter- made the new material that native Album. Not bad for much sweeter,” Brancowitz a band that started out in a says. “Fans needed to be left small suburb of Paris. in the dark a bit.” “We never let ourselves get In a time where fame and used to success. We always success can be taken away as want to be reaching for that quickly as it is earned, mu- personal point of triumph, sicians will use social media but we never want to settle like Twitter to stay con- on that feeling. That is when nected with fans and stay you become content. That is present. However, Phoenix when your growth is stalled. does not operate under this So we try to always be reach- notion of having to be con- ing for something more, stantly accessible. If they moving on to something wanted to create a new re- greater,” Brancowitz says. cord, they needed to build After a whirlwind of suc- anticipation, to make fans cess and chaos from the al- wait and wonder. bum calmed down, there “We were out in the spot- was no vacation for Phoenix. light so much with the last There was no rest, no sitting album. We needed to go and soaking it all in. The away for bit. If I had some- band immediately picked thing to say, we would tweet,

44 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM PHOENIX but ultimately, we wanted the fans to miss Valentine and champagne. “We spent more radio friendly? Brancowitz simply us a bit,” D’Arcy says. much time eating good food, listening to laughs at the idea. According to him, ra- And so the making of Bankrupt! began. good music and seeing good films. I think dio play is the least of the band’s concerns. There was never a set blueprint for the that translated into much of the record.” “We don’t make music with the idea that next album. There was no concept from The original plan for Bankrupt! was for it will be played multiple times over radio which they were attempting to build. the record to take two years to make; for numbers. Radio is just an added bo- Phoenix just wanted to continue their however, perfectionism within the band nus, but never the intention.” The band’s growth musically. caused the record to take about three years aim for the record wasn’t necessarily to The band traveled to places like Australia to complete a final product. “Whenever not have it picked apart, letting one song and began to experiment with sound and we think something is going to take a year, represent the whole product. It was to be light. The goal was to create more innova- it takes two. Whenever we say it will take treated as one entity. tive sounds and produce something new two years, it takes three. We never stick to The result is 10 songs that are unique in and unheard of. They did not necessarily the original plan,” D’Arcy explains. their own right, but connected to form seek out inspirations; they waited for it The extended period of time wasn’t due one total body of work. With the excep- to come to them through experimenting to laziness on the band’s part or a feeling tion of the record’s first single, “Enter- with different engineers. Much of the ear- of complacency after such success. It was, tainment,” and the track “Bourgeois,” ly process for Bankrupt! was spent treat- in fact, the fear of complacency that led to there are no songs that simply stand ing music like a math problem. “Beats the prolonged process. alone. Phoenix wouldn’t yield to the trend are mathematical; it’s about finding a “Once you have success, you have to face of creating singles before . They solution,” Brancowitz says with a smile. all of these weird decisions that you didn’t wanted a whole project that was meant to “Mathematics get people dancing.” That have to make before. The luxury thing is be listened to from start to finish. was the attitude that made their 2009 to say no, but it’s a battle to say no all the Brancowitz was once told that records record such a success. time,” D’Arcy says. are a dying breed. Single songs were now The band never spent time in a tradi- Phoenix was basically waiting for that going to give a band success. People don’t tional studio. To create the kind of record feeling of completion. Each song the band listen to albums anymore, they told him; they intended on making, they couldn’t be creates is constantly evolving. They never one song was all a listener needed, all their boxed into four walls with a microphone feel something is truly finished, making attention spans could handle. and mixing board. “We aren’t the kind the recording process a never-ending ex- But he didn’t believe it and didn’t give of band that can sit in a studio for hours ploit. The way the band sees it, there is in. He remained fully convinced albums day in and day out. We need open space. always something that can be added on, were making a comeback. And people are We thrive on recording in nontraditional something that can be tweaked, a process starting to grasp the idea of a full project ways because we think that is what creates Brancowitz says can be a bit mental at instead of a three-minute song. “As the the best sound,” states D’Arcy. times. “You just have to hope and pray the record industries lose their grip on art- One of the nontraditional methods of song is ready, that the album is ready. We ists, albums will come back,” Brancowitz recording came by way of eBay. The band never really know; we just have to release predicts. “When artists no longer have to was searching the site for equipment it and hope it’s at its best. We like to keep feel the pressure to please, they can cre- and came across the recording console our fingers crossed.” ate something on their own. The rise of Michael Jackson used to record his 1982 The band admits nervousness with the the DIY movement is something music is album, Thriller. release of Bankrupt! even though electron- benefiting from. Musicians can do their After extensive research to find out ic music has surged in the United States. own thing and stop making disposable if it was in fact the exact console, A lot has changed in the music land- music.” Brancowitz bought it, unable to believe scape since the band’s 2009 release. The Disposable music is something that someone hadn’t already snapped it up. “I lines between music genres have blurred. Bankrupt! is not. The album is layers; full thought we were being scammed at first. Sounds have become broader. The music layers of sounds and structures. No two But after discovering the ad was real, I created by Phoenix that was once unheard songs are formatted the same way, yet couldn’t pass up the opportunity to work of is now taking over airwaves. Bands are each contains that signature electro-pop on it.” It’s those kinds of unique devices producing electronic more than ever be- sound. This was intentional. The band that have allowed Phoenix to hone in on a fore, forcing the format to step up with wanted the album to be deeper, maybe specific technical sound. something greater. not lyrically, but sonically. Upon first lis- Phoenix used the console to mix much Phoenix is given much credit to helping ten, the record sounds nice, but once it of the record. After doing a lot of the the electronic genre take off in the United is heard over and over, it slowly begins to pre-planning and experimenting in New States. D’Arcy, however, believes the U.S. unpack itself. York and Australia, the band put the fi- is still playing catch-up to Europe. “Elec- Bankrupt! offers a variety of speedy nal touches on Bankrupt! in Paris with tronic music has been big in Europe for electro-rock, giant synth hooks and a few producer Philippe Zdar, who the band 20 years or so,” says D’Arcy. “The idea of -like moments. The record’s first sin- worked with on Wolfgang Amadeus Phoe- people listening to it is not new to us. The gle, “Entertainment,” is a classic example nix. United States is simply just catching on to of Phoenix’s signature sound with bounc- The band spent much of their time something that has been popular. But, it’s ing drums and guitar melodies. together during the recording process, nice to see it’s now more accepted.” “S.O.S. in Bel Air” is an overdrive of rav- something D’Arcy says made the record With gaining more ra- ing pop, while “Bourgeois” has a chanting more emotional and precious. They also dio play, was there pressure on Phoenix chorus that will thrive in a live show. helped themselves to a diet of My Bloody this time around to make their new music Phoenix takes a risk with the album’s

46 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM “WE DON’T MAKE MUSIC WITH THE IDEA THAT IT WILL BE PLAYED MULTIPLE TIMES OVER RADIO FOR NUMBERS. RADIO IS JUST AN ADDED BONUS, BUT NEVER THE INTENTION.”

title track, “Bankrupt!” The almost nine- Others will be forced to step up or fall to will be headlining Coachella, the music minute song is made up of almost all the creativity and heightened musician- festival which recently expanded to two instrumentals and thrown right in the ship Phoenix is putting on display. weekends. They intend to put on the middle of the record. The song is meant “We were feeling this vertigo, this feel- same show for both weekends and are to hook in the listener and represent the ing of being at the very limit of failure. currently discussing their set’s contents. continuity of the album. “We didn’t want It’s something that we love to explore. It’s “It’s two weekends now, so there’s a bit of the song as an intro or an outro because more the possibility of everything collaps- pressure to be really good, especially as a we didn’t want there to be something that ing,” Brancowitz says. headliner. We have a couple of surprises represents an official start or end of the al- To say Phoenix doesn’t have expecta- I think we are going to pull off. We can’t bum. We wanted it to feel like things were tions for the record would be a lie, but at wait. Coachella reaches so many people; it never ending,” Brancowitz explains. the same time, their goal with the album will be great,” Brancowitz says. The goal was to induce a deeper engage- is not necessarily to sell a million copies The band plans on going on a world- ment with the listener. “The more you or to acquire every critic’s approval of wide tour once Coachella is wrapped up. listen, the more you hear,” says D’Arcy. its quality. With the acceptance of elec- While nothing has been announced at “With each listen, there’s a deeper under- tronic music, the band is encouraged that press time, D’Arcy hints that a big tour standing of what’s happening. There are Bankrupt! will be just as widely accepted is in the works. The band’s favorite aspect so many layers in each song, it takes time as the last record. But with great success of touring is finding new cities to explore. to fully grasp it all.” comes expectations, not only from the They often gain inspiration from new lo- While there is so much sound packed band, but from fans alike. cations. “I really want to go to China,” into a small space, the album never feels Fans of Phoenix will be expecting a Brancowitz confesses. “I think that might confusing or crowded. There is one fluid great, if not better record than Wolfgang be one of the only places we haven’t been. motion that happens from one song to Amadeus Phoenix—something the band is I hear so many wonderful things about the next. Brancowitz adds that the goal well aware of. “We are very excited. Fans China. I just want to go everywhere, see was to create a dizzying experience for the seem very excited. There has been a lot everything!” listener. “We wanted to create this feel- of good buzz around the release and we 2013 could easily turn out to be the Year ing of triumph and a sense of elation. We think we can deliver on it,” D’Arcy says. of Phoenix. Much like 2009, this year wanted fans to feel like after listening to The next step once Bankrupt! is released could see a whole different level of success the record, they could take on anything.” on April 23 is touring. Before Phoenix after Bankrupt! is released. The band cur- The influences for those feelings will can even begin to plan the tour, they must rently has no plans for projects apart from be found more in the sound than in the first plan how their music will translate the record. They have scored a film in the lyrics. D’Arcy says the band first creates in a live setting. With so many new lay- past, but are focusing mainly on starting the sound and then lets the lyrics come ers to their sound, so much more com- a new journey with new material. “We after. Once the foundation of the song plexity, the band must figure out how to want to give this record all of the proper is formed, the lyrics can then be written. properly credit that on stage. They admit credit it deserves. We still plan on playing On Bankrupt! the lyrical theme is triumph that, while they may not be the best over- songs from Wolfgang, but the new songs and inspiration. It can all be summed up all musicians, their technical abilities will will be [at] the forefront of what we do in by the exclamation point placed in the make everything come together. ”It is the upcoming year,” Brancowitz says. album’s title, an excitement over the tri- more about problem solving right now. As the guys finish up their breakfast umph of accepting failure and knowing We have a lot of instruments and a lot of prior, they seem relatively unfazed about there can be success when things fall apart. planning to do,” Brancowitz says with a the hectic schedule ahead. While the band Bankrupt! is a more mature sounding bit of anxiety in his voice. claims to be nervous for the world to hear Phoenix. They have honored the sounds But the band loves to tour, and see- the new material, they certainly don’t that fans fell in love with in 2009 and ing the fans’ reaction to the music only display it on their faces. Brancowitz feels built from them to show another level of inspires them more. Phoenix has an- relieved Bankrupt! is finally complete and the band. “We have traveled the world. nounced a slew of West Coast tour dates the band is getting back to touring. “Now We have grown as people and as musi- with musician Mac DeMarco, someone it’s time to go out and have fun,” he says, cians, and we wanted the new record to who they loved to listen to during the re- with a smile. show our development,” Brancowitz says. cording process of Bankrupt!. “Mac is hi- A follow-up to an album that catapulted larious,” D’Arcy professes. “We are excit- Phoenix into the global spotlight comes ed to be on the road with him. He really Bankrupt! releases on April 23 in the with high pressure. The band’s answer is gets music, gets what it means to create a U.S. and is currently available for pre- a more complex sound that once again good record.” order on iTunes Store. Keep up with the raises the bar of pop and electronic music. The highlight of the West Coast tour band on Twitter: @wearephoenix. good music makes good times.

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NOW AVAILABLE o n i T u n e s 50 Q +A VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM have pointedly branched out and out branched pointedly have they as sound, band’s the in shift a marks also It record. new the of Dann Mouse’sGallucci, who also produced much Modest ar- of the rival and Jonathan departure Russell’s guitarist since album C PHOTO BY CARA ROBBINS hi first their Lonelyhearts, with month this return WarKids old er Miss Dear

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H T I W L A N O S R E P G N I T T E G D L O C S D I K R A W YHEARTS T R A E H LY E N O L $ COLD WAR KIDS GETTING PERSONAL WITH LONELYHEARTS

You guys seem to have experi- experimented. With the last re- time—we put time restraints on mented on this album a lot cord, we experimented as well. I ourselves, but making the record more. Was it a deliberate deci- think it’s just different kinds of at home in our own space al- sion, kind of like, “It’s a new experimentation. With Dann lowed us to not keep looking at album, let’s go for a different [Gallucci] being a new guitar our watches like we had done in sound?” player and producing the record, the past. It’s easy to look at the there were going to be experi- clock a lot when you’re spending MAUST: I think we’ve always ments. I think not having like a those bucks. Was having your own studio this time the novel and this record and where I was other music—current music—a lot. I the biggest factor playing a role? at in writing lyrics, and where we were as a don’t think that we—we’re not like, “Oh, band. It felt like a time when we’re kind of they’re doing that, so let’s do this instead.” WILLETT: I think it makes a big differ- looking really hard at ourselves and asking ence. Also, Dann producing the record. what it all means, but at the same time, The last three albums have each shown So, those were two major factors. Just not just moving forward. progress on the Billboard charts. What having a sense of being in somebody else’s do milestones and accolades like that studio, and even little things. Sometimes You see musicians many times overtak- mean to you? when you’re in somebody else’s space and en by their personal lives and struggles there’s some keyboards laying around, and to the point of it overshadowing their WILLETT: We all want each record to do they’re somebody else’s, you’re less likely art. Would you say you guys use your better than the one before it. I guess in a to want to try weird things, plugging music as therapy to get some of that out way, it is important—charting and sales them into different amps and just tinker- at times? and things. But I feel like wanting to make ing, basically. You’re more likely to tinker your cultural impact amongst your peers in your own space and take the time that WILLETT: Yes and no. I think even for is equally important. In some ways, I feel it takes to find a weird sound versus on a the third record, , I wanted like that that’s something of a hole that time schedule: “Let’s just get it done!” to kind of have it—have the songs be we’re still trying to fill. We’ve been a band more autobiographical. I think there were all over Southern California. We’ve got- It hasn’t been that long since the last al- some kind of successes and failures about ten to tour with a lot of great bands, but bum came out. You hear a lot of artists doing that. But I also think, a song is a don’t necessarily have a lot of similarities that say you have to come out with an good song and if it’s kind of a narrative, between a lot of groups that we’ve been album every couple of years to stay rel- fictional character or something that is with. I think one of the reasons is that evant and stay out there. Do you guys deeply experienced by the singer or group. everything happened so quickly with our have that mindset as well? Either way, it’s either real and it works, or first record. At the same time, we’re not it’s not. Whether I’m drawing more from hanging out and making records or col- WILLETT: I think we just wanted to put something that’s coming from inside of laborating with or Yeah a record out. We’re still doing this because me or outside of me, you just do your best Yeah Yeahs. In some ways, that’s more of we really like doing it. It’s not like it’s a to make something real, and you just kind a concern—being able to have and being job. I personally don’t feel like it’s a job. of weave those two things. able to grow into a place where we have I think we really like putting records out artistic peers. Making good records and and writing music. Touring is hard but This being album No. 4, how do you charting is one thing, but having a lasting really fun at the same time. stay motivated to keep going? Obvi- impact and artistic satisfaction for us will ously, you love music and this is what come when we feel like peers to some of MAUST: It’s nice, though, because we you guys love to do, but do you think, the artists that we respect the most, work- never had a record label or a manager or “We should do this now because it’s our ing with them in some capacity. We’re not anybody say that we had to put a record fourth record?” there yet. out at a certain time. We always got to kind of move at our own pace. MAUST: That’s a good question, but I If you guys could share the stage with don’t think that we ever think about these anybody, who would it be? (the title) was things too much. We’ve always been very inspired by the novel, but where are you organic. I think all of us create very or- MAUST: The first ones that come to mind guys personally coming from with the ganically and kind of don’t think too hard are the ones you’d probably never want to record? about it. We think hard about it after share the stage with because they’re—you we’ve made it. think so highly of them. We saw Nick WILLETT: I think the storyline of a guy Cave [recently] and it was a great thing. who is an advice columnist and having WILLETT: There’s something like a sub- But I don’t think I’d want to share the kind of this crisis about the advice he’s conscious, not wanting to think too hard stage with him because you’d probably giving and whether it’s good or worth giv- about it, but at the same time, wanting find out that he doesn’t like you. Or Tom ing at all—I think in a way, I carry that to be able to cover some ground that Waits. We’ve also played a couple of festi- kind of into the band. There’s always this you haven’t covered before. Wanting to vals with the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and we love sense of—we write songs that have a nar- risk something is important, whether it’s their music; we think it’d be a good tour. rative quality to them that, in some ways, through different arrangements, struc- have a heavier quality to them. I think tures of songs or the actual whole style of Is there anyone whose music you guys asking yourself the question of, “Why how it’s recorded. I think it’s important, like, but fans might be a little surprised am I doing what I’m doing?” I think you the more you go, to ask, “What are we do- by it? have to ask yourself hard questions. At the ing that makes it risky and that we maybe same time, you write songs; songs come haven’t done before?” You kind of live MAUST: I like a lot of things, personally. from all different kinds of places. They between those two intentions. If I’m being honest, I love Lady Gaga. come from kind of wanting to encour- age yourself through something that’s Do you pay attention to trends and hard. They also come from wanting to what other bands are doing, or do you Dear Miss Lonelyhearts is available maybe encourage somebody else in your kind of tune it out? April 2 via Downtown Records. The life that’s going through something that’s band will also be touring in support of hard. There’s that ground with MAUST: We pay attention, and we like the record. n

52 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM THE SEERS: NEW WORLD ORDER

NEW BOOK BY M.D. KACZKOWSKI

THESEERS.COM

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Screenplay writer M.D. Kaczkowski this spring ventures into a new world— literally. Having worked in film for years, he recently released his first novel, what left for dead with their eyes he calls “a cyber-physical surgically removed. His novel experience.” The journey leads him to realize Seers: New World Order, unique powers he has sup- the first part of a new pressed since childhood. series, is the spellbinding And it doesn’t take long be- story of a future dimension fore he learns the meaning where science and spiritual- of it all: the world is on the ity meet, revealing unseen brink of a disaster, and he laws of the universe. may be the only one able to save humanity. Told as a full multimedia experience, New World Kaczkowski developed the Order comes alive through platform over a ten-year accompanying music, illus- period, crafting “a story trations and video, following that would touch people’s New York detective John lives. There was such a Scarcepho as he searches struggle to create a science for answers upon finding fiction world that stayed dozens of homeless people true to the rules of the genre but invoked drama so that readers walk away thinking about what they just read—what they just experienced.” JESSIE WA R E

BY EMILY HULSEBERG PHOTO BY JAMES MORIARTY SPOTLIGHT JESSIE WAA POP RSTAR IN THE MAKING E began to fall in love again with playing her own music. what she is meant to do. “Jack The two tracks that got Ware offered me to sing on a session noticed also helped her to dis- with him, and it got to the point cover what type of artist she 2012was a big year for London-born where I had to quit my job wanted to be. “I didn’t know Jessie Ware. She went from be- ‘cause he offered for me to come how to write songs—I’d never ing unknown to a full-fledged tour with him for three weeks in tried,” she explains. “I really pop artist in a matter of months. America,” she says. “I thought it learned how to do that and, In February, she was even up was a really amazing opportu- kind of, just have the confi- for two Brit awards for British nity, so I thought, ‘F--- it,’ and I dence in how I want my voice Breakthrough Act and British just kept on singing after that.” to sound.” Female Solo Artist. While she Ware took the plunge and She describes her sounds as, didn’t come away with the cov- made the confident and terrify- “British, electronic, soul.” Her eted awards, having been nomi- ing decision to join Penate in voice is the perfect tone and nated in such a short amount of America, and the rest is pretty quality to be able to mix genres time is remarkable. much history. The ultimate and bring something different Ware has a rare voice with ri- decision came to her when to a country that holds a true diculous range to accompany she decided, “I don’t want to love for pop music. it. In January, she released her regret not doing this.” What Ware is obviously passionate EP, If You’re Never Gonna Move, some would consider too big a about words, having studied in the United States and hasn’t risk, Ware decided to embrace, English literature. “I’m very in- looked back. This month, her and the payoff seems to be very fluenced by words. I’m not Bob full-length album, Devotion, is rewarding. Dylan and I’m not a writer, but slated for release. During her tour in America, [I] definitely know what kind of While she has always had a tal- Penate’s guitarist introduced resonates well with me.” ent in singing, she didn’t always her to producer SBTRKT, and She has already shown suc- believe she could make a living their track, “Nervous,” is what cess in the U.S., selling out or out of it. While attending col- catapulted Ware into the U.K. coming close to selling out ev- lege, she went through a confi- music scene. With her second ery show she has played. While dence roadblock. With the idea track, “Valentine,” recorded she’s both shocked and thrilled that she was never going to be with U.K. dance scene power- about her success, Ware says, “It able to make her music dreams house , she was able to doesn’t feel like a job. I just want a reality, Ware graduated with a sign a record deal with a U.K. to enjoy it and have fun.” degree in English literature and label. These two songs would pursued a career in journalism. be the factors that ultimately It was when an old friend of brought Ware full circle and Ware’s, Jack Penate, offered her back into the U.S. this past Jessie Ware’s debut album, the chance of a lifetime that she January. But this time she was Devotion, releases April 2.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 55 T h e L A S T B I S O N BY EMILY HULSEBERG

NATALY DAWN

PHOTO BY MATT WIGNALL

or Ben Hardesty, music was a staple rock band that fuses old and new to create their faith comes out in the music they are in his home from a young age. Sur- a blend of music that isn’t quite bluegrass, write and perform. “[Faith] plays a huge rounded by his dad and uncles play- but incorporates sounds from classical to part in my life,” Ben says. “If what you be- Fing guitar, he picked up the instrument modern to develop a back-home moun- lieve isn’t coming out in your music, then more seriously when he was 12. The one tain vibe that is catchy and rhythmically I guess you don’t know what you believe.” piece of advice his dad, Dan Hardesty, interesting. The band’s aim is, “finding With the recent release of their first full- lent to him regarding the guitar was, “It ways to bring out familiar tones in unfa- length album, Inheritance, Ben has a goal doesn’t matter how you play it, just make miliar ways.” Not armed with the tradi- for the project. “My hope for the album is it sound good.” tional instruments like bass and drums, that it leaves people with a sense of joy.” With those words, Hardesty began to they find different ways to project those The band is filled with genuine people make music. What started as him play- tones. They come armed with a World who make music because they love it. Not ing with his dad and friend, Andrew War II-era organ and Bolivian goat chasing after fame or fortune, the band Benfante, at their church, quickly turned toenails, which seem gross, but intriguing wants to put out an album that ultimately into a band literally filled with friends and at the same time. helps people. “I guess we’re just happy family. With a large band come different per- people, so if we can translate that through The band is a product of the marshes of sonalities and more opinions. Ben says, our live show and the album, that’s awe- southeastern Virginia and homeschool- “It’s just about learning how to be selfless. some.” ing. After the three of them started play- We run like a big family; we each have our Whether it’s playing for ten people or ing music, Ben’s sister, Annah, began own personality.” ten thousand people, The Last Bison is a singing with them, which led to Teresa When it comes to working on new ma- group that plans on making and perform- Totheroh on violin and Amos Housworth terial and song development, everyone ing music regardless. on cello, both of whom are classically has a voice. “It’s meticulous, but it’s cre- trained. Once the six of them started to ative and fun—and a huge part of what write and play, Benfante’s brother, Jay, de- we do,” he explains. Sometimes a song The band’s album, Inheritance, is out cided to join them on percussion. spends hours getting molded and changed now, and they are currently on tour in The Last Bison has evolved into a seven- before it is finished. the U.S. piece—yes, there are seven of them—folk- While the band isn’t Christian per se, T h e SPOTLIGHT L A S T B I S O N PHOTO BY JEFFREY MARINI

NATALY DAWN

BY NOEL ABAS

ataly Dawn, formerly known with from her past work. Insightful and time,” she reveals. “I come from a deeply for her work in , extremely personal, the album reveals religious family where women, for the is about to launch her first U.S. many different layers of the singer. most part, are delegated to secondary Ntour in support of her label debut al- “I really put a lot of thought into how I importance, and are very much there to bum, How I Knew Her, which released in wanted it to sound, and so did Jack. I still support the men. And people get married January via Nonesuch Records, and was listen to it and feel a tremendous sense of really, really young. Those are all things I produced by her longtime partner, Jack gratitude for all of the things that turned was struggling with because I knew that Conte. out well,” Dawn says of her new project, that’s not something that I had connected Dawn is well known for her plethora noting the change of course. “The way with, and I was just trying to figure out of YouTube videos with Pomplamoose, Pomplamoose would traditionally record why that was. It was definitely an eye- which has a markedly different sound music was a lot of overdubbing and re- opening experience. I ended up watching than her previous solo project, Her Earlier cording separately—working around the a lot of family videos as well, trying to re- Stuff. computer screen. What I did for this al- ally figure out my history. I am still writ- “I think YouTube today is very different bum was really different. I brought up a ing songs that have so much to do with from when we first started accumulating bunch of session players from L.A., and family. I feel like it’s something you actu- our fanbase,” the singer says, recalling her we started playing songs in the city. I had ally don’t ever finish processing, you just past projects. “We have a fanbase of a lot these demos I recorded, [and] we all got keep mulling over things.” of forward-thinking people, and some together in this room and started play- The scope of experience represented in nerds as well—we like that because we are ing these songs, in one take and record- Dawn’s work is part of what makes her nerds, too. Our fans are enthusiastic and ing them to tape. It has been easier for lyrics so relatable to listeners, coupled supportive. As soon as we started play- me since I have been playing live shows; with a distinct sound that leaves them ing shows, we had [hundreds of] people it sounds more like the album than it has yearning for more. Luckily, it seems this there. Long before touring, we were mak- with Pomplamoose.” is only the beginning of the singer’s new ing a living off of MP3 sales.” Dawn put a lot of thought into the writ- chapter. But much has changed since then. How I ing process of the album, and as a result, Knew Her unveils a different side of Dawn it contains much of herself. “I was just How I Knew Her is out now via that listeners may not be all that familiar thinking a lot about relationships at the Nonesuch Records.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 57 DAUGHTER g The London-based trio on their unconventional road to the U.S.

by Aaron Lachman was born. They self-released Kind of the darker side of an EP of demos in 2010, my own brain.” followed by His Young Heart So far, the process has in 2011. These EPs got the been working. Daughter re- attention of artist collective cently made their worldwide Community Records, which television debut on The Late put out The Wild Youth later Show with David Letterman. in 2011. This ultimately Tonra says, “That was the led to a deal with label scariest thing! It was great, 4AD, whoichput out their but I don’t know if I really first full-length album, If enjoyed it. I think I was just You Leave. that nervous. You can’t re- While Haefeli and ally enjoy something when Aguilella are trained musi- you’re that shaky, but you cians, Tonra has struggled know, I’m really glad we did with being able to read it, and after we’d done it we music or play the way they were definitely proud of our- do, so the combination selves for being able to play of trained musicians with on a TV show, which we’d Tonra’s self-taught instinct never done before.” has led to an amazing col- Now Daughter is touring laboration. Through trial the United States, playing to and error, they’ve landed on new audiences every night. a unique songwriting pro- Tonra has noticed the dif- cess. Tonra says, “I come up ference between British and with the lyrics and a bit of American audiences. “We guitar line, and me and Igor get heckled, but in a good work closely together. He’s way,” she explains. “[Ameri- kind of the production side cans are] very enthusiastic. of things, and we work to- Not that London crowds gether on the melodic stuff or others aren’t enthusiastic, and guitar, and after that we but maybe not quite in such kind of all arrange it togeth- an expressive way. It’s really er, and that’s when Remi cool when you have a crowd comes in. It’s a bit separated; that’s quite loud and upbeat, we don’t all sit in a room and especially since the music we jam.” make is quite depressing; it’s She says that it’s not a typi- really cool to be able to kind cal band situation, but it of have that with an audi- works for the members of ence. To be honest, last time Daughter. “Especially for we were in the U.S., we had me. I kind of need a bit of such a fun time.” isolation to write. It would The group’s return to the be terrifying, I think, to States has led to a couple of write in front of people sold out dates on their tour. straight away.” This process As they set out to promote makes sense, as Tonra’s lyr- If You Leave, Tonra says, ics are often very introspec- “We’re really excited to play tive and personal, backed by the new record and the new haunting melodies. stuff; we haven’t really played “They’re all very personal it to anyone yet. When we in a sense that I have to defi- go on this tour, it will be the nitely feel something to be first time we’ve really played m able to write,” she says. “I these songs to people. It’ll be don’t really ever write sitting fun, and it’s exciting to see down saying, ‘I have to write what people think of them, something about this now.’ but also it’s kind of nerve- lena Tonra knows about heartbreak. Performing as a solo It doesn’t really work like wracking at the same time.” act for a while, she started pouring her heart into her mu- that. It always has to come E sic, singing about its fragile state with her ethereal voice. from a place that’s definitely Daughter will tour North In a college songwriting class, she met her boyfriend, guitarist and America throughout May. If personal, and some songs are production nut Igor Haefeli, and Remi Aguilella, a lifelong, clas- about specific people and You Leave is available now in sically trained percussionist. Together with the self-taught Tonra, other songs coming from the U.K. and will be released they started playing coffeehouses around London, and Daughter observations or interests. in the U.S. on April 30.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 59 Q + A

MATTHEW MAYFIELD IT'S TIME TO GET THIS MAN ON THE RADIO!

BY JOHN MOUSER Matthew Mayfield is a fighter. After his band Moses Mayfield disbanded in 2008, the Birmingham-based singer-songwriter set out to build a solid fanbase that— without the support of PR representation or radio play—carried him to crack the Billboard Top 200 with last year’s Banquet for Ghosts. Now the fighter is back, armed with a brand new EP, a covers EP and a live EP, and he is once again enlisting his supporters to assist him in conquering his next goal: radio. We had the chance to speak with Mayfield recently about these new releases and the road ahead. Why the choice of doing a new EP rather This was a lot of fun. On the last tour, some of the country’s most incred- than a full-length? I had a lot of recording capability be- ible studios. That was eight years ago. cause I was with a band that had their The industry has completely changed It’s somewhere in the middle. Eight own console. My friend Mikey Reaves and been turned upside down by the tracks. Four brand new songs, two re- (NEEDTOBREATHE’s monitor tech) was digital and streaming waves. Artists masters, an acoustic tune and a of running sound for me every night, so we have to find other means of paying “Fire Escape” from Catherine Marks (The found a good mic and just went for it. It’s expenses. Everything costs money. Killers, PJ Harvey) featuring John Paul five songs in five cities with just meand Our expenses are moderate in the White of The Civil Wars. I’m keeping the my guitar. Mikey did an incredible job on studio and insane on the road. It’s price low for fans that may already have the mix by incorporating the dynamics to important for fans to realize that buy- some of the tunes. keep the live feel. It’s an exclusive at Pledge ing a record, coming to a show and Music. spreading the word about the mu- How did the material for Irons In the Fire sic you love is more important than (the new EP) come together? You recently tweeted that you turned ever. Supporting independent artists down The Voice. What motivated you to isn’t about charity; it’s about believ- It’s a bit scattered. I wrote “Miles & make that decision? ing in the underdogs. It’s about artists Miles,” “Look Me In The Eye,” and who view music as a true craft, not a “Follow You Down” on the road with A lot of folks thought it was a jab to others means of becoming rich and famous. NEEDTOBREATHE last fall. Creatively, who have gone that route. It wasn’t; it’s just I’m either on fire or I’m burned out. Be- not me. Can you see me up there with a big In every love story, there is a po- ing around talented folks like NEED and smile on my face during Tina Turner night tential for both euphoria and pain. Good Old War inspires you in a subliminal on Team Adam? Me neither. I know myself Many of your songs focus on post- way. You don’t know it’s happening, but all well enough to avoid anything that has a breakup stories of grief and pain. those sound checks and shows paired with shot-out-of-a-cannon vibe. My personality What about all of the good parts nine different musical minds and the right could never handle that kind of swing. If I of love? amount of spare time makes for a perfect arrive at a steady pace, then great. But you storm. I’ve been on fire ever since. don’t wanna be on the cover of People maga- There are good parts? Surely not. zine when all you’ve done is sing karaoke on [Laughs] I certainly write about the Would you say that this album is a depar- TV and gotten a record deal that won’t last. good things. “Follow You Down” ture from your previous record? I don’t want fame without true fans. One from the new EP is a perfect example minute you’re flying high, the next you’re of that. It started as a hypothetical. M: Irons has a little bit of everything on doing commercials for the local car dealer- Someone asked me to write a song for it. The opening track, “In Or Out,” is ship. I’d rather jump off a building. a film and all they gave me was a two the heaviest thing I’ve put out in a while. sentence synopsis of the couple’s sto- Felt good to turn up and dig in. Songs Over the years, you’ve witnessed huge ry. I started with that line, “first time like “Miles & Miles” and “Look Me In successes within your community of mu- to meet you, or could I be wrong,” The Eye” are new territory for me when sicians. How do you celebrate the suc- and it all spilled out from there. That it comes to the guitar sounds. I wanted cesses of your peers? Is it bittersweet? song quickly became about me, but to keep the acoustics in the back and not a single experience. It’s about the let those jangly electrics be the founda- It’s been amazing to watch. The idea. The Fight. I’ve never believed in tion. I kept referencing Springsteen’s “The NEEDTOBREATHE guys, JP and Joy anything more than I believe in the River” in the studio because there’s a magic (The Civil Wars), Will Hoge—too many Fight. Good things aren’t easy and to those guitar tones that I wanted to try to name, honestly. I couldn’t be happier human beings are often selfish and and find. So rich and warm, but never for them because they’ve truly paid their extremely hurtful towards one anoth- overkill. dues. They are blue collar acts. They’ve er in relationships, myself included. worked their a---- off for years; it’s paying But that’s the beauty of realizing the What song were you most pleased with off. It gives me chills to listen to these huge strength of what we’re up against and on Irons In the Fire? crowds singing songs I’ve heard for years. I how helpless we truly are. It’s so im- feel like a proud mother and have cried like portant to acknowledge that fact, but Today, it’s “Miles & Miles.” I struggled to one sidestage a time or two. Tears of joy are to never . I can’t give up. find that song, chasing it relentlessly for a rarity. months. I had a great verse, but couldn’t find the chorus. It was like a fight with your What have been some of the advantages girlfriend; sometimes it’s best to step away or disadvantages of going the “indepen- and come back when the dust has settled. dent” route as a musician and adopting One night I came home from the bar and DIY practices? Matthew Mayfield’s new EPs, includ- sat on the floor in the dark. I went through ing Irons In The Fire, are currently the verse once and the chorus just arrived I got signed to a major label when I was 21 available on Pledge Music. As he is an out of nowhere. Those moments are gifts. I with my band, Moses Mayfield. We were indepedent artist without airplay sup- didn’t sleep a wink that night. Nothing gets wined and dined. I thought I had won the- port, funds collected go toward the me more riled up than a great melody. lottery because all I had ever dreamed of radio promotion of his new material. was being a rock ‘n’ roll star. We got a big Download them and get updates at How did the live EP come together? advance and made an expensive record in .com/projects/mmirons.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 61 Bringing Soul to EDM

BY And to North America J O N A T H A N ROBLES kR UDIMENTAL Bringing Soul to EDM WE’RE ALL BIG FANS OF AND THE FUGEES, BUT LAURYN HILL, WE’RE MASSIVE FANS OF. WE WOULD NEVER SAY NO TO A COLLABORATION WITH SOMEONE LIKE JAY-Z OR BEYONCE. OH, NO, WE WOULD LOVE THAT. BY “ And to North America J O N A T H A N ROBLES ondon’s Rudimental has publishers,” says Agget. “I remem- that and we've stepped up to the been gearing up to carry ber my old publisher heard ‘Feel the task, but if you’re not careful, you on the trend of U.K. Love’ and said that ‘with your name, stop putting the time into perfect-” L acts sweeping North Rudimental, it's not big enough to ing your craft and working on your America. The producer-based band put it on the radio.’ I remember that music. I think time is the biggest recently confirmed the upcoming so clearly. We were told many times challenge for us, not only to finish release of their debut album, hav- it couldn’t work, because we are too things we started, but to see our ing already built anticipation with new, because we didn’t fit certain family and enjoy life.” hit songs “Feel the Love,” featuring criteria. Then I started introduc- The band maintains what they call John Newman, and “Not Giving ing it to more people and got some their “extended family” of singers In,” which features Alex Clare. feedback. The right person heard it and musicians that they enjoy work- The soulful dance maestros have from the label and he loved it. I feel ing with, many of whom are featured created music infused with intense like we finally are able to do what on the debut record, including Alex energy and club-worthy beats, but we really wanted to do, and we've Clare, John Newman, Foxes and as ringleader Piers Agget puts it, the been trying to do it for years, but Emeli Sandé. But Agget admits they road hasn’t been easy, as the quartet people haven't gotten us. I think still have a lofty wishlist. “We're acknowledges in the title of their al- people understand our music now.” all big fans of Lauryn Hill and the bum: Home. Agget believes much of why au- Fugees, but Lauryn Hill, we're mas- “Home is where we grew up,” Agget diences are finally grasping the sive fans of. We would never say no explains. “Our home has played a Rudimental concept is because lis- to a collaboration with someone big part in who we are and in our teners are starting to once again ap- like Jay-Z or Beyonce. Oh, no, we music, and it has had a massive in- preciate the soul in music. would love that. Alabama Shakes, fluence in our creativity. Three of “Going back to the we really like Brittany [Howard]. us grew up in Hackney [borough from the ‘60s and ‘70s, , And of course, Little Dragon, of London] and one of us grew up Marvin Gaye, and even Prince in [] has a great voice. in Camden. We all remember what the ‘80s, I think people have been At the same time, we go to open mic it was like growing up. Across the listening to that soul for decades,” shows in London and we're quite road, there would be shootings and he explains. “I remember being little into finding young, fresh talent. drug deals. It’s nothing glamorous. and picking up my parents’ vinyls. That's exciting to us. Into album But this is our chance to show that I think there's a general sense of two and album three, I'm sure we'll light can come out of that culture. musicians using old instruments be working with young talent and It's our baby album, so it’s exciting and mixing it with the new. It defi- artists that we found ourselves.” and also personal.” nitely seems to be a recurring the While it may seem presumptuous While the group has been an of- past few years. You've got bands like to some for Agget to be eyeing the ficial unit for a few years, their pow- Disclosure that are doing really band’s second—or even third—al- erhouse jam, “Feel the Love,” has soulful, house-y music. I think bum, it comes from a place of hon- topped charts worldwide since it the world is just starting to place esty, and it’s not at all unlikely this is was unleashed last May. And while a higher value on the sounds our only the beginning of Rudimental’s the band could have hardly predict- parents and grandparents loved. I success as they continue to create ed subsequent events, Agget admits think music eventually comes back anthems that resonate with listeners they knew it was a standout track. “I around in many ways, and I hope around the globe. think deep down, we all knew that we see more of it because it's defi- “All we’re trying to say with our al- it was an amazing song and brought nitely something I think the music bum is to be proud of where you’re a lot of emotion when you heard it industry could use: more soul.” from,” says the producer-songwrit- for the first time. We didn't think Although the band has done its er. “It’s about finding happiness in a it'd be No. 1 on any charts, and best to maintain its roots in the dark place; it’s about breaking out of we didn't think it would take us to midst of a whirlwind rise, Agget is poverty and overcoming things that Australia and America and actually quick to recognize it’s a challenge hold you back. I think a lot of peo- allow us to make our album. We staying on top of everything and ple can relate to that, and we’re kind definitely didn't see that coming.” keeping their lives in balance. “You of saying, ‘Hey, we get it. That’s our The group isn’t alone in that. Be- get put on massive stages, big festi- story, too.’” fore their rise, many in the music in- vals,” he recalls. “We’re performing dustry tried to shutter their efforts. our songs and people are singing “We've been making music for them back to us. We kind of got Home is out in North America on ages and presenting it to labels and pushed into the beacon. We enjoy April 29 via Warner Music.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 63 Glee's New Eye Candy Jacob Artist on his “FRESHMAN YEAR”

The actor discusses his unexpected leading role on Fox’s hit dramedy, and his thoughts moving forward.

BY RACHEL FAYLENE lee’s freshest face and new bad-boy was always humming to myself or singing kind of peel back a little bit star Jacob Artist took on the role of along to the radio like everyone does, but and see the new side of him,” GJake Puckerman shortly after mov- I never performed or never thought any- he says. “I think just in gen- ing to Los Angeles to pursue an acting ca- thing of it. Then, when Glee came around, eral, all the relationships he’s reer. Being fresh out of high school, Artist it was like, ‘Okay, here’s your chance, you making at McKinley with declined the opportunity to advance in his gotta sing now.’” Marley and his brother, it’s dance career at The Juilliard School. Act- After locking down the part, Artist got all really helping him for the ing was not a field that he had familiarized in front of the camera in the most iconic best. And I really would just himself with before he made the decision room on set—the choir room. As a long- like to see these relationships to relocate from Buffalo, New York, to time fan of the show, filming in such a keep benefitting him, because sunny California. But he says the support staple location was a bit of a shake-up for I think it’s making him a - of his family made his venture to an unfa- him. But more than anything, the experi- ter person in the long run.” miliar career choice much less of a struggle. ence was surreal. Artist adds that he would “My parents have been so great from day “I kind of didn’t know what to expect ... also like to see the Fox series one with anything I’ve ever wanted to do because it was my first day on this brand cover a song, in life, and they’ve just been so supportive. new show,” he admits. “The crew and cast something he has been stress- Having that kind of backbone with your have all been so welcoming and so support- ing this for some time now. family is so, so important,” he expresses ive, and it’s just made everything very, very Adding to his personal playl- confidently. “Initially, of course, they were easy.” ist, he also admits to being like, ‘You know, you want to move to L.A. The acceptance that Glee has shown for a fan of indie bands, listing and act, and you’ve been doing [dance] all the new cast members is important for Freelance Whales as one of his your whole life. This is Juilliard; are you behind-the-scenes as well as on-screen. current favorites. sure this is what you want to do?’” “The set is literally so fun,” he says. “Every- “You know, I feel like I’m Once the decision was made, Artist and body is like a family, goofing off and laugh- doing all of these interviews his family wasted no time shipping him ing. [It’s] such a great time and I think that and I’m saying, ‘Please, one out to start his new life. that’s really a testament to a show’s success of the writers, see one of these “When I came to L.A. for the first time as well, because I think these people are because we need to sing some and met my manager, he was like, ‘What having so much fun and it makes the work Frank Ocean!’ I think he’s just kind of job could you really see yourself even better and the environment even bet- so talented.” doing?’ And I was like, ‘You know, I’d ter, and it just makes the show better.” For an actor like Artist get- really love someday to be on Glee; I know The man behind Sam Evans’ charac- ting his start with such a ma- that that’s such a pipe dream.’” ter, Chord Overstreet, has played a major jor role, it couldn’t have gone Artist landed the part as a Puckerman role in connecting the new cast members any better. Glee is a show that brother shortly thereafter, going into his with some of the veteran actors, according incorporates every aspect of audition with little experience under his to Artist. Like his character, Overstreet is entertainment. And although belt, especially with singing. known for doing impressions off-camera as Artist’s only focus is on this “I think every actor kind of goes into the well, keeping things entertaining for every- current venture, he views Glee audition room and leaves it at that and one. That is not the case for Artist and his as the perfect stepping stone doesn’t expect anything, and this was the character, however. for his later career. same exact thing,” he admits. “Obviously, “I think I’m a little bit more opposite. “I think that you have to I was really excited about it and probably I mean, I like to laugh and goof off a lot definitely develop a certain more nervous than normal because it’s Glee and Jake’s kind of, initially, anti- all of sense of discipline to be on a and I know the show and was a fan of it.” that stuff,” he confesses. “He’s very, very show like this because we’re The dancer-turned-actor stepped into guarded and kind of closed off, but it’s fun shooting, and doing dance the audition room to sing for the cast- to kind of tap into that side of myself. It’s rehearsals, and we’re singing,” ing, making it his first vocal performance kind of nice, and he’s a really fun character he explains. “Managing all of in front of an audience. During the cast- to explore.” that, I think it definitely will ing, material for Artist’s future character With fans being so familiar with the orig- help in any project that any hadn’t been written yet, so he read lines inal actors, it can be difficult introducing of us do in the future because originally intended for Noah Puckerman’s new personalities to the show. Luckily for we’ll have such a great sense of character (Mark Salling). His performance Artist, his character is one that continues organization and, kind of, fig- landed him the opportunity to test his to surprise viewers with personal struggle uring our way around it.” skills in front of Glee’s famed creator, Ryan and growth. Murphy, and all the Fox executives and ex- “I admit, for me as an actor, it’s so fulfill- ecutive producers for the show. ing to see complex characters that do have “That was literally the first time I sang in all these layers, and I totally think that’s Glee airs Thursdays at 9 p.m. EST on Fox.

PHOTO BY DEREKfront WOOD of people,” Artist confesses. “I kind of what Jake is. I think it’s been so cool to

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 65 KEVIN ALEJANDRO

g

B Y Is He TV's New MERLYN HAMILTON Golden Boy? KEVIN rom HBO’s Southland Alejandro says. “My character’s “I’m sitting at the table read- to True Blood and now name is Christian Arroyo, and he ing for the first time, listening to to CBS’s new series, was the golden boy before Theo these guys live, and I’m like, ‘Holy FGolden Boy, Kevin Alejandro James’ character comes in. You crap. Can I hold my own?’ Even- is becoming a familiar face on get to see this guy who is at the tually that wore off and I got into ALEJANDRO cable and network television. top of his game and who [has] the my head space, and formed some No one would ever guess that ‘golden boy’ status. He starts to see great relationships with some peo- this successful Texas native was a challenge immediately when he ple there.” once the same guy that loaded sees this young kid come in. You After having a few guest appear- up a 1987 Nissan Sentra with see him unwind through this en- ances on season five, Alejandro trash bags full of clothes and tire journey that he goes through. admits there is talk about his char- Gatorade bottles full of change. You see him start at the top and acter coming back for the sixth Selling all that he owned, he set end up where he ends up at the season, but he doesn’t know how out with his childhood best friend end of the season. Everything much is going to go on beyond and fellow actor, Stephen Taylor, about this character is really great just the talk. with big dreams of making it in for me. I get to use an accent, and Alejandro is no stranger to guest Hollywood. it’s really fun to do. I get to turn on roles. He has appeared on earlier Now, 12 years later, Alejandro a different person and a different episodes of NBC’s critically ac-

PHOTO BY ALEKSANDARhas TOMOVIC indeed made it. There is no swagger.” claimed Parenthood as well as Law doubt that his talent is what car- But with all these other investi- & Order: Special Victims Unit, in ried him and brought him to gative crime shows on TV, what addition to many other shows. But where he is now, not to mention really makes Golden Boy so dif- Alejandro says that’s part of what his mixed heritage. ferent? In Alejandro’s opinion, it he loves about acting. Alejandro claims he hasn’t no- sets a new standard for investigate “It’s a challenge in and out,” he ticed any challenges in his career crime series. explains. “You play this guy; you relating to his heritage. “I have “It’s not just about the case,” he play that guy. I think everyone been fortunate that I’m one of the says. “It’s about what these guys who is an actor kind of gets off lucky ones,” Alejandro says. “I’m go through to achieve the accom- on it. That’s why we do it, to be just as Caucasian Hispan- plishment of solving the case and somebody else for that long and ic, so I’ve been able to sort of dive how it directly or indirectly affects be shipped over to the next chal- into both worlds. I’ve been fortu- the character to the audience.” lenge, and see if you can actually nate enough to get jobs playing The CBS drama, which pre- get through it. Sometimes it’s a both parts of my heritage. I love miered in February, released its little intimidating when you go being able to do that and just have pilot a week early online, gener- from one to the next. Therein lies a variety of things that I can do. ating mixed reviews. While the that sort of self-fulfillment when And people recognize that.” subsequent ratings have been de- you accomplish two totally differ- It is undeniable that TV has be- cent, as of this writing, it is not yet ent characters.” come more diverse over the years. locked in for renewal. Despite the While it’s evident Alejandro loves Alejandro agrees and says that he circumstances, Alejandro didn’t acting, that’s not all he’s passionate absolutely feels like minority ac- seem fazed. about. tors are making greater gains in Full of confidence, he says, “You “Usually you can find me in the more prominent roles. know what I think? I think you ocean, surfing,” he reveals. “That’s “I think the line is being blurred have to give it a chance. You have one of my favorite things to do— to where a Latin guy is just a per- to give the season time to unfold wake up at 5:30-6:00 in the morn- son. I definitely see that through- … There are certain things in sto- ing and go jump in the ocean for a out [the industry]. Friends of mine rytelling that a person has to do, couple of hours.” who are also Latin are given lead particularly with a show like this, He has also dedicated time roles in things where the charac- so that it unfolds nicely towards working on an independent “pas- ter wasn’t written [as a Hispanic]. the end. Just give it a chance and sion project,” titled The Keepers. They don’t necessarily change it let it really take in and seep into A web series about good and evil, either; it’s just this person who is you. It’ll all make sense in the Alejandro and his team have be- doing this job.” end.” gun a account to fund Alejandro is currently seen on Regardless of Golden Boy’s level their artistic project. They will also CBS’s new drama, Golden Boy, of success, Alejandro is sure to re- be releasing a comic book in addi- which is about a cop that becomes main onscreen for years to come. tion to the web series. the youngest police commissioner Also known for his role as Jesús on in New York. He says that he’s seasons three and four of HBO’s never played a character quite like True Blood, he says that he was For more information on The his current role. really intimidated coming into Keepers, go to kickstarter.com. “He’s so colorful, and there are something that was already estab- Follow Alejandro on Twitter: so many different levels to him,” lished with so many great actors. @kevinmalejandro.

VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM 67 EAR

CANDY m PLAYLIST WORTHY ARTISTS BY NOEL ABAS

H O T A S S U N

power pop trio Hot WAZ and became the group they are your head with joy that are also relevant as Sun, comprised of today. Since then, they have opened for at full blast when you’re totally pissed off Jamie Jackson (singer/ , Phantogram, Foster the People or hurt and sad? I feel like our songs have L.A.songwriter/composer), Deborah Stoll and others, garnering the acclaim of mu- the ability to channel whatever emotion (lyricist/megaphonist/visual artist) and sic lovers and critics alike. you’re feeling at the time and satisfy.” WAZ (songwriter/guitarist), recently re- Something about their music is both ad- Although the pool of and syn- leased their debut album, Night Time dicting and refreshing, full of lively beats thy records is quite overwhelming these Sound Desire, a collection of upbeat doo- that nod to ‘80s pop, gospel music and days, Hot as Sun seems to effortlessly wop-slash-electro-pop sounds that are even the . create lighthearted, magical tunes that guaranteed to add a dash of sunlight to “I think our songs are relatable without are sure to win over even the greatest of any playlist heading into spring. hitting you over the head with their mean- skeptics. Jackson and Stoll, who bonded over ing,” Stoll said in a recent interview. “You shared tastes in food and music at a sound can listen to them and access different bath at The Integratron in Joshua Tree, things at different times. You know those Night Time Sound Desire is out now via eventually teamed up with songwriter songs you listen to at full blast banging Last Gang Records.

68 VARIANCEMAGAZINE.COM HOUSES

SEAN BUCHECK ouses are by fictional lovers bravely far one of the and hopelessly set out to most refresh- find each other while sur- ingH duos making music rounded by turmoil. ean Bucheck began playing music right now. Although their In a truly honest effort when he was only eight years old; now, history spans only as far to capture the dark, bleak at 20, the alt-rock musician is not only back as 2010, Dexter moments conveyed in the aS singer-songwriter, but he plays piano, bass, Tortoriello and Megan new record, each song guitar and drums. To top it off, he runs a Messina seem to have was recorded on location, recording studio in Nashville and has a something of a Midas with each sound created passion for working on a variety of projects touch when it comes to while the musicians ex- and genres of music. creating glorious, pulsat- perienced firsthand the Although influenced by a family of strong ing tracks. fictional tale of the star- musicians, he credits a performance by sing- H O T A S S U N Married in real life, the crossed lovers. er-songwriter Josh Varnadore as a turning couple’s inspiration for Sure, this all started as point. “After the show, Josh asked me to play their first project, All a side project for Tor- a song I had written for him, and as a first- Night, came from living toriello, who’s also part time songwriter, I was extremely nervous off the land in Papaikou, of Dawn Golden. But about it. He signed my guitar and told me Hawaii. They did without Houses’ latest offer- to just keep writing because it could only get modern conveniences, ing, A Quiet Darkness, is better.” drinking, showering and buzzworthy in its own The following year, Varnadore began to cooking with rain water. right. From the amazing meet with Bucheck once a week for nearly a Their second effort, A artistry to the powerful year, working on songs together; the collabo- Quiet Darkness, also tells narrative, this pair has ration eventually led to Varnadore recording a unique story—a tale of embarked on a musical Bucheck’s first EP. unrequited love which journey unlike many of Bucheck’s soulful, soothing voice engages unfolds in the midst of their peers. the listener with the melodic, comforting a nuclear disaster. Each As summer approaches combination of acoustic guitar and piano song on the album rep- and you’re searching for with velvety vocals and genuine lyrics that resents an abandoned new Ear Candy, Houses do not disappoint. house along Highway 10 deserve to be at the top of His latest record, From The Top, comes out in California, where the any playlist. on April 23. AVAILBLE NOW AT SKULLCANDY.COM @SKULLCANDY / FEATURING KAI OTTON

Variancemagazine_Navigator_Kai.indd 1 12/14/12 3:10 PM