Do you try to write about themes that speak to everyone’s inner demons?
I write what I feel is right for me and then some people can relate to that and some can’t. It’s easy and honest.
I read that you guys wrote hundreds of songs for this album. Where are all the others?
Hopefully very close by. Multiple hard drives scattered all over my pad in NYC.
Why did you decide to release digital-only EPs?
It’s easier and people like the digital domain these days and so do we. I love the future, and I’m curious to see what’s going to happen with the music industry.
Have you had much feedback on how that’s worked?
It’s been quite successful, and we accomplished exactly what we hoped for, and that was to cater to our hardcore fans who’ll get their hands on anything we put out because they love the music. It’s important to maintain a good fan base because at the end of the day, they’re the ones who are going to spread the word and attract new fans.
What’s it been like moving from Columbia to Vice? Liberating in any way?
We had some amazing years at Columbia, but we fulfilled the deal and by that time everyone had left Columbia, and we were pleased to move on and start working with new people. Vice seemed to be the right choice, and it’s been terrific so far.
I believe before The Raveonettes were The Raveonettes, some soul-searching took place in NYC?
And everywhere else in the States, really. I travelled for years on end and enjoyed my youth and the crazy people and experiences I encountered. It was definitely a good breeding ground for me to start The Raveonettes from.
What sort of impact has the city had on your music?
Probably a certain type of restless behavior and electricity you won’t really find anywhere else.
You guys are touring as a three-piece, yeah? How’s that going?
We used to be four, then five, then two, then three and now we’re back to four. We’ll see what happens.
What can we expect from you this time around?
A massive sound with great lights and phenomenal tunes from all of our periods.
The Raveonettes play Webster Hall in NYC on Friday, Jan. 16. For more info, visit theraveonettes.com.
Photo Credit: Soren Solkaer Starbird
