This is another of the rare occasions that I am dangerously close to gushing. The Buck Brothers are based in London, England and are fond of visiting Toronto, where I was able to see them play a couple of shows. Words can't do justice. You really must pick up the CD. Andy did an email interview with me in June/06.
Tell me about the recording process for 'me'. Where / with who was it done?
Andy: We're quite a self contained band and recording is a genuine a joy for the three of us. Apart from the drums, which were recorded at various studios in and around London (UK) - we laid down all the instruments and vocals at my home studio which is called 'Doghouse'. Although my dog Sylvie and neighbours had to be extra understanding about the glories of loud guitars and bass parts being put down - this set up made for a far more relaxed atmosphere than if we were watching the clock and being overly concerned about the amount of money being spent per hour at a mega expensive commercial studio. Phil E. Warren needs to get a huge mention for his production skills, patience and never ending enthusiasm.
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What have you been up to with promo for this disc?
Andy: It's early days as we only JUST finished the album before arriving in Toronto for NXNE. In fact, the first time we saw the pressing was actually at NXNE - the three of us looked like proud parents when the box of Buck Brothers goodies arrived in all their pink glory. Prior to its official release in Canada and the USA on 17 October '06 - there will be a full-on radio campaign targeting primarily college radio stations throughout North America. In addition, we'll intend to gig, gig, gig, gig as much as we can throughout North America. Provided that the authorities let us.
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Tell me about creating the video for Which Me Do You Like. Who directed?
Andy: The video for 'Which me do you like?' was directed by Matthew Chadwick. It was his intention to create a slightly subversive debut video in which the identity of the singer is a mystery. In this way, it's up to the viewer to decide which 'ME' they actually like. As with most subversive things, not everyone gets it. So much so that our label wants to have it re-shot. Sometimes the road less traveled ISN'T the right path. But I'm glad that we gave it a go. Matthew Chadwick is an extremely talented director and is currently working on a feature film in LA.
Check out the video in their EPK here!
You were amazing here for NXNE, what were the highlights?
Andy: Thanks very much for saying that. Buck Brothers have fallen in love with Toronto and its people and our time in this great city has been a nonstop adventure. We don't want it to end. One of the highlights for the three of us was hearing an audience that we've never played to before singing along to our songs at our Rancho Relaxo showcase gig. It was quite an emotional experience for us.
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Andy and Pete at the Bovine
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Favorite bands to play with now that you've been here a couple of times?
Andy: 'Broomfiller' and 'Junior Vice Presidents' are both incredible bands. And both groups have become dear friends of ours too.
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Andy on one of their NXNE highlights
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'One of the highlights for the three of us was hearing an audience that we've never played to before singing along to our songs at our Rancho Relaxo showcase gig. It was quite an emotional experience for us.'
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Favorite venues here?
Andy: Horseshoe Tavern - for its great sound and inspiring history, Cameron House - for its beautiful stage and velvet decorations,and the Bovine Sex Club - for its vibe and atmosphere.
Do you think you face any specific challenges or advantages being based in London?
Andy: London's challenges - the city is phenomenally expensive, crowded and our musical venues are more concerned with audience turnouts rather than in booking quality bands. It's a very crowded city and it usually takes hours just to get out of Greater London when we're touring. Gridlock is the status quo.
London's advantages - A lot of musical and fashion trends still start
here and its an incredibly inspiring city to live in. The city is also filter for great bands as a lot of groups will relocate to 'the big smoke' in order to make it. And, it goes without saying that our country's media and labels are based here so it's good to be in the centre of things. I am in love with London. But it hasn't stopped me having an affair with Toronto though.
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Ali at the Bovine
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Who have been your favorite local bands to play shows with?
Andy: Absinthe, And what will be left of them?, and The Fatels
Any favorite local venues?
Andy: Brixton Academy. The Forum. Our goal is to play both these venues by next year. In terms of venues that we've played, our favourite venues in the UK are 'The Marrs Bar' in Worcester and 'The ABC2' in Glasgow.
Wherever you are, get your ass out to see these guys! They'll be back in Toronto this fall!
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The Playlist
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Andy's Playlist
1. Presidents of the USA - Some Postman
2. The Clash - Know your rights
3. Broomfiller - The Cause
4. Junior Vice Presidents - Controller
5. The Ramones - The KKK took my baby away
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