Off the back of releasing their debut record Oh Inhuman Spectacle on esteemed label 4AD and playing SXSW, Aidan Hogg chats to Perth genre defying three piece Methyl Ethel about their favourite new music, playing in Austin, and how their second LP is almost finished.
You guys have just been at SXSW, which sounds like it was pretty incredible! How was that experience and how did you find the crowds to be in Austin?
The crowds in Austin were great. Just the fact that there were people there to see us play was a bonus! The whole festival is crazy, it seems to all work but from the outside it all appears to be chaos.
What were some highlight bands you managed to catch while you were over there?
Future Punx and Harriet Brown were incredible. We were moving around so much so didn’t get to see a whole lot.
What’s some Aussie music you’ve been listening to lately? There always seems to be exciting stuff coming out of Perth, any favourite new locals?
Pool Boy, Ben Witt, Erasers. We’ve been away for a while, so there’s bound to be something I’ve missed.
Your album Oh Inhuman Spectacle has a production style that really stands out. What was the recording process like for this one and where did it take place? Did you mix it yourselves?
Chris and I mixed it. I kind of mix a bit as I go, which is probably a really bad thing. My process is just to finish things quickly and not be too fussy. I record wherever I can with whatever I have.
What’s the songwriting formula like for you guys (if one exists)?
I write on my own and bring completed material to the band to workshop for live shows. The formula is always evolving.
Your sound is pretty unique, but what were some big influences on your sound while you were writing and tracking your record?
I believe I was listening to a lot of Outkast and a lot of Bolero when I was recording.
You guys have a huge year ahead, but have you started thinking about new music yet? Or do you separate the touring and writing process?
I’ve finished writing the second album. It should be finished by the end of May, then I’ll start the third.
—
Methyl Ethel are touring Australia through April!
April 10th | Northcote Social Club, MELBOURNE (SOLD OUT)
April 13th | Northcote Social Club, MELBOURNE (SOLD OUT)
April 14th | Northcote Social Club, MELBOURNE (SOLD OUT)
April 15th | Jive, ADELAIDE
April 22nd | The Rosemount, PERTH
April 30th | Plan B Small Club, SYDNEY (SOLD OUT)
———-
